By Jamie Martin
The National Agricultural Hall of Fame will welcome three new members on October 23 at the National Agricultural Center in Bonner Springs, Kansas. Established by Congress in 1960, the Hall honors individuals whose achievements have strengthened and advanced American agriculture.
Sonny Perdue, a lifelong supporter of U.S. farmers, served as Secretary of Agriculture beginning in 2017. He created the first Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs to expand markets and stabilize farm prices. During the COVID-19 pandemic he rapidly expanded food assistance and advanced rural broadband projects. As chancellor of the University System of Georgia since 2022, Perdue launched the UGA Grand Farm to foster research and train future agricultural leaders.
Wendell Murphy, founder of Murphy Farms in North Carolina, revolutionized pork production. Starting in 1962, he introduced contract feeding, modern confinement systems, and advanced genetics for healthier, leaner animals. His innovations—ranging from in-house nutrition teams to custom facility construction—became global standards in swine farming.
Michael Hinton, from Kansas, safeguards farming’s heritage through vintage tractor preservation. He established Antique Tractor Preservation Day and created TalkingTractors.com to share stories of rural ingenuity. His dedication earned state governor proclamations, U.S. Congressional Record recognition, and national media coverage.
These honorees join icons such as George Washington Carver and John Deere, reflecting a legacy of innovation, education, and respect for America’s agricultural roots.
Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey
Categories: National