Hardesty Cattle Co.

Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma, Hardesty Cattle Co. has stood as a testament to resilience and familial dedication. Their story began in 1926 when Thomas Hardesty moved to Delaware County, OK. While the move epitomizes the American Dream come true, the Hardestys have fought relentlessly to preserve this dream, which has become the family’s legacy. 

Curt Hardesty, the youngest of his siblings, was only six when the Hardestys moved to Delaware County, OK. Growing up, ranching became a family affair, and Curt would soon develop a profound love and respect for the land where he worked with his brothers and sister. Over the years, the ranch taught Curt invaluable lessons about the love for one’s family, respect for the land, the value of hard work, and the importance of fighting for what you love. These lessons have been handed down from generation to generation and continue to be the foundations of Hardesty Cattle Co. 

The ranch has faced its fair share of challenges throughout the years, almost succumbing to taxes on three occasions during the Depression. During this time, it was Curt who rallied the family to fight to preserve their family dream. It was also Curt who stayed to take over the family ranch, marrying Ivan’s mother in 1945, cementing the ranch’s place for generations to come.

A few years later, the Hardestys fought again to preserve their dream. Initially part of Indian territory, it required immense effort to be officially recognized, but they persevered, buying the land and lifting any remaining restrictions. 

Curt went on to have two sons and a daughter, who grew up working the land, just as he had with his father and siblings. In 1972, Curt’s oldest son was killed; he was only 25 years old. While this cast a shadow of despair over the family, Ivan, the youngest, stepped up, becoming an integral part of the ranch. 

Ivan is dedicated to continuing to pass down and maintain the family legacy, passing it on to the next generations, ensuring that the seasons at Hardesty Ranch continue to unfold meticulously, and maintaining the same quality and standards that have become part of their 95+ years of tradition. 

The day at Hardesty Ranch usually starts at 7 am, with feeding and problem-solving taking precedence. The family’s dedication to their animals is evident as they interact with every cattle throughout the day, ensuring their health and well-being. These morning rounds continue to be a family affair, with Jake, Ivan’s son, and his four-year-old daughter Kenzley making the morning rounds a cherished routine. 

During the hot months of July and August, the ranch focuses on maintenance rather than growth, ensuring the well-being of the cattle. The calving season occurs twice a year, during spring and fall. Calves feed off of their mothers before being weaned, undergoing a carefully monitored process of growth; this process ensures both the health of the animals and the quality of beef produced.

The quality of Hardesty Cattle Co. is evident throughout the entire process. The daily observations of the cattle, careful scaling, quality of pastures, and overall care for the animals are evidence that this isn’t just a business but a way of life. The Hardestys have a profound respect for the land and the animals, resulting in time-honored traditions and quality beef that have continued for 95+ years and will continue for generations.