Hallmark Farm officially purchased as site for Alabama Farm Center

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March 24, 2025

Hallmark Farm, one of central Alabama’s most well-known and admired landmarks, has officially been purchased by the Agriculture Exhibition Center Corporation, the Alabama Farmers Federation proudly reported today.

The 567-acre property is set to be the future home of the Alabama Farm Center, a venue that will host livestock and equestrian competitions, rodeos, and also offer the public educational programing.

“The Federation is proud to have cast a vision for the Alabama Farm Center, and we appreciate Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation investing over $15 million into making it a reality,” said Jimmy Parnell, President of ALFA. “We are excited to see the AECC take the reins as others join in moving the Farm Center forward.”

Ralph Williams Jr., ALFA’s secretary-treasurer, echoed Parnell’s sentiments regarding the significance of the purchase.

“Today is one we’ve been anticipating,” Williams said. “Many have shared the dream of a premier agricultural education and event center for Alabama’s young people and families to enjoy. The AECC is committed to bringing this dream to fruition. We are confident the Alabama Farm Center at Hallmark Farm will be a regional destination that will benefit Alabama’s economy, students, and workforce.”

The Alabama Senate confirmed the AECC board on Feb. 20, following the Legislature’s passage of a bill last year establishing the Center’s governance structure. Members are:

Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Farmers Federation, appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey
Ralph Williams Jr., Alabama Power, appointed by Ivey
John Starnes, DeKalb County farmer, appointed by Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville
Thomas Ellis, Lowndes County farmer, appointed by Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate
Dr. Barrett Vaughn, Tuskegee University, appointed by Pate
Joe Lambrecht, Elmore County farmer, appointed by Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, and
Brad Fuller, Jefferson County farmer, appointed by the Jefferson County Commission.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

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