Herd Record of the Association of Breeders of Thorough-Bred Neat Stock Short Horns, Ayrshires and Devons   By: Various

In the expansive world of livestock breeding, meticulous record-keeping is paramount to the success and progress of any breed. The publication of the "Herd Record" by the Association of Breeders of Thorough-bred Neat Stock Short Horns, Ayrshires, and Devons stands as a remarkable testament to the dedication and passion of the breeders involved. Spanning a wide range of livestock breeds, this comprehensive book serves as the ultimate resource for enthusiasts and experts alike.

Written by an assortment of contributors, "Herd Record" contains a wealth of information consolidated into a single volume. From the very first page, the depth of knowledge displayed is awe-inspiring. Each breed is meticulously examined in terms of their lineage, characteristics, and performance, providing readers with a profound understanding of the development and traits of these magnificent animals.

One of the major strengths of this work lies in the incredible attention to detail that each entry demonstrates. The breeding history of each animal is presented meticulously, hand-painted with precision and care. It is evident that the breeders who contributed to this compilation did so with unwavering diligence and meticulousness. This level of precision showcases their commitment to preserving and enhancing the quality of these breeds.

Furthermore, it is impressive how the book manages to present a vast amount of information in a structured manner. The organization of the content allows for ease of navigation, making it an invaluable reference for anyone involved in the field of livestock breeding. Additionally, the inclusion of charts, tables, and graphs enhances the accessibility of the information, ensuring readers can grasp the significance of the various data sets presented.

One aspect that perhaps could have been improved upon is the accessibility of the book for a wider audience. While the book clearly caters to a specific group of breeders and enthusiasts, it may prove challenging for readers without a background in livestock breeding to fully engage with the content. Some additional contextual information, explanations, or glossary terms could have made the book more inclusive and approachable for those who are seeking a broader understanding.

On a positive note, the visual elements of the book, including photographs and illustrations, deserve acclaim. These visually stunning additions elevate the book, providing readers with vivid glimpses into the breeds' physical attributes and overall quality. The inclusion of portraits of champion animals further adds to the overall appeal, allowing readers to appreciate the exceptional beauty of these animals.

In conclusion, the "Herd Record" compiled by the Association of Breeders of Thorough-bred Neat Stock Short Horns, Ayrshires, and Devons represents a monumental achievement in the field of livestock breeding. Its encyclopedic approach and meticulous documentation make it an indispensable resource for breeders, historians, and enthusiasts. While it may benefit from being more accessible to a wider audience, the book undeniably stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the breeders who have worked tirelessly to preserve and improve these magnificent breeds.

First Page:

OWING to circumstances beyond the control of the Committee of Publication, or of the Committees on the Pedigrees of the various classes of stock, it has been impossible to publish the first volume of the Herd Record of the Association of Breeders of Thorough bred Neat Stock at an earlier day. The desire to obtain as large a representation of stock as possible, and to extend the advantages of the Association as widely among breeders as they could, has induced the committees on the various classes of stock to hold open their books, and the delays incident upon tracing doubtful pedigrees, through in many instances a long correspondence with owners and breeders, have prevented them from furnishing the copy to the Publication Committee in season to have the work finished sooner. Every care has been taken to have the records perfect, and to admit no pedigrees of doubtful character. It is believed this has been successfully accomplished, and that the animals here recorded may be relied upon as of undoubted purity of blood... Continue reading book >>