PENNSYLVANIA FURNACE — Two area farms have earned Pennsylvania Century Farm status for more than 100 years of continuous family ownership.
In Snyder County, Keith and Lori Flanders’ farm in Chapman Township was purchased by Keith’s grandfather in 1920 and has the original bank barn still in use. Snyder County is home to 18 Century and has three Bicentennial Farms.
In Schuylkill County, the Marbarger Family Farm in Wayne Township was bought in 1896 and remains a crop operation. The farm has 112 of its original 113 acres still farmed and the 1800-built farmhouse still standing.
PA Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding honored the families during a ceremony at Penn State’s Ag Progress Days, praising their sustainability, durability, and commitment to preserving Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage.
