Indy Standard

Area legislators have recognized the latest recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, honoring farms owned and maintained by the same family for over a century. State Sen. Brian Buchanan and State Rep. Jeff Thompson represented two locally owned farms at a ceremony held at the Statehouse.

The Bowen farm in Boone County and Peebles / Cox farm in Montgomery County were each awarded Centennial awards. The Hoosier Homestead Award Program, established in 1976, celebrates families who have significantly contributed to Indiana agriculture. To date, it has recognized more than 6,000 family farms that have impacted Indiana's economic, cultural, and social progress.

"When we recognize the impact of the Bowen and Peebles / Cox family legacies, we remind the state of the generations of Hoosier agricultural achievement that goes far beyond our district," Buchanan said. "It is families like these that bring Indiana's agricultural identity to life, and I am honored to celebrate them."

"Agriculture is fundamental to Indiana's identity and economy, and these families have been part of the backbone of that industry for generations," Thompson stated. "I commend these Hoosiers for their years of hard work and perseverance in maintaining their farms, a remarkable achievement that deserves this recognition."

To qualify as a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and either consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $1,000 worth of agricultural products annually. The award categories include centennial for 100 years, sesquicentennial for 150 years, and bicentennial for 200 years.

For further information about the program or to apply for a Hoosier Homestead Award, interested parties can visit www.in.gov/isda.

Photos from the event will be available online by March 28, 2025.

Senator Brian Buchanan represents Senate District 7 which includes parts of Boone, Clinton, Hendricks, and Montgomery counties.