News Release

WOLCOTTVILLE — The Evers family of Wolcottville will be recognized and honored by the Indiana Landmarks and the Indiana Farm Bureau for their seven-generation owned farm. The family will be awarded with the 2023 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation.

The Evers’ family farm was established back in 1854 by three brothers. Originally, they grew corn, oats, wheat and soybeans. The family’s next generation built the iconic brick house and barn, constructed by stones collected from the property as the foundation.

The house’s construction was completed in 1923. The house is designed with covered porches, sterling silver chandeliers, a staircase and a third-floor ballroom. There are hints of oak, mahogany, birch and birdseye maple hardwood throughout the house.

The Evers raised multiple generations of children in the home. The family plans to preserve the house by keeping their original hardwood floors, plaster walls, leaded windows and bathroom fixtures.

The barn was originally used for dairy enterprises. However, over time, the Evers had expanded by building a milking parlor, an additional silo and livestock pens.

The John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation was created in honor of the late Rush County farmer who fought to preserve the state’s rural heritage. The award will be presented to the family Thursday, Aug. 3, at the Indiana State Fair.