I have such great memories of spending a lot of time with my late uncle, Boyd Emde, on the cattle farm at both the old address and the one on Hickory Ave east of Wellman. Boyd was born on April 23, 1916 thus one of the reasons for celebrating him on what would be his 105th birthday this month. My name is Joan Smith, niece of Boyd, I knew him so well and can speak confidently on who he was. Many of Boyd’s friends and neighbors know I had been traveling back to Wellman for many years to help. I have continued visiting the area and some local folks after he passed away.
I learned at a young age that farming was very hard work, but it taught me to be stronger in my life. Even at their first farm it was great milking cows, gathering eggs, pumping water and riding on a tractor with Boyd. I have photos of all the times there. Boyd always told me “Joan, all you ever did was work”, but I enjoyed it so much. To me it was the best life and I will never forget it, of course unreal by today’s standards but again at that time it was life. Being there was always the best time of my entire life. Boyd was the father figure in my life at a very young age due to the situation at that time.
Boyd and Wilma were extremely passionate about their love for agriculture, especially raising black Angus cattle and selling bulls across the country. The corner along Highway 22 and Hickory Avenue was quickly named “Emde Corner” as it proudly displayed his landmark farm sign. He loved farming so much that he finished his education by 8th grade to pursue his dream. With his wife Wilma by his side, they were able to expand the farming and cattle operation through the years with much success. They were very hard workers and went without many necessities to save money to buy more land they needed to farm. Many things that folks took for granted even back then they did go without.
He was a hardworking, kind and caring man all his life to his great credit. A wall in my home showcases the Emde history back to 1625 and this means so much to me. Even my friends remark how great to see family history displayed like this to enjoy every day.
I did attend the 2019 Kalona Fall Festival on my last visit. I had great talks with Gary as always and to Steve and other ladies during that festival. To my great luck while driving to Wassonville Cemetery I stopped in front of Boyd’s farm to take a photo of everything and while doing this I accidentally met the young family that purchased the home and building in 2009. They have done a superior job in maintaining the home and buildings Boyd would be so very proud of them all as I met the entire family that day. Boyd told me he wished for a family living on his farm and I heard this from him all the time for many years when we spoke in person or by phone. To see his legacy being carried out would make Boyd proud. Young families that want to continue farming and are contributing to the community should be supported by everyone.
Washington County is fortunate to have roots that are deep in agriculture. In your community, farmers put more than just food on your tables. Look around and see how farmers invest locally. They support the schools where you send your children to learn, the churches you gather to worship, the local stores benefit from farmers spending their dollars purchasing parts, fuel, seed, livestock feed and so much more. The family residing at the Emde homestead both grew up on farms and truly believe it is the best way to raise a family. Their kids learn responsibility by doing chores, learn about life and death by experiencing the excitement of a new baby calf being born in the Spring while another passes, they see the seeds you plant grow and realize that with careful precision that anything is possible.
Unbeknownst to them, they share the same special qualities that Boyd and Wilma had for many years. Past bankers, neighbors, a veterinarian and friends of the Emde’s have told me personally how Boyd would be so happy to see cattle back on his farm as it was his life and true passion. Also showing livestock was one of Boyd’s favorite events.
It is no surprise that farmers need land in order to raise a crop to feed their livestock. Lately, families have inquired about having the opportunity to purchase some Emde land. Boyd’s Last Will is a public record stating that land can be sold. I’m deeply grateful for the long list of area farmers, neighbors, friends of Boyd and others who have come forward in support. These people look at the big picture and realize that an investment is farming is key to a successful community.
Given my close relationship to Boyd, I know he was passionate about supporting future farmers. Boyd left over 600 acres of farmland in a Trust with proceeds (either by rent or sale) to go to three beneficiaries; the Kalona Historical Society and Mid-Prairie and Washington Schools to provide scholarships for young people wanting to pursue a career in agriculture. In 2018 alone, $152,572 was distributed to three beneficiaries in an annual report filed at the Washington County Clerk of Court.
The importance to promote agriculture and create interest among young people is much needed as our country becomes more disconnected from farming. I think ahead to the future as less children are involved in farming, is there is a way to create more opportunities to showcase agriculture through the schools? Could local FFA chapters offer more hands-on learning outside the classroom such as raising livestock, water quality and soil conservation practices. All things that were important to Boyd.
It is my deepest belief he would want his legacy remembered and carried on for many years. He always said, “You must take care of the land, and it will take care of you”.
My belief, as well as Boyd’s, “Families and people first, it is the American way of doing the right thing”.
