In 1881, Michael Cook, who operated a prosperous 200-acre farm here, imported the first Holstein Friesian cattle into Ontario. This was part of a movement among progressive farmers to find a breed of cattle that would produce enough milk for Ontario's growing dairy industry, especially cheese production. Initially Cook imported two bulls and ten cows. He continued to import Holstein cattle from the United States and The Netherlands, and distribute them throughout the province. The Holstein quickly established its reputation with Ontario farmers and, in 1886, the Dairymen's Association of Eastern Ontario recognized the Holstein as the leading milk-producing breed.

Location

At the site of the former Cook farm, Aultsville Road, about 1.5 km southeast of County Road 2, west of Long Sault

Themes

• Agriculture