Fred DePaul, a notable sheep farmer, who hails from Vermont will come to Howard Hall Farm in Athens, N.Y. to demonstrate historic methods of sheep shearing on our flock of Shetland Sheep using techniques from three separate centuries. His presentation will include shearing lessons for adults, and for children there will be woolly tales, bizarre old tools including an antique hand-crank machine, and agrarian snacks. This presentation is suitable for both children and adults who are interested in observing or learning the traditional art of sheep shearing. We will have tours of the Federal-era house and snacks will be provided. Fred is the farm manager of The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth, Vermont, and has given demonstrations at numerous historic sites and schools, including Clermont, Hancock Shaker Village, and the Tappantown Historical Society.

About Shetland Sheep:
The Shetland experienced near extinction when the industrial revolution and synthetic fibers decreased the need for all wools, and especially the colored wools. The decline in the need for fine "natural" wools resulted in a drastic fall-off in the Shetland's numbers. In Great Britain, several conservancies were established to help in the Shetland Sheep's recovery. In 1980, Colonel Dailley of Canada joined in the effort to save this breed. He introduced the first flock of Shetlands into North America.

A page from local sheep shearing history:
"In 1810 I attended his famous sheep-shearing, which attracted much attention, and acquired subsequently great newspaper notoriety…the large company was entertained with the most elegant and sumptuous hospitality. At a public sale on this occasion, sheep were bought with great avidity, at prices varying from fifty to one thousand dollars…there was an animated competition, and there were some earnest disputes for securing the purchase of select animals…Dr. Mitchell produced a brilliant description of the festival, and always classical and erudite, gave as a toast, "the modern Argonautic expedition, whereby our Jason [the Chancellor] has enriched his country with the invaluable treasure of the golden fleece."" -Elkanah Watson, 19th Century

Adults and Children are welcome.
$7 per person / free to press
For educational groups: No fee. Donation appreciated.