222 LINCOLN SHEEP. 



fenland sheep that the Lincoln breeders made a study of Bake- 

 well's methods, adopted his system and made selections from 

 his breed to bring about the desired effects in their flocks. 

 The history of the improvement is not without interest, for 

 as has been the case in the development of other breeds, a 

 bitter controversy arose between those who claimed par- 

 ticular merits for the new and those who defended the old 

 Lincoln. 



It has been already stated that the improved Leicester was 

 the blood used to bring about the transformation in the car- 

 cass of the Lincoln sheep, and made it one of, if not the most, 

 profitable sheep that can be kept for both wool and mutton 

 when rich and abundant pasture is afforded. 



Among the early breeders who share the honors of having 

 been instrumental in improving the character of these sheep 

 may be mentioned the Chaplins, Kirkhams, Caswells, Dud- 

 dings and Clarkes. Then, as now, it was not an easy matter 

 to convince many of their fellow flock owners as to the value 

 of improved blood, and for a long time these men worked 

 raising the standard of their flocks, receiving little, if any, 

 encouragement. There was at that time, too, a great rivalry 

 among breeders, as is shown by a controversy that is re- 

 corded as having taken place between Chaplin, the Lincoln 

 breeder, and Bakewell, of Leicester fame. This happened 

 about 1788. Bakewell, interested in the Lincoln breeder's 

 operation, of course, and curious as well to see his breeding 

 stock, asked permission of a lad, who happened to be standing 

 near where Chaplin's sheep were kept, if he might see Chap- 

 lin's rams. The lad gave his assent, and Bakewell, acting 

 accordingly, went in and examined them. Chaplin, hearing of 

 this, rebuked Bakewell sharply for having taken this liberty 

 contrary to his wishes. 



It was not until after years of skill and patience had been 

 devoted to the work that the breed finally evolved with the 

 improved fixed character that is found in the Lincoln flocks of 

 today. To the names previously mentioned may be added the 

 following who strove towards the same end, and not without 

 their reward. They were the Marshalls, Greethams, Davys, 

 Wrights, Howards, Paddisons, and several others. The re- 

 sult of their competition is, as stated by Professor Coleman, 

 "the production of a sheep imequaled for wool and mutton 

 combined." 



