In 1989 we started our southdown flock with the purchase of some Wedel ewes out of Moundridge, Kansas.  We later purchased a Cole ewe and lamb at the Oklahoma Black and White Sale.  Soon after, we obtained a ram from Ocie Scott that was primarily Temple bred.  This ram and the Cole ewe were both named grand champion in the 1989 West Texas Fair junior show in Abilene, Texas.

 

For the next several years our flock was closed.  Many of the lambs born were retained for breeding stock; a few were wethered and shown by the boys, Nathan and Evan, in local shows.  We sold very few lambs, with the exception of those we did not think would be useful as replacements or our own show lambs.

 

From 1991 until 2005, we had the champion or reserve champion southdown at the Crosby County junior livestock show.  For several years we had the top two to four in all weight classes.

 

In 2002, we decided it was time to increase our numbers as well as bring some more height and muscle to prepare for the future when no one would be left to show our lambs and wethers in junior shows.  We purchased a ram from Finus Branham that added a needed element to our lambs.  A couple of years earlier, we purchased three Jennings ewes to help boost our flock.

 

In 2004, we were privileged to obtain the second place yearling ram at the National Southdown Show and Sale from B&B Howard Southdowns.  Later that year, we were given the opportunity to purchase the flock of James Cox of Memphis, Texas.  This flock greatly increased our numbers and, we believe, added a better edge to our lambs.  About that same time Finus Branham privileged us with the purchase of a handful of his ewes.  As we have continued to retain animals that we deem desirable as either club lambs or breeding stock, our numbers have risen to about 30 ewes and four rams.

 

We are using "Git-R-Done", McElvain 703, and newly purchased "Champ".

 

If you are in the area, stop by for a visit and a cup of coffee.  The pot is almost always on the burner.  We would enjoy talking sheep and sharing the opportunity to show you our 'downs.

 

Ray, Nathan, and Evan

 

John 10:7-10