Episode 32: The Lost Agricultural Heritage of Northeast Indiana & Northwest Ohio, a Solo Discussion
03/24/25 • 10 min
"I remember riding with my grandfathers to deliver grain to the St. Joe Elevator in St. Joe, Indiana. Across the railroad tracks sat Crow’s Rainbow Farm Center. At the time, it felt like these places would always be there—until they weren’t."
In this episode of Patio Ponderings, we take a look back at the agricultural businesses that once defined Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio—and explore why so many have disappeared. From Wayne Feeds and Central Soya to Eckrich Meats, and Parrot Packing, to long closed Farm Implement Dealerships I discuss the local feed mills, livestock markets, and equipment dealerships that shaped farming communities.
What led to their decline? How did events like the 1980s farm crisis and corporate consolidation change the agricultural landscape? And what lessons can we take from these lost businesses as we look toward the future of farming?
If you remember these businesses—or have stories of your own about the changing face of rural America—let’s keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts with me or leave a comment wherever you listen to podcasts.
"I remember riding with my grandfathers to deliver grain to the St. Joe Elevator in St. Joe, Indiana. Across the railroad tracks sat Crow’s Rainbow Farm Center. At the time, it felt like these places would always be there—until they weren’t."
In this episode of Patio Ponderings, we take a look back at the agricultural businesses that once defined Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio—and explore why so many have disappeared. From Wayne Feeds and Central Soya to Eckrich Meats, and Parrot Packing, to long closed Farm Implement Dealerships I discuss the local feed mills, livestock markets, and equipment dealerships that shaped farming communities.
What led to their decline? How did events like the 1980s farm crisis and corporate consolidation change the agricultural landscape? And what lessons can we take from these lost businesses as we look toward the future of farming?
If you remember these businesses—or have stories of your own about the changing face of rural America—let’s keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts with me or leave a comment wherever you listen to podcasts.
Previous Episode
Episode 31: Jason Scott – From Farm Roots to Future Growth
In this episode of Patio Pondering, we sit down with Jason Scott of Scott Farms, a multi-generational farming operation in Delphi, Indiana. Jason shares his journey from growing up on the farm to navigating the challenges of modern agriculture.
We discuss the evolution of Scott Farms, how technology has changed the industry, and the mindset needed to adapt in a rapidly shifting agricultural landscape. Jason also opens up about what it takes to run a successful grain farm, the values that drive him, and how his agricultural roots have shaped his future.
Topics Covered:
✔️ Family farming legacy – How Scott Farms has grown and adapted over generations and how succesion planning worked for him
✔️ Modern agriculture challenges – Market shifts, technology, and farm management
✔️ Indiana farming – Corn, soybeans, and the future of Midwestern agriculture
✔️ Sustainability in farming – How innovation is shaping the future
✔️ Lessons from a lifelong farmer – Business, resilience, and community impact
🎙️ Listen in as Jason Scott shares real-world insights, practical farm wisdom, and the story of his journey in agriculture!
💬 Join the Conversation:
Have thoughts on today’s episode? Drop a comment or share this episode with a fellow ag professional!
#PatioPondering #Episode31 #JasonScott #ScottFarms #IndianaFarming #ModernAgriculture #FarmLife #MidwestFarming #SustainableFarming #AgPodcast #AgriculturePodcast #FarmingPodcast #SuccesionPlanning
Next Episode
Episode 33: Hayden Heigele - From Pasture to Porch: Building Frosty Bunk Directo To Consumer Beef Business
In this episode of Patio Ponderings, I sit down with Hayden Heigl, founder of Frosty Bunk, a fast-growing direct-to-consumer beef sales business based in Kansas. Hayden shares the story behind launching his local beef brand, how he’s connecting farm and consumer in today’s market, and what it takes to build trust—and a loyal customer base—in the farm-to-table movement.
We talk about the challenges and rewards of launching a small business rooted in agriculture, the logistics of processing and delivery, and how staying true to your values can shape your brand’s identity. This conversation offers inspiration for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, local food systems, or supporting independent beef producers.
Whether you’re a fellow farmer, an ag startup enthusiast, or a curious consumer who wants to know where their meat comes from—this episode is packed with insight and authenticity straight from the pasture.
Connect with Hayden:
🐂 Frosty Bunk Beef – Premium Local Beef, Direct from the Ranch
Website: https://www.frostybunk.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564627391732
Phone: (785) 447-2662
🕯 Rough Cut Candles – Rustic Candles Made with Heart
Website: https://roughcutcandles.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hayden.heigele
📸 Mary Marsh Photography and Communications
Website: https://marymarshphotography.zenfoliosite.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryMarshPhotographyandCommunications
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksualmondfarmer/profilecard/?igsh=MTVuOGxzNDdkamRnMQ%3D%3D
📣 Hashtags:
#FrostyBunk #LocalBeef #DirectToConsumer #BeefBusiness #FarmToTable #SupportLocalFarms #AgricultureEntrepreneur #SmallFarmBigImpact #RanchLife #AgPodcast #PatioPonderings #KansasBeef #BuyLocalMeat #BeefProducers #AgBusiness #MeatFromTheSource #MaryMarshPhotography
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