Heritage Cattle Company hosted the 18th Annual Heritage Classic Show on May 30, 2026, at the Wharton County Fairgrounds.
The family-friendly event kicked off with an appreciation dinner on Friday, May 29, at the fairgrounds. Allyson Fontenot served as the featured speaker, and the festivities were sponsored by Wharton County Feed and Ace Hardware.
On Saturday, May 30, attendees competed in a multitude of shows, beginning with showmanship and followed by the H-branded Red and Gray Female Shows. The day concluded with the Heritage Progeny Shows, including junior red and gray female divisions, open red and gray female divisions, and a bull show. To qualify for the Heritage Progeny Shows, an animal must have at least one Heritage-bred animal in its three-generation pedigree.
“The Heritage Classic Show is always a fun and stress-free event!” Lana Hensgens said. “It offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their Heritage cattle genetics in a relaxed, understated atmosphere. Whether you’re exhibiting or simply attending, the show is a great place to appreciate outstanding cattle genetics and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.”
The show originated in 2008. At the time, the United States was still limited in its international cattle trade because of concerns surrounding mad cow disease. The team at Heritage got creative and began pivoting toward the junior show market. They were hosting two online sales each year and decided to create an opportunity and incentive for junior buyers to return and compete for cash and prizes in a futurity-style format.
“It’s a very fun and laid-back event for both the exhibitors and the cattle, especially the juniors,” Maaz Siddiqui said. “We loved the family-like hospitality provided by Mrs. Gayla and the opportunity to showcase elite cattle derived from top-end genetics.”
Over the years, the event expanded to include not only H-branded animals but also progeny with Heritage genetics appearing anywhere on their registration papers. Today, it is the largest and longest-running private Brahman ranch show.
Judd and Gayla Cullers continue to host the event as a way of giving back to their customers and the Brahman community. The show not only allows juniors to tune up their animals before the summer state and national Brahman shows, but it also fosters confidence, friendships and camaraderie among exhibitors and their families. By the time summer show season arrives, participants are greeted by familiar faces and lasting connections.
“We were so pleased to break out a number of our IFB heifers at the Heritage Show for their first exhibition,” said Van Gaskins of Indian Feather Brahman. “The Cullers family put together a great event that breeders and exhibitors alike truly enjoyed.”
The Heritage Classic Show continues to grow while staying true to its original purpose — creating a welcoming environment where exhibitors can showcase quality cattle, build relationships and celebrate the Brahman breed.
