Decatur County, Indiana, takes pride in honoring its Hoosier Homestead farms — living testaments to Indiana's agricultural heritage. Published to celebrate Indiana Generational Farming and the Hoosier Homestead Awards program, the Hoosier Homestead book pays tribute to families who have owned farms for 100 years or more, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Indiana boasts nearly 6,000 known Hoosier Homestead farms, with Decatur County contributing approximately 80 to this remarkable count, and more potential centennial farms may emerge in the future. In 2023, four farms from Decatur County received well-deserved recognition.
The Bailey Homestead has been in the Bailey family since 1893. The farm is located in Washington Township and comprises 120 acres. It has been used to raise a variety of crops and livestock over the years, including corn, wheat, clover, dairy cows, beef cattle, swine, and chickens.
The Dickman-Saylor Farm has been in the Dickman family since 1880. The farm is located in Washington Township and covers 50 acres. It is currently used to raise corn, soybeans, hay, and feeder cattle.
The Eddelman, Holmes, Ritter, Cunningham Family Farm is located in Sandcreek Township. The farm was first purchased in 1855 by William Henry Eddelman for his son. It has been used to raise corn, soybeans, wheat, rye, cattle, hogs, sheep, poultry, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens.
The McCoy Farm was established in 1824 by Andra McCoy. The farm is located in Jackson Township and spans 160 acres. It has been used to raise corn, soybeans, wheat, and livestock over the years. The current owners of the farm are Scott McCoy and his sons, Ben and Kevin.
These historic Hoosier Homestead farms stand as living legacies, preserving Indiana's rich agricultural heritage for future generations to cherish and learn from.
Photo Credit: istock-martijnvandernat
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle