Mcfarland Family Farms - A Multigenerational Legacy of Farming Excellence

A Rich History Rooted in the Land

The McFarland Family's Farming Legacy

For over 150 years, the McFarland family has been cultivating the fertile lands along the Weber River in West Weber, Utah. This multigenerational farming legacy began in 1859 when William McFarland first settled the area, passing the torch down through the generations to his descendants.

Archibald McFarland, William's son, continued the family's agricultural tradition, growing food for his family and adding grain crops to sell. The dairy farming era was ushered in by James McFarland, Archibald's third eldest son, who started a dairy operation in the old barn alongside raising cattle and their feed.

Thomas McFarland, James' son, expanded the dairy over the years, also growing hay, cattle feed, and tomatoes. This expansion accelerated with the addition of a brand-new dairy barn in 1957, built by Thomas' son, Dee McFarland, who was known for his success in growing sugar beets.

From Dairy to Produce

After the dairy cows were sold in 1987, Layne McFarland, Dee's son, decided to return to farming and began growing produce. He started with just three acres of sweet corn, along with a small amount of pumpkins and potatoes, which he sold out of his truck in used banana boxes to vendors along Highway 89.

Slowly, the farm transitioned its focus to a diverse selection of produce. Today, under the stewardship of Layne and his son Kenneth, the 250-acre McFarland Family Farms grows an abundance of crops, including corn, winter squash, onions, and pumpkins - a colorful yearly harvest that feeds the local community and beyond through their produce stands and wholesale accounts.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

As the McFarland family looks back on over a century and a half of farming, they can only imagine what their ancestors would think of the thriving operation that has evolved from their initial hard work and dedication to the land.

"We can't wait to find out what the next six generations will bring," the family reflects, honoring the legacy of those who came before while eagerly anticipating the future of their multigenerational farm.

Embracing Agritourism at the Historic Monastery Farm

In addition to their produce operation, the McFarlands have opened their historic farmstead to the public, welcoming visitors to experience the farm up close at their "Historic Monastery Farm" location in Huntsville, Utah. This picturesque setting in the heart of the Ogden Valley offers a variety of on-farm events and activities throughout the year, including a popular Farmers Market, U-Pick Pumpkin Patch, and private event hosting.

Sustainable Farming Practices

The McFarland family is committed to sustainable farming practices that honor the land and environment. By growing a diverse array of crops, utilizing cover cropping and crop rotation, and minimizing the use of synthetic inputs, they strive to cultivate the soil and produce the highest quality, nutrient-dense foods for their community.

A Celebration of Local Food and Community

At the core of McFarland Family Farms is a deep-rooted passion for connecting people to the land and the food it produces. Through their farm stands, wholesale accounts, and agritourism experiences, the McFarlands aim to inspire a greater appreciation for locally-grown, seasonal produce and the vibrant agricultural heritage of the Ogden Valley region.

Whether you're savoring the sweetness of their renowned corn, exploring the pumpkin patch, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the Historic Monastery Farm, the McFarland family invites you to experience the rich tapestry of their multigenerational farming legacy.