Photograph of a man grooming a cow named Elsie at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) (Photo: Gordon W. Powley/Archives Of Ontario, Public Domain)
GREENWICH, NY — Cows have played an essential role throughout human history, contributing to agriculture, our economy and our culture in countless ways. They are our companions, our food and our inspiration. From the pages of children’s books to the pastures of the White House lawn, cows have left their hoof marks on the fabric of our society.
Recently, Viatina 19 has attracted worldwide attention by becoming the most expensive cow ever sold at auction. Valued at $4 million, the cow is constantly watched by armed guards, security cameras, veterinarians, and crowds of people who flock to see this magnificent animal. With such a famous animal taking social media by storm today, we’re tempted to take a look back at some famous cows through history.
Join us as we explore how incredible cows like Ferdinand the Bull and Elmfarm Ollie became legends and the stories behind them. Throughout the ages, these incredible animals have enriched the lives of thousands of people and will never be forgotten.
Ferdinand the Bull
Many of us know the story of Ferdinand the bull through books, movies and songs. However, many don’t realize that Ferdinand was actually a real bull who lived near Salamanca, Spain in the 1930s. The real-life Ferdinand was named Sibiron. The beautiful black bull got into a fight with another bull and was injured, but as a result, he befriended the breeder’s 7-year-old daughter, Carmelita. Other children began coming to meet Sibiron (whose name means “big privateer”), and he began to attract attention in the Spanish newspapers as a gentle animal.
In 1936, Sibirón signed a contract with Barcelona’s old bullring, the Monumental, to fight bullfighters. Many people came to see if Sibirón would fight, as he was in a life-or-death situation. Sibirón charged the bullfighters, proving that he could still fight. But as Sibirón fought, the crowd rose to their feet and began chanting “Un Indult”, a rare pardon for a bull. Their cries echoed through the arena, and Sibirón trotted to the side of the arena, nuzzled his owner, and his life was spared. Sibirón returned home and appeared on the covers of many magazines as the bull that was saved.
But Sibillon’s story did not have a happy ending. After she returned to the ranch to spend time with her young daughter, civil war broke out. In mid-July, Franco’s militiamen began plundering the city, and in the process, they broke into Sibillon’s enclosure, brutally murdering him for breakfast before being driven off by Resistance forces that evening. Sibillon’s death came at roughly the same time that the Spanish Civil War began in earnest, lasting for three years.
Elm Farm Ollie
If you’ve never heard of Elm Farm Ollie, you’re in for a big treat. In 1930, the cow became the first cow to be milked while flying aboard an airplane, marking a unique and unusual milestone in agricultural and aviation history. Also known as “Nellie Jay” or the “Sky Queen,” Elm Farm Ollie was a Jersey cow that was airlifted 72 miles from Bismarck, Missouri to St. Louis as part of the celebrations for the St. Louis International Air Exposition.
Her historic flight took place on February 18, 1930. The event was organized to demonstrate the feasibility of aerial transportation of agricultural products and to gather data on the effects of flight on livestock. Elm Farm Ollie’s flight was a publicity stunt to promote advances in aviation technology and its practical applications in agriculture. Her milk was sealed in cartons and parachuted down to the spectators below.
Though the flying cow never came to fruition, her journey remains one of history’s quirky and celebrated moments. It was a fun and memorable demonstration of the possibilities of air transport and captured people’s imaginations. Today, Elm Farm Ollie is remembered at various anniversaries and celebrations. Her story is often told at agricultural fairs and aviation events, reminding us of the innovative and sometimes humorous approach people have taken to exploring new technologies.
Maudyn Ormsby
Maudine Ormsby was a remarkable cow in many ways. Around 1921, this Holstein held the world record for her ability to produce 743.5 pounds of milk and 28.7 pounds of butterfat in a seven-day test. But that’s not what made her famous.
This special Holstein holds a special place in university history as the only cow ever to be named Homecoming Queen. Her selection at Ohio State in 1926 is a legendary example of light-hearted pranking that is treasured in university lore. Although there was some irregularity in Ballard’s counting, Maudin was declared the winner.
The event garnered media attention both locally and nationally. Though Mauldin did not participate in all of the traditional festivities that accompany a homecoming queen, her presence brought joy and whimsy to the celebration. She walked in the homecoming parade, and her selection became a symbol of school spirit and life taking unexpected turns.
Sadly, Maudine contracted a highly contagious disease called brucellosis and passed away at the age of 7. But Maudine’s story lives on. She reminds us that sometimes our most memorable and cherished moments come from the unexpected and from humor, and she left behind a lasting legacy that enriches the traditions and culture of the College.
Elsie the Cow
If you’re familiar with Borden Dairy, you’re also familiar with Elsie the cow, the daisy-necklaced cow that has been a marketing icon for generations. The real-life cow that became synonymous with Elsie was originally named “Heure de Lobelia,” a Jersey cow from a small farm who made her debut as Elsie at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. Chosen for her gentle nature and photogenic looks, Lobelia perfectly embodied the traits Borden wanted to associate with their brand.
Elsie became a cultural icon, appearing in parades, fairs, and other public events and beloved by children and adults alike. Her immense popularity spawned a line of merchandise, including toys, clothing, and other memorabilia. In 1940, the same year she made her debut in the film “Little Men,” Elsie gave birth to a calf named Beulah.
Over the years, Elsie was also awarded honorary university degrees, including Doctor of Bovine Science, Doctor of Humane Studies, and Doctor of Economics. Sadly, in 1941, Elsie was injured in a car accident and had to be euthanized. A replacement was eventually created, but the original Elsie lives on in our hearts as a testament to the enduring power of advertising to connect with people on a personal level. Her charm, warmth, and approachability made her more than just a mascot; she became a beloved part of American culture and left a lasting legacy that continues to influence brand storytelling today.
Pauline Wayne
Pauline Wayne holds a special place in American history as the last cow to graze on the White House lawn. Serving during President William Howard Taft’s administration from 1910 to 1913, Pauline was not only a source of fresh milk, but also a symbol of an era when even the White House retained a touch of agrarian life.
She was a Holstein cow given to President Taft by Wisconsin Senator Isaac Stevenson in 1910. She replaced the previous White House cow, Mooly Wooly. Her presence in the White House in the early 20th century highlighted an era of reliance on fresh, locally produced dairy products before widespread refrigeration and commercial dairy distribution.
Pauline Wayne also captured the public’s imagination and became a minor celebrity: she was frequently featured in the press, with detailed accounts of her daily life and occasional public appearances.
Today, Pauline Wayne is remembered as a fascinating footnote in American presidential history. Her story offers a nostalgic glimpse into a time when even presidential families maintained direct ties to agriculture and self-reliance. For more about her, see the article “Pauline Wayne: The Last Cow in the White House.”
Who is your favorite famous cow?
These are some of the cows that have captured the hearts of not only their own people but the whole world throughout history. These amazing cows have left a lasting impression in our minds and will be talked about for years to come. That’s why we want to know who your favorite cow is in history.
Whether they’re beloved family pets, local legends, or other cows from history, we want to celebrate these amazing animals together. Nothing would make us happier than receiving an email from you with a story you can share with us. Join the conversation and let’s collect amazing cow stories that showcase the unique and heartwarming role cows play in our lives.
