The McGowan Family: A Legacy of Pecans Spanning Four Generations

The McGowan family’s story is one of tradition, perseverance, and a deep-rooted love for the land. For four generations, pecans have been more than just a crop—they have been a way of life, a family legacy, and a symbol of dedication and community. What started in the 1990s with George McGowan (Matt’s grandfather) and Brian McGowan (Matt’s father) has grown into a thriving family-owned pecan farm in Georgia, now run and operated by Matt McGowan and supported by an incredible team of family, friends, and neighbors.

Planting the Seeds of a Legacy

The McGowan farm began humbly, with George and Brian planting the first pecan trees on a small plot of land. Their vision was simple but powerful: to grow a farm that could support their family and provide high-quality pecans to their community. Both men embodied an entrepreneurial spirit—George’s determination to provide for his family and Brian’s dedication to perfecting the orchard set the foundation for everything that followed.

Although George and Brian have passed, their influence remains the heart of the farm. Every tree is still standing, every pecan harvested, and every batch of roasted and flavored pecans is a tribute to the lessons they taught: hard work, resilience, and the importance of family.

The Heart of the Farm Today

Today, Matt McGowan carries on the family tradition. His days are filled not only with tending the orchard, planning harvests, managing operations, and exploring new opportunities for growth but he also works a full time job at UPS. By his side is his son, Jase, only 12 years old, yet already a vital member of the team. Jase’s dedication and work ethic are remarkable—he works as hard, and sometimes harder, than many grown men. When away from school, you can find him helping with everything from preparing the orchard to picking and packing pecans, a living testament to the family’s enduring commitment.

The farm isn’t just about family; it’s about community. Throughout the year—and especially during peak season—friends and neighbors gather to help. Whether it’s prepping, harvesting, or packaging, the McGowan farm thrives because of this incredible support network. Every hand that joins in is part of the story, making the harvest a true labor of love shared by many.

A Family That Grows Together

Behind the scenes, the McGowan family plays an irreplaceable role in the farm’s success. Lori “Mimi” McGowan is the cook behind the farm’s roasted and flavored pecans. Her skill in the kitchen ensures that every batch meets the family’s high standards and is loved by customers far and wide. But Mimi’s contributions go beyond the kitchen—she’s always ready to help with any task the farm requires, a steadfast presence in every challenge and triumph.

Matt’s wife, Jessica, and daughter, Saylor, are also integral to daily life on the farm. Whether it’s helping with packaging, organizing orders, or lending support wherever needed, their involvement demonstrates that every family member, no matter their age or role, has a part in carrying the farm’s legacy forward.

Expanding Horizons

While the farm has deep roots in tradition, the McGowans are always looking toward the future. Just a year ago, they expanded their offerings beyond raw pecans, introducing roasted and flavored varieties to retailers and direct customers. This step reflects their innovative spirit and commitment to growth, blending the timeless practices of a family farm with modern entrepreneurship.

Resilience Through Challenge

The McGowan family knows firsthand that farming comes with unpredictable challenges. Hurricane Helene struck just a year ago, toppling nearly 300 pecan trees and threatened the orchard. The damage was heartbreaking, yet the family’s determination never wavered. With patience, hard work, and the support of their community, they have been slowly restoring the orchard while remaining grateful for the trees that survived—allowing them to enjoy a harvest this year despite the setback.

Looking Forward

The McGowan family continues to dream big. Their vision extends beyond the orchard, striving to grow the business while maintaining the values that have guided them for generations: family, hard work, and community. Every pecan harvested, every batch cooked, and every helping hand reflects a story of love, resilience, and dedication.

As the next generation, Jase and Saylor, learn the ropes, the McGowans are confident that their family-owned pecan farm in Georgia will continue to thrive, honoring the legacy of George and Brian while embracing the opportunities of the future. With the unwavering support of their family and community, the McGowan story is far from finished—it’s growing stronger with every harvest.