Ranching Roots Lead to Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch

Photo credit: Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch

On property with roots stretching back to 1824, some fluffy residents strut around, ready to greet eager visitors at Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch.

Montrose Farms first began in 1824 when the Land Act of 1820 provided James B. Brown, a Kentucky veteran of the War of 1812 who the town of Brownsburg was named after, the opportunity to acquire 80 acres of land in Hendricks County.

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Photo credit: Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch

Chris and Lori Lovely purchased the property in 2007, extensively renovated the farmhouse built by Brown’s son in 1876, and prepped the pastures and buildings for the shining stars – the alpacas. In 2016, Chris passed away, but Lori continues their work at what is now known as the Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch.

The Suri alpacas living on the ranch are chosen for the fineness of their wool and friendly temperaments, which works out well for the ranch because it welcomes groups of all sizes for farm tours. Lori focuses on best management practices, humane animal husbandry and eco-friendly, sustainable living. Alongside the alpacas, she has an organic orchard, vineyard and vegetable garden, and she raises chickens for organic egg production. At Montrose Farms, the animals come first, but the humans are welcome for a firsthand look at farm life.

Though the farm size and ownership have changed through the years, the Lovelys mark 200 years of the land being farmed by individual families. Throughout 2024, Lori plans to celebrate the farm’s 200th birthday with several special events.

To learn more, see the latest event updates or book a tour, visit montrosefarms.com.

See more: Get Up Close and Personal with Adorable Alpacas in Peru, IN