About English Southdown Babydoll Sheep
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The Southdown is one of the oldest purebred breads of sheep in the world. The breed originated long ago
in the "Downs" or hills of Sussex, England. In the 1990's small flocks of the original
Southdown's were rediscovered and named Olde English Babydoll Southdown Sheep.
Babydolls are raised for their wool, as pets and 4-H projects. Organic farmers like the weed/grass control especially in vineyards/orchards, because they don't eat the vines and trees like other larger breeds of sheep.
Southdown History
The American Southdowns were developed by breeding the original bloodlines to larger
breeds of Southdowns from other countries to create a sheep that could compete with the
other larger meat breeds in the United States.
There is little written history or description of the Southdown dating earlier than two hundred fifty years ago. The early Southdown was noted for some important qualities for which they have since become especially famous. With a good leg and excellent meat, the Southdown produced a remarkable flavor.
Early literature indicates that Southdowns were among the animals brought into the English colonies as early as 1640. Later, documented importations where made into the United States from 1824 to 1829 from the English flock of John Ellman.
Docile, easy to manage and mature up to 24" in height lead to being ideal for small acreage and vineyards.
