Ham Orchards

The berry patch is OPEN today until 3:00!☀️

As we remember and honor the life of Dale Ham, we're sharing this special feature from Texas Country Reporter that highlighted the heart and heritage of Ham Orchards.

For decades, Dale poured his passion, hard work, and love for family into building something that became much more than a peach orchard—it became a Texas tradition. His dedication to agriculture, community, and serving others left a lasting impact on countless lives.

We hope you'll enjoy this look back at the story of Ham Orchards and the legacy Dale helped create. His vision, values, and love for people continue to inspire us every day.

Ham Orchards (Texas Country Reporter) See how Dale Ham's purchase of a few peach trees turns into a harvest he never could have imagined. Ham OrchardsSharien Strange, Dale Ham11939 Co Rd 309 Terr...

This photo captures Dale doing what he loved most—working in the orchard that became his life's work.

In 1979, Dale purchased a few peach trees from Wolf Nursery with no expectation of what they might become. He simply wanted to try his hand at growing peaches. When the trees began producing fruit, he sold peaches alongside the railroad tracks in Terrell, Texas.

What started as a simple experiment grew through years of hard work, determination, and faith. Those first trees eventually became Ham Orchards—four orchards spanning more than 100 acres and home to over 10,000 peach trees.

For those who knew Dale, the orchard represents more than a business. It reflects his willingness to take a chance, work hard, and build something meaningful for his family and community.

Though Dale has passed, his legacy continues to grow with every season, every harvest, and every tree that stands as a testament to what can happen when you simply decide to give something a try.

The Blackberry patch will reopen this Saturday for picking 9-3.

While many knew Dale for his passion for growing peaches, he was equally dedicated to serving his community through the fire service. Dale proudly served with the Richardson Fire Department from 1966 until his retirement in 1998. Throughout his distinguished career, he rose through the ranks and achieved the position of Captain.

His commitment to both agriculture and public service left a lasting impact on countless lives. We are grateful for the example he set and the legacy he leaves behind.

This photo captures more than a place—it captures a lifetime of memories.

Along Highway 259 in Mt. Enterprise, Texas, you'll find Ham Creek, a place that held special meaning for Dale. As a young child, he spent countless hours fishing these waters he loved. The creek was eventually named after him, forever connecting his story to the place that helped shape his childhood.

For those who knew Dale, this sign represents more than a name. It represents his roots, his childhood, and the resilience that defined his life. Growing up in East Texas, surrounded by family and community, helped shape the man whose legacy touched so many lives.

Though Dale has passed, his memory lives on in the family, community, and East Texas traditions he loved so dearly.

This week, we will be sharing photos and memories to honor the life and legacy of Dale Ham.

More than the founder of Ham Orchards, Dale was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He led by example, teaching those around him the importance of faith, family, hard work, integrity, and kindness.

Each family member carries with them special words, lessons, and memories from Dale—pieces of his legacy that continue to guide them today:

• Judy (wife): Sixty-two years of marriage were not nearly enough, and I will cherish every moment of our love until we meet again.

• Karien (daughter): My dad taught me about Jesus, how to treat others with kindness, to work hard, keep my commitments, and live with character. Most importantly, I always knew he loved me. Nothing meant more than hearing him say, "You did a good job, and I'm proud of you."

• Danny (son-in-law): Dale and I connected through our shared love of the outdoors-- hunting, fishing, growing things, and of course, Karien. We hunted dove and deer together across East and Central Texas and spent many hours fishing the ponds around the farm. Dale wasn't just my father-in-law; he was also a friend, hunting partner, and someone I truly admired.

• Sharien (daughter): Dad showed me what it means to love God, love your family, and work with a purpose. The legacy he leaves behind is far greater than anything he built with his hands. I will miss him so much.

• Richard (son-in-law): Dale taught me two very important life lessons. The first is, if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life. The second lesson was your priorities should be faith, family, and country, in that order.

• Taylor (grandson): Grandpa taught me the importance of working hard and being nice throughout my childhood. He inspired me to become the man I am today, and I'll forever be grateful. -Tator-tot

• Alex (granddaughter): The thing about my Grandpa Ham that impacted me the most is how much he loved me and how intentional he was about spending time with me. I never questioned how much I meant to him because he made sure I knew it every time we were together. He made me feel special, safe,and included in everything he did. Even if it was going to a volunteer fire department meeting with the grown ups... he would take me with him. My greatest childhood memories are the ones made by his side, and I'll always be grateful for the love, time, and memories he gave me.

Though he is deeply missed, his legacy lives on through his family, his community, and the countless lives he touched along the way. ❤