FAQ: Black Barn Alpacas - From Construction to Maryland's Premier Agritourism Destination

Who are Yussy and Travis McManus and what was their background before starting Black Barn Alpacas?

Yussy and Travis McManus were Texas interior design and construction entrepreneurs who closed their construction company in 2020 before transitioning to alpaca farming.

Why did the McManus couple choose to focus on alpacas specifically?

They chose alpacas after visiting several farms and learning about their sustainable nature, kindness, curiosity, and cuteness, as well as the business potential and the animals’ hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and thermoregulating fiber properties.

What makes alpaca fiber special and what products does Black Barn Alpacas create from it?

Alpaca fiber is hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, thermoregulating, and fully sustainable, which the farm transforms into sweaters, socks, gloves, hats, blankets, stuffies, and more in their retail shoppe.

How did Black Barn Alpacas get into the agritourism business?

Agritourism began accidentally when a friend pitched hosting a fall festival at their Texas property, which drew record attendance of over 20,000 people in one month with media attention from news stations and the Texas TV show YOLO TX.

Why did the McManus family move their operation from Texas to Maryland?

They moved to Maryland primarily for animal welfare reasons, as the Texas heat was very hard on their alpacas, and they sought cooler weather and better living conditions for their herd while returning to where Yussy had grown up.

How has the alpaca herd grown since the business started?

The herd grew from 20 alpacas in Texas to 150 alpacas in Maryland, making it Maryland’s largest alpaca operation.

What were the main challenges of relocating the farm from Texas to Maryland?

The relocation involved moving nearly 100 animals across four different species, heavy equipment, vehicles, trailers, two small businesses, and their house, plus adapting to Maryland’s highly regulated agritourism environment requiring extra paperwork, permits, costs, and modifications.

What was the significance of their inaugural fall festival?

The inaugural fall festival drew over 20,000 visitors in one month, setting record attendance levels and inspiring the couple to formally incorporate agritourism into their business model.

Where can people learn more about Black Barn Alpacas?

People can visit their website at Black Barn Alpacas for more information about the farm and their offerings.