The Drummond family recently gathered for a joyful celebration of Paige Drummond’s engagement to her boyfriend, David. As the festivities unfolded, Ree Drummond, also known as “The Pioneer Woman,” shared an update on her blog, providing a delightful overview of the family gathering. While most of her post was filled with cheerful news, including an update on her daughter Alex’s pregnancy and a lighthearted note about the basset hounds dressing up in tuxedos for the upcoming wedding, Ree struck a more serious tone when discussing her husband, Ladd Drummond.
Ree dispelled any rumors of marital discord, confirming that she and Ladd are still very much together after more than 25 years of marriage. However, she did express concern about the toll that ranching has been taking on her 55-year-old husband. Ree shared that Ladd’s summer had been particularly challenging, with long hours and physically demanding work, not to mention the early morning starts typical of life on the ranch. Over the past few years, Ladd has faced numerous injuries from various work-related accidents, leading Ree to wonder whether it’s time for a change.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ladd Drummond |
| Date of Birth | January 22, 1969 |
| Age | 55 (as of 2024) |
| Spouse | Ree Drummond (married in 1996) |
| Children | Four (Alex, Paige, Bryce, Todd) |
| Occupation | Rancher, Co-owner of Drummond Land & Cattle Co. |
| Residence | Pawhuska, Oklahoma |
| Family Business | Drummond Land & Cattle Co. |
| Notable Events | Injuries from ranch work, possible plans for retirement from ranching |
Ree’s Thoughts on Life After Ranching
Ree humorously admitted that she had half-jokingly suggested to Ladd that perhaps it was time to consider stepping away from ranch life. While she doesn’t truly expect him to walk away from the family business, given that the Drummonds have been ranching in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, for over a century, her comments hint at the strain that ranching can put on even the most devoted landowners.
If Ladd were to consider giving up the ranch, the Drummond family would likely have other options. With Ree’s successful career as a celebrity chef, author, and television personality, the family’s financial stability seems secure. In fact, the Drummonds rank among the largest landowners in the United States, indicating that they would not need to worry about money should they decide to change course.
Who Might Take Over the Ranch?
Should Ladd decide to step back from ranching, it’s possible that one of the Drummond children could step in. Paige, who has enjoyed a summer of ranch life, might consider taking the reins, although her long-term plans remain uncertain. The Drummonds have four children in total, any of whom might choose to continue the family legacy in the future.
If none of the Drummond offspring want to commit to managing the ranch, Ladd’s brother Tim, who is a partner in Drummond Land & Cattle Co., could potentially take over. Tim and his wife Missy have two children, Caleb and Halle, who might also be interested in continuing the family tradition.
Future Possibilities for the Drummond Ranch
If no family members are interested in running the ranch, there is always the option to sell. The Drummond Land & Cattle Co. is extensive, covering approximately 433,000 acres. One of the Drummond properties, the 6,850-acre Drummond South ranch, was listed for sale in 2023 with a nearly $19 million price tag, suggesting that Ladd and Tim’s primary ranch could fetch a significant sum.
Regardless of what the future holds, it’s clear that the Drummond family has a range of options available, from passing the ranch down to the next generation to potentially selling it for a considerable profit. As Ree continues to share her family’s journey on her blog, fans will no doubt be eager to see what decisions they make moving forward.