Located at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds in the middle of Ferndale, a town famous for raising this legend, lies the graves of three butterfat champion cows.
Known lovingly as the Champion Cow Graves, these three (somewhat) grim plaques are an ode to a trio of famous utters that gave the town some bragging rights throughout the 1950--70s. And while some might consider side-by-side tombstones dedicated to grass chewing cows an odd thing, these brave soldiers kept Ferndale on the map, and are completely deserving of the burial given here.
It's truly a random a sight to see and, while I didn't know these cows personally, I can only theorize the they lived amazing lives.
First up is Silken Lady's Ruby of F., a true champion who bravely ushered Ferndale into the 1950s. Like the decade itself, I only imagine that she was a little bland and conservative, but contained a great survivalist mentality coming off the great depression. Her milk was probably a bit on the sour side, but didn't spoil very quickly. She's also the OG of this posse, and for that, we honor her with grave #1.
Next, we've got Challengers Joyce VG., a strange and mysterious name to say the least. I can only assume that she was a spy for the FBI (Federal Bovine Investigator) in her former life, and that the VG is a code word that can only be deciphered within communist circles. While shady in her day-to-day activities, the sweet and silky milk produced was enough to warrant a tombstone. Grave #2 goes to you.
And closing out today is Sunny King Berna, the world butterfat champion of 1977. Judging by her vibrant name, I can only assume her calm demeanor and cheery attitude gave the world a lot of milk during the swinging disco/coke era. Surrounded by bell bottom wearing hippies and political turmoil overseas, Sunny kept her head up and utter down throughout the turbulence. For that, we bequeath grave #3 upon her.
And if you're still unimpressed by dead cows being buried on a public fairgrounds, let me remind you again that Ferndale's fame comes from this display, or THIS. Pick your poison when coming through town.
DIRECTIONS: Upon arriving at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds, take 5th st. to the main gate and drive to the back, keeping right. Graves will be on the left, and (I assure you) that they're the only cow graves for miles. You won't miss em
