Williamson Farms: Where Tradition Meets Self-Checkout

More than 100 years after the Williamson family began farming in Botetourt County, the operation is entering a new chapter of growth and expansion. The business is now managed by Tom and Tara Williamson, who assumed ownership of the 40-acre farm in 2014. Under their leadership, Williamson Farms has expanded both in acreage and offerings, including the addition of The Farm Stand, a self-checkout farm store located on the property.

Farming was never a question for Tom; it was always the plan. “From the time I was 10 for certain, but probably from the time I could stand, I knew I wanted to farm,” he shared. “I just didn’t know how to make a 40-acre farm profitable, and I was largely told it couldn’t be done, but I’m pretty stubborn so I didn’t take no for an answer.”

With perseverance and this vision in mind, Tom studied agronomy at Virginia Tech. Paired with business coursework, he explored countless agricultural business models, researching different paths, approaches and locations to determine how to support a successful family farm with limited acreage. 

Upon returning to the farm, Tom's studies and careful planning laid the foundation for his success; however, the pandemic also played a major role in the growth of his farm and sustainable profitability. 

During the pandemic, their direct sales of meat and eggs quickly began selling out at farmers markets, even as processing and other critical parts of the operation remained challenging and inconsistent. Recognizing the strong demand for direct-to-consumer sales, they were inspired to open The Farm Stand in spring 2024, a standalone, self-checkout shop located right on the property. The store offers local meats, fresh eggs, seasonal produce, milled grains and other products from nearby producers, including baked goods. The Farm Stand is located on Trinity Road in Troutville, Va., and Tom attributes some of its direct-to-consumer success to the location, as it sits right alongside the growing Botetourt County community. 

Tom shared that discovering direct marketing was ultimately the catalyst for his success. He joked, “The funny thing is it was exactly what my great-grandparents did 100 years ago.” 

“They started with a few acres and sold butter, eggs, vegetables, livestock and about anything a small farm could produce. I am told a lot of business was done by trading back then,” he said.

Today, the operation includes a beef cattle herd of 250 head, including about 80 breeding cows, a laying flock of 500 hens, grain, sweet corn and a variety of other produce. The Williamsons continue to expand into new ventures and value-added products, such as sheep and decorative corn, and even investing in a micro-mill to process grain for customers on-site. Most recently, they have been prioritizing their genetics to strengthen their beef cattle herd and meat products. 

Reflecting on his journey, Tom said that some things you just have to learn the hard way. For everything that’s gone right, there have also been risks that did not work out, but like anyone, he understands that’s part of moving forward. Despite the occasional unpredictability, he continues to enjoy taking on new projects and expanding the operation, especially with the support of additional team members and his wife, Tara, who plays a leading role in customer experience and marketing. 

Looking back, the most helpful relationships in the farm’s success included not only family but also a supportive local network of farmers. Tom described the area as a close-knit agricultural community where people are always willing to help one another, adding that he feels fortunate to have a strong network of fellow farmers he can rely on for support and advice.

In this new chapter of Williamson Farms, Tom continues to lean on trusted partners like Farm Credit to support his goals while continuing to grow the farm. Not new to farming but still early in his career, he appreciates the simplicity of working with a lender who truly understands the industry, saying, “Other banks don’t really understand agriculture, but Farm Credit does.” He encourages others looking to begin or expand their operations, especially those interested in production or purchasing land, to consider the same path. 

Beyond financial support, Tom values the practical benefits as well, noting that Farm Credit’s patronage refund reliably arrives each spring, helping offset the year’s many upfront expenses. 

Still, it’s his deep-rooted love for farming and community that defines his journey most. He said, “If I sold everything today, I’d start buying cows tomorrow.”