Harbaugh Ranch recognized as Centennial Ranch by MFU

More than 100 years, acres added, cattle purchased, sheep sold, and hardships overcome have passed since Walter Lee “WL” and Elizabeth “Lizzie” (Elbert) Harbaugh filed for homestead rights on Sand Creek near Jordan and established Harbaugh Ranch.

The family’s fortitude was honored recently by Montana Farmers Union as part of the grassroots organization’s Centennial Farm and Ranch program, with Wade and Bev Harbaugh accepting the award during MFU’s Annual State Convention.

“The Harbaugh family is a testament to what a family farm is and what it means to our rural communities. Their family has been an integral part of the Sand Springs and Jordan communities for over 100 years. MFU is honored to be able to recognize the Harbaugh family as this year’s Centennial Ranch,” MFU President Walter Schweitzer said.

“It’s nice to honor the hard work everybody’s put in the last 114 years,” Jake Harbaugh said after the family was recognized.

The Harbaugh Ranch has morphed and grown many times over the years, with six generations nurturing the ranch into the future. Today, the family continues the Western Tradition with a few modern-day twists, including employing virtual fencing for its cattle herd and implementing other regenerative ag practices.

To the Harbaughs, being good stewards of the land also means they’re being good stewards of the family legacy. Family members who attended the award ceremony were quick to point out the key to the ranch’s longevity – family.

“We’ve been through the ups and downs and all stuck together,” Bev Harbaugh said, proudly surveying her extended family who came from as far away as Minot, N.D., to celebrate the milestone together.

“It’s truly in the blood and in the family,” her grandson, Jake, said.

The family could have homesteaded anywhere, and the resulting family ties would have been the same, he said. “We would have found home no matter where it was at.”

Learn more about MFU’s Centennial Farm and Ranch Program at www.montanafarmersunion.com.