STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2025) – The Stuart Beehler Farm in St. Joseph County recently received a Hoosier Homestead Centennial Award for being in operation since 1889, according to State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) and State Sen. Ryan Mishler (R-Mishawaka).
"There are many long days and sometimes longer nights when it comes to farming," Teshka said. "We often don't get to see everything that goes on behind the scenes in running a farm, but Hoosiers are truly grateful for all the hard work and dedication this and other families give to their craft."
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 contributes an estimated $35.1 billion to Indiana's economy each year, so having a thriving network of dedicated farmers is crucial to continuing our state's success," Mishler said. "I congratulate the Stuart Beehler Farm on their hard work to maintain their commitment to farming and I am proud to represent farms like this that seek to continue honoring this legacy for years to come."
This farm family was 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. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) represents House District 7,
which includes portions of LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Ryan Mishler (R-Mishawaka) represents Senate District 9,
which includes portions of Elkhart, Kosciusko, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
