From Idea to Tradition: The Upshur County FFA Chapter’s Biscuit Lunch

Upshur County FFA members prepare biscuits and gravy.

The Upshur County FFA Chapter in West Virginia hosts an annual biscuit and gravy lunch every Thursday during National FFA Week at Buckhannon-Upshur High School. What is now a well-known tradition did not always exist. The idea began in 2015, when a few FFA members thought it would be nice to do something special for students and staff during FFA Week. They wanted a way to bring people together and promote their chapter in a positive way.

The first year was exciting, but it was also chaotic and stressful. Members quickly realized that cooking and serving a large number of people was much harder than they expected. They struggled with timing, organization and preparation. Even their advisor, Mrs. Lewis, did not realize how much planning it would take. Although the event was somewhat successful, everyone agreed that it needed improvement if they were going to continue the tradition.

The second year, they decided to try again, but this time with help. Mrs. Lewis invited her dad to come in and guide the members through the process. He showed them step by step how to prepare the food efficiently and stay organized. He made sure the members understood what to do before stepping back and letting them take responsibility. With his guidance, the event ran much smoother. Year two was a complete success.

Due to that success, the biscuit and gravy lunch became a standing tradition for the Upshur County FFA Chapter. For the past 10 years, students and staff have looked forward to the Thursday of National FFA Week. Now, as year 11 approaches, excitement is already building. What started as a simple idea from a few members has grown into a meaningful event that brings the school together and highlights the impact of FFA in Upshur County.