Indy Standard

Indiana recently honored local farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Alex Zimmerman (R-North Vernon) and State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg).

"Family farms are what have helped power our economy for generations and it's great to see so many local homesteads reach this amazing, 100-year milestone," Zimmerman said. "We're so grateful these families call our community home, and for their dedication to continuing their operations and traditions."

Farms owned and operated by the same family for 100, 150, and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.

"As chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, it is good to see local family farms honored for their role in our community," said State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg). "The Hoosier Homestead Award is a small way to show our appreciation for hard-working farmers committed to maintaining their family's agricultural legacy for future generations."

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards:

- The Drockelman Farm, in operation since 1860, received the sesquicentennial award.

- The Miller Farm, in operation since 1910, received the centennial award.

- The Shorten Farm, in operation since 1917, received the centennial award.

- The Smith Farm, in operation since 1868, received the centennial and sesquicentennial awards.

- The Wilson Farm, in operation since 1923, received the centennial award.

The local farm families were among 104 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their dedication to the state's agriculture industry.

Hoosier Homestead ceremonies are conducted every spring and summer. The state has honored more than 6,000 farms since the award was established in 1976.

Visit in.gov/isda for more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and to nominate a farm. Nominations for the March 2025 ceremony are due by Nov. 1.