Lance Thornton
My Journey Home
Lance Thornton’s journey is a tale of a boy shaped by the values of rural Iowa and a man driven to leave a legacy of growth, connection, and purpose.
Born in New York City area but raised among the rolling fields of the Midwest in Iowa, Lance grew up at Quakerdale, a place rich in history and community spirit.
As a child, he spent countless hours exploring the land, learning the value of hard work, and witnessing the profound impact that a shared sense of purpose can have on people’s lives.
But like many, Lance grew up ventured beyond his hometown in search of new opportunities. Over the years, he built a thriving career, establishing himself as an entrepreneur in industries ranging from manufacturing and hospitality to NASCAR.
His ventures were not just about business—they were about creating experiences and opportunities, drawing on the lessons he had learned growing up. Senator Blumenthal of Connecticut honored Lance with a Humanitarian award for his commitment to youth and families. Yale University also awarded Lance with an award for his commitment to helping youth.
Despite his success, Lance felt a lingering pull toward Quakerdale, a place he always regarded as more than a memory—it was a part of his identity. In 2024, he took a leap of faith, returning to the land that had shaped him, purchasing Quakerdale to breathe new life into its legacy. Lance’s vision wasn’t just to restore the property, but to reimagine it as a cornerstone of the community, a destination where history, agriculture, and celebration converge.
The Vision for Quakerdale Farms
At the heart of Lance’s plans is the establishment of Iowa’s first large-scale lavender farm, a nod to his love of nature and his desire to create something truly unique for the region. Visitors will be able to wander through fragrant purple fields, explore walking trails, and learn about lavender production in an on-site facility where products will be crafted before their eyes.
But the vision doesn’t stop at lavender. Lance is transforming Quakerdale Farms into a hub for agritourism that offers something for everyone:
A Premier Wedding Venue: Featuring a breathtaking ceremony space, thoughtfully designed bridal and groom suites, a family lounge, and a nursery, the venue will provide couples with a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort.
A Family-Friendly Petting Zoo: This hands-on experience will allow children and adults alike to connect with animals, fostering an appreciation for agriculture and the natural world.
A Scenic Campground: Welcoming travelers, the campground will offer serene stays amidst the beauty of rural Iowa.
A Boutique Hotel: Designed to complement the farm’s rustic charm, the hotel will cater to guests seeking a blend of tranquility and modern amenities.
A Museum of Heritage: Honoring the Quaker community and the historic legacy of Quakerdale, the museum will serve as an educational and inspirational centerpiece.
Giving Back to the Community
Lance’s vision is not merely about creating a business; it’s about creating a space where people can gather, connect, and experience the richness of life together. Quakerdale Farms is designed to be a place where families make lasting memories, where couples celebrate the beginning of their lives together, and where visitors experience the beauty of Iowa’s agricultural heritage.
For Lance, it’s about more than preserving the past—it’s about planting seeds for the future. Every element of the farm reflects his commitment to sustainability, community involvement, and economic growth. By bringing people back to the land, Lance is not just giving Quakerdale back to the community; he’s inviting the community to be part of its next chapter.
With determination, creativity, and a heart firmly rooted in his Iowa upbringing, Lance Thornton is turning a childhood dream into a lasting legacy. Through Quakerdale Farms, he’s proving that sometimes the best way forward is to come back home.
Lance Thornton, Father of 5
Born: 1970 in Port Jefferson New York
Moved to Iowa in 1980
Attended Quakerdale from 1982-1986
Moved to Michigan in 1986
Attended The University of Michigan – Flint
Careers:
Auditor in Mergers & Acquisitions at Arthur Anderson
In 1997 he moved to a Private Equity Firm in Des Monies Iowa
He worked for NASCAR as a Vice President of licensing for Mass Retailers
Was Vice President of Business Development at Valvoline Oil
Then he invented an adapter for a wiper blade and started his own wiper blade company He holds several patents that he has sold. One he sold to Wal-Mart and they still use it today.
His dream is to retire for real someday on a sail boat in the Caribbean working on his laptop helping his kids achieve their dreams.