By Andi Anderson
A family in southern Madison County, Indiana, recently celebrated a significant milestone in their farming legacy by receiving two Hoosier Homestead Awards at the Indiana State Fair.
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture recognizes families who have owned and operated the same farm for over 100 consecutive years, demonstrating their commitment to agriculture and preserving their farming heritage.
To qualify for the Hoosier Homestead Award, farms must be family-owned for at least 100 years, consist of 20 acres or more, or generate more than $1,000 in agricultural products annually. The state honors families with centennial, sesquicentennial, and bicentennial awards, marking 100, 150, and 200 years of ownership, respectively.
The family’s journey to the award was aided by a helpful stranger, who turned out to be a distant relative. This relative assisted in gathering the necessary documentation to complete the application, ensuring that the family's farming history would be officially recognized.
The farm, located southwest of the intersection of county roads 400 West and 1050 South, is owned by Nathan Wood, his father Charles, brother Justin, and uncle Stuart. The family owns 160 acres of farmland, which has been in the family for over a century. Additionally, Nathan and Stuart farm around 2,800 acres of land for other landlords in the surrounding area.
Receiving the Hoosier Homestead Awards is a testament to the Wood family’s dedication to farming and preserving their land for future generations. Their continued commitment to agriculture reflects the deep-rooted traditions and hard work that sustain family farms across Indiana.
Photo Credit: indiana-state-fair
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle