212 TRANSACTIONS OF THE 



experiment failed to change the settled convictions of stockmen, and 

 was abandoned. Within the past j^ear it has been renewed, but so 

 recently as to prevent any practical demonstration as to its feasibility. 



Within the same period there have also been several importations 

 of the Hereford or "bush" cattle of Australia. These animals have 

 been warmly pressed upon the attention of California stock-raisers as 

 a breed preeminently qualified for the steep mountainous ranges of 

 our State, and as being "rustlers" of the highest type. These cattle 

 have been absorbed by some of our heaviest stock-raisers, who pro- 

 pose giving them a fair and thorough trial. Already most favorable 

 reports are received as to their capacity to take on and retain flesh, 

 although scarcely acclimated. They compare favorably with the 

 Durham in form and size, and are said to dress equally as well. Atten- 

 tion has also been drawn to the Holstein, or Dutch cattle, and the 

 Aberdeen, or Polled Angus. The former are said to be rapidly 

 becoming one of the "fashionable" breeds at the East. A number 

 have been imported into California, and they seem to be growing in 

 favor. They are of fair size, great docility, and yield a prodigious 

 quantity of milk which is said to contain great cheese-making quali- 

 ties. They, as well as the Herefords, have prominent advocates of 

 their value as beef cattle. The Polled Angus are a recent importa- 

 tion, and their value to the stock-raising interest is yet to be deter- 

 mined. The non-horn feature seems to commend itself, as shipment 

 of cattle is, here, usually made by rail, and the lack of horns deprives 

 them of one great means of inflicting injury upon each other when 

 closely confined. These cattle are of fair size, and it is claimed that 

 the beef equals the best Short-horn, being mottled, or marbleized, a 

 distinguishing mark of high-bred cattle. A small number of Ayr- 

 shire cattle have also been imported, and have been favorably received, 

 but for beef-producing qualities the Durham or Short-horn claims 

 preeminent consideration. 



For dairy purposes the Jersey cattle have undoubted preference. 

 Under this head are classed. Alderneys. A few of the other Island 

 cattle — Guernseys — have been imported, but they cut no figure. The 

 Jersey will, without doubt, be the chief dairy cattle of the State; that 

 is, as the foundation. From them, in conjunction with well-bred 

 Durham cows, are produced a race of dairy animals that cannot be 

 excelled. With the production of the Durham is combined the rich- 

 ness and quality of the Jersej^ As a family cow, a home pet, noted 

 for docility and all the good qualities that distinguish a first-class 

 milch animal, the Jersey — Durham grades — are entitled to most hon- 

 orable mention. The dairy interests of California are very important, 

 and are conducted with a high degree of intelligence. Every eff'ort 

 is made to increase production and quality, and no expense is spared 

 to secure animals specially noted for their milking strains. The 

 herds of pure cattle are numerous; all animals are properly regis- 

 tered, and due care is taken to keep the various strains of blood 

 pure and undefiled. 



HORSES. 



Horses are numerous in California, and the various breeds exten- 

 sive. In its primitive days the same state of aflairs existed as with 

 cattle. The native animal was the well known "mustang," a wiry 

 creature, scarce fifteen hands, full of fire and of wonderful endur- 

 ance. Its origin is in doubt. The best accepted theory is that it is 



