By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recently recognized eight farm families for their longstanding commitment to agriculture, including seven farms reaching century milestones and one bicentennial farm in Perry County. The ceremony highlighted the Metz family, who have owned and operated their farm since 1825.
“Today, we celebrate eight farm families who have made tremendous contributions to feeding Pennsylvanians and preserving our agricultural heritage,” Secretary Redding said. “These farms and families have varied histories, yet all have the common attributes of sustainability, durability, and perseverance as caretakers for the land.”
The Century Farm Program, launched in 1977, and the Bicentennial Farm Program, added in 2004, have honored more than 2,300 farms across the state.
Earlier this year, Pennsylvania celebrated its second tricentennial farm at the PA Farm Show. The programs underscore the value of rural traditions and economic heritage that continue to shape Pennsylvania agriculture.
The latest recognitions were announced during Penn State’s Ag Progress Days, an annual exposition showcasing research, technology, and innovation in farming.
To qualify as a Century Farm, a property must remain in the same family for at least 100 years, include 10 or more acres of the original land, or generate $1,000 annually from farm products.
Among those honored was Richard Metz Jr., whose Perry County farm became a Bicentennial Farm. Originally deeded in 1825 to Johann Metz for $18, the farm passed down through generations before Metz took ownership in 1996.
Once a dairy operation, the farm now produces soybeans, corn, hay, and raises beef cattle on 147 acres. Perry County now has 38 Century Farms and eight Bicentennial Farms.
The seven Century Farms recognized this year span several counties. They include El-Jon Farms in Berks County, the Black family farm in Blair County, two Partsch and Farabaugh family farms in Cambria County, the Grajewski and Garing farm in Luzerne County, the Marbarger Family Farm in Schuylkill County, and the Flanders farm in Snyder County. Each has preserved original structures, farmland, or family traditions while adapting operations to modern agriculture.
These families, rooted in history, continue to uphold the resilience and stewardship that define Pennsylvania farming.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business