Illinois has an estimated population of 640,000 white-tailed deer, which ranks 22nd in the nation. Deer hunting is a way of life for thousands of Illinois residents, and with firearm deer season currently underway statewide, deer processing plants are buzzing with activity. Illinois is home to dozens upon dozens of deer processing plants, many of which are family-based and have been passed down from generation to generation.
Trenton Processing, located east of St. Louis in Clinton County, was started in 1964 by Calvin and Loretta Schwend. The couple sold the business to three of their five children in 1991, but in 2022 the business was sold to Cody and Sheldyn Schneider of Beckemeyer. The Schneiders are keeping past traditions alive, with Trenton Processing continuing to offer a wide variety of specialty sausages along with many cured and smoked items. The business also offers custom processing, including deer processing.
Behrmann Meat and Processing in Albers is a family-owned business that was started in 1968. Dennis and Elaine Behrmann have built the business over the years, with several additions to the original building. Behrmann’s now has over 50 full-time employees and provides custom deer processing. The company’s mission is to produce, process, and sell quality products at the highest level possible.
Read more at the Caucus Blog here.