Indy Standard

Rush County farms have been recognized by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) and State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg).

"As Hoosiers, we understand the dedication it takes to keep a family farm running for generations," Criswell said. "It’s an incredible accomplishment and I’m proud to recognize families in our community who’ve worked hard to preserve Indiana’s rich farming traditions."

The Hoosier Homestead awards are given to farms that have been owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years. The program offers centennial, sesquicentennial, or bicentennial awards for 100, 150, or 200 years of operation.

This year, three Rush County farms received recognition:

- The Ball Farm, which has been in operation since 1924, received the centennial award.

- The Harcourt/Boring/Carrigan Farm, in operation since 1857, received both centennial and sesquicentennial awards.

- The Meal Farm, operating since 1825, was honored with the bicentennial award.

"As chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, I understand how important farming is to our state," Leising said. "With agriculture contributing $35 billion a year, these families are the backbones of Indiana's economy. To be such an integral part of our state over so many generations is something to be truly proud of."

These Rush County families were among 95 recipients recognized during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair. Since its start in 1976, more than 6,000 farms have been honored through this program for their economic and cultural contributions.

Hoosier Homestead ceremonies take place each spring and summer. More information about the program and nomination forms can be found at https://www.in.gov/isda/. Nominations for the March 2026 ceremony are due by Nov. 1. Questions may be directed to HoosierHomestead@ISDA.IN.gov.