Farms in Adams and Wells counties owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years were recently honored with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) and State Sen. Travis Holdman (R-Markle).
“Hoosier homesteaders dedicate their lives to being part of something bigger than themselves, and maintain their family’s legacy and commitment to agriculture,” Lehman said. “Thanks to their hard work, our communities and state are more vibrant and successful. It’s important that we recognize the vital role that agriculture plays in our daily lives and continue to support this key industry and those who make it possible.”
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
“To own and operate a family farm for over a century takes an admirable amount of dedication,” Holdman said. “It is that kind of work ethic and devotion that makes Indiana one of the most recognized states for agriculture in the nation. I congratulate these farms for receiving the recognition they deserve for their work.”
In Adams County, the Kenneth Schueler Farm, in operation since 1917, received the centennial award.
Meanwhile from Wells County…
(All photos courtesy of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture)
These farm families were among 103 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to agriculture.
Hoosier Homestead award ceremonies are conducted yearly in the spring and summer to commemorate farm families for their legacies and contributions to Indiana’s agriculture industry. Since the program started in 1976, the state has honored more than 6,000 farms with this designation.
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and to nominate a farm, visit in.gov/isda. Nominations for the March 2024 ceremony are due by Nov. 1.
