About This Auction
Live and Online at Ranchandfarmauctions.com
Auction Date: 07/23/2025 Auction Time: 3:00 PM CT
Auction Held At: La Porte County Fairgrounds Community Building, 2581 IN-2, La Porte, IN 46350
Entire Farm Description:
Historic Legacy Farms Offered at Public Auction – Over 570 Acres Available in La Porte County, Indiana in 12 individual tracts
For the first time in over a century, two legacy farms—The Gillham Family Farm and The Harder-Patek Farm—are being offered at public auction. Together, these two farms represent 570.61± acres of highly productive agricultural and mixed-use land in desirable locations near Door Village and Union Mills, Indiana.
Gillham Family Farm – 181.37± Acres | Scipio Township, Near Door Village
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Owned by the same family for over 150 years
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Divided into 3 tracts, all located in La Porte, IN
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Currently income-producing farmland
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Features strong residential development potential due to:
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Nearby new home construction
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Adjacent residential properties
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Favorable school system
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Convenient access to commuter routes and amenities
Harder-Patek Farm – 389.24± Acres | Near Union Mills
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In the same family for over 100 years
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Offered in 9 tracts of farmland, pasture, woods, and recreational land
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Includes original 1900s farmhouse
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Approximately 310± FSA acres in crop production, pasture, wooded, and wetland areas
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Strong agricultural productivity and income potential
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Located in South Central School District with surrounding rural homesites
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Excellent opportunity for:
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Expansion of an existing farm operation
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Farmland investors seeking income-producing assets
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Residential or rural developers
Key Features:
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Total: 570.61± Acres | 485± FSA Acres
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Offered in 12 Individual Tracts
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Ideal for farmers, investors, and developers
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Close to major commuter routes, schools, and Lake Michigan
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Excellent potential for residential development, hobby farms, or recreational use
Rare Opportunity: These historic family farms haven’t changed hands in over a century. Don’t miss this chance to own a piece of Indiana heritage with both current income potential and promising future development value.
The Gillham Family Farm consists of Tracts 1-3
Tract 1 Description: 86.35± acres
Tract 1 is an “L”-shaped parcel consisting of approximately 85.8± FSA tillable acres, making it highly suitable for continued agricultural use. The soils— Coupee silt loam, Tracy sandy loam, Chelsea fine sand —support strong crop production and a consistent farming history. The property benefits from frontage along S 400W and is bordered on three sides by established and emerging residential developments, presenting a compelling opportunity for future residential or mixed-use development. For investors and developers seeking a property with both immediate income potential and long-term upside, Tract 1 offers exceptional promise.
Tract #: Tract 1
Deeded Acres: 86.35± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 85.82± acres
Soil Types: Coupee silt loam, Tracy sandy loam, Chelsea fine sand
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 63.5 NCCPI
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $389.28
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 86.35± acres pt W ¼ S9 T36N R3W La Porte Co, IN
PIDs: 46-10-09-300-003.000-060, 46-10-09-300-006.000-060, 46-10-09-300-004.000-060
Lat/Lon: 41.58067, -86.77018
Zip Code: 46350
Tract 2 Description: 68.64± acres
Tract 2 is a rectangular-shaped parcel with approximately 63.51± FSA tillable acres and a 4.5± acre wooded corner that includes two older farm buildings: a 32' x 46' x 10' barn/shed and a 26’ x 26’ crib. The well-drained soils, including Coupee Silty Loam and Tracy Sandy Loam, have supported above-average crop yields and ongoing farming income. Located in Door Village, the tract offers road frontage along S 400W, and nearby residential development suggests strong future potential for subdivision or rural homesites. As it connects with Tracts 1 and 3, this parcel may be especially attractive to buyers interested in assembling larger contiguous acreage for farming or investment purposes.
Tract #: Tract 2
Deeded Acres: 68.64± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 63.51± acres
Soil Types: Coupee silt loam, Tracy sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 68.9 NCCPI
CRP Acres/payment: No CRP
Taxes: $832.34
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 68.64± acres S ½ SE ¼ and part SE ¼ SW ¼ S8 T36N R3W La Porte Co, IN
PIDs: 46-10-08-300-003.000-060, 46-10-08-400-003.000-060
Lat/Lon: 41.57799, -86.78342
Zip Code: 46350
Tract 3 Description: 26.38± acres
At 26.38± acres, Tract 3 is the smallest parcel within the Gillham Family Farm in Door Village, yet it is nearly 100% tillable, with 26.08± FSA acres. Soils include Coupee Silty Loam and Tracy Sandy Loam, with a reported NCCPI rating of 68.87, indicating strong agricultural productivity. This tract has a well-established farming history, and with road frontage along W Joliet Road, utilities nearby, and neighboring rural homes on either side, it offers excellent potential as a residential building site or hobby farmstead. Located in the La Porte Community School System, Tract 3 blends income potential with development flexibility.
Tract #: Tract 3
Deeded Acres: 26.38± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 26.08±
Soil Types: Coupee silt loam, Tracy sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 68.6 NCCPI
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $719.98
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 26.38± acres pt W ½ NE ¼ S17 T36N R3W La Porte Co, IN
PIDs: 46-10-17-200-001.000-060
Lat/Lon: 41.57294, -86.78769
Zip Code: 46350
Harder Patek Farm consists of Tracts 4-12
Tract 4 Description: 54± acres
Tract 4 is a versatile property offering a mix of productive farmland and wooded areas, perfect for a variety of uses. With 46.09 FSA acres currently in row crop production and approximately 7± acres of wooded tree lines, this tract has strong agricultural income potential. Located with road frontage on S 500W and potential access from the nearby housing development off Madura Road, this property presents an excellent opportunity for residential development. The surrounding area features large-acreage properties and newer homes, making this a prime location for future expansion. Additionally, the proximity to South Central Schools—ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report—and the availability of nearby utilities make this tract attractive to developers, investors, and future home builders.
Tract #: Tract 4
Deeded Acres: 54± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 46.09± acres
Soil Types: Tracy sandy loam, Adrian muck, drained, Hanna sandy loam,
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 66.4 NCCPI
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $1330.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 54± acres pt S ½ NE ¼ S7 T35N R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-07-200-002.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49965, -86.80187
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 5 Description: 26± acres
This 26± acre parcel is currently used for farming, with 18.47 FSA tillable acres and the balance in wooded boundary lines. The tract offers 1300 feet of road frontage on W Sand Road and 750 feet on South 500W, providing excellent access and visibility. The land is ideally located across from newer rural homes on large lots, making it a prime candidate for residential development or as an investment property. With REMC utilities and internet availability in the area, along with a favorable local school district, this parcel has many possibilities for future use. Whether you are looking for a land investment or a site for residential construction, this tract offers the perfect opportunity.
Tract #: Tract 5
Deeded Acres: 26± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 18.47± acres
Soil Types: Tracy sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 58
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $708.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 26± acres pt SW ¼ NW ¼ S8 T35N R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-08-100-003.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49931, -86.79452
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 6 Description: 70± acres
Tract 6 is a spacious and diverse 70± acre parcel offering a balance of productive farmland and wooded areas. With 58.63 FSA acres in crop production and 11 acres of woods, this tract is ideal for farming, recreation, or future development. The soils—Tracy Sandy Loam and Sebewa Loam—are highly productive, and the property has a rectangular shape with over 2600 feet of road frontage on W 800S, providing easy access for both farming and future uses. This tract is located in an area with a mix of modest and newly built homes, positioning it well for potential residential development. The land's open fields and wooded areas also make it ideal for hunting or other outdoor activities. Whether you're an investor, farmer, or someone seeking a rural homestead, this property offers great potential in a growing and convenient location.
Tract #: Tract 6
Deeded Acres: 70± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 58.63± acres
Soil Types: Tracy sandy loam, Sebewa loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 58.7
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $1800.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 70± acres S ½ SE ¼ S7 T35N R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-07-400-003.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49368, -86.80151
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 7 Description: 20± acres
Tract 7 is a small but productive parcel with almost 100% tillable land, making it a great choice for continued farming or a potential rural homesite. The land is comprised of Tracy Sandy Loam and Elston Loam soils, which have supported consistent crop yields over the years. With approximately 750 feet of road frontage on W 800S, this tract offers convenient access and the potential for residential construction in the future. The property is bordered to the north by a large pond on the neighbors, offering scenic views and a peaceful rural setting. Its proximity to Tract 6 also makes it an ideal addition for anyone seeking contiguous farming land.
Tract #: Tract 7
Deeded Acres: 20± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 18.1± acres
Soil Types: Tracy sandy loam, Elston loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 58.6
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $556.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 20± acres S ½ SW ¼ SW ¼ S8 T35N R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-08-300-003.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49224, -86.79424
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 8 Description: 16.75± acres
Tract 8 is a distinctive 16.75± acre triangular-shaped parcel with approximately 2600 feet in length and 450 feet at its base. The property features 6.23 FSA reported cropland, with the remaining land consisting of wooded areas, brush, and lower ground. This tract could potentially serve as a future homesite or barn site, but it also holds appeal as a recreational property or small hunting retreat. The land is bordered by road frontage to the north and a railroad track to the south, providing an interesting mix of rural and industrial characteristics. Its unique shape and location open up several possibilities for the future owner.
Tract #: Tract 8
Deeded Acres: 16.75± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 6.23± acres
Soil Types: Elston loam, Tracy sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 66
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: TBD after survey
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 16.75± acres part of N ½ NE ¼ S18 T35 R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: pt of 46-14-18-200-001.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49081, -86.80153
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 9 Description: 2± acres
Tract 9 is a 2± acre property with a lot of potential for future use. The land is mostly wooded, featuring mature trees, brush, and some lower ground, which makes it an excellent candidate for a small recreational property or wildlife habitat. It is also suitable for a small home or barn, with easy access and approximately 950 feet of road frontage on West 800S. Additionally, the property backs up to a railroad bed, offering additional character and privacy. Tract 9 could serve as a stand-alone recreational retreat or complement the 5.5-acre Tract 11, the historic Harder Patek Farmstead
Tract #: 2± acres
Deeded Acres: 2± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 0
Soil Types: 0
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 0
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $8.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 2± acres pt SE ¼ SW ¼ S8 T35N R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-08-300-008.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49142, -86.79002
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 10 Description: 2.5± acres
At 2.5± acres, Tract 10 offers a fantastic opportunity for a rural homesite. The property is mostly tillable farm ground with mature tree lines on several sides, creating a peaceful setting with plenty of space for a home, barn, or other outbuildings. The parcel is a corner lot, with road frontage on both W 800S and S Sand Road, providing easy access and ample visibility. This tract is directly adjacent to Tract 11 (the historic Harder Patek Farmstead) and is located near a newly built home to the south. With utilities nearby, this lot is ideal for those looking to build in a quiet, rural setting with plenty of space for a large yard, garden, or even some livestock.
Tract #: Tract 10
Deeded Acres: 2.5± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 2.15± acres
Soil Types: Tracy sandy loam, Gilford fine sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 60.4
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: $556.00
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 2.5± acres pt NE ¼ NW ¼ S17 T35 R3W LaPorte Co IN
PIDs: 46-14-17-100-003.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.49224, -86.79424
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 11 Description:5.5 ± acres
Tract 11 offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history with the original Harder Patek Farmstead, featuring a 1900s-era farmhouse and 9 additional agricultural buildings. The 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers about 3400 square feet of living space, while the property includes several outbuildings, including 5 barns (two dating back to 1900 and 1930) and a silo. The land also has steel grain bins from 1950, as well as newer bins from 2004. This historic property is ideal for anyone interested in preserving a piece of Northwest Indiana’s agricultural heritage. Given its proximity to Chicago, major commuter lines, and Lake Michigan, this farm offers a rare and valuable opportunity. The property is currently rented, so please schedule an inspection with the auction listing agent prior to accessing it. The rental agreement expires on 12/31/25 and the buyer will receive rent after closing.
Tract #: 11
Deeded Acres: 5.5± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 0
Soil Types: 0
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: 0
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: TBD after survey
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 5.5± acres pt NW ¼ S17 T35 R3W La Porte Co IN
PIDs: pt 46-14-17-100-002.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.4858, -86.79242
Zip Code: 46382
Tract 12 Description: 190± acres
Tract 12 is the largest tract available in this auction, offering 190± acres of productive farmland with approximately 160± tillable acres. This property has a history of strong crop yields, supported by favorable soil types including Elston Loam, Gifford Sands, and Tracy Sandy Loam. The tract has an average NCCPI rating of 71.7, demonstrating its high potential for agricultural production. The remainder of the land includes wooded areas, pasture, and a drainage ditch, adding diversity to its use. This tract is currently cash rented, providing an income stream, and could serve as a great addition to an existing farm operation or as a long-term investment for development or farming purposes. Located off W 800S, it has convenient access for both farming and potential future use.
Tract #: Tract 12
Deeded Acres: 190± acres
FSA Farmland Acres: 167.92± acres
Soil Types: Elston loam, Gilford fine sandy loam
Soil PI/NCCPI/CSR2: NCCPI 71.7
CRP Acres/payment: NO CRP
Taxes: TBD after survey
Lease Status: Open Tenancy for the 2026 crop year
Possession: Immediate possession subject to current tenants' rights for 2025
Survey needed?: No survey needed
Brief Legal: 190± acres part of N ½ NE ¼ S18 T35 R3W pt NW ¼ S17 T35 R3W pt SE ¼ NE ¼ S18 T35 La Porte Co IN
PIDs: pt 46-14-17-100-002.000-056,46-14-18-200-001.000-056, 46-14-18-200-003.000-056
Lat/Lon: 41.4858, -86.79242
Zip Code: 46382
Terms of Sale
- Bidders may participate in the auction on-site or online at Ranchandfarmauctions.com
- Onsite bidders should bring a government-issued ID
- 10% down payment immediately after auction - cash, personal, or business checks accepted
- If the winning bid is online, you will be immediately contacted to make arrangements for the 10% down payment and a purchase contract will be sent via DocuSign
- High bidder has 30 days to close unless otherwise noted
- Announcements on auction day will take precedence over any prior announcements
- This is a no contingency sale and is not subject to financing or additional inspections
- Possession at closing, subject to tenant’s rights, if any
- If a survey is needed it will be done following the auction and the total purchase price will be adjusted to the surveyed acres
- All information provided is derived from sources believed correct but is not guaranteed or warranted - Bidders shall rely entirely on their own information and judgments
Licensing
IN COOPERATION WITH WHITETAIL PROPERTIES REAL ESTATE LLC (RC51300040)
Dan Bates Jr, Ranch & Farm Auctions (RC52000047), Indiana Broker License # RB14027345
Joe Gizdic, Director, Ranch & Farm Auctions, 217.299.0332
Rob Styka, Indiana Land Specialist, Whitetail Properties Real Estate, LLC, 219.267.1966
Cody Lowderman, IN Auctioneer, AU11100014
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