Shady Rest Farm Celebrates 100 Years – and a New Chapter with Topigs Norsvin
Nestled just 10 miles outside of Hodgenville, Kentucky, Shady Rest Farm stands as a powerful testament to the strength of family, faith, and farming. With deep roots dating back to 1925 and ancestors who settled in the area in 1808, the farm recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary. For the family of David and Josh Ragland, the occasion was more than a milestone; it was a moment to reflect on generations of hard work and look ahead to an exciting new chapter in pork production.
“It’s satisfying to reach this point,” said David. “Our family has deep roots in this community, and that history means more as you get older.”
Four generations of Raglands.
Left to right: Josh, Howards, Evan, and David
A Legacy Built on Family and Faith
The story of Shady Rest Farm is as much about people as it is about pigs. David and Josh represent the third and fourth generations of their family to raise hogs on the current farm. Josh’s children: Evan (12), Eliza (11), Abigail (9), Katherine (7), and Maryanna (3) already show signs of being the next.
A shared sense of purpose runs through the operation. With three family homes situated near each other, day-to-day life often blends family time with farm work. That closeness is no accident; it’s part of what makes the operation special.
“Faith, family, and working together – those are the traditions that have been passed down,” Josh shared. “It’s more than just a business. It’s a way of life.”
Evolution in Agriculture
Over the last century, Shady Rest has transitioned from a diversified subsistence farm. From selling eggs and milk at the general store to a high-efficiency pork production business. Along the way, they have raised beef and dairy cattle, grown corn, and dived into the Hereford cattle business. But it was a feeder pig project in FFA that hooked them on pigs for good.
What stands out to David is how much pork production has advanced, especially in genetics and efficiency.
“It’s exciting to see how performance has improved,” he said. “We have come a long way from the Poland China sow my grandfather bought when he was 12. Now, we are helping feed the world.”
A New Partnership with Topigs Norsvin
That mission to help feed the world took a significant step forward in November 2023, when Shady Rest Farm became a Topigs Norsvin multiplier. The relationship began with a call from Jon Fietz, who visited the farm alongside Les Cain to talk about the opportunity. After thoughtful discussions and planning, the team decided to sign on.
“We had been multipliers for another company for eight years, so we had experience,” Josh explained. “But the opportunity with the TN70s and the structure and support behind it stood out. We were impressed.”
What sealed the deal was the clear plan for where the pigs would go and the consistent demand for females. The support, communication, and respect for the farm’s independence made for a strong start.
“Topigs Norsvin has been fantastic,” said Josh. “They have not micromanaged, but the support has always been there when we needed it.”
David and Debbie with 15 grandchildren
Operations with Intention
Today, the farm is home to a mix of row crops and swine production, with David still heavily involved in corn, wheat, and soybeans, and Josh leading the swine side of the operation. Their philosophy is simple: focus on the small details, treat people well, and continually improve.
“We support 28 families through this farm,” Josh noted. “Relationships matter. Innovation matters. And doing things right, especially the small things, adds up over time.”
Genetics and innovation continue to drive the farm’s progress. With land availability tightening and global demand for protein rising, the Shady Rest team leans on their partners to help maximize productivity and sustainability.
Community First, Always
Despite their growth and forward momentum, the farm remains grounded in community. When a devastating fire hit the farm 20 years ago, neighbors showed up in force. That experience left a lasting impact.
“It was humbling,” David recalled. “That kind of support makes you want to give back.”
Whether it’s through volunteering, helping neighbors, or mentoring the next generation, giving back is part of their mission. And with pork being one of the world’s most in-demand proteins, their work as multipliers helps support not just local agriculture, but the global food supply.
Eliza, Maryanna, and Evan Ragland
Looking Ahead
As they plan for the future, David and Josh are committed to giving their grandchildren and children the opportunity to carry on the family legacy, just as previous generations before gave to them. And with Topigs Norsvin as a partner, the path ahead looks promising.
“We are off to a good start,” Josh said. “We are thankful for the support and excited to grow together.”
When asked what advice they would share with young producers starting today, David didn’t hesitate: “It’s a satisfying career. There are so many areas, from genetics to nutrition to animal welfare, where young people can make a difference. As the population grows, we will need them more than ever.”