Leesman Ranch is a family ranch built on hard work, strong roots, and a deep connection to the land just outside Blunt, South Dakota.

The story of the ranch goes back generations. The Leesman family first settled in this area many years ago, starting with early homesteader Mino Leesman, who put down roots on the prairie. Those values were carried on by Clarence Leesman, his son William Leesman, and the generations that followed, each one working the land and building a life in central South Dakota.

Rick Leesman (3/10/1947 to 11/13/2017) and his wife Barb Leesman grew up in that tradition. Raised near Blunt, they spent their lives in agriculture and played an important role in continuing the family’s way of life. He was known for his work ethic, his willingness to help others, and the relationships he built across the farming community. Rick helped pass down the knowledge and values that still guide the ranch today.

The ranch as it exists now was shaped in a big way by Raleigh Leesman. About 20 years ago, Raleigh began rebuilding and growing the operation—starting with around 300 acres of land that had once been owned by the federal government. Over time, through hard work and dedication, he expanded that land into what is now roughly 15,000 acres.

Today, Leesman Ranch is a working operation that includes both cattle and crop production. The ranch runs around 450 head of cattle and farms thousands of acres of grain. Like many South Dakota ranches, the work follows the seasons, and every part of the operation depends on the other.

Raleigh’s efforts and leadership have not gone unnoticed. In 2017, he was named Central South Dakota Farmer of the Year, an award that recognizes strong leadership, conservation practices, and commitment to agriculture. The ranch has also taken part in agricultural research, helping test and improve crops suited to the region.

Even as it has grown, Leesman Ranch has stayed true to its roots. It is still a family-run operation, with multiple generations involved and working together every day. Today, 6th generation brothers Wyatt, Skyler, and Garrett Leesman continue the tradition. The goal has always been simple: take care of the land, work hard, and build something that can be passed on to the next generation.

Today, that legacy continues—carried forward by the Leesman family, and growing stronger with each generation.