HARRISBURG, PA — In the heart of Chester County, a remarkable milestone was celebrated at this year’s Pennsylvania Farm Show. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding honored six Pennsylvania families whose farms have been in operation for over a century. Among these long-standing agricultural legacies is the Cochran family farm in Chester County, which has now reached its tricentennial – an achievement only matched by one other farm in the state.
The recognition of these farms not only adds richness to our local history but also underscores the importance of family farms in Chester County and across Pennsylvania. Family farms are more than just businesses; they are a testament to the resilience, dedication, and love for the land that has been passed down through generations.
“Reflecting the 2024 Farm Show theme, Connecting Our Communities, these families have been uniting and feeding our communities for generations,” said Secretary Redding. “They are connecting future generations to their legacy.”
The Cochran farm, located in Cochranville — a town named after the family — stands as a significant tribute to 300 years of local history. The original farm, established in 1724, continues to thrive under the stewardship of Robert F. Cochran, Jr. Today, 120 acres of the original farmland remain in the Cochran family, who preserved the farmland in 2003, ensuring its continued agricultural use and protection from developers.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture initiated the Century Farm program in 1977 and the Bicentennial Farm program in 2004 to recognize farms that have been in the same family for 100 or 200 years, respectively. Over 2,300 farms across the Commonwealth have received these honors since the programs’ inception.
Family farms play a crucial role in Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing significantly to the $135.7 billion agricultural industry. They also serve as a vital link between our urban and rural communities, providing fresh, local produce while preserving Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage.
The longevity of these farms is a testament to the perseverance and adaptability of these farming families. Over the years, they have faced myriad challenges, from changing market forces and consumer preferences to the unpredictability of weather patterns. Yet, through it all, these farms have continued to flourish, adapting to the times while remaining rooted in tradition.
Chester County, and indeed all of Pennsylvania, owes a debt of gratitude to these farming families. Their dedication to the land and their craft ensures the preservation of our agricultural heritage and the continuity of a lifestyle that deeply values hard work, family, and community. As we congratulate the Cochran family on their remarkable tricentennial milestone, let us also acknowledge and appreciate all family farms for their invaluable contribution to our communities, our economy, and our way of life.
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