Staheli Family Farm is a seven-generation working family farm, originally founded in 1892 by Swiss immigrants who came on a mission to settle this area. The farm has seen many stages of life since then. Through immense hard work and sacrifice, Frank Staheli was instrumental in building the agricultural infrastructure that helped shape what we now call Washington Fields.

From growing sugar beet crops and raising turkeys to raising a family, Frank’s only son, Woodrow Staheli, stepped up to help work the land. Woodrow and his wife, Carma, raised five boys and three girls. In the 1960s, they brought in cattle, raised alfalfa, and built the silo that serves as our farm store today. Woodrow (affectionately known as W.W.) was famous for taking in strangers, feeding them, and giving them honest work until they were back on their feet. W.W.’s sons all worked the farm, though tragedy struck when three of the five boys passed away as young men and fathers. Ultimately, W.W.’s youngest son, Ralph, took over the cattle and crop operation.

In 2001, Ralph’s oldest son, Burke, caught inspiration for a unique idea: a corn maze. That autumn, the farm debuted its very first “Go For the Gold” maze. In the 25 years since that milestone, Staheli Family Farm has grown into a cherished community staple, deeply “rooted” in the hearts of our neighbors.

Today, Ralph’s youngest daughter, Sherrie Lou, her husband Mike, and their family have taken the reins. What started as a fun, “if you build it, they will come” idea has blossomed into generations of family fun. Grounded in a grassroots brand, our farm strikes a chord with long-time community members, capturing the hearts of those who either hold nostalgic ties to agriculture or share the dream of owning a farm.

Each fall season is the beautiful culmination of year-round effort that fully involves our family. Sherrie handles the design, creativity, and big dreams, while Mike tackles the hard physical labor of the farm. Of course, none of this would be possible without our loyal, dedicated management team, our 200 seasonal employees, and, most importantly, you, our guests. It turns out the old saying is true: “if you build it, they will come.” Thank you for being a vital part of our story.