Indy Standard

Several Wells County farms have been recognized by the state of Indiana with Hoosier Homestead awards. State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) and State Sen. Travis Holdman (R-Markle) announced the honors, which are given to farms that have remained in the same family for at least 100 years.

"Family farms embody some of the best that Indiana has to offer, like hard work and dedication, in bringing wholesome food and other products to our tables," Lehman said. "I congratulate all the Hoosier Homestead farms on receiving this well-earned recognition."

The Hoosier Homestead awards are presented as centennial, sesquicentennial, or bicentennial honors, depending on how long a farm has been owned and operated by one family. This year’s local recipients include:

- The Mike Gilbert | Vicki Haviland Farm, operating since 1838, received the sesquicentennial award.

- The Hedges (Stewart/Wisner) Farm, operating since 1900, received the centennial award.

- The Springer Farm, operating since 1872, received the centennial award.

- The Mary Lou Wilcox Farm, operating since 1849, received both centennial and sesquicentennial awards.

These families were among 95 recipients honored during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair.

"Hoosier farm families are the heart of Indiana's agricultural success," Holdman said. "Their commitment to protecting agricultural land, feeding communities and boosting our state's economy is something to be proud of, and this award is a small token of our appreciation for their lasting contributions."

Hoosier Homestead ceremonies take place every spring and summer. Since its start in 1976, more than 6,000 farms have been recognized for their economic and cultural impact on Indiana. More information about the program and nomination forms can be found at https://www.in.gov/isda/programs-and-initiatives/hoosier-homestead-program/. Nominations for next March’s ceremony are due by November 1.

Questions about nominations can be sent via email to HoosierHomestead@ISDA.IN.gov.