Our Nephew (7 years old), Willy Wonka, With Golden Ticket Sheep

Raising a flock of sheep is a family affair and more complicated than most people think. Strategies exist for breeding, feeding, shearing, training, and showing sheep, as well as keeping the sheep healthy and properly exercised.  As 4-H members, young people are expected to raise and care for their animals as well as learn the fundamentals of animal husbandry.  They present before an audience of their peers and adults the details of animal pathogens, birthing techniques, medical interventions, and strategies for a successful flock.  There is no question that these young people learn to work hard with compassion and affection for their animals.

At the Dutchess County Fair (and fairs across the country), exhibitors show their animals and are graded on their technique and the way they have trained, bred, and cared for them.  They compete and win awards but are quick to help out even their most formidable competitors and mentor their younger colleagues learning the craft.

One of the fair’s most exciting and creative elements is the Costume Class competition. Participants choose a costume for themselves and their sheep, often referencing a current popular movie, celebrity, or topic.  In my opinion, it is the best part of the fair.

Our Son the Man in Black-Alien (2014-Now in high school) With Alien Sheep

Our Nephew (9 years old) As Dog Man and Cat Kid the Sheep

Our Daughter (2012-Now a 22-year-old data scientist) As an Olympic Swimmer With Michael Phelps Sheep

Our Daughter (2012-Now a 25-year-old computer engineer) As Ketchup Bottle and Her Hot Dog Lamb

Our Son, Santa Clause (2012-Now in high school) With Rudolf Sheep

Our Nephew (10 years old) As Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift the Sheep

Our Daughter (2014-Now a 22-year-old data scientist) As Mardi Gras Queen With Mardi Gras King Sheep

Our Daughter (2014-Now a 22-year-old data scientist) As Mardi Gras Queen With Mardi Gras King Sheep

Our Nephew (6 years old), The Mouse With the Cookie Sheep From ‘If You Give a Mouse a Cookie’

Photos by Justin Randal, Alicia Crisp, and Jimmy Crisp  Curated Brochure by Crisp Architects: Portfolio

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