Cahokia Rice
Cahokia Rice
Centuries ago, the Cahokia Indian Tribes made their home in what is now Illinois, forming what would grow to be the largest human settlement in North America prior to the arrival of the Europeans. Alongside the Mississippi River, the Cahokia lived in harmony with the land, growing maize in rich soil. They were the original grain farmers of the Midwest.
Hundreds of years later, the Gerard family settled on the same land once farmed by the Cahokia. They, too, recognized the potential of the fertile Illinois soil on the banks of the Mississippi, and their farm flourished there for four generations. In 1990, descendant Blake Gerard returned to the land seeking to revitalize this multi-generational farming operation.
Today, Blake continues to carry on his family’s legacy. A recognized pioneer in the rice industry, his work is never done. Blake’s passion for farming paired with his intimate understanding of the rice market allow him a unique perspective on producing the highest quality rice without sacrificing the unique characteristics that set family-owned and operated farms like his apart. He is constantly looking to improve his methods and to better his product, a commitment we all share here at Cahokia Rice.