STATEHOUSE– Longstanding Vanderburgh County farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 150 years, according to local legislators.
“Our area is fortunate to be home to these longtime family farms,” said State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka). “I commend them for earning this prestigious honor and thank them for their commitment to our community.”
The Niederhaus/Karch Farm, in operation since 1839, and the Henry Schlensker Farm, in operation since 1870, both received sesquicentennial awards.
“Congratulations to these families for preserving our state’s farming traditions for more than 150 years,” said State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville). “Owning a farm is hard work and their dedication and longevity deserve recognition. I am proud to have them in Vanderburgh County.”
These farming families were among 73 recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.
“Agriculture plays a key role in Indiana’s economy, contributing billions of dollars to our state,” said State Sen. Jim Tomes (R-Wadesville). “I congratulate these families for putting in the hard work, and applaud them for continuously passing their legacy on to the next generation of Hoosier farmers.”
“Agriculture has always been an integral part of our state, and we are fortunate to have such dedicated family farms,” said State Sen. Vaneta Becker (R-Evansville). “This is a historic accomplishment for these farms. They should be proud.”
The Hoosier Homestead Award Program recognizes farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more. Families can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial awards.
“Indiana’s thriving economy relies heavily on agriculture, contributing more than $31 billion annually,” said State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville). “In Indiana, an overwhelming majority of farms are family owned. Longtime agricultural institutions, like these honorees in Vanderburgh County, play a large role in our state’s success.”
Each year, two awards ceremonies are held in the spring and summer commemorating the achievements of farm families across the state. For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda.
