STATEHOUSE – State Representative Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) congratulates the Robinson, Reagan and Marion/David/McKinzie families for receiving Hoosier Homestead Awards. The awards were presented today by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and Agriculture Director Gina Sheets at the Indiana Statehouse.
The Hoosier Homestead Award Program recognizes families with farms that have been owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more. The Robinson family farm (Walton) has been owned and operated by the Robison family since 1879. The Reagan family farm (Frankfort) has been owned and operated by the Reagan family since 1838, and the McKinzie family farm (Frankfort) has been owned and operated by the McKinzie family since 1835. Both the Reagan and McKinzie families received sesquicentennial awards, indicating over 150 years of ownership.
“These families have successfully withstood the tests of time having owned and operated their farms for over 100 years each,” said Rep. VanNatter. “They embody the Hoosier spirit by working hard and devoting their lives to the land. Agriculture is a driving force behind Indiana’s economic strength. These three families live every day showing that Hoosiers have a commitment to agriculture.”
The program began in 1976 to acknowledge the contributions these families have made to Indiana agriculture. More than 5,000 farms have been recognized since the program was established. Two awards ceremonies are held each year, in the spring and summer, to commemorate the achievements of the many outstanding Hoosier farmers across the state. The Robinson farm received a Centennial award. The Reagan and McKinzie farms both received Sesquicentennial awards.
“It is a major accomplishment to own and maintain a farm as long as these families have,” said Rep. VanNatter. “I congratulate them on over 130 prosperous and productive years and wish them many more.”
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit www.in.gov/isda/2337.
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