Historic farms that have stood the test of time while remaining active in agriculture are being sought for a statewide preservation honor.
Indiana Landmarks and Indiana Farm Bureau are seeking nominations for the 2026 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation, which recognizes Indiana farms that have successfully preserved historic buildings while continuing to use them in modern agricultural operations. Since the award was created in 1992, more than 30 historic farms across the state have been honored.
The 2025 award went to the Stine-Anderson Family Farm in Clinton County, Indiana, located southwest of Frankfort, Indiana.
Anyone — including farm owners — may submit a nomination. The application asks for a brief history of the farm, along with descriptions of significant historic structures such as farmhouses, barns and other agricultural outbuildings. Nominations should also explain how those historic structures continue to serve day-to-day farming operations and how they have been preserved or adapted over time.
Applicants are also asked to provide high-resolution photographs of the farm and its historic features, and historic images are encouraged if available.
The winner will be recognized during the Celebration of Agriculture at the Indiana State Fair in August and will receive an outdoor historical marker.
The award is named in memory of John Arnold, a Rush County, Indiana farmer known for blending progressive farming practices with a deep commitment to protecting the historic and natural features of the rural landscape.
Organizers say the award honors farm families who share that same commitment to preserving the landmarks and character of rural Indiana.
Nominations must be submitted by April 30, 2026, through the Indiana Landmarks website:https://www.indianalandmarks.
