DUAL-PURPOSE CATTLE 105 



DEVONS 



The Devon cattle are commonly classed as dual-purpose 

 cattle, and are one of the oldest breeds that originated in Great 

 Britain. Very little is known of the early history of this 

 breed, but it is generally believed that they are related to the 

 Hereford and Sussex breeds. Some writers believe that the 

 above-named breeds descended from the Devons. These 

 cattle were bred and developed in Devonshire, England, and 

 are divided into the North and South Devons. The North 

 Devons more nearly represent the original and true type of 

 this breed. The Quartly family of North Devon was largely 

 responsible for the development and improvement made with 

 the Devons ; Francis Quartly, particularly, took the lead in 

 the improvement of this breed, which made them popular. 



While the breed are classed as dual-purpose animals to-day, 

 they originally were bred for milk, beef, and draft purposes 

 in their native country. 



The Devons were first imported into America in 1817. 

 Several importations have been made since this date, and they 

 are popular in some localities in the United States, especially 

 where the production of milk is not the sole object for which 

 the cattle are kept. Representatives of this breed are found 

 in nearly every state in the Union. The cows average about 

 1000 pounds in live weight, and are hardy, strong, and active. 

 In color, the Devon is a deep red. White markings may ap- 

 pear on the belly and on the udder. The horns are long, and 

 turn upwards and backwards. 



The dairy characteristics of this breed have never been 

 very highly developed ; like other dual-purpose animals, 

 they give a large quantity of milk at the beginning of their 



