Our Journey

• 1941: Paul’s parents, Lyle and Jessie, move to the area.
• 1945: Lyle and Jessie establish the “home place,” farming wheat, corn, and raising sheep.
• 1950s: The family transitions from sheep to cattle farming.
• 1971: Paul marries Cheryl Eggers. The cattle operation expands to include a feedlot.
• 1983: Paul shifts from ranching to farming, acquiring more land.
• 1988: Participation in the Conservation Reserve Program leads to planting native grasses, thousands of trees, and food plots, significantly increasing pheasant populations.
• 1992: The ranch hand’s house is converted to host hunters, marking the beginning of guest services at the farm.
• 1993-1995: Significant additions of bedrooms and lounge areas to the Main Lodge.
• 1997: Main office established in Gettysburg.
• 1999: Erik Nelson, third generation, returns to the farm after graduating from Oklahoma State.
• 2000: The Bunkhouse, with 10 semi-private rooms, is built.
• 2001: African Room added to the Main Lodge.
• 2006: King Lodge is built, offering 10 bedrooms.
• 2008: Erik Nelson marries Tami Thompson. King Lodge is tragically destroyed by fire.
• 2009: King Lodge is rebuilt with 14 luxurious rooms, becoming a favorite for corporate groups, and the Presidential Suite is added. The Bunkhouse is reconfigured into 8 private rooms and renamed Buffalo Suites.
• 2016: Paul Nelson Farm awarded the prestigious Orvis Wingshooting Lodge of the Year for the second time.
• 2018: The Range at Paul Nelson Farm opens, offering long-range rifle shooting up to 2000 yards.
• 2020: Paul Nelson killed in a tornado.​