There are many reasons people love staying at Menemsha Inn, our incredible views, beach access, plus cozy cottages and vacation homes to rent on Martha’s Vineyard. But what many people may not even realize when they come to stay with us is that we operate on an active farm. So, during your stay, you will come across several different kinds of livestock like chickens, horses, and Devon cattle.
Discover the history of the Devon cattle at Menemsha Inn and get to know one of our most popular residents.
History of Devon cattle at Menemsha Inn
The North Devon cattle are not the typical cattle you see on ranches and farms across America. These cattle are from an ancient breed descending from Devonshire, a district in England. The North Devon cattle were the first cows brought to America.
They were brought over in 1623 by the Pilgrims, who liked the Devons for milking, beef, and their strength. In the 1950s, the farmers were divided in raising multipurpose cattle vs. breeding just for beef. The few breeders that still favored the multipurpose cow, bred what was called the American Milking Devon, or the North Devons, or Ruby Reds.
Although the Devon was originally a horned breed, American farmers and stockmen have developed a polled strain of purebred Devons. To know the original North Devons, look for beautiful big horns. Although they do not exist in great numbers, today there are about 500 North Devons. The North Devons are what you will see at Menemsha Inn and Beach Plum Inn.
How did the Devon cattle of Menemsha Inn come to be?
When the properties of Menemsha Inn and Beach Plum Inn were purchased, it was decided that many pastures surrounding the property needed help in restoration. Cows do a better job of converting plants to fertilizer than sheep. Deciding on what cows to bring to the property, the research led to Devon cattle.
Because of their friendly and docile nature, the Devon seemed like a good fit since they would be living on an operating inn with visitors all the time. Plus, Devons know how to take care of themselves and require very little maintenance or shelter during the winter months.
Owners of Menemsha Inn and Beach Plum Inn acquired six North Devons, three cows, and three calves, two of which were female and one little bull, from the Devon Point Farm in North Stonington, CT.
Characteristics of the Devon cattle
The Devon cattle are red in color, varying from a deep red to a light chestnut color. They are active good walkers and foragers, so they are always walking around the property. Also, super friendly and docile, the Devons are not known to be jumpers and tend to stay put.
Each of the cows at the property has its own name and personality. From the very sweet and friendly Rowan to the beautiful Viola, come meet our entire family at Menemsha Inn and Cottages and book your stay with us today!