by
Hannah Farber
| Oct 26, 2026
Lexi Schweigert and her husband Lane knew they wanted to build something together after Lane's dad sold his sheep. Texas Longhorns stood out almost right away. Their calm personalities, their unmistakable look, and the sheer range of genetic possibilities made the breed feel like the right fit for the vision they had for Maple Trace Farm.
A Name for Roots and a Future
The farm's name carries two stories at once. Maple honors Maple Lawn Jersey Farm, where Lane's grandparents raise registered Jersey cattle, a nod to where the family started. Trace was inspired by Buffalo Trace, and represents something different: carving out their own path while staying connected to the legacy that came before them.
Angie and David Wolf of 4 Oaks Farm have been especially influential as Lexi and Lane found their footing in the Texas Longhorn world, along with a number of other breeders who've generously shared their knowledge along the way. That guidance has helped shape what Lexi and Lane are aiming for: cattle known for outstanding disposition, quality, and longevity.
When Excitement Goes Both Ways
Ask Lexi what she loves most about the farm, and the answer is about connection as much as it is about cattle. She and Lane love walking into the pasture and having the herd come to greet them. It's just as rewarding watching people who once felt intimidated by Texas Longhorns realize how gentle and curious the breed can actually be, feeding them treats and scratching their backs for the first time.
One story stands out above the rest: bringing PCC Checkmate home. What started as a last-minute decision on a Thursday night turned into a road trip to Oklahoma the very next day. Looking back, Lexi counts it as one of the best decisions they've made, and every time Checkmate shows up in the pasture, it's a reminder that the best opportunities sometimes come when you're willing to take a chance.
MT Pixy Stix holds a special place too. Lexi describes her as curious and gentle, with the biggest attitude in the pasture. Pixy has been learning right alongside Lexi and Lane since the very beginning, and watching her grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey so far.
Why Hired Hand
For Lexi, the pedigree feature was the deciding factor, something she calls a game-changer for getting their animals in front of the right people. As newer Longhorn owners still learning the ropes, having a website partner who understood their vision mattered just as much. Lexi and Lane shared their colors, their ideas, and the overall feel they wanted for Maple Trace, and the finished site reflects exactly who they are.
If you're a breeder building something worth noticing, Hired Hand Software can help make sure the people looking for what you have can actually find you.