STATEHOUSE (Aug. 20, 2026) – Area legislators are recognizing the latest local recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more.
Represented by State Sen. Vaneta Becker (R-Evansville) and State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville), the Wheeler farm in Vanderburgh County received a Sesquicentennial and Bicentennial Award.
The Hoosier Homestead Award Program honors families who have made significant contributions to Indiana agriculture. Instituted in 1976, the program has recognized more than 6,000 family farms that have impacted Indiana's economic, cultural and social advancement.
"Indiana has such a rich agricultural history thanks in part to long-standing family farms like the Wheeler's," Becker said. "Keeping a farm in operation for 200 years is an incredible achievement, and it’s wonderful they have the opportunity to be honored and recognized for their hard work through the Hoosier Homestead Award."
"The Hoosier Homestead Awards give us an opportunity to celebrate the traditions and families that have helped shape our community," O'Brien said. "It's an honor to recognize this bicentennial farm and the Wheeler family, whose dedication continues to ensure this legacy remains part of our community for years to come."
To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. The award distinctions are centennial, sesquicentennial and bicentennial – for 100, 150 and 200 years, respectively.
To learn more about the program or to apply for a Hoosier Homestead Award, visit www.in.gov/isda.
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ATTENTION MEDIA: Photos of the families who attended the event can be found here.
Contact: Samantha Deese, Press Secretary
Samantha.Deese@iga.in.gov
317-234-9133
