The Randall Lineback Cattle's Tale

Randall Linebacks are among America's oldest and most unique cattle breeds, having remained genetically consistent since the 17th century. They have a history that predates conventional beef and dairy breeds by about 150 years. Originally bred in colonial America, these cattle were versatile, providing early settlers with dairy, meat, and oxen as draft animals. However, the mid-1800s saw the industrialization of cattle farming, leading to the potential extinction of many American cattle breeds as they were either crossbred with or replaced by European varieties. The Randall family of Sunderland, Vermont, played a crucial role in preserving this breed by maintaining a closed herd from 1912 to 1985, which is how the breed got its name, Randall Linebacks. By 1985, their numbers had dwindled significantly to only a handful in number, but timely intervention by conservationists ensured their survival so now there are over 600 across at least 15 states.

Elevate Your Culinary Experience with Randall Beef

Randall Lineback cattle from Matanah Meadows are known for their exceptional care and natural upbringing. These cattle are 100% pasture-born and raised, producing beef with a deep, rich flavor. Leading a life on the Sierra Neveda Foothill range, they graze on nutritious grass and roam freely. This results in beef that's not only flavorful but also healthier, with less cholesterol, fat, and sodium compared to conventional beef. This breed, untouched by modern industrial beef standards, produce meat that is free from heavy intermuscular fat, giving it a uniquely delicious taste. Matanah Meadows is dedicated to humane, pasture-based treatment, ensuring a premium beef product unparalleled in flavor and quality.

Sustainable Dairy Delights

With their daily yield of two gallons of high-butterfat milk and strong genetics bred for grass-based milk production, Randall Lineback cattle prove to be a fitting choice for any small homestead. In New England, Randall cattle have already made a mark in the artisan cheese domain, as exemplified by Winter Hill Farm. Their array of handcrafted cheeses showcases the exceptional dairy quality these cattle can provide. With plans to further develop the dairy aspect of these cows, we look forward to offering a range of dairy products to visitors of Matanah Meadows in the future. Our goal is to provide a direct farm-to-table experience, where guests can enjoy wholesome dairy products derived from our carefully tended Randall Lineback cattle.

Meet Arlo

Arlo, our breeding bull, journeyed all the way from Witness Tree Farm in Missouri to join our herd. After a search for a genetically diverse match to complement our beautiful cows from Rising Phoenix Farm in Kentucky, we found our answer in Arlo. He displays a calm yet assertive demeanor, gentle in nature but commanding respect when needed. His horns are not just ornamental; they assert his position when required, though he's notably submissive when it comes to his favorite girl and head cow, Daisy. We highly recommend that guests avoid touching Arlo, as he is particularly sensitive around his headspace and may use his formidable horns to assert his personal boundaries! As Arlo approaches the golden days of retirement, he has taken on a mentorship role for the young bull calf, Clarence, giving essential lessons on taking care of the herd. Arlo has been an indispensable addition to Matanah Meadows, and as he transitions into mentoring, his legacy continues to play a significant role in our farming operations.

Fun Fact: Arlo was a model for photographer Kim Carr Photography. She was taking pictures for her Endangered Farm Animal Photo Project and chose Arlo to represent the breed. Arlo - Randall - Bull - Wall Art - Limited Edition - Kim Carr Photography

According to legend…

“ancestors of today’s Randall Linebacks under orders from George Washington were used to pull sleds carrying abandoned French cannon under the cover of darkness to a spot overlooking unsuspecting and ultimately doomed British positions during the Battle of Boston in 1776.” Randall Lineback Cattle - The Breed that Saved America | The Cattle Site

 FAQs

  • While a naturally docile creature by nature, cows can be fiercely protective mothers. Our cows are not routinely handled on a day to day basis so they remain skittish to any human touch. Please do not try and pet them. They have horns and know how to use them with wicked precision if they feel the need!

  • We only butcher the males that do not sell for a good price. Our primary focus is breed preservation, but the reality is that only one bull is needed for many cows. Our heifer calves always sell quickly.

  • Here at Matanah Meadows, the majority of our calves are born in the middle of winter, December through January.

  • It depends. Most of the time our cattle are grazing on the range and deriving 100% of their forage needs directly from the land. At certain times of year, we do need to supplement and so guests can help feed them their rations. We are also starting to explore other types of feed crops and production for cattle so there may be more opportunities in the future.