Leicester Longwools were developed int he mid-18th century by Robert Bakewell of Leicester, England. The breed became popular throughout the British empire; George Washington purchased Leicester Longwools for his flock at Mount Vernon.

The Leicester Longwool is now a rare breed of farm animal, and Colonial Williamsburg’s original Leicester sheep were imported from Tasmania in 1990. By raising this breed, Colonial Williamsburg preserves one of the foundation breeds of the 18th century and keeps a unique gene pool alive for future generations.

Hand-wash with mild detergent. May be dry-cleaned.