STATEHOUSE (Aug. 14, 2025) – LaPorte County farms were recently honored by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) and State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores).
"Indiana is an agricultural state that relies on generational farm families to fuel our economy and feed our communities," Pressel said. "To still be operational for so many years is truly remarkable."
Hoosier Homestead awards honor farms owned and operated by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years with centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial awards.
"Agriculture is the backbone of Indiana's economy, contributing billions of dollars to the state each year," Bohacek said. "I am proud to represent families dedicated to continuing the farming traditions and congratulate the Harder/Patek and Gillham farms on receiving this well-deserved recognition."
The Harder/Patek Farm, in operation since 1871, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards, and the Gillham Farm, in operation since 1861, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards.
These farm families were among 95 awardees recently honored during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair.
Hoosier Homestead ceremonies are conducted every spring and summer. Since establishing the program in 1976, Indiana has recognized more than 6,000 farms for their economic and cultural impact to the state.
More information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and nomination forms are available at in.gov/isda. Nominations for the March 2026 ceremony are due by Nov. 1. Questions may be emailed to HoosierHomestead@ISDA.IN.gov.
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State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores) represents Senate District 8,
which include Starke County and portions of La Porte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
