Our herd of Jersey cows is the heart of Billings Farm. In 1871 Fredrick Billings imported a handful of Jerseys and began producing butter, shipping it by rail to urban markets in and around New England. Jersey cows were the optimal breed, providing high-butterfat milk, that is perfect for creamier products. In the 19th century, the farm was known for its prize-winning cows with exceptional lineage. Today, our herd of about 70 milking cows, heifers, and calves continue the legacy of award-winning genetics, gentle disposition, and high-quality, protein-rich milk.
Our herd is milked twice a day, typically producing anywhere between four to six gallons each. The milk is then transported to Agri-Mark, Grafton Village Cheese, and Norwich Creamery, where it is used to produce cheese and other dairy products. Before and after milking, our cows relax in the dairy barn and roam the pastures where they eat, rest and play!
Our farm staff is dedicated to providing the best possible care for our animals. Each cow receives regular veterinary care, and we work closely with a nutritionist to ensure they have an optimal diet.
Ever since the farm was established in 1871, our goal has been to breed a herd of excellent Jersey cows. As a working dairy, our Farm Manager meticulously works to “build the perfect cow.” These are cows that produce delicious, high-butterfat milk, and possess strong genetic traits that can be passed down for generations.
Genetics impact a cow’s milk production, fertility, growth rates, and more. The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) maintains a rating system which evaluates a cow on 16 different traits including stature, strength, and udder traits. Our cows are assessed by the AJCA, which aids our farmers in the process of breeding an ideal milking cow. Proper nutrition is also important for each cow to have the best chance to reach their genetic potential. As a whole, we strive for each of our Jersey cows to score “Excellent” at 90 or above.
To build the perfect cow, we breed complimentary bulls to our cows; for example, if one of our cows is excellent in most ways but could improve in another area, we will look for a bull that is strong in those lacking areas. Occasionally, we will purchase cows from other breeders that have the potential to strengthen our herd. Our methods are tried and true and have produced great results for decades; the most famous of which being Billings Top Rosanne.
Born here in 1984, Rosanne was considered one of the finest examples of the Jersey breed. In both 1988 and 1989, she was named Jersey All-American Grand Champion, the most prestigious award in the country. Her exceptional genetic traits and lineage can be traced back to generations of quality breeding here at Billings Farm, and through outside breeders, and continues to this day with several of her descendants who remain part of our current herd.
