Century-old Farms honored at South Dakota Fair

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota Farm Bureau (SDFB) and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) recently honored 44 farms and ranches at the South Dakota State Fair. These farms and ranches have been in the same family for 100 years or more, celebrating their contributions to the state's agricultural heritage.

SDFB President Scott VanderWal, alongside Governor Kristi Noem, Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden, and Sec. of Agriculture and Natural Resources Hunter Roberts, recognized the families who have sustained these farms for generations.

Farms and ranches were honored for reaching 100, 125, and even 150 years of continuous family ownership.

“Our family farms and ranches are the backbone of South Dakota’s agriculture industry, and it’s an honor to celebrate their dedication,” said SDFB President Scott VanderWal.

The Centennial, Quasquicentennial, and Sesquicentennial farms were recognized in categories based on their longevity. To view photos of the honorees and learn more about these incredible milestones, visit sdfbf.org and click on “Get Involved” under the “Century Farms” section.

Among the 2024 Centennial farms recognized were the Benting family of Roberts County, the Grinager family of Turner County, and the Kuhle family of Miner County.

Quasquicentennial honorees included families like the Behnkes of Marshall County and the Bogue family of Lincoln County. The Brendtro family of Minnehaha County and the Solheim family of Minnehaha County were honored for reaching the Sesquicentennial milestone.

This recognition highlights the resilience and commitment of South Dakota’s farming families, who have played a key role in shaping the state’s agricultural landscape for more than a century.

Photo Credit:south-dakota-farm-bureau