2 Harrison County farms among Hoosier Homestead recipients

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and Indiana State Dept. of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler recently presented 51 Hoosier Homestead awards to families at the Indiana State Museum in recognition of their commitment to Indiana agriculture.

Two Harrison County farms were recognized with Centennial Awards: Bill J. Curts and Sharon Curts Martin, which was established in 1917, and Fravel, started in 1918.

“The Hoosiers honored with this award have dedicated so much to our community as well as the agriculture industry,” said State Rep. Karen Engleman. “Our farmers deserve this recognition for their steadfast commitment to their career and Indiana’s reputation as a top farming state. This is a great accomplishment, and I hope these family farms will be around for another 100-plus years.”

To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years and consist of 20 acres or more or produce more than $1,000 in agricultural products per year.

“For generations, each of the families honored today have been committed to Indiana, to agriculture and to their families,” Crouch said. “The past year has been challenging in many ways, but our agriculture industry remains strong. Hoosier farmers are a big reason why Indiana remains the 10th largest farming state. I was grateful to have the opportunity to present this award to these historic farming families.”

Families are eligible for three different distinctions of the Hoosier Homestead Award, based on the age of the farm. They can receive the Centennial Award for 100 years, Sesquicentennial Award for 150 years or Bicentennial Award for 200 years of ownership.

“Farm families have always been and will continue to be a part of Indiana’s rich history,” said State Rep. Steve Davisson. “Recognizing the achievements of these families is important as they continue to play a vital role in our economy and contribute to Indiana’s standing as a national leader in agricultural production.”

Since the program’s inception in 1976, more than 5,800 families have received the award.

“The Hoosier Homestead program is a testament to the resiliency of our Indiana agriculture industry,” Kettler said. “Each of these families has played a significant role in the heritage of our state, and I am certain their legacy will continue for years to come.”

Each year, two awards ceremonies take place to commemorate the achievements of farm families throughout the state.

For more information about the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda/2337.htm.