Some animals come into your life quietly. Curly arrived on a trailer, in August heat, looking like a very determined marshmallow who had seen some things.
Curly is an Icelandic sheep, which means he’s naturally built for snow storms, rocky hillsides, and heroic Instagram posts. What he wasn’t built for, unfortunately, was the way his horns grew: curling tighter and tighter until they pressed into his eyes, leaving him nearly blind.
Sheep, as it turns out, aren’t known for their gentle bedside manner. Curly learned that the hard way, nudged out by his own flock when he needed them most.
Pushed out and struggling to survive, Curly needed a miracle. Luckily, he had one in his corner: an incredibly talented and kindhearted veterinarian (who also happened to work with our farm!) stepped in, trimmed his horns, treated his infections, and called us, knowing exactly what Curly needed to heal and thrive: a friendship only Anthony could provide.
Curly, our Icelandic Sheep, was born in 2022 and came to the farm in 2024
Did we have space for a sheep who couldn’t see and needed a new friend? We absolutely did.
Imagine stepping into a brand-new pasture: the ground unfamiliar, the air thick with August heat, and the world around you a blur you can barely sense. Curly did it anyway, bravely stepping out of his trailer and moving forward.
Anthony, our Katahdin Sheep
Little by little, Curly found his footing. He learned the shape of the pasture; he learned the sound of the gates, and most importantly, he learned he wasn’t alone.
Anthony, Arabella, and Belichik, the sheep he now shares his days with, didn’t rush him. They met him halfway, in quiet solidarity, grazing a little closer each afternoon.
Today, Curly isn’t just part of the flock, he’s a farm favorite. He’s one of the first animals we introduce to our Farmer for a Day campers because of his gentle, patient nature. Children are invited to meet him up close, explore the texture of his wool, feel the curve of his horns, and gently pat his soft nose.
Curly’s story isn’t just about survival. It’s about second chances, quiet bravery, and the slow, beautiful work of finding your place, and letting others find a place with you.
Curly’s Fleece: From Pasture to Sweater Vest
Curly’s journey didn’t end when he found his flock, he’s still giving back to the farm community today.
This fall, Curly’s fleece was spun into beautiful, soft yarn by a local artisan. (If you’ve never touched Icelandic yarn before, imagine the coziest winter cloud you can think of, and then double it.)
And to make it even more special, our Executive Director Sarah’s mom used Curly’s yarn to hand-knit a one-of-a-kind sweater vest!
Every stitch carries a piece of Curly’s story: resilience, warmth, and a whole lot of heart.
We are so proud to share these photos showing the full circle of care, from Curly’s pasture to a piece of clothing stitched with love.
Educational Spotlight: Icelandic Sheep
- Ancient and hardy: Icelandic sheep are one of the oldest, purest domesticated breeds in the world, descended from sheep brought to Iceland by Viking settlers over 1,000 years ago.
- Double-coated wool: They have a thick, dual-layer fleece made up of a soft undercoat (thel) and a long, waterproof outer coat (tog).
- Twice-yearly shearing: Icelandic sheep typically need to be sheared twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, to stay healthy and comfortable.
- Wool uses: Their wool is prized for making everything from warm sweaters and mittens to durable carpets and traditional Viking cloaks.
Curly’s fleece is a perfect example of Icelandic resilience: soft, strong, and ready for anything.
Come visit Curly at the farm, learn about Icelandic sheep, and see for yourself why this determined marshmallow has become one of the most beloved faces (and fleeces) at our farm!
Written by Katie Schelzel, Operations Manager