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 Dubois County legislators.

"It is important to honor these farms as they work extremely hard for our community and state," said State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty). "Indiana is fortunate to have families dedicated to agriculture in the Hoosier state and I wish them continued success."

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

"Farming is a major factor in the state's economy and history," State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) said. "Congratulations to these Hoosiers for their dedication and passing down their skills from one generation to the next."

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards:

- The Bartelt-Peters Farm, in operation since 1913, received the centennial award;

- The Bockting Farm, in operation since 1839, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards; and

- The Meyer Farm, in operation since 1920, 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.

"Southwest Indiana is home to so many family farms that have been dedicated to their land throughout the state's history," State Sen. Mark Messmer said. "These farms are great examples of the Hoosier work ethic which has made this state great, and I congratulate and thank them for their longevity."

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.