| THE DREAMER AND THE DOER, these are words that can be used to describe Harlan Brown, owner and founder of Brown Sheep Company, Inc. The dream began years ago with the purchase of an Ashford spinning wheel for his daughter at Christmas.
Harlan had farmed his grandfather’s beloved western Nebraska farm for 35 years. During that time he developed an extensive sheep feeding and wool production operation.
Finally in 1980, the dream began when the purchase of spinning equipment from a mill in South Carolina was negotiated. Harlan and Janet drove their own semi truck and trailer down to retrieve the equipment. They returned home with a set of pin drafters, a spinning frame, and other miscellaneous equipment that they had not a clue how to use. The lambing shed that had been built 10 years earlier to house 1000 ewes and lambs was stripped of all evidence of the animals and replaced with equipment that no one in Western Nebraska had ever seen.
Six months later, on July 4, Harlan had his first ball of yarn in his hand. The first year was dedicated to perfecting one line of yarn, a single ply, 100% wool product that is still known today as Top of the Lamb.
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...Harlan Brown has become a legend in the yarn industry...After producing a product that the Browns felt was marketable, they filled the trunk of their car and hit the road.
By 1982, after his son, Robert, had learned the fine points of dying natural fibers, the original color group of cream, black, and blended grays, was expanded to include fifteen colors
Yes, Harlan Brown has become a legend in the yarn industry. He created a textile mill where none was before; creating one that everyone thought could not be built. You might think that at age 85, he would be ready to rest with his accomplishments. Hardly! Each day finds Harlan buying wool, filling boxes, repairing equipment, and hatching new ideas.
Peggy Jo Wells knows, because she is the daughter who received the spinning wheel, and she is the daughter committed to carrying on the legacy. Peggy and her husband, Robert, have made the commitment to carry on the Brown Sheep Company name that represents both quality and service.
Loop stocks Burly Spun; the perfect chunky yarn for knitting up beautiful knits very quickly. Great for chunky scarves, wraps, cowls, blankets etc.
www.brownsheep.com
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