STATEHOUSE — State Representative Bill Friend (R-Macy) congratulates the Leedy Farm and the Robert F. McConnell Farm in Miami County for receiving a Hoosier Homestead Award. Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann presented the awards to the families at the Indiana State Fairgrounds during a ceremony on Friday.
Established in 1976, the Hoosier Homestead Award Program recognizes farming families who have owned and operated the same farm for 100 years or more. Families with 100 years of ownership were presented with centennial awards, while those with 150 and 200 years of ownership were presented with sesquicentennial and bicentennial awards.
The Leedy Farm, which has been in operation since 1899, received the centennial award. The Robert F. McConnell Farm has been operating since 1847 and received the sesquicentennial award.
“As a Hoosier farmer, I know how important agriculture and these farming families are to our state and local economies,” said Rep. Friend. "It is exciting to see two farms in Miami County receive the Hoosier Homestead Award, and both families demonstrate the values and continue Indiana’s legacy as one of the best agricultural states in the nation.”
The Hoosier Homestead Award Program has honored more than 5,000 farms since its inauguration. This program was established to recognize the contributions made by these farming families to Indiana’s economy, reputation and overall advancement.
Each year, there are two award ceremonies, in the spring and summer, to commemorate the achievements of the many outstanding Hoosier farmers across the state. To learn more about the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit www.in.gov/isda/2337.htm.
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