Virginia Father and Son Continue Family Farming Tradition

The Byrum family says bringing the next generation back to the farm is helping strengthen both the operation and the family bond.

WINDSOR, Va. (RFD News) — Family farming in America continues evolving, not just through technology, but through the next generation stepping into the operation.

For one Virginia farm family, a son’s return to the farm is bringing new ideas while continuing a family tradition decades in the making.

Cecil Byrum says he was thrilled when his son Steele decided to join the family farming operation.

Now farming alongside his father, Steele Byrum is helping grow wheat, soybeans and cotton while also learning the challenges that come with agriculture, from changing weather conditions to volatile commodity markets.

The Byrum family says farming has become a blend of old traditions and new ideas, something they believe continues bringing generations together.

They add that despite the challenges, farming remains a labor of love.

Related Stories
Slow-simmered Cajun beans cooked in corned beef stock for rich, Southern flavor—just like Justin Wilson used to make.
A rich, flavorful stock made by simmering corned beef with Cajun seasonings. Justin Wilson’s Eazy Corned Beef Stock recipe adds depth to beans, stews, and classic Southern dishes.
Cheesy, shrimp-stuffed, and full o’ Cajun flavor— Justin Wilson’s Asparagus and Shrimp Casserole recipe will have you sayin’ “I’m glad to eat you, I garontee!” with every bite.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Scientists say studying how cattle digest seaweed could help shape future livestock nutrition and sustainability efforts.
Emily Oberbroeckling says producers in northeast Iowa have made strong planting progress while continuing to monitor moisture conditions.
RFD News Farm Legal Expert Roger McEowen shares the major role of timing clauses in farmland sales, leases, and succession planning.
State agriculture leaders say the new “Nine Lakes of East Tennessee” designation could boost tourism and industry investment.
Large animal vets say the parasite is now showing up in regions where it historically has not been common.
For more than 70 years, The Pancake Shop has served sausage supplied by the Hawthorn family’s meat operation.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.