Cow Barn

Robert W. Lord imported Guernsey cows from England in 1892. Rare in Maine, Guernseys produced rich milk and were known for gentle dispositions. In the early 20th century, this area served as a fenced yard for cows, where prospective buyers inspected them from a nearby porch. The cows moved through a system of gates to reach pasture, and they suited an intensive grazing system in which they ate down grass in one area before being moved to the next. A dairy cow such as Laudholm's "Cora" was judged by her height, the slant of her ribs, the depth of her udders, her history of milk production, and her ease in giving birth. Construction was completed in 1904, the building housed 29 milk cows, Guernseys had been recorded as a distinct breed for 3 centuries, were kept on the farm for 60 years, and the structure had 36 ventilation windows. Today it serves as an auditorium, kitchen, and library.

Wells, Maine · United States