In the 1920s, Mr. Newberry planted and propogated seedling pecan trees, with guidance from Dr. Fabian Garcia at New Mexico A&M, now New Mexico State Universary. Mr. Newberry's early efforts helped launch the pecan industry in the Mesilla Valley, which is now one of the top pecan growing regions in the world.

Many of the trees on his farm are nearly 100 years old and are still producing the pecans we offer today. Among these trees is the Burkett. The Burkett Pecan is a true heirloom variety, having been discovered in the early 1900s. It is well adapted to southern New Mexico and thrives in the Mesilla Valley.

In 1912 our Grandfather JW "Jack" Newberry traveled to Las Cruces, New Mexico and subsequently purchased the rough land which was part of the Mesilla Civil Grant. There, Mr. Newberry established his home and, with irrigation from the Rio Grande River he began farming alfalfa, corn, cotton, wheat, vegetables and fruit trees. One of his specialties was the Burkett pecan.

Although there are many other pecan varieties in production today, the Burkett is still favored by locals for its thin shell, unusual buttery flavor and plump round size. In addition to being just plain delicious and great for baking, the Burkett pecan is heart healthy and a great source of fiber and vitamins and minerals. 

We are proud to offer this special heirloom variety both unshelled and shelled and in our spiced pecans. Unfortunately this past season’s harvest had low yield and small nuts.