Leon and Hannah Tucker spoke at the annual Beef Twilight Tour at Conley Farms on Saturday, Aug. 22.
(Photo by Alyssa Richardson)

The Tucker family is no stranger to farming. Leon Tucker and his granddaughter Hannah recently attended the Beef Twilight Tour to share some of the family’s well-earned wisdom on the limousine breed of cattle.

The Tucker family have raised beef cattle in Milford since 1959. During a speech for guests of the tour, Leon noted the many changes of the cattle industry during his time. He detailed the changing of the breeds from beef cows to new, imported cattle such as the limousine breed.

Though many farmers were reluctant to make the change, Leon Tucker did not share their sentiments. Instead, Leon was among the first farmers in Indiana to bring the limousine breed to the Hoosier homeland. In 1971, Leon began utilizing the breed, which would become a popular choice for farmers in years to come

Hannah, an agriculture communications major at Purdue University, was able to share details about the breed itself. Hannah noted the breed, which originated in France, began being imported to North America in 1968. Upon arrival, the cattle were required to undergo a health evaluation in Canada before being shipped to the U.S.

Both Tuckers noted the breed is both “short and fat.” Though there was resistance to new breeds, the Tuckers explained the ability to crossbreed limousine cattle was an attractive asset, allowing cattle, much like Americans at the time, to be entered into a melting pot that allowed for new breed options.

Although Leon has gotten out of the cattle industry, his granddaughter is just beginning the path to her career. Hannah noted she hopes to pursue a career in agricultural journalism or agriculture sales and marketing. Hannah stated one day she would like to write for Limousine World National Magazine.

Hannah, like her parents, aunts and uncles, is a 10-year member of Kosciusko County 4H. The Tucker family boasts an impressive three generations of grand-champions. Though Hannah participated all 10 years with cattle, she noted she also competed in swine competitions three years in her 4H career.

The Tuckers garnered even more than grand championships from the fair. Leon noted he met his wife, Dot while at the Kosciusko County 4H Fair. Leon and his wife, who are both lifetime Milford farmers, shared five children and a legacy of Tuckers to carry on the family name and love for cattle. The couple still resides in Milford where they attend Milford Christian Church.