County Farms Honored With Hoosier Homestead Awards

Montgomery County farms were recently honored by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to local lawmakers.

“There are so many families that have worked hard for generations to keep their farms thriving,” said State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle), a member of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. “I always appreciate the opportunity to help honor these Hoosiers for their tremendous contributions to Indiana.”

Hoosier Homestead awards honor farms owned and operated by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years with centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial awards.

“I grew up working on the family farm and experienced the effort it takes to keep one successfully operating,” said State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton). “I congratulate all these families for helping to make Indiana one of the biggest farming states.”

The following farms received Hoosier Homestead awards:

• The Chastain Farm, in operation since 1824, received the bicentennial award;
• The Robert D. Hayes & Bernice B. Hayes Farms, in operation since 1836, received the sesquicentennial award;
• The Runyon Farm, in operation since 1831, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards;
• The Runyon Farm, in operation since 1920, received the centennial award;
• The Runyon Farm, in operation since 1825, received centennial, sesquicentennial and bicentennial awards;
• The Runyon Farm, in operation since 1845, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards; and
• The Robert M. Stwalley Jr. Farm, in operation since 1825, received sesquicentennial and bicentennial awards.

“These families are prime examples of the generations of Hoosiers who have worked hard to operate farms throughout our state’s history,” said State Sen. Brian Buchanan (R-Lebanon). “Congratulations to all these farms for their continued operation and thank you for all the work you do in our community.”

These farm families were among 95 awardees recently honored during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair. Click here to view photos from the event.

“These family farms are a bridge that connects our modern era to Indiana’s history and agricultural heritage,” said State Sen. Spencer Deery (R-West Lafayette). “All Hoosiers should feel a sense of pride that for centuries, we have been a place where the agricultural spirit has thrived and that that culture continues today. Families like these make me so grateful to live in America’s heartland.”

Hoosier Homestead ceremonies are conducted every spring and summer. Since establishing the program in 1976, Indiana has recognized more than 6,000 farms for their economic and cultural impact to the state.

More information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and nomination forms are available at in.gov/isda. Nominations for the March 2026 ceremony are due by Nov. 1. Questions may be emailed to HoosierHomestead@ISDA.IN.gov.