WineGlass Ranch, a fifth-generation operation located southwest of Cochrane, is celebrating 125 years in operation.
Francis and Elizabeth Towers first homesteaded the cattle ranch, distinguished by its unique wine glass-shaped brand, in 1885. The area was just being settled, and Cochrane was not yet a town.
When first established, WineGlass Ranch included more than 10,000 acres and many hundreds of cattle, which were the family’s main source of income.
The operation was passed down to 90-year-old Vernice Wearmouth, who was an only child, who left it to her daughter Edith Wearmouth, the current owner.
“Our living has always been off of beef ranching,” said Lori-Anne Eklund, 28, great-great granddaughter of Francis and Elizabeth.
“I am the fifth generation.”
Nowadays the ranch is smaller, but the owners are equally committed to preserving their way of life.
The farm is now home to about 200 to 300 cattle, and the owners are considering diversifying.
The family is entering a partnership to provide natural beef and possibly riding lessons in an attempt to vary what the ranch offers. The family is also interested in educating people about the history and importance of the land and their agricultural roots.
“We have an annual invitational roping event, and we are starting on some other things as well, including school groups that have come out to look at the use of native plants in the area and…the history of the area,” said Eklund.
Another important aspect for this generation is safeguarding the land and natural areas of the ranch.
“We are always thinking about how we can maintain the integrity and function of the Jumping Pound Creek,” said Eklund, adding the family also tries to maintain native grass species and keep out invasive plants.
“We make our home and our living from the environment around us, so if we don’t take care of it, it can’t take care of us.”
In 2004, the family won the Alberta Environmental Stewardship Award.
From the beginning, the family has been active members of the Cochrane community, with involvement in church and community events.
“We grew up with that example from grandma and grandpa,” said Eklund.
WineGlass ranch is opening its doors to the community for its 125th anniversary celebration Sept. 11, from 1-4 p.m. Cake and refreshments will be served at the informal gathering, which is also a celebration of Vernice Wearmouth’s 90th birthday.
For more information, contact Eklund at 403-808-2223.
