Dieterich, IL…State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) presented a certificate to the owners of Richards Farm Restaurant in Casey on Friday to mark 50 years in business. Rep. Niemerg joined State Reps. Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro) and Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) with other community leaders for a ribbon cutting and presented the Richards Family with a special certificate from the Illinois House of Representatives.
“The Richards Farm Restaurant’s comfortable warm atmosphere brings people here from across the country,” added Rep. Chris Miller. “This special place in central Illinois stands proudly among the neighboring farms as a symbol of our agricultural heritage, country lifestyle and the American dream.”
“Congratulations to the Richards Family on 50 years in business! Family businesses are the backbone of Illinois, and we need to do all that we can to support them and thank them for taking the risk to open a business and grow our economy here in Illinois,” said Rep. Niemerg. “What a great atmosphere with an old 1930’s-era barn – and the food and service are the best!”
In December of 1976, Gary and Diane Richards opened Richards Farm Restaurant in a history barn owned by the family. The Richards family once used the barn to protect their livelihood – livestock and grain – but for many years it sat empty. Two years of planning and dedicated work were involved in transforming the barn into a restaurant, which included using materials from nearby barns to salvage the necessary wood and materials needed to complete the authentic look envisioned by the owners.
“We are lucky to have a locally owned business like the Richards Family Restaurant that is equipped with modern conveniences yet constructed of authentic recycled barn wood and adorned with rustic accents for a wonderful experience for families and large community groups,” commented Rep. Brad Halbrook.
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