Shaw Cattle Company: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Idaho, Shaw Cattle Company stands as a testament to three generations of dedication, innovation, and a rich history in the cattle industry.
Shaw Cattle Company: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Idaho, Shaw Cattle Company stands as a testament to three generations of dedication, innovation, and a rich history in the cattle industry. What began in 1946 as Tom Shaw's modest return to McCall, Idaho, after serving in the Navy, has evolved into a multi-generational commitment to producing top-quality Angus and Red Angus genetics. The Shaw family's journey is not just a story of cattle; it's a legacy woven with passion, innovation, and a profound love for the land.
Foundation in Herefords: A Promise Fulfilled
The Shaw legacy commenced in 1946 when Tom Shaw, after his naval service, was gifted the pick of the heifers from a neighbor's herd as a belated graduation present. Tom, accompanied by his bride Mary, chose a heifer that would become the cornerstone of the Hereford herd, marking the inception of Shaw Hereford Ranch. In 1959, the couple purchased the current "home place" near Notus, Idaho, moving from the original homestead. Tom and Mary's commitment to performance marked the early years, setting the stage for a legacy defined by excellence.
Pioneering Performance in the Northwest
Tom Shaw emerged as a pioneer in the Hereford breed and the wider cattle industry. In 1969, he initiated the first Performance Bull Test Center in the Northwest in collaboration with the University of Idaho. This center, where cattlemen from the Northwest and Canada enrolled bulls, underscored Tom's commitment to advancing beef cattle performance. His contributions extended to the founding of the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF), where he served on the board from 1977 through 1980. Tom's leadership reached national platforms, serving on the National Beef Board, National Cattlemen’s Association Board, Idaho Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) Board, and the American Hereford Association Board (AHA). His remarkable contributions culminated in his induction into the American Hereford Association Hall of Fame in 2009.
The Transition to the Next Generation
In 1988, Tom and Mary's youngest son, Greg, officially joined the operation after graduating in 1968. Greg and Cleo, married in 1970, carried forward the Shaw legacy. In 1988, the herd was divided among Tom and Mary, Greg's brother's family, and Greg and Cleo. Shaw Cattle Company was established, rooted in the original home place. Here, Greg and Cleo raised their three children - Tucker, Sam, and Jaime - instilling in them the values of raising reputable performance cattle.
Diversification and Growth
Greg and Cleo seized an opportunity to diversify in 1990 by introducing registered Red Angus cows alongside the Hereford herd. The subsequent addition of Black Angus cattle in 1996 marked Shaw Cattle Company's commitment to excellence across multiple breeds. Today, Shaw Cattle Company proudly maintains over 1,500 registered cows, encompassing Herefords, Red Angus, and Black Angus.
Leadership and Innovation: A Family Tradition
Greg Shaw followed in his father's footsteps, not only as a breeder of performance cattle but also as a leader in the industry. Serving on various boards, including the Idaho Cattlemen’s, Idaho Purebred Council, and the American Hereford Association, Greg's influence extended to the presidency of the AHA. During his tenure on the AHA Board of Directors, he played a key role in developing and implementing "whole herd reporting," showcasing his commitment to industry-wide improvement.
The Fourth Generation: Ensuring the Legacy
The Shaw family's dedication to the ranching tradition is embodied by the return of Greg and Cleo's sons to the ranch. Sam, who returned in 1999 after graduating from the University of Idaho, and Tucker, who returned with his wife Angie in 2003, are actively involved in the operation. The Shaw family now proudly boasts its fourth generation, with Sam and Tucker raising their families on the ranch, ensuring that the craft of raising cattle is passed down like a cherished family heirloom.
Honoring the Legacy
In the fall of 2010, the Shaw family faced the loss of the cornerstones of their ranching legacy with the passing of Tom and Mary. Their dedication to family, each other, and the cattle business remains the foundation upon which the Shaw Cattle Company stands. While their day-to-day presence is missed, the family looks forward to carrying on the ranching tradition and passing it on to the next generation.
As Shaw Cattle Company continues to thrive, innovate, and uphold its legacy of excellence, the family's commitment to quality, performance, and the future of the cattle industry remains unwavering. The Shaw name continues to resonate not just in the history of cattle but as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and a profound love for the land. Visitors are welcomed into the Shaw legacy, where every day is dedicated to the improvement of their herd in the natural environment of Idaho.
