Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding recently acknowledged eight Pennsylvania farms for their long-standing family ownership during Penn State’s Ag Progress Days. Seven of these farms were recognized as Century Farms, having been in the same family for 100 years, while a Perry County farm was named a Bicentennial Farm for its 200-year history.
The honored Bicentennial Farm belongs to the Metz family, who have maintained ownership since 1825. “Today, we celebrate eight farm families who have made tremendous contributions to feeding Pennsylvanians and preserving our agricultural heritage,” said Secretary Redding. He emphasized the shared qualities of sustainability and perseverance among these families.
Since its inception in 1977, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Century Farm Program has recognized over 2,300 farms. The Bicentennial Farm Program began in 2004. The initiative aims to highlight the significance of economic and rural traditions within the state.
Penn State’s Ag Progress Days serves as an annual platform showcasing advancements in agriculture research and technology. During this event, farms that have remained under single-family ownership for at least a century are eligible for recognition if they meet specific criteria, such as maintaining a portion of the original acreage or generating significant income from farm products.
Richard Metz Jr.’s farm was originally deeded to Johann Metz in 1825. The property has expanded from its initial 110 acres to a current operation of 147 acres producing soybeans, corn, hay, and beef cattle.
The seven newly recognized Century Farms include El-Jon Farms in Berks County, owned by Howard Snyder since 1912; Clinton and Jessica Black’s farm in Blair County; Cecilia Partsch’s property in Cambria County; William Farabaugh’s farm also in Cambria County; Robert Grajewski’s land in Luzerne County; Marbarger Family Farm in Schuylkill County; and Keith Flanders’ farm in Snyder County.
These recognitions underscore Pennsylvania’s commitment to preserving its agricultural legacy through programs that support long-term family farming practices.
For more information on Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program or Governor Josh Shapiro’s economic strategies involving agriculture, visit [agriculture.pa.gov](https://www.agriculture.pa.gov) or [pa.gov/governor](https://www.pa.gov/governor). A photo gallery from the event is available on the [Department of Agriculture’s FlickR page](https://www.flickr.com/photos/PADeptofAgriculture).
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