(Indianapolis, IN) – Five local family farms were among 95 across the state to be recognized with the Hoosier Homestead Award at the Statehouse on Wednesday at the Indiana State Fair.
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100, 150, and 200 years can qualify for the centennial, sesquicentennial, or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
The following local family farms were presented Hoosier Homestead awards:
- Connolly-Hartman Farm (Dearborn County), in operation since 1924, received the Centennial Award.
- Spillman Farm (Decatur County), in operation since 1925, received the Centennial, Sesquicentennial and Bicentennial awards.
- Meyer Farm (Franklin County), in operation since 1863, received the Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards.
- Braunagel Farm (Ripley County), in operation since 1872, received the Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards.
- Rea Farm (Ripley County), in operation since 1923, received the Centennial Award.
The Spillman Farm in Decatur County was one of eight to receive the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of continuous family ownership.
Also receiving the Bicentennial Award were the Meal family from Rush County, and the Dennis and Sue Briggs family from Switzerland County.
“Indiana’s economy and heritage is built upon agriculture,” said Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, who also serves as Indiana Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “It is an honor to be able to recognize these farming family and celebrate their enduring legacy.”
Since the program’s inception in 1976, over 6,200 families have received the Hoosier Homestead Award.
A Hoosier Homestead farm is often easily recognized because most recipients proudly display their awarded sign on their property.
“I am continually inspired by the long-established farming families that are recognized during the Hoosier Homestead ceremonies,” said Don Lamb, Director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. “I personally know the amount of commitment and dedication needed to keep a farm in the family for 100 years or more. I thank each one for their devotion to the agriculture industry and their loyalty to the State of Indiana.”
