Rooted in the Heartland
Doolittle Family Farms began in 1882 when James Doolittle, a Civil War veteran, settled in the rich soil of Hamilton County, Iowa, with only a strong work ethic and a determination to build a better future. From those humble beginnings—just a few acres, some livestock, and a couple rows of corn—grew a multi-generational legacy rooted in hard work, stewardship, and family.
Through droughts, wars, and a century of change, we’ve remained true to our values while embracing innovation. Today, the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations farm side by side, growing high-quality corn and soybeans with a focus on sustainability and care for the land.
The farm began as a modest homestead growing corn and oats and raising a few heads of livestock. Now, you’ll find kids riding tractors with their older cousins, siblings managing logistics, and uncles walking rows of crops—still learning, still growing. Farming isn’t just our livelihood; it’s our life.
What started as one man’s dream has grown into a living testament to resilience, responsibility, and rural pride. We’re proud to be a part of Iowa’s farming tradition, and even prouder to call it home.
Farming for the Future
The Doolittle family’s connection to the land dates back to 1855, with the establishment of a parcel now known as the Doolittle Prairie—a 40-acre tract recognized for its rich biodiversity and historical significance of being an unaltered native prairie, outside of Story City, Iowa. This deep-rooted legacy underscores a respect for the land, which has been passed down through generations.
While we proudly honor the traditions of our ancestors, we also embrace innovation. Over the decades, we’ve adopted advanced equipment, soil health strategies, and precision agriculture techniques to improve yields, protect our environment, and ensure the land is productive for future generations. Whether it’s conservation tillage, cover cropping, or GPS-guided planting, we balance progress with preservation.
Community Involvement
Krystal plays a pivotal role in fostering community connections through initiatives like the ISU Extension and Outreach Land-Grant Legacy project. Through the years, she has been involved locally by serving on women’s leadership groups, school boosters, the Hamilton County Conservation Board, and more. On a broader level, she prioritizes engaging in conversations about policy issues and how they impact America’s farmers.
Doolittle Family Farms stands as a beacon of sustainable agriculture, community involvement, and educational outreach. Through their dedication, Eric and Krystal continue to honor their family’s legacy while shaping a resilient and inclusive agricultural future for Iowa.