Highland Cows
Although not historical to Rural Hill, these fascinating cows originate from the Highlands of Scotland. Highland Cows have been bred all over the world being able to adapt in a variety of climates from Alaska to the southeastern United States. It is the oldest registered breed of cattle. Highlands are well tempered and easily halter trained. They add much appeal to the Scottish heritage we present at Rural Hill.

Cows (Guernsey and Durham) 
Cows are an excellent source of meat, milk, butter, cream, cheese, and even fertilizer. There have been a variety of different cows at Rural Hill. In Adam Brevard Davidson’s journal dated January 1, 1856, he inventoried more than 30 head, but of what breed we are not certain at this time. In a photo dated November 1942, Guernsey cows were pictured at Rural Hill. Today we have Durhams. In the future Rural Hill may add cows which were typical of the farm life.

Pigs (Berkshire)
Pigs were common among many farmers in the 1700-1800’s. Hogs were a primary source of income for the Davidson family. Adam Brevard Davidson created an industry at Rural Hill by raising pigs, smoking them, and then selling them at various markets. In his farm journal he states that on January 21, 1856 he killed and hung 28 hogs. Photographs indicate the Davidson family had Berkshire Pigs at one time. The Berkshire Pig first arrived in America around 1823. So it is quite possible these were the type of pigs the family raised. At this time Rural Hill does not have pigs on site. In time we will add these pigs to add to our educational programming.

Horses
Horses were the most important animal early Americans owned. They were primarily used for transportation, but were also use to plow fields and move heavy loads when a mule was not available. Major John Davidson loaned his cousin, General William Lee Davidson one of his horses from Rural Hill to ride to the battlefield of Cowan’s Ford. As a result of being a much better target on horseback, General Davidson was killed in the battle.

Mules
Mules played an important role on the farm. They were used to plow the fields and carry heavy loads. They could work harder and longer than horses. Adam Brevard recorded owning a number of mules. Archival photos also show mules at Rural Hill. The staff is working toward acquiring mules to demonstrate their use on this farm.

Goats (Myotonic or Wooden Leg)
We do know the Davidson family had goats at Rural Hill. At this time we do not know what breed. However, this is our friend “Lucy”. We believe she is a Myotonic (Wooden Leg) goat, one of the few goats indigenous to the United States. She is instrumental in overseeing the Highland Cows. She likes to flex her muscle by directing the cows across the fields.

Sheep (“Black Face”)
Sheep were quite common at Rural Hill. At this time we are still researching the approximate number the Davidson family had, but we have photos of the early 1900’s which show numerous “black face” sheep on site. Rural Hill is in the process of acquiring sheep to add to its interpretive programming.

Chickens (Rhode Island Red) 
Chickens provided an excellent source of food either by laying eggs or becoming the main course. Today, these Rhode Island Reds roam throughout the farm simply as a demonstration of animal life on the farm.

Turkeys (Bourbon and Bronze) 
Turkeys were apparent at Rural Hill as seen in a photograph of the early 1900’s near the wood shed. They provided another wonderful source of meat for the family. Currently there are no turkeys at the farm