MTHS Names Centennial Ranch Families
The Montana Historical Society (MTHS) welcomes Birkeland Farms and the Woodmansey Ranch in Chouteau County and Inbody Farms in Teton County to the Centennial Farm and Ranch register. These long-lived farm and ranch families received a certificate from Gov. Greg Gianforte and a roadside sign to honor their remarkable achievement.
“By honoring families who have owned their land for 100 years or more, we help preserve Montana’s strong agricultural roots and the stories and traditions that define our rural communities,” said Christine Brown, MTHS Outreach and Interpretation historian. “These families deserve a hearty pat on the back and recognition for achieving this rare milestone.”
Brothers Glen and Clark Inbody farmed together after World War II and grew the farm to 2,200 acres. The brothers created Inbody Farms Inc. in 1979 after Glen’s son, Roy, came home to join the farming operation. Roy continued growing grains and adding more land to the farm. His son, Scott, graduated from Montana State University with an agriculture business degree and returned to the farm in 2006, taking over the full operation of Inbody Farms with occasional help from Roy. “Wise money management and controlled growth have been factors in the farm staying in the family for 100 years,” said Roy Inbody. It also helped that his wife Diane’s teaching career provided health insurance. One of the central philosophies of the family has been making things better for the next generation, even if that means a life off the farm. The legacy is not meant to be a shackle but an opportunity to create a life close to the land with flexibility and community.
Since 2010, the MTHS Centennial Farm and Ranch program has recognized our state’s agricultural traditions by celebrating the perseverance and stewardship of Montana families on their farms and ranches. The MTHS accepts applications for the Centennial Farm and Ranch register all year. Requirements for induction include: Must be a working farm or ranch with a minimum of 160 acres or, if fewer than 160 acres, must have gross yearly income of at least $1,000; one current owner must be a Montana resident; proof of founding date and continuous ownership by members of the same family beginning with the founder and concluding with the present owner, spanning minimally 100 years; line of ownership may be through spouses, children, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, or adopted children. For homesteaded properties, ownership begins with the claim filing date (not patent date). There is also a $100 fee. To download all requirements and the application, or for more information, visit bit. ly/mtcentennialfarms or call Christine Brown at 406-4441687.
