CLAY COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Several family farms in Clay County have been awarded the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms that are owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or longer.
The four farms that have been honored are represented by State Sen. John Ford (R-Terre Haute), State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil), and State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute).
The following farms and families are the recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award:
- The Dierdorf Farm | Centennial Award
- The Keith & Paula Jones Farm | Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards
- The Wayne R. & Mary A. Jones Farm | Centennial Award
- The Zurcher Farm | Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards
Honoring families that have worked to make significant strides for Indiana agriculture, the Hoosier Homestead Award Program began in 1976. The program aims to recognize the impact that family farms have had on the cultural, social, and economic progress of the state. Within the last 47 years, more than 5,800 farms have been awarded.
Several of the state officials commented on the multiple awards given to the Clay County farms.
“I admire these family-owned farms in Clay County for keeping an American tradition going,” Sen. Ford said. “It is wonderful to see these local farmers sustain their agricultural enterprises for over 100 years. Congratulations to these local farms for this great achievement.”
“It’s amazing to see so many Hoosier families maintain farms for this long,” Rep. Morrison said. “They’ve weathered tremendous change, persevered, and are truly deserving of this recognition.”
“Having grown up on a farm in Clay County, I can attest to the hard work and determination it takes to keep one operating,” Rep. Heaton said. “I offer my congratulations and heartfelt thanks for all they’ve provided Hoosiers these many years.”
In order for a farm to award the Hoosier Homestead, the farm must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and either have more than 20 acres or generate more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. The awards given are Centennial for 100 years, Sesquicentennial for 150, and Bicentennial for 200.
For those interested in learning more about the program, or applying for a Hoosier Homestead Award, visit the Indiana State Department of Agriculture Hoosier Homestead webpage.
