STATEHOUSE (Aug. 17, 2023) – The Johnson-Bey Farm in Bartholomew County recently received the Hoosier Homestead Centennial Award for being in operation since 1900, according to State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) and State Sen. Greg Walker (R-Columbus).
"These local families are a testament to their resiliency and perseverance," Meltzer said. "For over a century, they have faced and overcome a number of obstacles. We all depend on the fruits of their labor and are thankful for those who dedicate their lives to farming."
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
This farm family was among 103 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to agriculture.
"Owning and running a family farm is hard work and takes a tremendous amount of dedication," Walker said. "I want to thank the Johnson-Bey Farm for their continued commitment to Indiana's farming industry, and congratulate them on being recognized with this honor."
Hoosier Homestead award ceremonies are conducted yearly in the spring and summer to commemorate farm families for their legacies and contributions to Indiana's agriculture industry. Since the program started in 1976, the state has honored more than 6,000 farms with this designation.
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and to nominate a farm, visit in.gov/isda. Nominations for the March 2024 ceremony are due by Nov. 1.
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State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Greg Walker (R-Columbus) represents Senate District 41,
which includes Bartholomew County and a portion of Johnson county
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
