The Cotswold is believed to be one of the oldest breeds
of sheep. It is suggested that sheep were in the Cotswold
Hills at the time of Caesar's conquest of Britain, as sheep were
mentioned in most of the early agricultural writings of the area.
The Romans as early as 43 AD, valued this breed for it's outstanding
wool. The Cotswold breed eventually became a cornerstone of
England's wealth during the Middle Ages. Written records refer
to the Cotswold breed as far back as 1319.
Purebred Cotswolds may be white or colored. Colored wools
range from black to gray silver. Older black or colored sheep
have a tendency to gray or white as the years go on.
All purebred Cotswolds have a high quality, lustrous fleece.
Wise fiber artists and crafters seek out Cotswold fleeces for their
natural luster and softness. It is ideal for worsted spinning.
It accepts dyes readily and with outstanding clarity.
Handspinners glory in Cotswold fleece colors, from creamy white to
black, long ribbon-like curls and luxirous crimp. Doll makers
prefer the long shiny ringlet curls they find only in the Cotswold
fleece.
