Shelby County farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years were recently honored with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to area legislators.

"These local families are a testament to their resiliency and perseverance," said State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville). "For over a century, they have faced and overcome a number of obstacles. We all depend on the fruits of their labor and are thankful for those who dedicate their lives to farming."

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 farms are a testament to the grit and determination of Hoosiers, who keep these businesses and traditions alive throughout generations," said State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville). "Agriculture is a deeply rooted part of Indiana, and thanks to the dedication of local community members, it continues on."

Located in Shelby County, these farms were presented Hoosier Homestead awards:

• The Boring Farm, in operation since 1852, received the sesquicentennial award;
• The Clark-Lux Farm, in operation since 1879, received the centennial award;
• The John Lux Farm, in operation since 1887, received the centennial award;
• The King Farm, in operation since 1917, received the centennial award;
• The M & N Suits Farm, in operation since 1923, received the centennial award; and
• The Peter J. Lux Farm, in operation since 1916, received the centennial award.

"As chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and a farm owner myself, I understand how much hard work is required to maintain a farm," State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) said. "It is an accomplishment to manage a family farm for more than a century, and I congratulate and thank these families for their dedication."
These farm families were among 100 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to agriculture.

"Family-owned farms across the state work very hard each year to support our local communities and cement Indiana as a leader in the agricultural industry," State Sen. Michael Crider (R-Greenfield) said. "I admire the dedication these generations of Hoosier farmers have put into their craft and congratulate them on these well-deserved awards." 

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.

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