Roush farm receives Ohio Century Farm status

The Terry and Gloria Roush family of Highland County was recently recognized by the Ohio Department of Agriculture for its achievement as an Ohio Century Farm – a recognition given to farms held in the same family for 100 years or more.

To commemorate this impressive milestone, the family received a special certificate signed by Gov. Ted Strickland and Ohio Agriculture Director Robert J. Boggs to keep with their historic documents and pass down to future generations.

"Agriculture is the cornerstone of our economy and a part of our rich heritage here in this state, but it is the historic farm families who have helped build that foundation. I am proud to recognize the Roush family for its unique history, dedication to the land, and admirable way of maintaining the family farm," said Boggs. "They are a wonderful testament to Ohio's agricultural heritage."

Terry and Gloria Roush own a farm at 2245 Ruble Cemetery Road near Lynchburg. The farm has been in the family for six generations. It was originally purchased by Charles and Ella Barr, who used for general agriculture, horses for breeding, and work. Charles Barr came from Virginia, when his grandfather, John Barr, received a Virginia Military Survey, and Charles acquired the 68.75 acres in Nov. 1909.

D.M. and Jennie Ethel Barr later acquired the farm in Feb. 1927.

The Roushes acquired the farm in April 1969 and have expanded the farm to 104 acres, which they use to grow corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa. The original home on the property was built ca. 1856 and has been restored inside and out. New metal pole barns have replaced the original wooded barns, and the dairy barn was struck by lightning and burned in 1969.

The Roushes served as 4-H advisers for 23 years. Terry has served on the Extension Advisory Committee and County Pork Council, as well as the Rural Zoning Board.

Anyone who can verify that a farm and homestead has been in their family for at least 100 years may register as a Century Farm. For more information, contact Cindy Shy, Ohio Department of Agriculture's Office of Farmland Preservation, by phone at 614-728-6404, by e-mail at cshy@agri.ohio.gov, or by visiting www.agri.ohio.gov and clicking on "Promotional Programs," then clicking on "Century Farm Recognition Program."