John Connaway – Connaway Ranch, Brown County, Texas

In the heart of southern Brown County, near Brookesmith, Texas, John Connaway carries on a ranching legacy with Connaway Ranch, LLC which spans six generations. His family’s deep roots in the area date back to the late 1870s, with the first registered brand and property tax records for their operation traced back to 1881.

Like many in agriculture, the Connaways have adapted to changing times. In 1941, the U.S. government took over part of their land to establish Camp Bowie for World War II, forcing them to relocate southwest. After the war, they were able to buy back some of the original land while maintaining their homestead ranch.

In 2012, John and his wife, Laura, had the opportunity to purchase back 200 acres that had been sold out of the family’s Brookesmith homestead in 1990. They named this parcel Full Circle Ranch—a fitting tribute to their return to the land after living in ten states and three foreign countries during John’s engineering career.

Today, John and Laura run a commercial cow/calf operation on 2,600 acres, selling livestock at local auctions. While drought conditions and pasture improvement efforts have currently reduced their herd, in the past they have managed up to 300 cow/calf pairs. In addition to cattle, they also grow Sudan and Kleingrass hay, as well as small grains, primarily for grazing.

John never truly left the ranching life he grew up with, helping alongside his father and grandparents on both sides. During his 30 years as a petroleum engineer, he remained involved part-time, and in 2016, he took early retirement to return to the ranch. “I often joke that I retired to run a very large, nonprofit organization,” he says with a chuckle. But ranching is more than just a job—it’s a way of life deeply ingrained in his identity.

Life on a ranch is demanding, and John knows the challenges firsthand. “There are always challenges, but one of the toughest things is staying positive when nothing seems to go right,” he admits. “There are moments when the easy choice would be to sell everything and live a simpler life. But I think of the generations before me who faced greater hardships yet never threw in the towel. Their resilience keeps me going.”

At the same time, ranching is incredibly rewarding. For John, the greatest joy comes from preserving and improving the land for future generations. “We’re not just running a ranch—we’re making it more efficient, sustainable, and productive. Ensuring the long-term economic viability of this ranch for my son and grandchildren is what drives me,” he shares. Beyond that, he and Laura are passionate advocates for the beef industry and their role in feeding the world.

Ranch life wouldn’t be the same without the family’s loyal members, including the pets. Snuffy, their Texas Heeler, is always ready to “load up” and work cows, while Abbey, the barn cat, makes a habit of leaving lizard ‘gifts’ at the back door. Their son Brian keeps a few cows of his own on the ranch and helps when he can, though he works as a petroleum engineer in Katy. Meanwhile, their grandchildren, Maddie and Austin, are the newest additions to the family’s agricultural legacy.

John also stays active beyond the ranch, serving in numerous organizations, including as a new director for the Texas Beef Council board. Also, as a county board member for Texas Farm Bureau, he traveled to Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Virginia, engaging with fellow farmers, ranchers, and lawmakers. “Each trip has been a unique and rewarding experience,” he says. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the people I’ve met along the way.”

When it comes to eating beef, John’s top pick is a good quality bone-in Ribeye. While he once swore by cooking over hot mesquite coals, he now enjoys a slow-smoked, reverse-seared Ribeye finished on a flat-top griddle with butter and garlic. And for a great burger, Red Wagon in Brownwood is his go-to spot to meet up with friends.

John and Laura’s dedication to Connaway Ranch and Full Circle Ranch ensures that the family’s heritage will continue for generations to come. Whether improving their pastures, raising high-quality cattle, or advocating for the beef industry, they remain committed to their way of life. “This isn’t just a job,” John says. “It’s a legacy—one we hope to pass on for many years to come.”