This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Last of a breed Shirley Pettengill keeps sheep shearer craft alive
In Southwestern Oregon two veteran shearers Shirley Pettengill and Mike McWilliam work side by side in mirrored sheds. Pettengill nearing 72 recalls a time of thousands of sheep while McWilliam, 1970 Myrtle Point graduate, pursued training in New Zealand and now speeds through 250 to 500 daily on lambs. The demand and numbers have declined, yet both endure the repetitive grind and yearn for breaks as they reflect on a fading industry and lifelong craft.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Shirley Pettengil
Mike McWilliam
Pettengill
Oregon
Shirley
Mike
Cap
McWilliam
John McWilliam
Gaylord
Pennengill
Myrtle Point High School
New Zealand
Emma