Hall County proclaims 75th anniversary for Hornaday Manufacturing

The Hall County Board of Commissioners read and approved a proclamation recognizing Hornaday Manufacturing’s 75th anniversary and its community contributions.

The board’s proclamation traced the company’s history from a small Grand Island start‑up to a global manufacturer and noted long‑standing philanthropy and employee giving. Commissioners voted to adopt the proclamation by voice vote; a short video and a series of public remarks followed.

Steve Hornaday, representing the family business, called the recognition “a privilege” and said the company’s founders instilled a philosophy of giving back to the community. “I’m very honored and I’m very humbled by the things that you’re saying and that everyone here is saying,” he told the board.

Speakers from local nonprofits and community groups praised the company’s long record of support. A Heartland United Way representative credited Hornaday with sustained employee giving that grew the organization’s campaign from about $18,000 in 1998 to more than $143,000 most recently; a representative of the Hall County Hero Flight described Hornaday’s donations to veterans projects, including a $100,000 contribution that helped advance construction of the State Veterans Cemetery project.

Board members presented a certificate and a Freedom Award to Hornaday representatives. No formal action beyond the proclamation and presentations was required; attendees were invited to make public remarks and show a brief celebratory video.

Next steps: None — this was a ceremonial recognition. The board recorded the proclamation for the public record.