Family Land Heritage (FLH) is a recognition program that honors families who have owned and run a continuous agricultural operation for 100 years or more.

Since 1974, the Texas Department of Agriculture has hosted a ceremony at the Texas State Capitol to celebrate the families who pass down their proud Texas legacy from generation to generation and who continue to inspire us with their commitment and endurance.

Applications for inclusion in the 2024 Family Land Heritage registry will be available to download on January 1, 2024.

Your farm or ranch qualifies for inclusion if:

• Your family has maintained at least 10 acres of the land in continuous agricultural production for at least 100 years. “Family” can include relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption.
• You are able to trace ownership from the founder to the present generation.
• The land fits the old U.S. Census definition of a farm: 10 acres or more with agricultural sales of 
  $50 or more a year.

Owners must be actively managing the everyday operation of the property.

View frequently asked questions regarding the program.

Download an order form for the Family Land Heritage Ceremony
Program | Registry books from 1974 to present (please note: some years are available only in photocopied or .pdf form).

The 2023 Family Land Heritage Ceremony took place on October 18, 2023 at the Texas State Capitol. We would like to thank everyone who was part of the ceremony, especially our 2023 honorees.

Map of Texas showing counties with 2023 honoree properties (PDF)

Download order forms for additional Certificates and Programs.

Find out where to order aluminum gate signs or bronze markers to display your recognition.

View and order photos of the 2023 Family Land Heritage recognition ceremony at Exquisite Photo, email the photographer, or call (512) 468-6379.

Would your business or organization like to be a Family Land Heritage 
Program Sponsor?

The Family Land Heritage Program is donation-funded. We are currently seeking public and private sponsors of all levels to help support the Family Land Heritage Program. Our valued sponsors receive recognition on our webpage and at the ceremony itself, depending on support level.

To receive recognition at the 2024 ceremony, donations must be submitted by August 12, 2024.

Download a Sponsorship Donation form to view available levels and make
your commitment!

Thank You To The Sponsors Who Supported Family Land Heritage In 2023!

We appreciate our generous sponsors! The Texas Department of Agriculture is grateful for the support that allows us to annually honor our historic Texas farmers and ranchers. Special thanks to Kreuz Market in Lockhart for providing a truly Texan barbecue feast. Thanks also to Blue Bell Ice Cream for providing the sweet treats before the ceremony.

The following businesses and organizations supported our 2023 Family Land Heritage Ceremony with their donations: