Wright Farms - A Multigenerational Kentucky Farming Legacy
Kristan Wright’s roots in agriculture run deep, beginning just a few miles from the land she now farms with her husband, Daniel, at Wright Farms. Raised on a diverse livestock and crop operation, Kristan early experiences helped shape the multifaceted farm business they manage today.
“I grew up about three miles away, on a very diversified farm, where we had around 800 head farrow-to finish operation. We also grew tobacco, a little bit of corn, soybeans, a lot of alfalfa, and wheat straw as well, and we had cattle,” Kristan said.
That upbringing, combined with strong family role models, influenced Kristan understanding of agriculture and leadership. In 2026, Wright is honored as the Kentucky Farm Bureau Farm Woman of the Year, a recognition she says reflects generations of perseverance—especially from her grandmother.
“My grandparents had a farm, and when my grandfather became ill and unable to do the work around the farm, my grandmother had to do it all,” Kristan said. “Growing up, I heard stories about her working like a man on the farm, and what made it even more special, she was a very petite woman, but she took over the whole operation.”
Kristan’s father further encouraged her hands-on involvement in farm life.
“My dad wanted me to do everything on the farm, anything and everything he taught me,” Kristan said. “The only thing he would never allow me to do was cut tobacco, and I really didn't complain about that!”
Beyond the farm, Kristan built a career in agricultural education and now serves with the Kentucky Department of Education as an agriculture education consultant and state FFA advisor.
“I always knew I wanted to do something in agriculture and figured out in high school, I wanted to be an agriculture teacher, just like my ag teacher, Mr. Stahl,” Kristan said.
Today, Wright Farms includes hogs, row crops, livestock, a roadside market, and a few unexpected animals. Balancing education and farming, Kristan remains deeply connected to the land and proud to represent women across Kentucky agriculture.
Photo Credit: kentucky-farm-bureau