54 Years of Shorthorns
in North Carolina
The story of Bruce Humble & Humble Stock Farm in Liberty, NC — over five decades of dedication to purebred and commercial cattle excellence.
Original Article by Shelby Diehm, ASA • Published January 2022
54+ Years
Breeding & raising Shorthorns since age 11 in Liberty, NC
150 Head
Herd size with purebred & commercial Shorthorn cross genetics
100 Acres
Cropland growing corn, soybeans, and wheat to feed the farm
Overview & Origins
Located outside of Liberty, North Carolina, Humble Stock Farm has been home to Bruce Humble's Shorthorn herd for over 54 years. Bruce was introduced to the breed as a young boy when his father raised veal calves using a neighbor's Shorthorn bull crossed with milk cows.
After completing a two-year agricultural program at North Carolina State University and helping a local Hereford breeder, Bruce rented land from the breeder to establish his own Shorthorn herd. He joined the Junior Shorthorn Association in 1969 and still retains his original membership certificate.
Docile Heritage Genetics
Known for high feedlot performance, exceptional mothering, and gentle temperaments.
Pasture-First Management
Cattle thrive predominantly on grass grazing with minimal supplemental feeds required.
Farm Operations & Breeding Strategy
Humble Stock Farm maintains approximately 150 cows, over half of which are registered purebred Shorthorns, utilizing genetics from notable lines like Waukaru and Leveldale.
Crossbreeding Excellence
Crosses Shorthorns with Angus and Red Angus to produce highly sought-after replacement females for local commercial cattle producers.
Crop Integration
Farms 100 acres of crops (corn, soybeans, wheat) to balance farm expenses alongside the cattle operation.
In addition to cattle, Bruce and his wife Darlene operate a contract hog barn housing 1,700 head and keep around 30 sheep to naturally manage grass growth around the hog lagoon.
"I love the Shorthorns. Our cattle are very docile, it is shocking. I guess every mom thinks their kid is the cutest, but our cattle really are."
— Darlene Humble
Market Focus & Local Community
Rather than relying on show cattle markets typical of the Midwest, Bruce focuses on commercial utility and local buyers in North Carolina. Most cattle are sold locally to regional growers who value docility, strong feed efficiency, and proven maternal traits.
After 58 years as a bachelor, Bruce married Darlene six and a half years ago. Together, they continue to steward Humble Stock Farm with a focus on simple, sustainable, grass-based livestock management.
Discover Early Rise Ranch
Inspired by North Carolina's rich cattle heritage? Learn more about our sustainable pasture management, grass-fed practices, and local offerings at Early Rise Ranch.
Visit EarlyRiseRanch.com