In The early months of 1879, a group of Southern Illinois citizens in Effingham and Cumberland counties met for the purpose of forming a fire and lightning Mutual Insurance Company. A great deal of thought and many dedicated hours were spent in drawing up the Articles of Incorporation, and setting up the rules and regulations for the now 135 year old Home Farmers Mutual Insurance Company.

The plans of our forefathers were very well documented and far too few of us realize or appreciate the sacrifices and long hours involved in setting the foundation of the business. But we today are grateful for the initiative and perseverance of these dedicated men.

The company was organized on November 28, 1879, with 34 charter members. The first policies were issued on February 1, 1881. Our insurance in force has grown steadily from $99,000 in 1881 to $160,000,000 in 2007. As with all organizations, the charter has been amended several times to coincide with the changing times.

The first office was located in a room in a board member’s home. Then an office was opened a couple of times a week from a rented room with one desk and two chairs. The office was then moved to the back room of the old bank building in Teutopolis.

In June of 1992, we built our own office building at 203 South Pearl Street in Teutopolis. Rebekah Deters is our office manager and Gabrielle Bushue is our administrative assistant. The office is opened Monday through Thursday 9 to 4 and by appointment only on Friday and Saturday. We do have a drop box located at the left of the door.

At the present time Home Farmers Mutual Insurance Company writes home, auto, farm, small commercial and life insurance policies. Our present board of directors consists of Ed Niemerg, President, Roch Westendorf, Vice President, Rebekah Deters, Secretary-Treasurer, Ron Overbeck, Larry Garner, Michael (Mick) Deters, Karl Pruemer, and Dennis Buhnerkempe.