STATEHOUSE (Aug. 17, 2023) – Sullivan County farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years were recently honored with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) and State Sen. Eric Bassler (R-Washington).
"It's truly impressive how many family farms are not only still operating in Indiana, but also have endured through decades of change," Borders said. "This honor is well-deserved for these Hoosiers who continue contributing to the state's agricultural industry."
The Ballentine Farm, in operation since 1839, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards, and the Ballentine Farm, in operation since 1889, received the centennial award.
"Local family farms offer a vital service to all Hoosiers," Bassler said. "Indiana agriculture is a multi-billion dollar industry, due in large part to our multigenerational farms. I congratulate and thank these families for their dedication."
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
These local farm families were among 103 awardees recently recognized at the State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.
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 Sen. Eric Bassler (R-Washington) represents Senate District 39,
which includes Daviess, Greene, Knox, and Martin counties and portions of Owen and Sullivan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) represents House District 45,
which includes all of Greene and Sullivan counties, and portions of Daviess, Knox and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
