History of Katzfey Ranch

Katzfey Ranches is a second-generation operation that originated in 1966 in part by a partnership of three brothers, Martin, Leonard, and Wilfred Katzfey. They formed a business known as Katzfey Brothers. They operated a feed mill, Coastal Bermuda dehydrating plant, grain elevator, bulldozing and land clearing operation, irrigated hay and forage for feed and they raised hogs and cattle.

Today Katzfey Ranches is owned and operated by Mark Katzfey and is still a working ranch. The ranches raise cattle, irrigate for hay and feed, and now offer dove and turkey hunts along with lodging and an event venue managed by Dee Cathey.

The main headquarters known as “The Dehydrator” is located on County Road 440 about a mile North West of George West. The name originated from a large dehydrating plant that was there in the late 70s where the family dehydrated Coastal Bermuda mixed with steam and molasses and made them into pellets for cattle feed. It is now the location of the lodging and the venue, aka “The Barn at Katzfey Ranches”. It was originally a work barn on the ranch transformed into a beautiful rustic venue built, decorated, and furnished with items indigenous to Live Oak County. The “Dehydrator” is fully ingrained in Live Oak County history and the Katzfey family heritage.

Mark and Dee enjoy extending the small-town hospitality of Live Oak County using their historic facility. It is a great venue for fundraisers, parties, reunions, and weddings. Nothing compares to the God given view that the ranch offers.

Things to Do

Things to Do coming soon!