John T. Lafferty, Jayson Lafferty, Alexandria Clark, Elaine Lafferty, Liz Lafferty, Dane Clark, Dorothy Pelanda, Brian Baldridge and Lori Baldridge at the ceremony to award the Dr. Scott J. Rigdon Farm in West Union with the Ohio Century Farm Award. (Photo by Sherry Larson)
A family heritage and future
By Sherry Larson
People’s Defender
It was a lovely Monday morning on September 19 to recognize the Dr. Scott J. Rigdon Farm in West Union with the Ohio Century Farm Award. Dorothy Pelanda, Ohio Department of Agricultural Director, presented the award to Rigdon’s granddaughter, Elaine Rigdon Lafferty (John T.). Including Elaine, three generations of Rigdon decedents were present, including Lizabeth Lafferty (Dane Clark), great-granddaughter, Jayson Lafferty, a great-grandson, and Alexandria Clark, great-great-granddaughter.
The family celebrated with friends and colleagues and Pelanda stated, “The celebration of our Century Farms is probably the most important thing we have. Today we are here to celebrate this beautiful farm and its history.” She explained the laborious process of applying for the honor and that very few complete it. Pelanda said, “I am here to present you with the Ohio Century Farm Certificate, celebrating your family’s ownership, which began in 1920. And for the contributions to the agricultural community made by your family members on this farm during the last century and for your family’s commitment to preserving the agricultural heritage of the great state of Ohio. We present this certificate to Dr. Scott J. Rigdon farm as owners of an Adams County, Ohio farm that has remained in the same family for 100 years or more.” Governor Mike DeWine signed the certificate on August 15, 2022.
State Reprresentative Brian Baldridge spoke, not only as a state representative, but as a family friend. He said, “It is important for me to be here, and I’m glad to celebrate this day. I’m so proud of you.” Lori Baldridge also spoke, representing Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. She read, “On behalf of the state of Ohio, it is my privilege to congratulate you upon becoming an Ohio Century Farm.”
Lafferty thanked friends and family and invited attendees into her and John’s lovely home. The home is an Aladdin catalog home that was delivered to the Seaman Railroad Station by train and built by her grandfather. The Laffertys renovated, but much of the house is original, warm, inviting, and full of family history.
Congratulations, Dr. Scott J. Rigdon – Ohio Century Farm/ This farm is much more than land with crops; it is your family heritage and future.
