Minnesota State Senator Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) today congratulated Minnesota family farms that have been recognized as Century Farms and Sesquicentennial Farms by the Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Farm Bureau. These honors recognize family-owned farms that have been in continuous operation for 100 years or more. 

“Minnesotans are deeply proud of our rich agricultural history, and particularly the small family and individual operations that make up more than 85% of our farms,” said Senator Nelson. “These distinguished Century and Sesquicentennial farms have endured countless challenges throughout the generations. They are amazing examples of the values that make our ag tradition great – values like hard work, perseverance, and dedication. My husband, Terry, and I both come from farm families, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to these exceptional multi-generational farm families and wish them continued success and prosperity in the years and generations ahead!” 

Century farms have been in continuous family ownership for at least 100 years and encompass 50 acres or more. Receiving the Century Farm honor is a momentous achievement, signifying a family’s commitment to preserving their land and way of life across multiple generations. Since the program began back in 1976, over 11,000 Minnesota farms have earned this distinguished recognition. 

The Sesquicentennial Farm designation is reserved for a rare and special group of farms that have remained in the same family for 150 years or more. To qualify, the farm must be at least 50 acres in size and actively involved in agricultural production. Just imagine – these families have nurtured the same land through the Civil War era, two World Wars, the Great Depression, and every other national and global event over the past century and a half. 

SESQUICENTENNIAL FARMS 

Dodge County 

• Mantorville – Rich & Sue Olive, 1873  

CENTURY FARMS 

Dodge County 

• Kasson – Aarsvold Acres, 1923 

• Mantorville – LMC Farms, 1896