Lana Merino

Spain is the homeland of the Merino sheep. Phoenicians and Carthaginians introduced fine-wool sheep, and the Spanish developed large flocks managed by specialized shepherds practicing transhumance. The Spanish economy was tied to sheep farming and the wool industry. Between the 17th and 18th centuries, an export embargo favored the breed’s development. By the late 18th century, European conflicts dispersed the flocks worldwide.

In Germany, in 1765, the Elector of Saxony obtained 300 Merinos, ancestors of the Tasmanian Merinos. Other states adopted Saxon methods, improving both carcass and wool production. In England, King George III exchanged sheep with the King of Spain, forming the royal flock, which later reached Tasmania. In France, in 1780, Louis XVI acquired 269 Merinos, starting the Rambouillet flock.

In America, in the early 19th century, Merinos were imported, with Vermont breeders focusing on wool production, leading to the “Vermont” breed. In New South Wales, in 1793, Captain Waterhouse imported Merinos. In Tasmania, the Van Diemen’s Land Company introduced Saxon sheep; breeders like Henry and Cox brought Merinos, and Mrs. Forlonge imported sheep in 1820. In Victoria, Tasmanian breeders moved, adapting Merinos to new pastures; Peppin, in the Riverina district, became a famous breeding farm.