As autumn’s chill settles over the Thompson-Neely Farmstead, the leaves are changing, the fields are quieting, and our fuzzy flock is getting ready for the colder months ahead.
But winter is coming, and our sheep need their friends to help keep them warm, healthy, and well cared for.
Our 2026 Sponsor a Sheep Campaign is now underway! When you sponsor a sheep, you become a vital part of their care by helping to provide nutritious food, warm bedding, expert veterinary care, and safe shelter. These beautiful heritage sheep do so much more than graze—they bring vibrant 18th-century history to life for thousands of families and children every year.
By sponsoring a sheep, you’re helping to preserve an important piece of our agricultural heritage while keeping our hands-on educational programs thriving.
Your sponsorship helps preserve something rare and wonderful. Today, many historic livestock breeds are at risk of extinction. We’re proud to protect and care for four special heritage breeds recognized by The Livestock Conservancy: Hog Island (Critical), Leicester Longwool (Threatened), Dorset (Threatened), and Shetland (Recovering).
To Sponsor a sheep or donate for their care, visit https://washingtoncrossingpark.app.neoncrm.com/forms/sponsor-a-sheep.
Our flock is home to 10 sheep representing historic breeds once found on 18th-century farms:
- Six Leicester Longwools: A breed George Washington kept at Mount Vernon.
- Two Dorsets: Known for their hardiness and friendly nature.
- One Shetland: Small but mighty, with beautiful wool.
- One Hog Island: A rare heritage breed descended from British sheep brought to Virginia in the 18th century.
Each sponsorship directly supports:
- Food: During the winter months, our flock consumes approximately 200 bales of hay, along with supplemental grain for older and underweight sheep.
- Bedding: More than 150 bales of straw keep the barn clean, dry, and comfortable throughout the colder months.
- Medical Care: Routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, parasite prevention, hoof care, and medications ensure that every sheep receives the care they need year-round.