OUR PRACTICES
PASTURE-RAISED — Out here, the pasture is more than just grass—it’s the heart of our farm. We’ve spent decades learning how to graze our animals in a way that gives back to the land. By moving them from field to field with purpose, they help build richer soil, healthier plants, and stronger pastures. We believe that when animals are cared for well, and the land is tended with respect, the food they provide is something you can feel good about putting on your table. Better pastures also mean less outside feed, which helps us keep our meat affordable for local families.
GRAIN-FINISHED — Folks often ask if we’re grass-fed. The truth is, our cattle and pigs spend their lives on pasture, but we choose to finish them on grain. Why? Because a little homegrown, Non-GMO grain adds the marbling and flavor that make a steak melt-in-your-mouth good. It also gives our mama cows the extra calories they need in winter while nursing calves. We grow that grain ourselves and mix it with the help of our local vet—so we know exactly what’s going into our animals and, in turn, onto your plate.
American Heritage Family Farm Story.
The Saffer Family has always had a deep appreciation for animals. There isn’t an animal we wouldn’t care for. In 1998, Joe and Katey Saffer were married and soon after were blessed with three children—two boys and a girl. Their middle son, Ayden, is developmentally challenged and has been diagnosed with Autism.
In their efforts to provide the very best care for Ayden, Joe and Katey wanted him to have the best of everything, including the food he ate. That same commitment extended to their other two children—they wanted the cleanest, healthiest food possible for their entire family.
In 2008, the Saffer family moved from Clifton, Virginia to Manassas, Virginia, where they purchased 31 acres of land and built their home. What started with their daughter wanting a pony quickly grew into something much more. A cow was added, then another. Horses were adopted, along with pigs and goats. As their love for animals grew, so did their vision.
In 2014, the family moved to Warrenton, Virginia, purchasing 200 acres of land. With more space came more opportunity—more cattle were added, and sheep soon joined the farm as well.
In 2016, the farm was officially incorporated as American Heritage Family Farm. As the years passed and experience grew, the Saffer's learned that farming isn’t just about raising animals—it’s about what goes into them as well. Controlling the quality of feed and nutrition became just as important as the final product. By working with animal nutritionists, they developed customized feed programs tailored to each species, ensuring the healthiest animals and the highest-quality products possible.
Through years of trial and error, the Saffer family has learned what works—and what doesn’t. Farming is both a craft and a calling, and it’s one the entire family and farm staff truly enjoy. Every day, we’re committed to raising the best animals and producing the best food we can.
From our farm to your family—may your table be bountiful and your freezers stay full.
