09/06/2026
Black Welsh Mountain Sheep ~ Wilde Thistle Farm
We are a small farm in Fairplay, MD. The majority of our animals are for our kids, Tucker and Robbie, to show in 4-H. The others are just for pets because we love animals.
The Black Welsh Mountain sheep is the only completely black sheep breed in Britain. It was developed in the mountains of Wales from black sheep that occurred in the Welsh Mountain breed, which was white. About a century ago, Welsh shepherds began to breed the black sheep together, also selecting for a finer fleece and improved body conformation. The resulting breed was recognized in 1922 with the establishment of the Black Welsh Mountain Sheep Society. These sheep were first imported into North America in 1972 by Thomas Wyman of Easton, Maryland.
Black Welsh Mountain sheep are small to medium in size. Rams have attractive horns that curl around the ears; ewes are polled. The wool is short, thick, and densely stapled. The average wool clip is three to four pounds per sheep. Black Welsh Mountain wool is attractive to hand spinners. The natural black color makes it valuable for use undyed or in combination with other wools, when it is used to make grays or in the manufacture of tweeds and other patterns.
Meet the Black Welsh Mountain Sheep in the Breed Display!
Farm
PA Endless Mountains Fiber Festival
Harford Fairgrounds 485 Fair Hill Road, New Milford, PA 18834
Sept 12 & 13, 2026
Sat 10-5 and Sun 10-4
https://endlessmountainsfiberfest.com/