Indy Standard

Several Grant County farms have been recognized by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) and State Sen. Andy Zay (R-Huntington).

"Maintaining a family farm for more than a century is an incredible achievement," Goss-Reaves said. "It is an honor to help recognize these local families for their hard work and lasting contributions to our agricultural heritage."

The Hoosier Homestead awards are given to farms that have been owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years. The awards include centennial, sesquicentennial, or bicentennial distinctions based on the length of operation.

Three Grant County farms were among those honored:

- The Ferree Farm, operating since 1920, received the centennial award.

- The Jarvis-Cox Farm, in operation since 1885, also received the centennial award.

- The Leisure Farm, established in 1875, received both centennial and sesquicentennial awards.

"Agriculture is the backbone of Indiana's economic success," Zay said. "I appreciate the hardworking Hoosier farm families who have spent years feeding our communities, caring for our land and preserving our agricultural history."

These Grant County farms were among 95 recipients recently recognized during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair. The Hoosier Homestead program holds ceremonies each spring and summer. Since its start in 1976, more than 6,000 Indiana farms have been honored for their contributions to the state's economy and culture.

More information about the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and nomination forms can be found at https://www.in.gov/isda/. Nominations for the March 2026 ceremony are due by November 1. Questions can be directed via email to HoosierHomestead@ISDA.IN.gov.

State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves represents House District 31, which includes parts of Grant and Madison counties.