Got Sheep?
Text and photo by Heidi Simmons
Consider a Rambouillet. They are hardy, productive and simply beautiful. Their wool is considered among the best in the world. They lamb in the fall and spring and have wonderful maternal instincts. Well, if you are considering starting a small flock you are in luck! Rambouillets are the featured breed at this year's Sheep and Woold Festival, which will take place at the Rhinebeck Fairgrounds October 15, 16, and 17. The show happens at 2 pm on the 15th and the sale will begin at 10am on the 16th. Both lambs born this spring and bred ewes will be offered in this sale.
The Rambouillet had its origin among the Moors of North Africa during the 14th century. Distant ancestors of today's Rambouillet accompanied Moorish conquerors to Spain, and their descendants were left behind when the Spaniards drove the invaders out. Spain's resulting sheep were a valuable legacy and were jealously guarded. Shortly before the French Revolution, however, the King of Spain gave his cousin Louis XVI of France a gift of 466 sheep for the experimental farm at his Rambouillet estate.
Within the next few years the Spanish empire began to crumble and the sheep found their way throughout the globe, mixing and mingling with various other breeds and types. The strain assembled at Rambouillet remained unusually pure, however, even through the tumult of the French Revolution, when their owner lost both the throne and his head. Parceled out to a handful of dedicated caretakers, the Rambouillets not only maintained their superior fine wool, but also developed a body size and confirmation seldom seen in a wool breed.
A decade ago, Rambouillets weren't easy to find in this part of the country. However, in recent history that has changed. There are currently three flocks right here in Dutchess County and each of these flocks have some of the best breeding in the country: Hagerty Rambouillets of Tivoli, Silver Mountain Farm of Amenia, and Wil-Hi Farm of Upper Red Hook.
Websites to visit: sheepandwool.com for more information about the upcoming Festival, and Rambouilletsheep.org for general information about the breed.
