In the heart of Texas Hill Country lies a vibrant testament to the blending of tradition, agriculture, and community spirit—Wildseed Farms. Known as the largest working wildflower farm in the United States, Wildseed Farms is helmed by John and Marilyn Thomas, proud alumni of Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Their journey from Bearkat students to successful entrepreneurs is a story of passion, innovation, and a deep-rooted connection to their alma mater.
A Blossoming Partnership
The partnership between the SHSU Alumni Association and Wildseed Farms is a celebration of shared values and community growth. This collaboration has given rise to the SHSU Alumni wine collection, a tribute to the university's namesake, the Houston family, and Bearkats everywhere. Under the stewardship of John ('70) and Marilyn ('69) Thomas, this initiative not only highlights their dedication to quality but also supports the SHSU Alumni Association, with proceeds from wine sales contributing to its endeavors.
The Journey of John and Marilyn Thomas
The story of Wildseed Farms began with John and Marilyn Thomas, whose adventures in agriculture started after graduating from Sam Houston State University. Initially, John honed his skills in Eagle Lake, Texas, working on rice cultivation and cattle raising. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.
In 1981, John leveraged his farming expertise to plant wildflowers at the Eagle Lake property. By 1982, Wildseed Farms was officially born. The fields of vibrant wildflowers quickly became a spectacle, drawing visitors from Houston and beyond. Recognizing an opportunity, the Thomas's opened their production fields to the public, transforming their agricultural efforts into a thriving business.
Expansion and Innovation
In 1993, Wildseed Farms expanded to Fredericksburg, Texas, acquiring 217 acres to increase their farming capacity to over 600 acres. This move also marked the birth of Marilyn's successful gift shop, which has since evolved into the iconic Market Center, offering a unique shopping experience with home décor, apparel, jewelry, and more.
Their entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. By 2015, the Thomas's ventured into viticulture, planting their first vineyard and eventually launching Wildseed Vineyards in 2019. Today, the vineyard boasts 55 acres of diverse grape varieties and produces a full range of wines that visitors can sample in their unique tasting room, opened in the spring of 2021.
A Celebration of Community and Excellence
The partnership with SHSU Alumni Association is more than just a business venture; it’s a celebration of community and excellence. The SHSU Alumni wine collection is a testament to the Thomas' commitment to quality and innovation. With each bottle of wine, they invite fellow Bearkats and wine lovers alike to partake in a rich tapestry of flavors, woven together by their decades-long dedication to agriculture and community.
Wildseed Farms isn't just a place to admire sprawling fields of flowers or sample exquisite wines; it's an embodiment of John and Marilyn's legacy, a testament to their journey from SHSU students to pioneers in agriculture and viticulture. Whether you’re an SHSU alumnus or a lover of fine wines and beautiful landscapes, a visit to Wildseed Farms is an invitation to be part of a story that continues to grow, bloom, and inspire.
