Company History
1939
Badger Ham Company began in 1939 as an entrepreneurial dream in a modest 2,000-square-foot building located at 35th and Lincoln, the bustling commerce side of Milwaukee. Soon after, a partnership evolved, combining the experience and talents of Jacob Schwellinger and Frank Rakowski. Jacob, an experienced meat cutter, worked for Patrick Cudahy and was versed in the techniques of curing and smoking a ham. At the same time, Frank complimented the team with a knack for salesmanship.
Together they focused on a single-minded goal, to specialize in one product: Ham, and to do it better than anyone else. Jacob realized early on that there would be no substitute for quality and was dedicated to producing nothing less. As a result, his traditional technique of ham cured by hand, carefully trimmed, and smoked over an open flame using select hardwoods is still being utilized by Badger Ham today.
1955
In 1955, Jacob's son Jack joined the business, followed by his second son, Jerry, in 1961. Badger Ham grew and expanded exponentially with a strong work ethic and commitment to quality inherent in family-owned businesses.
The two brothers remained focused on perfecting their single product line: ham, for the discriminating taste of their growing customers. Expansion ensued with state-of-the-art equipment that updated operations to maintain pace with the ever-increasing demand for their product.
1976
In 1976, Jerry's son Mark, the third generation Schwellinger, joined the business, and Jack later retired in 1985. Expansion once again meant progress with new efficiencies in production while never compromising their relentless focus on quality to make the finest gourmet ham.
To test the success of their efforts, Badger entered their product in an official open competition sponsored by the Wisconsin State Fair. Upon completing their due diligence, the judges presented the coveted "Seal of Excellence" award to Badger Ham. Badger entered the following year again and won despite dispelling rumors of this being a fluke. This prestigious honor would eventually be garnered by Badger Ham for eight consecutive attempts, earning them the enviable reputation as Wisconsin's "Award-Winning" Gourmet Ham.
2020- Present
Quinn Schwellinger, son of Brian Schwellinger, became the 4th generation Schwellinger to work at Badger Ham. Quinn joined the business in March 2020. Before Badger Ham, he worked in advertising in New York City.
Brian and Quinn now run the day-to-day business. Together, they have made significant investments in equipment and employees to weather the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to bring Badger Ham to the next generation of Wisconsinites.