February meant new lambs in the flock at the Littleton Museum’s
1860s farm. Can spring be far behind?
Barbara Brand, president of the Friends of the Littleton
Library/Museum, FOL/M, reported in the recent newsletter that there
were six little ones, with more expected, at the 1860s farm. A
March 4 visit brought curious black, brown and tan month-old lambs
out of their barn. Others were probably napping inside.
The animals and plants at the Littleton Museum are authentic to
the 19th century breeds early settlers and farmers would have owned
and they are rare.
Spanish Conquistadors introduced sheep to the Southwest as early
as 1520 and they were quickly assimilated into Native American
culture, where the hardy, shaggy breed became known as Navajo
Churros.
Because the wool is somewhat coarse, farmers began to crossbreed
the animals with Merinos for softer fiber. By 1970, less than 400
Churros were known to exist in North America.
With a growth of interest in hand weaving, demand for the wool
increased. Weavers liked the range of natural colors Churros
produce: grays, white, tan, red and silver.
Two upcoming related events at the Littleton Museum:
“Wonders of the Weavers, Marvelas de los tejedores,” will be an
exhibit of 19th century Rio Grande weavings from the collection of
the Albuquerque Museum— including some woven with Churro wool—
running March 26 to June 27.
“Sheep to Shawl,” the Museum’s annual demonstration of shearing,
washing, carding, spinning and weaving will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
April 17.
The Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton, is open 8
a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is free.
303-795-3950.
