Four Hog Island lambs born on Georgetown farm

At La Bella Farm in Georgetown March 26, twin Hog Island lambs named Washington and Leslie Lee were born. Two days later, March 28, another set of twins named Jefferson and Martha were born.

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy characterizes the status of Hog Island sheep as critical, meaning that fewer than 200 Hog Island sheep are registered in the United States, and only concentrated and sustained effort can save them from extinction. "Sedona, Topanga and Mila are the foundation ewes for our breeding program. All three ewes come from the flock at Mount Vernon," said Laura Marie Kramer, owner of La Bella Farm.

During the 1700s, colonists brought a flock of sheep to Hog Island, a barrier island off the coast of the Delmarva Peninsula. Over time, the sheep of Hog Island evolved for hardiness, foraging ability and reproductive efficiency, shaping the Hog Island sheep into a distinct breed. During the 1930s, a series of hurricanes washed across the island, destroying much of the land. By 1945, all of the residents had left Hog Island, leaving behind the flock of sheep, which continued to thrive. During the 1970s, the Nature Conservancy purchased the island and relocated the sheep to George Washington's Mount Vernon estate in Virginia.

La Bella Farm also grows produce and flowers for cut bouquets, and has a flock of laying hens. For more information, go to labellafarmde.com.