Celebrating 100 Years of Farming Families in the County of Newell
At a recent County Council meeting, three local families were recognized for an incredible milestone: more than a century of farming in the County of Newell. These families embody the perseverance, adaptability, and community spirit that define our region.
G&H Hammergren Farms – Scandia
The Hammergren family story begins with Ernest Gunner “George” and Hildur Cecilia Hammergren, who immigrated from Sweden in the early 1900s. After meeting and marrying in San Francisco, they heard about farmland opportunities in Canada and decided to settle in Scandia around 1919.
Winters were spent working in lumber camps in Seattle until the farm was established. Despite having no farming background, George didn’t even know how to harness horses when he arrived, the Hammergrens persevered. George farmed until his passing in 1940, and Hildur continued until 1963.
The farm was then passed down through the family, eventually to Wayne Hammergren in 1989, who still operates the farm today. Wayne’s sisters Eunice Szigli and Shauneen Carlin were also in attendance at the ceremony.
Niznik Ranches – Antelope Creek
The Niznik legacy began with John Joseph Niznick, who emigrated from Austria-Hungary after working in the Carnegie Steel mills of Pennsylvania in the 1920s. Encouraged by a salesman promoting Canadian settlement, John and four companions set out for Antelope Creek, Alberta. While the others returned to the U.S., John remained, later joined by his wife Mary and their children.
Over the decades, the family diversified their crops, including wheat, barley, alfalfa, flax, canola, and corn, and built a strong cattle operation. Originally raising Shorthorn and Hereford cattle, the farm transitioned to Black Angus and now partners with Brandt Lake Wagyu, with nearly 40 percent of their herd contributing to the Wagyu program.
Today, Niznik Ranches operates 2,000 irrigated acres and 3,300 dryland acres, with summer pastures near Stettler and Hanna. The operation is run by Brad and Kristen, Bruce and Jodi, and the fifth generation of Niznik children. Bruce and Brad's parents, George and Joan. Along the way, the ranch has earned numerous honours, including the 2011 Calgary Stampede Farm Family Award and the 2021 Certified Angus Beef Canadian Commitment to Excellence Award.
C.O. Johnson & Sons – Scandia
The Johnson family’s farming journey began when brothers Albert and Oscar Johnson arrived in Scandia in 1920. The two bachelors started with just 80 acres and quickly grew their sheep business with partner Ben Johnson. Eventually, Albert moved to Brooks while Oscar and his sons continued to farm in Scandia.
By 1940, the family transitioned from sheep to cattle, and today the third generation, Blaine, Warren, and their sister, operate a successful cattle and irrigation farm. The fourth generation is now preparing to take the reins, continuing the family’s proud agricultural tradition.
The Johnsons credit irrigation, diversification, and land ownership for their success. Reflecting on the milestone, Blaine Johnson noted, “Being in the County of Newell has been very good for our family.”
Adding a personal touch, the Johnsons also shared that the Hammergren family has been their neighbours and friends since both families first settled in the area, a testament to the strong ties within this Scandinavian community.
Honouring Legacy and Community
The County of Newell is proud to recognize the Hammergren, Niznik, and Johnson families for their extraordinary contributions and commitment to agriculture and community life. Their stories are reminders of the resilience, innovation, and family bonds that continue to shape the fabric of our county. We are excited to share this impressive milestone with more farming families in the future.