The Targhee breed of sheep is uniquely American.  It was developed in 1926 at the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station in Dubois, Idaho.  America was 150 years old that year and coming to terms with a population growing over 1,000,000 people annually.  It was before the Great Depression and in between two World Wars.  Despite it being the Roaring 20’s, approximately 25% of Americans were undernourished and experiencing extreme poverty.  This was especially true in rural areas like the Intermountain West where a regional economic depression preceded the stock market collapse of 1929.

There were no social safety nets – no food banks, no Medicare or Medicaid, no housing assistance or supplemental heat programs in winter.  Americans made do with what that had or didn’t have.  Tough times made tough people.  It formed an incredible innate passion to improve their own lives and those of future generations.  Therefore, the emphasis on the development of a breed of sheep with the twin benefits of providing both food and fiber was essential.  The Targhee sheep was born.

Known for their natural fleshing ability, fine apparel type wool production, and rugged health, Targhee sheep have been a mainstay of ranchers in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North and South Dakota for 100 years.  This blanket celebrates the achievement of a breed of sheep whose inception and sole purpose is to feed and clothe a nation including the U.S. military.  It is no small coincidence that on the 250^th anniversary of the United States of America, the Targhee breed celebrates its first 100 years.  As long as there are Targhee sheep their mission will be to build this country and make it strong.

Pairs well with:

Mountains on the horizon

This House of Sky (Ivan Doig) and The Shorn Lamb (Hughie Call)

Strong black coffee

Designed by Montana Wool Co

Fibre | 100% Sustainably Grown Virgin Montana Targhee Wool

Fabrication | Spun and Knit by Mountain Meadow Wool

Touch | Soft and yielding to the touch

Color | Natural white and natural grey

Size | 38” x 67”

Weight | 2lbs 9 oz

Wool Source | Montana Sheep Co – Fort Shaw MT

Care | Cold soak, rinse, & line dry