JWR Land & Cattle Company was established in 1990 by Wesley and Sharon Rakestraw in Dallas, GA.  The farm was a place for their three young boys, John, Josh, and Jake to grow up with animals, to hunt, and to bond as a family.   They began going to Hereford sales and purchasing breeders’ top genetics to put together a primarily Victor based cow herd.  It wasn’t long when their passion for Herefords turned into over 500 head and they realized that they had outgrown the land that they had available.  In the late 90’s, they began to purchase land near Rockmart, GA and piece together what is now the home of JWR, and one of the most beautiful farms you’ll ever come across. 

                JWR hosted their first annual production sale, “Blending the Best”, in May 2003.  It was also this year that Tom and Tammy Boatman became involved, custom fitting some show heifers, assisting with sale cattle preparation, and finally getting hired as managers the week of the sale.   This was a great addition to the operation, as their common goal was to raise the best Hereford genetics possible.  JWR now consists of 250 brood cows, that includes 75 recipient dams to maintain their embryo transplant program.  The ET program makes it possible to mass produce the progeny of their top genetics.  JWR wants cattle that are easy to look at and that excel in all aspects of the business; efficiency, udder quality, EPD’s, carcass merit, and show ring.  They want to have a program where anyone could come in and purchase breeding cattle to improve their own herds. 

            In February of 2008, Wesley passed away in a tragic plane accident.  This event drastically changed the lives of the Rakestraw family, but they made the decision to continue Wesley’s legacy because of the love he had for his family, farm, and cattle.  Wesley was a one of a kind person and lived life to the fullest.  He was an inspiring person with a lot of vision, and is thought about each and every day at JWR and is missed DEARLY.

               In 2009 two additions were added to the Rakestraw family.  Josh and Morgan are the proud parents of Jaden “Wesley” and John and Lindsey are the proud parents of John “Walker”.  The Rakestraw’s wish their grandpa Wesley could be here to watch them grow, but know he is watching over them.  The Boatman’s are also very grateful to have the opportunity to raise their twins, Kade and Kendall, on Wesley’s farm and know that he is watching over them as well.

               JWR Land & Cattle Company has sold cattle, semen, or embryos into 36 states and Canada, but is looking forward to what the future has to offer and invites you to be with them on May 1, 2010 for “Blending the Best” VIII.  Wesley always wanted the best, so the Rakestraw’s and the Boatman’s feel that it is their obligation to strive for the best!  Please stop by anytime to view their operation.