In 1921, Florian and Josephine Hoppe acquired the 80-acre farm in Alpena, Michigan, where they raised beef cattle and cultivated potatoes. 1947, Florian passed the farm to his son, Eugene Hoppe, who faithfully carried on the family tradition.
Eugene married Leona Kasubowski in 1948, and together, they raised five children on the farm. Their endeavors included growing corn, wheat, oats, hay, and potatoes, raising beef cattle, and maintaining ten dairy cows.
The Hoppes dedicated themselves to the land until Eugene’s health no longer allowed him to continue farming. In 2022, Leona Hoppe sold the 80-acre farm to her son, Ron, and his wife, Jackie Hoppe.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Hoppe family for receiving the prestigious Centennial Farm status. This distinction recognizes farms that have remained within the same family for a century, celebrating their vital contributions to Michigan’s development.
The Centennial Farm Program began in 1948 with the State of Michigan’s Michigan Historical Commission and received support from various entities, including Detroit Edison Company, Consumers Power Company, farm groups, and local electrical cooperatives like Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op.
To apply for the Centennial Farm Program, please contact Melissa VanSchoten, Executive Assistant, at (800) 423-6634 extension 1011 or via email at [email protected]. You can also visit the Historical Society of Michigan’s website.
Pictured (left to right): Jackie and Ron Hoppe (husband and wife), C.E.O. Tom Sobeck, Director Kurt Krajniak, Director Sally Knopf, and Rosemary Rosenbrock. Seated in front is Leona Hoppe, mother to Ron and Rosemary.
