The McGinnis family of Baltimore County will be inducted into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame for 2025, according to an announcement by Governor Wes Moore and Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. The official recognition will take place at the 56th Annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture event on February 5, 2026, at Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel.
Governor Moore stated, “The McGinnis family truly embodies the spirit and dedication of Maryland agriculture. With roots that stretch back more than six generations, their farm has made significant contributions to our communities, preserved our natural resources, and bolstered our state’s economy. Recognizing families like the McGinnis family is essential as we celebrate agriculture, Maryland’s largest industry, which represents our heritage and future.”
The Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame was established in 1991 by former Governor William Donald Schaefer to honor agricultural leaders who have shown commitment to the sector and their local communities. Nominations are collected through local University of Maryland Extension offices.
Secretary Atticks commented, “It is a privilege to welcome the McGinnis family into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame. Their legacy of agricultural innovation, community service, and advocacy underscores their crucial role in Maryland’s agricultural success. Their dedication not only highlights their commitment to farming but also inspires future generations to continue this essential work.”
The Taste of Maryland Agriculture event is organized by the Maryland Agriculture Council and brings together leaders from across the industry as well as state officials and national legislators. Nearly 900 attendees are expected this year. The event will feature a range of local products including beer, wine, and cider. In addition to honoring the McGinnis family, eleven programs will receive educational grants from the council.
Tickets for the event are available at different price points depending on purchase date: $100 before January 10, $130 after January 10, and $150 after February 1. Reservations can be made online via credit card through the [Maryland Agriculture Council website](https://www.mdagriculturecouncil.com/event-details/2026-taste-of-maryland-agriculture) or by mail through [Maryland Agriculture Council](https://mdagcouncil.com).
The McGinnis family becomes the 58th inductee into the Hall of Fame. Profiles of all inductees can be found on the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s website.
The family’s history in agriculture dates back to Samuel McGuinness’ immigration from Ireland in the eighteenth century. After purchasing land in Pennsylvania, he moved to Baltimore County in 1881 where his descendants have been active in farming ever since. Wayne McGinnis assumed full-time management in 1968 and led a transition from dairy farming to Angus cow-calf operations alongside crop production.
Education remains important for the family; all three children—Anne, Jay, and Brett—hold agricultural degrees and help run farm operations today. The McGinnises are also involved with various organizations promoting sustainable practices.
Erika Crowl, Senior Agent Associate for Baltimore County said: “The McGinnis family is a long-standing pillar in the farming community. Families like theirs play a crucial role in maintaining sustainable farming practices and educating future generations about the importance of agriculture. This award truly reflects their contributions to the Baltimore County agriculture community.”
For further information about tickets or honorees contact Susan Summers at 240-446-3601 or Jessica Hackett at 410-841-5888.
