Geary County Farm Bureau
Tradition and heritage are part of what makes agriculture an attractive way of life for Kansas residents. To recognize this history and the families that contributed to it, Kansas Farm Bureau, the state’s leading agriculture advocacy organization, honors the descendants of families that have been involved in agriculture for over 100 years with a certificate and sign of recognition.
Geary County Farm Bureau Association recognized the legacy of the Erichsen Family Farms with a Century Farm Award on Monday preceding the special cattle sale at JC Livestock Sales.
Geary County Farm Bureau Coordinator Jennifer Latzke said eligibility for the award is as follows:
1. Applicant must be a voting or associate Farm Bureau member in Kansas.
2. Ownership within the same family for 100 or more years by December 31, 2025, with at least 80 acres of the original Kansas farmland.
3. Present owner must be related to original owner.
Claus Erichsen, born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, immigrated with his wife Christina to the McDowell Creek area in 1894. For the sum of $3,000, they purchased 240 acres of land from Josephine and E.W. Hitchcock. As an older settler in his 60's, Claus raised corn, wheat, hay, and livestock with the help of his family members.
While the original rock and wood home burned down, the wooden barn, a chicken shed, and an outhouse are all currently standing today. The farm is managed by fifth-generation family member, Luke Erichsen, and produces soybeans, corn, hay, and pasture.