Mar 30, 2026
By Stephanie Eckroat
I recently had the pleasure of visiting McGinn’s Grapes and Grains, owned by Mark and Carolyn McGinn, and it turned out to be far more than just a stop. It was an experience rooted in history, innovation and genuine passion for agriculture.
On a beautiful sunny day, I hopped on a golf cart with Carolyn for a tour of the farm. As we made our way across the land, it quickly became clear this is not just any farm; it’s a place where generations of hard work meet forward-thinking ideas.
Mark’s family history is deeply tied to the land. As fifth-generation farmers, their story began when their ancestors emigrated from Ireland following the potato famine, eventually settling in Harvey and Sedgwick Counties. That legacy continues today, with the farm producing traditional Kansas crops like corn, soybeans and wheat using a combination of dryland and irrigation practices.
After retiring from Textron, Mark and Carolyn, who dedicated 20 years of service as a Kansas state Senator, chose to take their farm in a new direction by exploring specialty agriculture.
“After retirement we decided to do some of the things I wanted to do,” Carolyn says.
What they’ve built is both impressive and inspiring.
Their vineyard features several grape varieties, including Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, Chardonel. These grapes are sold to Grace Hill Winery, and thanks to their producer license, the McGinns are also able to host wine tastings and sell wines directly on-site. It adds a whole new layer to the farm, one that invites visitors to truly enjoy the setting.
The diversity of their operation doesn’t stop at grapes. They’ve embraced year-round growing in a hoop house, producing lettuce and spinach during the winter months, while summer brings hydroponically grown tomatoes and cucumbers. It’s a great example of how modern techniques can complement traditional farming to create a sustainable, productive system.
They also raise Katahdin lamb, offering high-quality meat directly from the farm, perfect for those looking to source local, especially around holidays like Easter.
What makes McGinn’s Grapes and Grains even more unique is how they’ve opened their farm to the community. The property includes a wedding and event venue, as well as an Airbnb, giving guests the chance to experience farm life firsthand in a peaceful, scenic setting.
For Carolyn, creating that experience is intentional.
“Peaceful country living on a working farm — that’s the experience we want them to have,” she shared when describing what guests can expect during their stay. It’s an opportunity to slow down and connect with rural life in a way that feels both relaxing and authentic.
And Carolyn’s commitment to Kansas hasn’t slowed down. In July 2025, she joined Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration as a special adviser on water, continuing her work on one of the state’s most important issues.
Visits like this are a great reminder of how agriculture continues to evolve while staying connected to its roots. McGinn’s Grapes and Grains is a perfect example of that balance — honoring tradition while embracing new opportunities.
If you’d like to learn more, visit their website and be sure to sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on everything happening at the farm.