Our local honey producer is a Starke County legend. According to Wayne Emigh “I just like to mess around with bees. I like to watch them.” This is a fellow you just have to meet!

The Emigh family came to Starke County from Pennsylvania, settling around Ober. When Uncle Rudolph Werblow died, Wayne Emigh took over some of his bee business, starting with 5 hives. Moving to his father’s farm just off St. Rd. 35 north of Knox, Wayne and his wife JoAnn raised their daughters and Wayne’s bees. Bees have always been just a hobby, and as Wayne explains, “As a full time farmer, I didn’t have time for more than a dozen hives. Right now I have nine.” Wayne learned to raise bees and produce honey with the assistance of another Starke County resident, Pete Bau, who was a State bee inspector for many years.

What else is remarkable about this local honey producer? Perhaps he is best known in all parts of the county for his leadership is Starke County 4-H. He has helped raise multiple generations of 4-H children. Wayne has devoted 61 years to the Starke County 4-H and is still a vital, active participant.

Why does he raise bees? Wayne Emigh states “ I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t enjoy it. You are better off doing something you enjoy.” Perhaps this statement applies to both his love of bees and his love of Starke County 4-H youth.

We are proud to know Wayne Emigh, proud to call him a friend, and proud to offer you the honey produced locally by this Starke County legend.