Minnesota Farm Bureau Honors 58 Sesquicentennial Farm Families

Farms recognized for 150+ years of continuous family ownership and agricultural production

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:52pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life featuring a weathered wooden plow, a worn leather work glove, and a single ear of golden corn, conceptually representing the timeless values and resilience of multi-generational family farms in Minnesota.A visual metaphor for the enduring legacy of Minnesota's Sesquicentennial Farms, whose 150+ years of family ownership and agricultural production have sustained the state's farming heritage.Nelson Today

In 2026, the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) will honor 58 family farms across the state that have maintained continuous ownership and agricultural production for at least 150 years. The Sesquicentennial Farm award celebrates the resilience and commitment of multi-generational, family-owned farms that have endured as pillars of Minnesota's agricultural heritage.

Why it matters

This recognition highlights the importance of family-owned farms in sustaining Minnesota's agricultural economy and food production over generations. As larger corporate farms and consolidation have reshaped the industry, these Sesquicentennial Farms represent a living connection to the state's farming roots and the values of hard work, land stewardship, and community that have been passed down through the decades.

The details

To qualify for the Sesquicentennial Farm award, farms must be at least 50 acres, currently involved in agricultural production, and have remained in the same family for a minimum of 150 years. Since the program began in 2008, 681 farms across Minnesota have earned this distinction. This year's 58 honorees will receive a commemorative certificate and outdoor sign to display their legacy.

  • The Sesquicentennial Farm awards will be presented in 2026.
  • The Minnesota State Fair will feature a display of all Sesquicentennial and Century Farms during the 2026 event.

The players

Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF)

The state's largest general farm organization, representing over 30,000 member families.

Governor Tim Walz

The current Governor of Minnesota who will sign the commemorative certificates for the Sesquicentennial Farm honorees.

Thom Petersen

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner who will also sign the Sesquicentennial Farm certificates.

Dan Glessing

The current President of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty-eight family farms maintaining continuous ownership and agricultural production for 150 years is a remarkable achievement that speaks to the enduring strength of Minnesota's farming heritage.”

— Dan Glessing, President, Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation

What’s next

The 58 Sesquicentennial Farm families will be recognized at a special ceremony during the 2026 Minnesota State Fair, where their names and locations will also be featured in a dedicated display inside the Minnesota Farm Bureau building.

The takeaway

As large-scale corporate farming has reshaped much of the industry, these Sesquicentennial Farms stand as living testaments to the values of family, land stewardship, and community that have sustained Minnesota agriculture for generations. Their enduring legacy underscores the vital role of multi-generational, family-owned farms in preserving the state's agricultural heritage.