The Ronald and Patricia Miller Farm in Hardy County, West Virginia, is a shining example of a family-owned farm that has stood the test of time, with its roots tracing back to the early 1900s. The farm, which encompasses 180 acres and an additional 420 acres of leased land, has been in the Miller family for five generations, beginning with Archibald Wilkins. Ronald and Patricia Miller have continued the family’s legacy with unwavering dedication and innovation.
The farm is an organic poultry grower, producing an impressive 350,000 birds annually with an average weight of 7.25 pounds per bird, which are marketed through a contract with Farmer Focus. In addition to their thriving poultry operation, the Millers also maintain a 120-head cow/calf operation and raise their own hay, preserving the farm’s long-standing tradition of raising both chickens and cattle.
Ronald’s upbringing on the farm, where he started milking the family’s milk cow at the age of 8 and carried water to the chickens in the old, wood-heated chicken houses, has indelibly shaped his appreciation for the farm’s heritage. The original farmhouse, built in the early 1900s, has been kept largely intact, with only a few upgrades, and Ronald’s 88-year-old mother, Reva Miller, still resides in the historic home.
Effie Funkhouser, Ronald’s grandmother, willed him 40 acres in 1980. Ronald and his wife Patricia then purchased the additional 120 acres from his uncles. The original chicken houses and barn are now gone, but have been replaced by 2 homes, 3 poultry houses, an event barn, a hay barn, a steer barn, 2 litter sheds, and two composter sheds.
Ronald and Patricia have two daughters, Katelyn King and Cassy Miller Rudolph (who helps on the farm). They also have 3 grandchildren, Mac King, Preston King, and Cade Rudolph.
In addition to their farm work, the Millers are deeply involved in their local community and county farm bureau. They generously support their church youth, the local fire and rescue squads, the local fair, and serve meals to the Ruritan Club, making a significant impact on the lives of those around them.