Swallowfield Farm

Swallowfield Farm raises heritage shorthorn cattle in Rockbridge Baths, VA, in Rockbridge County and the Shenandoah Valley near Harrisonburg. Owner Jonathan Musgrove has bred these cattle for over a decade, maintains membership with the American Shorthorn Association, and adheres to annual health screenings for all animals.

The cattle graze on mixed grass pastures across gently rolling fields and are handled daily to encourage a calm temperament. Calves are introduced to adult herds under open-sided shelters that balance shelter and fresh air, reflecting a low-stress approach. Each year a select cohort of well socialized calves is retained to preserve strong maternal traits and maintain a manageable herd size.

Sustainable pasture rotation and careful record keeping strengthen the herd’s resilience and quality. Grass-fed protocols support balanced nutrition and natural weight gain. With its attention to individual animal welfare and quiet, hands-on care, Swallowfield Farm presents a thoughtful environment for heritage shorthorn cattle.