Our Story
The story of our family begins with its matriarch, Mrs. Anne Fields, a woman whose quiet determination would leave a lasting imprint on Bushnell, Florida. She arrived in 1944 as the county’s very first nurse, bringing care and compassion to a growing community. Yet her legacy would stretch far beyond her profession, rooted instead in a simple, heartfelt request from her oldest son.
One day, young Michael asked for a pig as part of a 4-H project. It was a modest dream, but Anne saw the spark in his eyes and chose to nurture it. At the time, the family lived in a small home downtown, but that single request set something much larger into motion. Before long, Anne made a bold decision—trading their house for ten acres of land off Highway 301. That leap of faith marked the beginning of Jumper Creek Ranch in 1952.
What started as a boy’s project soon grew into a way of life. Over the years, the ranch expanded to 150 acres, shaped by hard work, resilience, and a deep respect for the land.
Michael and his brother Phillip pursued higher education with the same determination, earning doctorate degrees from the University of Florida and Texas A&M. Even as they followed academic paths, their connection to the ranch never wavered. They remained devoted to caring for the animals and cultivating the land that had become the heart of their family.
As time passed, the family grew—not just in number, but in spirit. Michael’s wife, Dr. Margaret Fields, became an integral part of the journey, and the next generation—Gregory, Corey, and Katie, along with their families—joined in carrying the legacy forward.
Together, they built more than a ranch; they built a shared purpose. That spirit lives on today in The Crown at Jumper Creek Ranch, where every field, fence, and gathering place holds echoes of the past.
When Anne Fields passed away in 2006, she left behind more than memories. A portion of Highway 470 now bears her name, a tribute to the profound impact she had on countless families in the county. Her strength, vision, and compassion continue to guide everything the ranch stands for.
Today, the land thrives as a small-scale beef cattle operation, home to around 100 cherished cows and their calves. But it has also grown into something more—a place where history and hospitality meet. With an Event Barn, Antique Shop, Museum, and lodging, the ranch welcomes others to step into its story.
And that story is still being written. It is a story of family, heritage, and a deep-rooted love for the land—a place where past and present come together in a spirit of warmth, authenticity, and belonging.
