It never bothered Kim Matthews in the slightest that Sam Williams did not attend church when they met. With deep roots in Jesuit Catholicism, Kim knew that the two were a resonant pair when Sam suggested they hike in the Arapaho National Forest instead of going to mass. He pointed to the natural world and asked, “God?” then pointed in the direction of Our Lady of Lourdes church in Georgetown, CO and asked, “God?”  Their mutual love for the outdoors, a sense of place, and a legacy livelihood for their fourth generation Western Slope boys, Colton and Preston, brought them to The American Bison. 

Mrs. Williams is a medical researcher and Mr. Williams a former ski area manager. In 2023, their son experienced a life-changing diagnosis that forced the couple to reevaluate their priorities and trajectory. The Williams family decided to reinvent themselves with bison ranching.

Serendipitously, Sam’s relatives, Dave and Sue Whittlesey own and operate a bison ranch called "High Wire Ranch" in Hotchkiss, CO. For over 40 years, they have successfully raised 100% grass-fed and finished Western Colorado bison meat, practicing humane animal husbandry. They said they were willing to mentor the Williams family in bison ranching, as they transition into retirement.

There are no middlemen between the bison and the consumer, such as feeding lots, warehouses, or retail handlers.