Perdue, Murphy, and Hinton celebrated for lasting farm contributions
Three remarkable figures who shaped American agriculture will be inducted into the National Agricultural Hall of Fame on October 23 at the National Agricultural Center in Bonner Springs, Kansas. This prestigious honor, established by Congress in 1960, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional national or international contributions to farming and rural life.
Sonny Perdue, from Georgia, is a lifelong advocate for farmers and rural communities. Serving as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture beginning in 2017, he strengthened trade opportunities by creating the first Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. He guided the nation’s food system through the COVID-19 crisis, expanded food assistance, and advanced rural broadband so farmers could access modern technology. In 2022 he became chancellor of the University System of Georgia, launching the UGA Grand Farm to promote agricultural research and education.
Wendell Murphy, a North Carolina pork industry pioneer, transformed U.S. swine production. Starting Murphy Farms in 1962, he helped make contract feeding and confinement technology standard practice. His innovations—such as in-house nutrition teams, genetics improvements for leaner animals, and custom building designs—set new standards in protein production worldwide.
Michael Hinton, of Kansas, is dedicated to preserving agricultural history through antique tractors. Founder of Antique Tractor Preservation Day and creator of TalkingTractors.com, he shares stories of rural life and farming ingenuity. His efforts earned multiple governor proclamations, U.S. Congressional Record Statements, and national media recognition.