Spotlight Site
From time to time we shine the spotlight on noteworthy events, sites, attractions and historical moments in Northeast Iowa. Check out our latest headliner, then go to Sites & Attractions to see everything we offer for you to see and do. Hawkeye Buffalo Ranch
 Designated as a SSNHA Partner Site in 2004, Hawkeye Buffalo
Ranch offers visitors the rare experience of interacting with these gentle
giants that once roamed throughout the Midwest. This 500 acre family farm
consists of rolling hills and timber that Dan McFarland and his family have
lived and worked on for 156 years. When this land outside of what is now
Fredericksburg, Iowa, was settled by his grandfather, it was still wild and his
family lived in a small sod house.
Like many farm families, the McFarlands have adapted to the
changes in agriculture over the years. After several years of declining beef
prices in the early 1990s, the family made the decision to raise buffalo
instead. This has allowed the family to maintain their farm, while supporting
the growing farm-to-table movement. Though buffalo are now the focus of the
ranch, the McFarlands also raise chicken and cattle, as well as other typical
barnyard animals that visitors can interact with while on the farm.
Described as one of the most memorable experiences by SSNHA
Youth Camp participants, the ranch offers a truly hands-on experience. During a
tour of the ranch, visitors take a tractor ride into the timber where they come
face-to-face with these awesome creatures. A staple to Native Americans,
visitors can also sample buffalo meat or arrange for a home-style meal. For
those wanting to delve deeper into the heritage of the buffalo, they can
participate in a traditional Sioux “smudge” feather ceremony or make arrangements
to hunt the buffalo on foot, just as settlers once did.
Through their active preservation of this iconic beast, the
McFarland family is truly helping share an important piece of our country’s
history. For more information on Hawkeye Buffalo Ranch, visit
www.hawkeyebuffalo.com or call 563-237-5318.
Past spotlight sites:
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