Famoda Farm

FAMODA(Fa-Mo-Da) the first two letters of Father, Mother, and Daughter is the true essence of family. Our story begins in 1945 when William Paul Brown shared is love of the cattle industry with his wife, Minnie as they opened and operated Brown’s Packing Plant in Gaffney, SC. What was to be a small business that would support his family of four ultimately turned into a thriving business and meat market. Brown’s quickly expanded as Shirley, the eldest daughter, began to take an interest. In 1952 while watching the newest load arrive at the plant, Shirley noticed that one of the cows was “fixin” to calve and insisted that she be separated and allowed to finish. To the amazement of the family, Shirley was right, and she now had her first calf. Like many families, all siblings must have the same thing and Doris, the youngest Brown daughter, was no exception. She insisted on having a calf of her own. In 1955, with steers in tow, the Brown girls discovered the American Angus Association and started showing their cattle.  Brown’s Packing Plant became Famoda Farm in 1962 with the purchase of 350 acres in northern Greenville County. The packing house soon became the farmhouse, and the barns were quickly filled with blue ribbons. That same year Doris was named the American Angus Queen while Shirley served as the Shorthorn Princess. Shirley and Doris had proven that, in fact, there was room for women in the fitting business.  The sisters became extremely successful and took pride in their work every time they stepped into the show ring. The Brown girls lead champions all over the east coast. Today, life is much quieter for the Brown girls. The focus is more on family and the breeding of top Angus Cattle. In recent years, Famoda progeny have topped the state sales, been slapped for champion in Denver, and even been internationally exported to Pakistan. Both Shirley and Doris remain active with local 4H and FFA clubs and, on more than one occasion, Famoda has hosted judging teams from around the Upstate. They are always willing to give a word of encouragement to any member of the Jr. Angus Association. What started out as a family business has evolved into so much more. Famoda was built on Faith, Family, and Farm and still stands on these values today. When looking at the years of service, dedication, and impact on the Angus Association and the Angus breed itself, Shirley and Doris embody what being a member of the Hall of Fame means. Growing up in Upstate SC and the Greenville area, Travis and Heather went to the same high school and ran in the same circles but were never more than friends. After graduation they went their separate ways. It was 15 years later that they realized they were destined to become Famoda’s 1st Love story. Heather returned to the family farm in Taylors SC to help take care of her ailing father. After a chance meeting on the lake with some friends, the sparks flew, and Heather and Travis were almost inseparable from the start. On July 4th, 2013, under a beautiful Caribbean moon, Travis got down on one knee and proposed. Of course, Heather said YES. In the midst of planning their wedding under the Famoda Farms Majestic Oak, the idea of sharing this beautiful venue with others was born. Heather and Travis’s love story has now grown to include 2 amazing kiddos. NO One ever said farming was easy. It takes a village. Famoda is beyond blessed to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing staff.  From managing Grazers to scooping ice cream. Weddings to the Loving Barn. There is never a dull moment on the farm. Famoda couldn't function without such a talented group of individuals.  We are THANKFUL AND PROUD to call our herd, Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with sales, promotions, and GIVEAWAYS! Give us a follow on our social media pages to stay up to date with the latest news on the farm! Copyright © 2025 Famoda Farm -