01/24/2026
It’s time to once again by recognizing Grayson Getz!
Nominated by: Ridge Weatherholtz
Grayson’s farm was established in 1796 and is located in Quicksburg, VA (referred to as Getz’ Corner). One of his descendants purchased the property from original owner, Lord Fairfax, through land grants. Grayson and his brother Gene took over their father’s dairy production in 1971. At one point, the Getz Farm was the largest dairy producer in terms of pounds of milk per head, in the Shenandoah Valley. The dairy operation ceased in 1996, and the farm transitioned to beef cattle only. Grayson maintained added employment as an electrician to have additional income over the years. Today, the farm sits at 270 acres and has 50-75 beef cattle at any given time.
Over the years, the farm has been home to sheep, hogs, dairy cattle, horses and currently beef cattle along with a few barn cats! When asked if there had been a favorite farm animal over the years, Grayson fondly spoke of his beloved dog, Andy, his faithful buddy for many years (picture included that he keeps in his truck). When asked if any of the structures hold special history, Grayson pointed out that there’s a spring house original to the farm that still exists. When asked if he had any memories of neighbors helping neighbors, he reminisced about harvest time, wood cutting and barn rebuilding. He also highlighted his lifelong friend and helper, Buster Weatherholtz. Other important and consistent helpers are Barry Getz, Natalie Surchex and Chad Weatherholtz.
When asked what advice he would give to those in 4-H who are interested in farming, Grayson said the most misunderstood truth is that there is not a regular paycheck, no steady income. It helps if the desire to farm is in your blood and important that you are ready for the ups and downs. Grayson’s wife Mary Ellen added that it’s important to do your research, get your education on what you’ll farm and noted how “it’s a good life, you’ll learn a lot and it will keep you out of trouble 😉”.
Here's an article from the Mountain Courier from a couple years ago: https://www.themountaincourier.com/articles/featured-stories/hard-work-and-team-work-keep-this-century-farm-running/
