News

IDOA commemorates accomplishments of former US Ag Secretary John Block

A plaque inside the Illinois Department of Agriculture building has been dedicated to John Block commemorating his accomplishments as a former Illinois Director of Ag who went on to become US Ag Secretary.

“I really appreciate it and I am going to work hard to try and make sure I deserve it.”

Block tells Brownfield he was surprised by the honor, considering the Illinois department of Agriculture building was named after him in 2012, but former state representative and farmer Don Moffett says the plaque is a symbol for both the past and future of Illinois ag leaders.

“You can be from small town, rural Illinois and go on to great heights. So, it is saying thank you to Secretary Block, but also an inspiration for those that follow.”

Block is the only Illinois Director of Agriculture to also serve as the US Secretary of Agriculture.

Block served as Illinois Director of Agriculture from 1977 – 1981 and US Secretary of Agriculture from 1981-1986 under President Ronald Reagan. The plaque also recognizes him as a 1957 graduate of West Point, a member of the 101^st Airborne Division and a Knox County Farmer.