WV Farm Bureau Magazine September 2014 | Page 13

Shear Experience - A Milestone to Remember Calvin McCutcheon, known throughout the Mountain State for his sheepshearing skill, reached a milestone that few can claim on August 8th at the State Fair of West Virginia. McCutcheon, who is also a United Methodist minister, sheared his 100,000th sheep in front of a packed house (or should we say, sheep barn) to the amazement of all. During his record-setting achievement, McCutcheon suffered equipment failure, and being left-handed, had to finish the job with right-handed shears. Still, he was proud to point out, the sheep came through without a nick. Above, left and top right, McCutcheon displays his skill, crafted over several decades. Below right, he readies his equipment prior to the event. West Virginia Farm Bureau News 13