From 1945 to 1966, Mrs. Sandburg managed a herd of more than 200 dairy goats here and became internationally known for breeding world-record milk producers, drawing visitors who came to learn about raising goats, often unaware that a world-famous writer lived nearby. Lilian Sandburg, a graduate of the University of Chicago who had taught literature and expression, recognized Carl Sandburg's talent for writing and remained his steadfast supporter throughout their lives. As Carl Sandburg's fame grew, he ensured that Lilian's expertise in goat genetics shared the limelight with his writing in many articles about the Sandburgs, and he said her success in improving and promoting dairy goats came from "genius, knowledge, and lighted enthusiasms."