How it began
Hall of Fame Farms began with a simple dream: to create something that would outlast a Hall of Fame football career.
When Joe and Annie Thomas first crossed the bridge onto this land in Wisconsin's Driftless Region, they didn't just see a farm. They saw a place where family traditions would begin, where their children would grow up connected to the land, and where a lasting legacy could be built through hard work, stewardship, and shared meals.
This farm became a sanctuary. A place of quiet hills, abundant wildlife, and fertile valleys that remind us to slow down and appreciate what matters most. It also became a responsibility. Every pasture restored, every acre cared for, every animal raised with respect reflects our commitment to leave this land healthier than we found it for the generations that follow.
Hall of Fame Farms exists because we believe exceptional beef starts long before it meets your plate. It begins with healthy soil, healthy animals, and people who care deeply about doing things the right way. Every box we ship is an extension of that promise, connecting your family to a farm built on integrity, and a genuine love for the land.
This is more than where we raise cattle. It's the place the Thomas family always comes home to, and we're honored to share a small part of it with yours.
Key Ingredients
The Legend
Joe Thomas spent 11 seasons as one of the most dominant offensive linemen in NFL history, earning ten Pro Bowl selections and a reputation for never missing a snap. But long before the accolades, he was drawn to something quieter; open land, rolling hills, and a simpler way of life. After finding his farm in Wisconsin's Driftless, Joe channeled that same discipline and attention to detail from the football field into raising world-class beef. Hall of Fame Farms is his second act, and he's approaching it with the same standard he set on the gridiron: nothing less than the best.
The Team
Behind every great operation is a team that believes in what they're building. We're surrounded by people who share our commitment to quality, animal welfare, and doing things right. From our farm hands who know each animal by name, to our partners who harvest, pack, and ship with care and respect, every person in our process plays a role in what ends up on your plate. This isn't a factory, it's a family.
The Cattle
Our cattle aren't just livestock — they're the heart of everything we do. From birth, each animal is raised on lush Driftless pastures, fed a proprietary blend of forages developed with a cattle nutritionist, and given the space and care to thrive stress-free. We use elite genetics, including Full Blood Wagyu lines developed by renowned breeder Dr. Sheila Patinkin. Calm, well-cared-for animals produce better beef, and it shows in every cut.
Farm Team
Every cut of beef you enjoy starts with this team and is the result of the hardwork, dedication, and pride they put into caring for our animals and the land they're raised on.
Admin team
Joe Thomas
Rob Potter
Joel Janecek
Mike Lenzendorf
Kevin Lenzendorf
Chris Giese
Rachel Adams
Emma Biermann
Marius Fischer
Noah Kelber
Caroline DeBauche
Tannah Radloff
Joe Thomas
Owner
we raise beef you can trust and feel good feeding to your kids.
Blog posts
