About Us
Our
Story
Vanwassenhove Farms began with a single 4-H project and a young boy’s love for animals. When owner Will Vanwassenhove was just eight years old, he raised his first pig for 4-H. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for animal care, honest work, and the satisfaction of providing quality food for others. What started as one pig in a small pen has grown into a thriving family farm known for raising Registered Berkshire hogs and producing some of the finest pork in central Illinois.
The values that inspired that first project—responsibility, integrity, and respect for animals—still guide everything we do today. Vanwassenhove Farms remains family-owned and operated, rooted in the quiet countryside of Cabery, Illinois, where the open fields and fresh air create the ideal environment for raising healthy livestock.
The
Berkshire Difference
Berkshire hogs are a heritage breed with a long history of producing tender, flavorful meat. Their rich marbling, darker color, and natural juiciness set them apart from commercial pork breeds. At Vanwassenhove Farms, we chose Berkshires because their natural qualities align with our values—raising livestock with respect, not shortcuts.
Our Registered Berkshires are raised outdoors, where they can root, explore, and express natural behaviors. Each animal has access to clean shelters and dry bedding, with plenty of fresh air and sunshine. By allowing them to live comfortably, we ensure their well-being and produce pork that tastes the way nature intended.
Our Mission
Our mission is to produce premium-quality Berkshire pork while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and sustainable farming. We believe good food starts with good farming practices. Every decision—from the type of feed we mix to how we manage the land—is made with care and attention to detail.
We are committed to:
Raising animals naturally, with space to move and live comfortably.
Avoiding the use of steroids and growth hormones.
Limiting antibiotics to emergency situations only.
Producing feed from wholesome grains grown and ground right on the farm.
Providing customers with honest, transparent access to farm-fresh meat they can trust.
Ethical and Sustainable Farming
We take pride in raising animals responsibly and managing the land with sustainability in mind. The farm’s feed is made on-site—a balanced mix of ground corn, soybean meal, alfalfa, and essential vitamins and minerals. This not only ensures quality and consistency but also reduces waste and transportation impact.
Our goal is to maintain healthy soil, clean water, and a balanced environment for future generations. We rotate crops, manage pastures carefully, and make choices that protect the long-term health of the land. Ethical farming isn’t just about following rules—it’s about respecting the animals, the earth, and the people who depend on both.
Supporting 4-H and Agricultural Education
Vanwassenhove Farms has deep roots in the 4-H community. As a former 4-H participant, Will understands how these programs build responsibility, confidence, and leadership in young people. He now shares his experience by helping other 4-H members learn about raising animals, caring for livestock, and understanding the value of agriculture.
Many of our customers come from farming families or small rural communities that share these same values. By supporting Vanwassenhove Farms, you’re helping keep the tradition of youth agriculture alive and encouraging the next generation of farmers to continue this important work.
From
Our Farm to Your Table
Our pork is available in several convenient formats: whole, half, and individual cuts. Whether you’re filling a freezer or planning a few special meals, we offer the same high-quality meat to every customer. Every order represents weeks of careful care, balanced nutrition, and humane animal handling.
We also raise beef and produce a variety of farmstand products, including eggs, vegetables, hay, alfalfa, and sawdust. Each product is raised or produced with the same commitment to quality that defines our Berkshire pork. We value transparency and encourage customers to learn about where their food comes from.
A Family Farm You Can Trust
Our pork is available in several convenient formats: whole, half, and individual cuts. Whether you’re filling a freezer or planning a few special meals, we offer the same high-quality meat to every customer. Every order represents weeks of careful care, balanced nutrition, and humane animal handling.
We also raise beef and produce a variety of farmstand products, including eggs, vegetables, hay, alfalfa, and sawdust. Each product is raised or produced with the same commitment to quality that defines our Berkshire pork. We value transparency and encourage customers to learn about where their food comes from.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How did Vanwassenhove Farms get started?
The farm began as a childhood 4-H project that grew into a lifelong passion. Over time, that single pig became the foundation for a successful Berkshire pork operation focused on quality and care.
What makes your farm different from larger pork producers?
We’re small by design. Our animals are raised outdoors with fresh air, natural feed, and humane care—not confined to large-scale systems. Every step is done on a personal level.
Can I visit the farm?
We welcome visitors by appointment. Please contact us ahead of time to schedule a visit and learn more about our animals and products.
Do you sell directly to customers?
Yes. You can purchase directly from our farm or through our online shop, with options for pickup or scheduled delivery.
Do you support local programs or events?
Absolutely. We continue to support 4-H, youth livestock shows, and community agricultural programs whenever possible.
Contact Information
If you’d like to learn more about our family farm, our Berkshire hogs, or how to purchase pork or beef, please reach out by phone or email. We look forward to sharing our story and our products with you.
