Pennsylvania Honors 11 Family Farms for Generational Legacy

HARRISBURG, PA — On January 7, 2026, state officials celebrated the resilience of Pennsylvania’s agriculture by honoring 11 family farms that have thrived for generations. During the Pennsylvania Farm Show, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recognized these farms as Bicentennial or Centennial farms, showcasing their enduring legacy through wars, economic changes, and societal shifts.

Seventeen families received accolades for preserving their lands for over a century, alongside four Bicentennial farms that date back two centuries, including one with roots tracing to the Revolutionary War. This recognition aligns with the state’s commitment to highlighting the importance of family farms as part of Pennsylvania’s agricultural backbone.

The state’s programs, initiated with the Century Farm program in 1977 and the Bicentennial Farm program in 2004, have collectively acknowledged 2,378 century and bicentennial farms. Among those honored, farms from counties including Berks, Butler, Clearfield, Fayette, Indiana, Mercer, Perry, and Wayne feature a diverse array of operations, from livestock to crop farming. Notably, a property in Fayette County, purchased in 1769 by a farmer who served in the Revolutionary War, still utilizes its original structures.

Pennsylvania leads the United States in farmland preservation, having protected more than 6,600 farms and approximately 661,000 acres since the establishment of the Farmland Preservation Program in 1988. This initiative remains a priority under Governor Josh Shapiro, who has identified agriculture as a key component of the state’s ten-year economic development strategy.

During the ceremony, Redding emphasized the significance of these families, stating they are not only examples of longevity but also vital stewards of land and community. Their contributions enhance the state’s food system and preserve rural traditions, ensuring that these familial legacies continue to thrive.

Statistics shared during the event highlighted the economic impact of agriculture in Pennsylvania, with nearly 49,000 farms contributing approximately $132.5 billion annually and supporting around 600,000 jobs.

The Farm Show, which continues through January 8, 2026, serves as a launchpad for Pennsylvania’s America250PA commemorations, celebrating the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. For the families recognized, this milestone signifies not just historical significance but a living connection to Pennsylvania’s agricultural future.

For further details on the Farm Show and the Century and Bicentennial Farm programs, visit farmshow.pa.gov.