State presents Fulton County farms with Hoosier Homestead awards

Three local farm families were among 104 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their dedication to the state's agriculture industry.

Indiana recently honored local farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) and State Sen. Stacey Donato (R-Logansport).

"Hoosier homesteaders have shown what it takes to be successful in maintaining a farm for generations," Jordan said. "Agriculture is deeply rooted in Indiana's heritage, and I congratulate these local Hoosiers on all of their hard work."

Farms owned and operated by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards: 

• The Applegate-Crippen-Rock Farm, in operation since 1911, received the centennial award.

• The Heater Farm, in operation since 1874, received the sesquicentennial award.

• The Shewman Farm, in operation since 1918, received the centennial award.

"Agriculture is an integral part of Indiana's history and economic success," Donato said. "These three family farms deserve to be recognized for being a part of this success for over a century. I congratulate them on this amazing achievement and thank them for all they continue to do for our state." 

The local farm families were among 104 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their dedication to the state's agriculture industry.

Hoosier Homestead ceremonies are conducted every spring and summer. The state has honored more than 6,000 farms since the award was established in 1976.

Visit in.gov/isda for more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and to nominate a farm. Nominations for the March 2025 ceremony are due by Nov. 1.