320 THE BREEDS OF LIVE-STOCK 
his work in 1793, stands preéminent among Devon 
breeders. The best blood in the breed has descended from 
his herd. John Tanner Davy began the improvement of 
a Devon herd left to him by his father in 1790. On his 
death in 1852, his son, Colonel Davy, continued his work, 
and became foremost among Devon breeders of the time. 
The latter did a great 
deal to popularize the 
breed by his writings 
and by his personal 
efforts. 
363. History in 
America. — The exact 
date of the first impor- 
tations of Devons is 
uncertain, but it is 
Di aii ie thought that a few 
head were brought to America in 1623 by the colonists. 
Beginning with an importation in 1800 to Massachusetts, 
several importations were made, the most notable being 
in 1817, when six pure-bred heifers and a bull were re- 
ceived by Robert Patterson of Baltimore. The Patter- 
sons made later importations, and were in no small way 
responsible for the development of the breed in this 
country. Other breeders imported Devon stock into 
United States and Canada, but the breed has not become 
very popular, despite the fact that it is worthy. 
364. Description.—In general, the Devons are a 
docile but hardy breed of cattle, well adapted to thrive on 
short and hilly pasture, while at the same time responding 
to good care (Figs. 59, 60). 
365. Types. — Two types of Devon eattle have been 
developed. The North Devon, a hardy, compact type, is 
oe 
