There is a whole lot of history being honored around the state and in Mower County.

The Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Farm Bureau recognized 184 Minnesota farms as 2013 Century Farms, including four farms from the area: Helle farms from Austin, 1909; Helle farms from Lyle, 1863; William H. Ryther farm from Austin, 1891; and Steve and Pat Ingvalson’s farm from rural Blooming Prairie, 1911.

Qualifying farms have been in continuous family ownership for at least 100 years and are 50 acres or more. Century Farm families receive a commemorative sign, as well as a certificate signed by the State Fair and Minnesota Farm Bureau presidents and Gov. Mark Dayton. Since the program began in 1976, more than 9,700 Minnesota farms have been recognized.