Meaning
A farm worker responsible for the care of dairy or beef cattle.
Description
Cowmen were employed on farms to tend cattle, milking dairy cows, cleaning byres, managing feeding and overseeing the health of the herd. On large dairy farms a cowman might supervise several assistants. The work began very early in the morning with the first milking and required skill in handling large animals and identifying signs of illness. Many cowmen lived in tied cottages on the farm where they worked. The role was distinct from that of the general agricultural labourer in that it required specialist knowledge of cattle husbandry.
Also Known As
Cattleman, Dairyman, Herdsman
Commonly Found In
- Census Returns
- Parish Registers
- Estate Records
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