ountry C Friday, June 4, 2021
cres A Focusing on Today’s Rural Environment
Volume 8, Edition 25
PHOTOS BY DIANE LEUKAM
These breeding rams show off the large double sets of horns particular to the Jacob sheep, an ancient breed that originated in Palestine some 3,000 years ago.
The ancient
Jacob sheep Couple raises rare breed, along with elk on Garfield hills BY DIANE LEUKAM | STAFF WRITER
GARFIELD – A flock of sheep grazed on a gently sloped field of alfalfa May 12, the occasional soft sounds of bleating and the dinging of a bell competing with those created by a stiff spring breeze. Nearby stood their shepherd, keeping a close eye on the flock while they enjoyed a treat of new grass alfalfa with no fence in sight. Even though it is 2021, the scene was reminiscent of what may have occurred in Palestine nearly 3,000 years ago. “This particular breed is called Jacob; they originate from Palestine, Israel region,” said Charles Francis, owner of the flock along with his wife, Kim Esala Francis. “The belief is, this is the same breed that Jacob in the Old Testament was taking care of, that he took from his father-in-law, the spotted sheep.” In the biblical Book of Genesis, Jacob, who would become the patriarch of the Israelites, was given as wages all the spotted sheep and goats from Laban’s flock. According to Charles, the breed has remained the same for millennia and his will remain the same as well.
Charles Francis and his wife, Kim Esala Francis, raise Jacob sheep and elk on their property near Garfield.
ST R COUNTRY: Publications bli ti This month in the
The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.
Watch for the next edition of Country Acres on June 18!
Jacob sheep page 2 5
A renewed focus on youngstock Swanville
7
Farm cuisine: Everything but the squeal Diane Leukam column
8
A shared collection Richmond
17 Selling perfect campfire nights Burtrum
10 What’s this
21 Country cooking
12 Going against the norm Kerkhoven
22 Contemplating rocks and nuts Herman Lensing column 25 Animals we love
