Longstanding Bartholomew County family farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to local legislators.
The Bolte Farm, in operation since 1881, and the McKinney Farm, in operation since 1883, received Hoosier Homestead Centennial awards.
"Family-owned farms, passed on from generation to generation, are an inspiration to our community and are an example of what hard work and dedication can produce," said State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus). "I hope these families can continue to pass on their legacy."
These farm families were among more than 100 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.
"As a business owner and longtime advocate of the agriculture industry, I know it is important for us to honor these farms for their service, as they are the pinnacle of dedication and strong work ethic," said State Sen. Chip Perfect (R-Lawrenceburg). "I congratulate these families for their commitment to operating a family-owned farm for more than a century."
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
"It is an immense honor to be recognized as a Hoosier Homestead, as it reveals the dedication these families have in sustaining our state and local communities through agriculture," said State Sen. Eric Koch (R-Bedford). "Their service is what makes Indiana one of the most prosperous farming and agriculture states in the nation."
Each year, two awards ceremonies are held in the spring and summer commemorating the achievements of farm families across the state. Since its inception in 1976, more than 5,800 farms received the designation as Hoosier Homesteads.
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda.
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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes portions of Bartholomew County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Chip Perfect (R-Lawrenceburg) represents Senate District 43,
which includes all or parts of Bartholomew, Dearborn, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings,
Ohio and Ripley counties. Click here for a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Eric Koch (R-Bedford) represents Senate District 44,
which includes all or parts of Bartholomew,
Brown, Jackson, Lawrence and Monroe counties.
Click here for a high resolution photo.
