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. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) and State Sen. Eric Koch (R-Bedford).

"Farms are a vital asset to Indiana, and thankfully these Hoosiers have helped to carry down this tradition from generation to generation," Lucas said. "By continuing this work, a major piece of our state's history stays alive while our economy continues to thrive."

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards:

- The Bells-Alwes-Mellencamp Farm, in operation since 1918, received the centennial award.

- The Claycamp Farm, in operation since 1869, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards.

- The Shoemaker Farm, in operation since 1924, received the centennial award.

"It is great to see so many local farmers carrying on their family legacy," Koch said. "We have a great agricultural heritage in our state and it is in no small part thanks to their hard work and dedication over the years."

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

These 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.