Favorite Fiber of the Moment

Cotswold Sheep

 

Article by Sandra Bennett

 

Cotswold sheep have grazed on the Cotswold Hills of England for more than 2,000 years.  The Cotswold's hills are known for looking "typically English": think "thatched cottages," and the area is about the size of greater Tokyo.  Cotswold sheep have long, curly locks that contribute to the breed's nickname, "The Lion of the Cotswold's."

 

During the 13th to 15th centuries, Cotswold sheep played a critical role in England's history and churches stand throughout the Cotswold as a testimony to the money and power of sheep and wool.  Medieval wool towns thrived and enormous wealth was gained.  Someone once said, "half the wealth of England rides on the back of the sheep."  Even today, the Lord Chancellor sits in the House of Lords on a wool stuffed sack to show the importance of the wool industry in England.

 

Cotswold is also called the "poor man's mohair" and "The Golden Fleece" and is a long-stapled, more than 6 inches wool of somewhat lustrous quality.  It accepts dye beautifully and doll and Santa makers covet the "golden curls."

 

According to the Oklahoma State website, Cotswold sheep were first on record in the USA in 1832 but believed to have been introduced earlier.  Cotswold sheep are sturdy and hardy.  Rams can weigh 300 pounds and ewes 200 pounds.  The fleece can become matted unless pastures are kept clean and the fleece in good condition.  The fleece has a part along the back, offering a lack of protection for the animal; run-in shelters are recommended.  The Cotswold is known for being primarily white sheep but in the USA color has been introduced and there are award-winning flocks of black, black sheen and high silver being bred and raised.

 

For more information and to view photos, Fiber Femmes suggests the following websites as a start:

 

Cotswold Woolen Weavers

 

Our Lady of the Rock - Black/Colored Cotswold Sheep

 

Oklahoma State Sheep Breeds - Cotswold

 

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