100 Years of Boswell

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100 Years Boswell of Advancing Agriculture, Building Communities

Advancing Agriculture, Building Communities 1

Copyright © 2025 by J. G. Boswell Company

All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this work in any form whatsoever without permission in writing from the publisher, except for brief passages in connection with a review. For information, please write:

The Donning Company Publishers 731 South Brunswick Street Brookfield, MO 64628

Laurie Cupp, General Manager Dennis Paalhar, Production Supervisor Philip Briscoe, Editor Chad Casey, Graphic Designer Katie Gardner, Marketing and Production Coordinator Cyndi Hoffman, Project Research Coordinator

Nathan Salgado, Project Director

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

On file with the Library of Congress ISBN: 978-1-68184-379-7

Printed in the United States of America at Walsworth

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Contents

6 11 39 47 63 73

Chapter 1: The Boswells Chapter 2: The Company

Chapter 3: The Land Chapter 4: The Crops Chapter 5: The People and Community Chapter 6: The Foundation

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Closing Letter of Thanks from Jim

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“Man, Land, Water . . .”

From the fertile soil of California’s San Joaquin Valley to the open fields of New South Wales, Australia, the J. G. Boswell Company has spent one hundred years building something truly remarkable. What began as a family venture with a deep respect for the land has grown into a legacy of innovation, hard work, and perseverance. For four generations, Boswell has thrived thanks to the dedication of its people, cutting-edge technology, and strong relationships. From growing the world’s finest extra-long staple Pima cotton to creating master planned communities and business parks, Boswell has remained committed to a tradition of excellence and integrity at every turn. It has not always been easy: adversity is part of any long journey . . . but knowledge, innovation, values, and a belief in the future have seen us through. We honor our land, our people, and our shared history as we celebrate this centennial milestone. And, with the same spirit that got us here, we look ahead to the next one hundred years with hope, excitement, and confidence in the legacy we will continue to build together.

Welcome to the story of the J. G. Boswell Company.

One hundred years strong and just getting started.

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Chapter 1

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Chapter 2

The Company

The year was 1925 . . . a time when the world looked very different from today.

In Nome, Alaska, a heroic relay of dogsled teams raced through the harsh winter to deliver diphtheria serum, saving countless village children. This incredible event later inspired the modern Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

Meanwhile, Prohibition was in full swing, and World War I had ended just seven years earlier.

Calvin Coolidge made history as the first US president to have his inauguration speech broadcast over the radio. In Tennessee, John T. Scopes was arrested for teaching evolution, sparking a nationwide debate on science and education. That same year, Walter Chrysler launched the Chrysler Corporation, setting the stage for a revolution in the automobile industry. And in the very first NFL Championship Game, the Chicago Bears triumphed over the Chicago Cardinals.

Everyday life looked a little different too: a loaf of bread cost just nine cents, a dozen eggs went for fifty-five cents, and you could fill up your gas tank for twenty cents a gallon.

It was a time of change and innovation, and the J. G. Boswell Company was part of that story. Founded as a California corporation on October 13, 1925, what started as a small cotton-merchandising company with operations in California and Arizona would, over the next one hundred years, grow into an industry-leading grower and processor with customers around the world.

What a journey it has been!

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“It never occurred to me that I would end up in agriculture . . .”

—JG Boswell II

James Griffin Boswell was born on May 13, 1882, in the small town of Penfield, Georgia, a place with deep roots in cotton country. Penfield, founded on land that was once part of a vast plantation, sat right in the heart of Greene County. James was the third child of Minnie Griffin and Joseph Osgood Boswell, both from families with generations of history in Georgia. Minnie’s father was a well-respected doctor and school commissioner for the county, while Joseph had quite the story himself. A former second lieutenant in the US Civil War, Joseph went on to become a successful farmer, working 1,500 acres of Greene County land. But that was not all—he also owned and ran two local stores, led the Southern Cotton Growers Association’s local division, and even served as a Georgia state representative in 1900.

Map of Penfield, Georgia, home of generations of the Boswells. In the early 1800s, the family helped fund the original Mercer University, located in Penfield.

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Boswell family home, circa 1920, in Penfield, Georgia. Sometime in the 1930s, the home was destroyed by fire and later rebuilt.

At age twenty-one, James set off on his own adventure, joining the US Army in 1903. Through hard work and determination, he climbed the ranks, eventually retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1920 after facing ongoing challenges from a broken back. Returning home to Greene County—and now known as “Colonel JG”—he tried his hand as a regional cotton broker, but it was a tough time for the cotton industry. The boll weevil had devastated crops across the South, and what little remained was wiped out by the collapsing market. With opportunities drying up in Georgia, Colonel JG and his wife, Alaine, decided it was time for a fresh start. In 1921, they packed their bags and headed west, landing in Pasadena, California. Despite his family’s long history in cotton farming, the Colonel would later admit that he was not exactly an expert at first. But he was a quick learner. Cotton production was expanding westward, first to Texas, then Arizona, and eventually California—and Colonel JG saw a big opportunity. Taking a bold leap, he invested a large chunk of Alaine’s inheritance in the cotton market. It paid off big: within weeks, his investment doubled. That success gave him the confidence to dive headfirst into the business. He soon made a name for himself as a cotton broker, operating in California and the Yuma, Arizona, area. His first office opened in downtown Los Angeles. Later, the Colonel set up offices at the Cotton Exchange Building on West Third Street.

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J. G. Boswell Company gin, circa 1925

In 1923, Colonel JG’s younger brother, Bill, joined him in California to lend a hand. The brothers quickly realized that brokering cotton was not enough—they wanted to grow, gin, and process seed (for which an oil mill was needed). That same year, the Colonel took a huge step toward that vision, purchasing his first piece of land in Corcoran, in the heart of the Tulare Lake Basin. That very first piece of land was Section 34 in the Stevenson District. Corcoran would become the center of their operations as they expanded, buying and leasing more land across the San Joaquin Valley. They began leasing cotton gins and eventually built an oil mill to process crops.

By the 1924 harvest, Colonel JG had firmly established himself as a major player in the local cotton scene. He was not just growing cotton—he was setting the standard for the industry.

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Central Valley farmers in Corcoran, circa 1920

San Joaquin gin in Corcoran, California, circa 1930

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Boswell cotton gin office, 1920s

In 1925, the Colonel took things to the next level, officially incorporating his business as J. G. Boswell Company. Over the next thirty years, he focused on turning it into a leader in cotton production, constantly investing in better ginning and processing to keep up with the growing demand. Starting in 1929, Colonel JG expanded the company’s reach into Arizona’s Salt Valley, where he built a mill and quickly set up ten gins around the Phoenix area. In 1930, older brother Walter, who had just retired from the US Army, joined the two Boswell brothers in California and was soon sent to Arizona to manage these new operations.

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Cotton picking by hand, circa 1930

Back in California, more land was purchased or developed in places like Guernsey, Mendota, McFarland, and Somerton, just south of Yuma. Over in Arizona, new gins were built in Avondale, Buckeye, Coolidge, and Litchfield Park, while others were acquired in Camelback and Scottsdale to further grow the company’s core operations. Like most oil mills, Boswell set up feed-yard facilities in both Corcoran and Litchfield Park to make use of cottonseed cake, a by-product of cottonseed-oil production that is used for animal feed. Brother Bill stepped in to take charge of running them.

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Dan Boswell and the Boswell Games Dan Boswell was the heart and energy behind making the Boswell Games bigger and better, turning them into a true community event starting in 2020. What began as something just for Boswell employees became an experience for everyone in the community, thanks to his vision. He teamed up with Corcoran High School Future Farmers of America students, giving them a chance to volunteer, earn community service hours, and build real connections with professional farms. He also introduced a family-friendly zone with jumpers, face painting, table games, and balloons, making sure there was fun for everyone, not just the competitors. Dan had a special way of bringing people together. He expanded the Boswell Games beyond just sports, adding a spirit week leading up to the event to build excitement and camaraderie. He also saw an opportunity to involve vendors, encouraging them to sponsor and donate to the games. By bringing in local businesses, customers, and supporters, he strengthened community ties and turned the event into something that benefited both the company and a good cause. But Dan’s leadership went far beyond the Boswell Games. He cared deeply about the success of the J. G. Boswell Company and played a major role in leading company meetings in 2012 and 2018. For him, these meetings were not just about business—they were a chance to build relationships, celebrate achievements, and learn from one another. He introduced smaller focus groups, pairing employees from completely different departments, like accounting and farming, to challenge them to see things from new perspectives and collaborate in ways they previously had not. Dan also had a deep appreciation for the Boswell family’s legacy and the company’s history. In fact, this book exists because of his vision and dedication to preserving that history. His impact can be felt in many ways, and his passion for bringing people together continues to shape Boswell today.

Dan left us in 2024. He is deeply missed.

Dan speaking at 2018 Ojai Leadership Conference

Showing off a teammate’s wins at the Boswell Games

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Boswell cotton gin, 1920s

Boswell oil mill, late 1920s

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Back then, most of Boswell’s cotton acreage was leased and farmed by others. So, when banks refused to lend directly to these growers, the company stepped up. In 1928, the J. G. Boswell Farm Loan Company was created to help farmers secure loans by discounting them with the Federal Intermediate Credit Bank. This support became a game-changer, offering a much-needed financial lifeline to California’s cotton community. By doing it all—making farm loans and growing, ginning, and producing cotton across two states—the J. G. Boswell Company was setting itself apart from the rest of the industry. As Boswell continued to grow, financing the expanding business became a challenge. To help manage this, the company set up several new businesses, each able to establish its own line of credit. This included the Salrey Warehouse Company (now Tulare Lake Storage Company) in 1929, followed by the J. G. Boswell Ranching Company, the J. G. Boswell Gin and Oil Mill Company, and the Melga Company in 1933. These moves helped keep the company financially strong and ready for future growth. But during the depths of the Great Depression, cotton prices took a nosedive, putting businesses like Boswell to the test. To keep the company afloat, Colonel JG transferred much of his own assets to the company in exchange for equity. He then sold off shares of his equity to friends and neighbors, raising the capital needed to keep things running. Thanks to this move, the company not only survived the rest of the Depression but also came out stronger than ever.

Work on the 749 levee, 1934

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Farmers weighing cotton, circa 1930s

In 1933, the company purchased the Chamberlain Ranch, not for its farmland but for something even more valuable: its water rights. The deal included stock in the Melga Canal Company, securing a critical water supply. The land itself was put to good use as reservoir sites, helping capture runoff water for future needs. Boswell also gained a controlling interest in the Tulare Lake Land Company. Then, in 1937, the company continued expanding with the purchase of the El Rico Ranch. By 1936, at the urging of Southwest Cotton Company (a subsidiary of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company), J. G. Boswell had secured a lease for the expansive Marinette Ranch in Arizona’s northwestern Maricopa County. That same year, the company leased the Santa Fe Ranch from the Santa Fe Improvement Company.

For years, the company had been growing and thriving, but 1938 threw some serious challenges its way. Massive floods—the worst ever seen—swept across much of Boswell’s land and that of its Corcoran customers. The

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Floodwater near Corcoran, circa 1930s

flooding did not just disrupt farming—it also cut down the amount of cotton available for ginning and oil milling. To make matters worse, the newly approved Federal Farm Bill in February 1938 brought big changes, slashing cotton acreage by about 42 percent and placing new restrictions on wheat planting. There was real concern that once the floodwaters receded, cotton might not be able to be replanted, either because of soil conditions or the risk of losing crop quotas if the land sat empty. Fortunately, since most of the company’s cotton acreage was leased and farmed by others, its processing facilities were still able to operate at a reasonable capacity. Despite the challenges of World War II in the early 1940s, the company kept things moving forward, even if growth slowed a bit. Not long after, more land was acquired in Arizona, and new gins were running both there and back in California. And in 1947, Colonel JG founded the James G. Boswell Foundation, marking an important step in the company’s legacy. As J. G. Boswell grew, it welcomed new technology and innovation to stay ahead and work more efficiently. By the late 1940s, mechanical cotton pickers began slowing the need for the large annual influx of migrant workers. At the same time, advances in farm machinery made some of the older equipment outdated, prompting a shift in strategy: rather than constantly repairing aging machines, Boswell adopted a smart, planned approach to replacing equipment. Meanwhile, new discoveries in the science of soil management and crop production

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Company yard, 1940

brought fresh ideas to the table, helping to refine farming techniques and improve crop rotation for even better harvests.

In 1952, Colonel JG became gravely ill. Upon his instructions, the board named JG Boswell II (JG II) as president of the company. Colonel JG’s wife, Ruth Chandler Boswell, was appointed chair of the board. Shortly thereafter, the Colonel passed. It is said that when he died, the company’s board declared that Colonel JG was “responsible for as much as, if not more than, any single individual for the establishment of the cotton industry in the Pacific Southwest.” In 1948, at his father’s request, JG II had joined the family business in Arizona. Over the next thirty-two years as president, he would be credited with the company’s significant growth, transforming the family business founded by the three Boswell brothers into the country’s largest cotton producer. Under JG II’s leadership, J. G. Boswell continued to grow, expanding its land, building new gins, and producing more cotton than ever before. But with that growth came challenges, including the valley’s unpredictable water. Floods, both big and small, had always been a part of life here, and 1952 brought one of the toughest yet. Water has a way of following its own path, but the company took steps to manage it, working to minimize its impact. The completion of Pine Flat Dam in 1954 was a game-changer, and as more dams followed, the ability to store and release water in a controlled way not only helped prevent devastation but also made it easier to put that water to good use.

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Colonel JG, late 1940s

JG II, early 1950s

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That same year, J. G. Boswell took a major step forward by leasing all the land from the Tulare Lake Land Company and taking over its operations. Just a few years later, in 1957, the two companies officially became one when Tulare Lake Land Company merged with J. G. Boswell, marking another milestone in the company’s ever-evolving story. By 1955, the Boston Ranch Company became part of the Boswell family, bringing in about 55,000 acres within the Westlands Water District. Shortly after, around 18,000 acres were sold to two neighboring landowners in separate deals. Then, in 1961, Boswell took things a step further by acquiring the rest of the Boston Ranch Company, paving the way for even bigger land investments. This marked a major turning point, shifting the company’s focus toward farming and self-processing instead of depending on outside processing and merchandising. It was a bold move that strengthened Boswell’s operations and set the foundation for even greater control over its future. With this new focus, the company relocated its gins from the Corcoran area, choosing new sites in the basin for the El Rico, Melga, and Lake gins. At the same time, plans were set in motion to rebuild the Corcoran oil mill, not just to process cottonseed, but to handle a new oilseed crop: safflower. In early 1956, Boswell expanded once again, acquiring additional acres in the Tulare Lake Basin and Kern County, along with securing a long-term development lease on Buena Vista Lake. By 1959, with further purchases in the basin and properties in Brown, Gates, Paso Robles, and Homeland, the company had nearly doubled its size and reach across the valley. Also, around this time, the company invested in Boswell De Mexico, a Boswell cotton-production operation in Sinaola, Mexico, to ensure a steady and reliable supply of cotton for its customers. But it was not just the land that was evolving—operations were too. The corporate offices moved from the Hellman Building at Fifth and Spring to 510 South Spring Street, while the cotton-classing office, originally on San Pedro Street, was merged into the new office complex. Later, classing facilities were moved to Corcoran as part of a shift toward self-processing, helping to streamline operations and speed up cotton movement. As J. G. Boswell grew, each new land acquisition operated as a separate profit center, leading to the management of around thirty ranch ledgers. Many ranches were named after former owners or their original operational names like Hefton, McCann, Stevenson, Progressive, and Johnson. Over time, these individual ranches were consolidated and reorganized into the districts we recognize today. A key moment in this evolution came in 1957 with the completion of the El Rico Ranch Office, marking a clearer distinction between ranching and processing. Processing operations now had their own facilities, including electrical, machine, carpenter, and welding shops, as well as a year-round construction unit. A well stocked parts inventory, called General Stores, carried a full range of hardware. However, as the company modernized, it opted to replace outdated gins rather than repair them, leading to the gradual phasing out of many of these maintenance facilities.

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JG II (left) with Del Webb as he signs the land-purchase agreement for Sun City in 1959

In 1958, J. G. Boswell expanded beyond farming and entered the commercial real estate world, forming a new division. The company made its first move the following year by selling the Marinette and Santa Fe Ranches to Del E. Webb Development Company (Devco), which transformed the land into Sun City, Arizona, a groundbreaking senior retirement community. Later, Boswell acquired a 49 percent interest in Devco, eventually selling its remaining shares in 1983 as part of a long-term exit strategy.

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JG II with the board (left to right: Ober, Compogno, Evers, JG II, and Abrecrombie), circa 1960

As the company continued to grow, it also made decisions to step away from businesses that no longer aligned with its goals, were no longer profitable, or carried higher risks than desired. As a result, several gins throughout California and Arizona were sold, allowing Boswell to sharpen its focus on land. In 1963, along with two Arizona cotton growers, J. G. Boswell took a bold leap into Australia. They formed Auscott Pty. Limited and purchased a property in northwestern New South Wales, becoming one of the first cotton producers in the country. It was not all smooth sailing, though: the first year brought some serious challenges, including a huge weed problem after heavy rains flooded the fields. Determined to protect the investment, Boswell took full control and expanded the operation by buying more land and even a cattle ranch. His timing could not have been better. Just as Australia’s cotton industry started booming, Boswell was already well positioned to become one of its biggest players. Before long, Auscott grew into one of the country’s largest and most established cotton producers.

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J. G. Boswell cotton bales, early 1960s

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Auscott Macquarie team in 1973

Back in the United States, the expansion continued. In 1965, the Boston Ranch Company purchased the Yokohl Valley property near Exeter. Two years later, they went even bigger, acquiring a Bureau of Land Management lease in Pineville, Oregon. These properties, along with more leased land near Porterville, were used for cow-calf operations and raising feeders for the Corcoran feedlot. In 1966, Boswell brought the Santa Fe Ranch back into the family, along with neighboring properties once sold to Devco. Among these was a vineyard, now known as the Cactus Lane Ranch, where table grapes and citrus grow today. Back in California, other key additions in the Tulare Lake Basin included Lake Bed Farms in 1965 and the Sandell properties in 1967. Then came 1969, a year marked by record rainfall and devastating floods across California, particularly in the Tulare Lake Basin. Many district levees failed under the pressure, but thanks to extraordinary efforts, the El Rico levee held strong. Boswell had to make some tough calls, removing the Tulare Lake Basin-area gins, evacuating the ranch office, and scaling back operations in Corcoran to higher ground. But by 1971, with the floodwaters

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1965 P/M News Letter featuring the Corcoran Feed Yard

finally pumped out, the company was back in full swing, ready for a successful 1972 crop.

The early 1970s were a time of big changes and new opportunities for Boswell. In 1971, the company dipped its toes into the energy world by creating Tulago of Colorado, Inc., and teaming up to explore gas wells in Colorado. Back in Arizona, Boswell sold most of its land to Del Webb’s Devco to help make room for the growing Sun City community. Not long after, Boswell also sold its interest in the Coolidge gins, leaving just the Waddell and Selma gins operating in Arizona.

By the mid-1970s, more land was coming under the Boswell umbrella. Buena Vista Farms lease (acquired in 1959 from

Flooded gins in the Tulare Lake Basin area during 1967 flood

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Boswell’s Real Estate Ventures

Throughout all of its operations, a guiding principle has been to find the highest and best use of any given resource. In 1958, sensing a change in the value of Arizona land as farm ground, J. G. Boswell stepped into real estate with the launch of its commercial real estate division. One of its first big wins was Sun City, a master-planned retirement community developed in partnership with Del Webb, who was also part owner of the New York Yankees at the time. Boswell helped create the original concept, and Sun City remains one of the most successful retirement communities ever built. Building on that success, Boswell developed Interlocken Business Park, which is centrally located between the cities of Denver and Boulder in Colorado. This project became a major hub for business and is still one of the most successful commercial developments in Colorado’s history. In 1986, Boswell turned its attention to San Diego County, developing East Lake, a master planned community. With 11,000 homes of all varieties, the company expanded on its knowl edge and experience of residential real estate. East Lake was a huge hit, even earning the title of San Diego’s best new home community for several years. From planned communities to large-scale busi ness parks, J. G. Boswell’s real estate projects have helped shape communities across the western United States. It is a lasting part of the company’s legacy and a testament to its forward-thinking approach to growth and development.

Arizona’s Sun City

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Tulare Lake Land Company) merged with J. G. Boswell, bringing the Paloma, Santiaga, and Buena Vista Ranches along with it. Around that time, Boswell also took on leases for other properties like Roberts Farms (Kern Lake).

In 1980, the company launched PhytoGen, aiming to lead the way in developing high-performance cottonseed varieties for the future.

Then in 1982, after decades of lawsuits regarding acreage limitations on federal water, the Reclamation Reform Act was passed. The act allowed for the company’s water to be stored and delivered from US Army Corps projects without acreage limitations. The new law required that the Boston Ranch be sold, as it was in a federal water district. In 1984, JG II stepped down as president and CEO, while remaining chairman of the J. G. Boswell Company. Over his remarkable thirty two years at the helm, he had transformed the business into one of the largest and most innovative agricultural operations in the world. Even after retiring, he stayed connected, serving on the company’s board of directors until his passing in 2009.

The torch was passed to Jim, his son, to carry on the family legacy. The company that was founded by his great-uncle and expanded by his

PhytoGen cotton seed

JG II at Yokohl in the 1990s with fellow board members (on the right is Marty Williamson)

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JG II with son Jim, Forbes magazine, 1989

father was now in his hands. Jim was no stranger to the business. After earning his business degree at California Polytechnic State University, Jim gained experience over the years in nearly every corner of the business, from marketing and ranching to accounting. His deep understanding of the company made him the perfect fit for the job. Over the next fifty years under Jim’s leadership, the J. G. Boswell Company would grow and evolve in ways his great-uncle might never have imagined, expanding far beyond Pima cotton, branching into new areas, and reaching exciting new heights.

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Tomato-processing plant

By the time the 1980s ended, Boswell had grown into something truly extraordinary. The company’s land stretched across the San Joaquin Valley, encompassing hundreds of square miles. J. G. Boswell had become a leader in innovation and technology, all while staying deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. In 1998, PhytoGen company joined forces with Mycogen, a Dow AgroSciences affiliate that was making big strides in germplasm, cotton breeding, and seed production. By combining their strengths, this partnership brought together the best expertise from both companies, creating new opportunities to advance the cotton industry. Later in 2004, Boswell would sell its portion of PhytoGen back to a Dow AgroSciences subsidiary known as Corteva. Around 2000, Boswell branched out beyond its deep roots in cotton and ventured into tomato farming, quickly growing into the nation’s largest tomato producer. As a grower-owned processor, the company was uniquely positioned in the paste marketplace.

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Jim and Dan Boswell planting the first pistachio trees in 2016

In 2015, the J. G. Boswell Company added something new to the mix: pistachios. The decision was made to transition 15 percent of its productive land to a permanent high-value crop, pistachios, over the coming ten years. Pistachios would maximize the value of a limited supply of water and mark a new and exciting chapter of the company’s history.

In 2021, the J. G. Boswell Company sold Auscott, its long-standing Australian cotton business. This move was part of a bigger plan to shift focus back to its core operations in California.

Since then, the company has continued to evolve. This is the heart of J. G. Boswell’s legacy: growth, innovation, and adaptability, all with integrity, while serving—and protecting—the land and its natural resources. Every bold move over the last one hundred years has brought new challenges and opportunities, shaping its path forward. With a century of experience to learn from, the J. G. Boswell Company is ready to move forward, staying true to this legacy while looking ahead to the future.

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Chapter 3

The Land

For over one hundred years, one thing has been at the heart of J. G. Boswell’s history: the land. It is not just part of the company’s story: it’s the main character.

This land is not just dirt and fields—it is alive. It is the foundation that nourishes strong, healthy crops rich with minerals and organic matter built up over generations. Beneath the surface, deep layers store the water that helps those crops survive through dry spells. Season after season, the land gives life, turning tiny seeds into golden cotton fields, stretching rows of tomatoes toward the horizon, and growing other vibrant crops under the California sun. But this land is not ours to take for granted: we are simply its caretakers. It is our responsibility to protect it, rotating crops to keep the soil healthy, preventing erosion so the earth stays fertile, and using water wisely to preserve its future. The land gives, and in return, we must care for it, ensuring it remains strong not just for us, but for generations of farmers to come. Farmers everywhere share a deep, timeless connection to the land, but what makes the Boswell story unique is where much of this land is found. Nestled in the Tulare Lake Basin, this region was once home to the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Less than 150 years ago, Tulare Lake stretched across more than 600 square miles, fed by water and rich sediments flowing down from the Sierra Nevada and California coastal ranges. But as settlers arrived after the Civil War, marshes were drained and their waters were gradually redirected through canals and ditches to make way for agriculture. By the time Colonel JG first set foot in the San Joaquin Valley in the 1920s, the lake had all but disappeared, leaving behind a vast lake bed filled with some of the most fertile soil in the country.

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Good soil stewardship is paramount at Boswell.

For over a century, J. G. Boswell has faced its share of challenges, from devastating floods to prolonged droughts. Wet and dry spells are a natural part of the region. While Boswell has adapted to persevere through these challenges, water remains a powerful and unpredictable force, one that serves as a constant reminder of nature’s strength and the delicate balance that farming requires.

And through it all, that same Mediterranean climate, with long summers of warm sun and mild winters, creates the ideal conditions for crops to thrive. Just as it always has.

Land. Water. Climate.

And people.

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Agronomists in the field

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James “Jim” Fisher For more than sixty years, Jim Fisher has been an integral part of the J. G. Boswell Company. He has worn many hats over the years: employee, shareholder, director, and trusted friend. Known for his sharp insights into farming practices and deep understanding of the company’s history, Jim’s contri butions have left a lasting mark. Jim played a key role in the success of Auscott, the company’s farming operation in Australia. When Boswell first formed the New South Wales venture, Jim was sent to manage operations. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, he turned it into a thriving, profitable business. Back in the United States, Jim was instrumental in establishing the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982, which provided certainty in our local surface-water supplies—an important milestone for the compa ny’s future. Jim’s many contributions were recognized when he received the Hay Hook Award, an honor reserved for those who have provided outstanding service to the J. G. Boswell Company. His legacy of leader ship and stewardship will always be appreciated.

James “Jim” Fisher

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Aerial view of 2023 flood

The land and those who tend it are forever connected . . . one cannot thrive without the other. Farming is not just about growing crops—it is about the hands that plant, nurture, and harvest them.

For generations, the company has shared its success with others willing to accept the challenges of farming in the San Joaquin Valley. Many of those who work at Boswell today come from families who have been part of this story for generations, carrying forward the same values of hard work, loyalty, and pride. This deep-rooted sense of family and tradition is what makes Boswell truly special. Farming is a never-ending cycle, a rhythm as old as time that keeps us connected to the land. It is not always easy: it is part partnership and part challenge, but it’s a relationship built on patience, adaptability, and a lot of hard work. We will always recognize and appreciate the hands that built this company. Their dedication and loyalty have shaped J. G. Boswell’s path and continue to inspire everything we do. At J. G. Boswell Company, we take our responsibility to the land, the water, and the people who make it all happen to heart. As one of the country’s largest agribusinesses, we know sustainability is not just a trendy term—it is about respecting the land, understanding the balance between agriculture and nature, and making sure we support both our community and our customers. From the very start, Boswell has focused on the big picture, caring for today while ensuring that future generations can continue farming this land, just as we have for over a century.

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Yokohl Valley Cattle Company

Cattle ranching is not just a business for the Boswell family: it is a way of life. The family first ranched cattle on its Arizona fields back in the early 1920s. It is hard work, but there is beauty in the tradition—in the connection between the ranchers, land, and livestock. It was this deep-rooted love that made buying Yokohl Ranch in 1965 a natural step in the Boswell legacy. Located in the foothills east of Exeter, California, Yokohl is more than just property: it is an ecosystem. With abundant water, varying elevations, and a temperate climate, it is an ideal setting for cattle to thrive. Stewarding this land honors its natural pur pose, preserving open spaces and ensuring future generations can continue the work that has shaped the family’s history. Yokohl Ranch is all about top-quality Angus cattle, making the most of our land with a successful and sustainable operation. Leading the way is Marty Williamson, Yokohl’s dedicated ranch manager with over forty-five years of experience. A lifelong rancher and true cattle expert, Marty takes pride in upholding California’s rich ranching tradition while ensuring every cow gets the best care possible.

Yokohl Valley Cattle Company

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Chapter 4

The Crops

California is truly America’s breadbasket. In 2009, the state led the country in producing over eighty different crops. It is the go-to source for more than 99 percent of America’s almonds, dates, pistachios, raisins, and pomegranates, just to name a few. The J. G. Boswell Company is a large contributor to that basket, with its primary crops including Pima cotton, alfalfa hay, tomatoes, onions, and wheat grown across the San Joaquin Valley in both Kings and Kern Counties. That’s a lot of farmland, and a lot of good food! Science At Boswell, the most important consideration of farming is the health of the soil. We improve soil health and productivity by blending tradition with science to grow the best crops. From the seed to the harvest, every step is guided by research and technology. A close eye is kept on the fields using drones and satellite images to check on crop health, while soil testing ensures the plants are getting the right nutrients. Crops are regularly rotated to give the soil a boost. Advanced technology also helps track weather and moisture so that farmers can make smart, real-time decisions. And crops are planted using satellite-driven, high-speed tractors. Boswell also teams up with agricultural experts to develop stronger, healthier crops and more eco-friendly ways to farm. Plant Health The J. G. Boswell Company has always been at the forefront of research and development of new technologies that improve both soil health and plant genetics, specifically salt management in our land’s heavy clay soils and improved plant vigor to improve plant health. Constant research was used to improve the genetics of the crops the company is growing. Through its work with PhytoGen, Boswell became known for producing some of the best cottonseed varieties, including Acala and Pima. We have shown the same effort in all of the crops we have grown over the last one hundred years, with each crop designed to thrive in different growing conditions. But it is not just about cotton—the company also produces seeds for crops like wheat and alfalfa, always focused

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Safflower crop

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Oil mill production plant

Oil Mill Operations Through the years, Boswell’s oil mill has been a steady part of the company’s success, producing oils used in food manufacturing, industrial applications, and other agricultural needs. Since its beginnings, J. G. Boswell has always believed in making the most of every part of its cotton crops, which is why its oil mill has been a key part of its operations. After cotton lint is harvested, the seeds still hold value, so the company extracts cottonseed oil, a mild-flavored oil with a high smoke point that is sold for food use and agricultural needs, adding another layer of sustainability and effi ciency to the business. But cotton is not the only oilseed Boswell grows and processes. The company also works with saf flower, which is planted as a rotational crop to help improve soil quality. Safflower seeds produce a high-quality oil that is perfect for cooking, especially high-heat frying. Since most of the oil it produces goes into food manufacturing, Boswell takes quality and safety seri ously. The company follows strict product safety and quality control measures, ensuring full compli ance with FDA requirements. This commitment to excellence has helped the J. G. Boswell Company maintain its reputation as a trusted, reliable producer of oils, continuing its legacy of resourcefulness and innovation in agriculture.

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on quality and innovation. By investing in plant health, research, and technology, Boswell helps farmers get the most out of their fields, one seed at a time.

Irrigation Boswell has been at the forefront of improving how crops are watered, finding smarter, more efficient ways to use every drop. In response to California’s water challenges, the company has invested in advanced drip and precision irrigation systems, making sure water goes exactly where it is needed—no waste, just healthier soil. Boswell also embraced new technology like soil-moisture sensors and remote monitoring, giving farmers real time information to make better decisions. By mixing innovation with smart water management, the company is helping conserve resources while growing stronger, more productive crops. Crops For over one hundred years, the J. G. Boswell Company has been growing a wide variety of crops—everything from onions and safflower to Jose Tall Wheatgrass (great for soil reclamation), seed alfalfa, wheat, barley, and sorghum. But what we’re really known for—and proudest of—are our top crops: cotton, tomatoes, and pistachios.

Packaged cotton being loaded and transported to storage area while awaiting shipping

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Cotton California’s San Joaquin Valley is the heart of Pima cotton, known worldwide for its extra-long, high-quality fiber. Throughout their history, J. G. Boswell has been at the forefront of growing and processing this premium cotton—the only kind they grow.

Boswell takes pride in controlling every step of the process. The company builds its own roller gins at each ranch to ensure quality and precision, monitoring everything from moisture levels to ginning speeds to produce the

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cleanest, most consistent fiber possible. Once ginned, each bale is carefully weighed, inspected, and wrapped in airtight, watertight packaging to protect it from contamination. Boswell’s in-house fiber testing, alongside USDA classing, ensures only the best cotton makes it to market.

But Boswell’s work does not stop at the farm. As the only cotton grower that markets directly to spinning mills worldwide, the company maintains close relationships with mill customers, sharing valuable insights about

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Aerial shot of Corcoran Town Office facility

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Interior of Gin 3

Cotton boll

fiber quality, spinning properties, and even climate impacts. This constant communication allows Boswell to fine-tune its processes and deliver exactly what customers need.

At J. G. Boswell, it is not just about cotton—it is about excellence at every step, from the soil to the final bale. With decades of experience, innovation, and a hands-on approach, Boswell continues to set the standard for the finest cotton in the world.

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Processing tomatoes

Tomatoes At J. G. Boswell, fresh tomatoes go from field to paste in just four hours or less, giving customers the freshest, highest-quality product on the market. With custom tomato-processing plants that are designed, built, and operated by Boswell engineers in Corcoran and Buttonwillow (both located near the fields), Boswell controls every step of the process, from growing and harvesting to processing and packaging. Boswell is committed to sustainability and efficiency, aiming for near-zero waste. Tomato by-products, like seeds and peel, are repurposed for cattle feed, and the company constantly improves water and energy usage. Drip irrigation reduces water consumption while increasing yields, and recycled water is used multiple times during the processing. The plants are also equipped with advanced systems to reduce natural gas usage and greenhouse gas emissions.

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Tomato transplanter

Transportation is optimized for sustainability, with alternative fuel sources reducing diesel use, and rail freight is used for long-distance shipping to lower the carbon footprint. Boswell’s packaging process is designed for durability and reuse, with bins lasting for years before being recycled. Traceability and food safety are top priorities. Every tomato can be traced back to the specific field it came from, and the facilities are Safe Quality Food (SQF) certified. This attention to detail ensures that customers receive a consistent, reliable, and delicious product every time.

It is all part of Boswell’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and creating the freshest tomato paste on the market.

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Auscott Back in 1963, two cotton farmers from Arizona entered into negotiations with the company to acquire their property in Narrabri, Australia. This unexpected offer gave the J. G. Boswell Company an extraordinary op portunity to expand its global footprint and strengthen its position in the cotton industry.

Murrumbidgee gin

At the time, other California cotton growers were exploring the idea of farming in Australia, drawn by gov ernment incentives and the potential for growth. Seizing the moment, Boswell formed Auscott Pty. Limited in northwestern New South Wales to establish one of the country’s first cotton-growing operations. But with growth comes risk, and this was a big one. Australia’s climate is not exactly friendly to farming, with its scorching heat, unpredictable rain, and dry, rugged land. The harsh conditions reminded the Boswell team of a line from Australian singer Slim Dusty: “It’s a hard, hard country, it’s a hard, hard land. To live in it, you’ve got to be a hard, hard man.” That became the team’s rallying cry as they faced a tough first season when heavy rains brought massive weed problems. But JG II and Jim Fisher were not about to back down. Instead, they took things to the next level, growing the operation over the years and installing irrigation systems. Auscott also expanded into three other river valleys and opened its processing (ginning and marketing) to support more cotton growers. Before long, Auscott had grown into one of Australia’s leading agricultural companies. This venture tested the J. G. Boswell Company’s resilience and perseverance. It also challenged the team’s knowledge, pushed their limits, and proved that with determination and adaptability, they could succeed anywhere. But in 2021 and after nearly sixty years, the company made the difficult decision to sell Auscott and refocus on its core operations in California. Over the years, Boswell had built strong relationships with Austra lian farmers, shared invaluable knowledge, and contributed to the industry’s growth. The people of Australia became more than business partners—they were close friends, making the decision to leave bittersweet. Today, Auscott operates under its new name, Australian Food and Fibre (AFF), and remains a thriving part of the cotton industry. A key part of the transition was ensur ing that the new owners upheld Boswell’s long-standing value of putting people first. AFF agreed, continuing the scholarship pro gram that annually provides tuition assistance to students from rural communities near the company’s operations.

While it is impossible to name everyone who played a role in Auscott’s success, a few standout leaders include Bruce Loader, Dave Anthoney, James Fisher, Ashley Power, Sherm Railsback, Leane Ameneiro, and Jack Messick. The Boswell legacy in Aus tralia remains strong, and the friendships built over six decades will always be a cherished part of the company’s history.

Auscott team in cotton field

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