Agricultural History Review, Volume 52 Part 1 (2004), pp. 38–55

Bakewell's reputation rests on the principle of in-and-in breeding and the establishment of the New Leicester sheep, in which he was assisted by a group of local improvers who were cousins and fellow Presbyterians. Although his high prices were controversial, before 1780 most of his rams were let for under ten guineas. Bakewell's success as a breeder was founded on his ability to meet market demands by producing a better beast for the butcher, but there was a decline in fecundity and meat quality. Doubts about his achievements have recently been expressed, but the Border Leicester remains the most successful modern long-wool cross. 

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