Marsh Hen Mill, Edisto Island, SC

Greg Johnsman has been milling in his mind his entire life. As a boy growing up in the Upstate of South Carolina he learned the process of milling grits the old-fashioned way – from a third-generation miller. Similarly, Betsy has been farming with her family on the Lowcountry sea islands her entire life. As a girl she grew up running among the rows of crops. When providence brought Betsy and Greg together in a poultry science class at Clemson University, it was clear these two would grow a life together. Greg eventually began farming with Betsy’s family, working the land with her father and brother. When he discovered a 1945 mill and separator in Saluda, SC he needed only the slightest encouragement from Betsy to bring it home to Edisto Island. In 2007, with restoration of the equipment complete, milling commenced after work on evenings and weekends. However, it wasn’t long before this passionate project grew into a thriving business. 

Now, the opportunity has arisen for Betsy and Greg to share more of their personal experience as they continue growing their beloved family business. After much thought and prayer, Marsh Hen Mill was born, Betsy was inspired while gazing at their little roadside market. The freshly washed rough cypress boards in the summer haze created a golden-brown hue that reminded her of a little hen set down in a field. As the smell of the nearby marsh filled her senses, the name Marsh Hen Mill flashed in her mind. Upon sharing with family, Betsy’s sister Katie, and their Uncle Grainger said the avian imagery brought to mind the feeling of safety described in the 91st Psalm of being under God’s wing. Greg agreed that the unassuming little bird with its distinctive call was a fitting representative for their unassuming little mill nestled on a sleepy sea island. 

At Marsh Hen Mill preservation is key – as it has always been. The focus is on providing the best heirloom products, and milling the finest grits and cornmeal. What began as a couple of crazy kids with a dream, is now a whole flock of crazy characters filling the world with flavor one bag of stone ground goodness at a time.

Here at Marsh Hen Mill we offer heirloom grain products that are grown naturally, harvested and processed to preserve the wholesome nutrients and nuances of flavor. Our procedures ensure that we are good stewards of the land, protect heirloom crops, and deliver products at maximum flavor. Processing small batches guarantees that we provide quality and freshness in every bag. Our oldest mill dates back to 1847- the slower milling process preserves the flavors of the heirloom corns and provides the stone ground goodness of our products by which we are known. Family defines who we are, how we conduct business, and care for our crops. Our family is not exclusive: it includes those who mentor us, the artisans that taught us, those who we provide with products, and each hand that helps along the way.