Indiana’s Farming Legacy Lives On: Carlin and Creighton Families Recognized

Generations of perseverance and tradition were recently recognized in Kosciusko County, as three family farms received the prestigious Hoosier Homestead Award from the state of Indiana. The honors were announced by State Rep. Craig Snow of Warsaw and State Sen. Stacey Donato of Logansport, highlighting the long-standing contributions of local farm families to Indiana’s agricultural legacy.

“Farm families make Indiana a top contributor in agriculture year in and year out,” Snow said. “I always appreciate seeing Hoosiers like this be recognized for the perseverance they’ve demonstrated over many years.”

The Hoosier Homestead program, established in 1976, recognizes farms that have been owned and operated by the same family for 100 years or more. Centennial awards honor 100 years of family ownership, sesquicentennial awards recognize 150 years, and bicentennial awards are reserved for farms that have stood strong for 200 years or longer.

Among the local recipients were the Carlin Farm, which has been in operation since 1838 and received the sesquicentennial award. The Creighton Farm, established in 1870, earned both centennial and sesquicentennial honors. Another Creighton Farm, founded in 1922, received the centennial award. These farms were among 95 across the state honored during a ceremony at the Indiana State Fair earlier this month.

Senator Donato underscored the importance of preserving Indiana’s farming heritage. “It’s an honor to recognize the families in our community who have upheld Indiana’s proud farming traditions for generations,” she said. “Their commitment strengthens both our economy and our agricultural legacy.”

The Hoosier Homestead ceremonies are held twice a year, every spring and summer, offering recognition to families who have dedicated generations to cultivating the land and sustaining Indiana’s agricultural backbone. Since its inception, the program has recognized more than 6,000 farms for their role in supporting the state’s economy and cultural heritage.

Nominations are already open for the next round of awards, scheduled for March 2026, with applications due by November 1. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture continues to encourage families who have carried forward farming traditions for a century or more to apply and be celebrated for their resilience and stewardship.

For Kosciusko County, the recognition not only honors past generations but also highlights the enduring role of agriculture in shaping community identity. From the 19th century beginnings of the Carlin and Creighton families to the modern day, these farms represent more than land and harvests—they embody the values of perseverance, family, and a deep connection to Indiana’s rural roots.