Pictured, from left, are Governor Eric Holcomb; Richard Pletcher, Amish Acres; and Elaine Bedel, president of Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

INDIANAPOLIS — Amish Acres received a Half Century Business award from Governor Eric Holcomb during an event at the Indiana Statehouse.

Holcomb honored 65 Indiana companies and organizations during the event, presenting each with the Governor’s Century or Half Century Business Award in recognition of each company’s longevity and service to its employees, community and the state.

“Today we honor businesses that have helped lay a foundation for economic success in Indiana, maintaining operations for more than 50 to 100 years and creating long-term career opportunities for Hoosiers,” Holcomb said. “Through a strong dedication to their employees, their businesses and their communities, these companies exemplify the pioneering spirit and perseverance that will push the state forward for years to come.”

The Governor’s Century and Half Century Business Awards honor Hoosier businesses that have remained in operation for a minimum of 100 or 50 consecutive years and have demonstrated a commitment to community service. More than 1,500 Indiana companies have been recognized during the award’s 28-year history. Recipients are included in the Historic Business Register of the Indiana Historical Society.

Amish Acres was founded by Richard Pletcher when he and his father purchased the 80-acre Stahly-Nisley-Kuhns farm at public auction in 1968. It is the only Amish farm listed in the National Register of Historic Places. After restoring the farm and relocating historical structures to Nappanee, Amish Acres was transformed into one of Indiana’s premier heritage tourism destinations. It is centered on the original farmstead where, through historic interpretation, visitors are enlightened, educated and entertained about Amish society.

The farm attracts visitors from across the nation and around the world to its restaurants, shops, live theatre and lodging. The farm will be celebrating its 50th anniversary year with many special events beginning with an Amish haystack supper in Amish Acres restaurant from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 17. All proceeds from the donation supper will go to the Amish Blessed Beginnings Birthing Center and Sunshine Workshop, which provides meaningful work for special needs Amish children.