Parrish to enter county's Agriculture Hall of Fame

MANATEE COUNTY - Henry Brown Parrish will be inducted posthumously into the Manatee County Agriculture Hall of Fame in a ceremony on Nov. 19, the county announced in a press release.

Henry Brown Parrish and his wife Julia had no children of their own, but supported hundreds of youths in many different ways.

The honor will recognize his lifetime contributions in support of agriculture, its heritage, and the spirit of community reflected in his daily life. The induction ceremony will take place at the annual Farm City Week Hall of Fame luncheon hosted by the Palmetto Historical Commission.

Henry and his wife Julia Brogdon Parrish owned 1,200 acres in Myakka City off Clay Gully Road. He was an active member of the Florida Cattlemen's Association. Parrish and his wife had no children of their own, but supported hundreds of youths in many different ways, including through the 4-H Youth and Future Farmers of America (FFA).

Parrish would attend the livestock sales at the county fair to make sure the youths got a good price for their animals. He and his wife also sponsored children with scholarships for summer camping.

Henry Parrish was made an honorary director of the Florida Cattlemen's Association in 1978, reflecting his significant contributions to the cattle industry in Manatee County and Florida. He was a "model" rancher, incorporating "Best Management Practices" on his ranch before they were actually designated.

He was recognized for his Land Stewardship and Conservation Practices in 1974 when he received the T.J. Carter Award from the Manatee River Soil and Water Conservation District. His great-grandfather, also a cattleman, was the person the Village of Parrish is named for.

Henry Parrish died on March 19, 1995, at age 81.