(Indianapolis, IN) - Longstanding LaPorte County farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more.

"Maintaining a family farm is no easy task, and these families are beating the odds and have done so for over a century," said State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie). "This is an incredible accomplishment, and I wish them continued success for years to come."

 

• The Lachner Farm, in operation since 1922, received the centennial award;
• The Maerz-Kloss Farm, in operation since 1884, received the centennial award;
• The Mark Farm, in operation since 1881, received the centennial award; and
• The Sullivan Farm, in operation since 1868, received the sesquicentennial award.

"As the tenth-largest farming state in the nation, it is important that Hoosier farmers maintain their operations," said State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores).

"I am pleased that our local community has families remaining dedicated to their farms for so many years, and I hope to see them continue to grow in the future," he said. 

More than 100 longstanding farm families statewide were recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.

 

"Owning and operating a farm for over 100 years is no small feat," said State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso).

 

"The amount of time and effort that goes into maintaining a farm is incredible, and I am grateful to have families like these in our community," he said. 

Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more qualify for the centennial, sesquicentennial, or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.

 Since its inception in 1976, more than 5,800 farms have received the designation of Hoosier Homestead.