News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Ninety-five families from across the state — including families from Kosciusko, Marshall, Whitley and Wabash counties — were honored Aug. 13 with Hoosier Homestead awards.

To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres. If less than 20 acres, the farm must produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. Indiana farms may qualify for three honors: the Centennial Award for 100 years of ownership, the Sesquicentennial Award for 150 years of ownership and the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of ownership.

Area families honored this year included:

Kosciusko County

• The Carlin family, award year 1838, Sesquicentennial Award
• The Creighton family, award year 1870, Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards, and award year 1922, Centennial Award

Marshall County

• The Smith family, award year, 1922, Centennial Award

Wabash County

• The Blocher family, award year 1921, Centennial Award
• The Wilcox family, award year 1913, Centennial Award

Whitley County

• The Kile family, award year 1875, Sesquicentennial Award

Since the program’s inception in 1976, more than 6,200 families have received the Hoosier Homestead Award.

Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb presented the awards this year at the Indiana State Fair.

“Indiana’s economy and heritage is built upon agriculture,” said Beckwith, who also serves as secretary of agriculture and rural development. “It is an honor to be able to recognize these farming family and celebrate their enduring legacy.”

“I am continually inspired by the long-established farming families that are recognized during the Hoosier Homestead ceremonies,” said Lamb. “I personally know the amount of commitment and dedication needed to keep a farm in the family for 100 years or more. I thank each one for their devotion to the agriculture industry and their loyalty to the state of Indiana.”

During the ceremonies, eight Indiana farms received the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of continuous ownership.

For a complete list of 2025 honorees, visit the ISDA website.

The Carlin family of Kosciusko County received a Sesquicentennial Award at Hoosier Homestead ceremonies Aug. 13 in Indianapolis. Photos provided by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.

The Creighton family of Kosciusko County received both Centennial and Sesquicentennial awards.

The Smith family of Marshall County received a Centennial Award.

The Blocher family of Wabash County received a Centennial Award.

The Wilcox family of Wabash County received a Centennial Award.

The Kile family of Whitley County received a Sesquicentennial Award.