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. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) and State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso).

"Farming is a tough profession and for a family to operate a farm for 100 years or more deserves recognition," Culp said. "As a farmer, I understand the hardships families can face and the determination it takes to keep everything running smoothly. I congratulate these families and wish them the best."

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

"Indiana is well known for its large farming communities, which consistently work to provide for our state," Charbonneau said. "I am proud to serve farms like these that are dedicated to maintaining and growing their operations. Congratulations to these families on receiving these awards."

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards:

- The Diemer Farm, in operation since 1895, received the centennial award;

- The George B. Kilmer Farm, in operation since 1916, received the centennial award; and

- The Otto Vieregge Farm, in operation since 1915, 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.

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