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Angora goats originate from the middle east, specifically from near the Ankara region of Turkey. In the 1850s the goats were imported to the United States, to the area around North and South Carolina. Eventually, the Texas geography and climate proved to be the ideal setting for these goats to prosper. Angora goats also tolerate living in other climates, but a little more care is needed in ensuring proper housing during inclement weather. The fiber produced by these animals is called mohair. Today, the US is the second largest producer of mohair in the world, second only to South Africa.
The Angora Goat show, that takes place during the Sheep and Wool Festival, showcases goats from around the Northeast and Central Atlantic States. Each year goats from Maine to Virginia and as far west as Missouri, are registered for and attend the show. A judge, an expert in breeding, raising, evaluating and showing Angora Goats judges the show. Goats are evaluated for body structure and fiber characteristics, with the overall score being 50% based on body and 50% based on fiber. Premiums and ribbons are awarded. The festival offers a unique opportunity to see many different goats and goat breeders in one central location, and to take advantage of the knowledge these breeders have acquired from years of animal husbandry.
In addition to the goat show, a fleece show and sale are also included in the schedule. Fiber is sheared from the animal and offered for show and sale. This is another excellent opportunity to watch and learn as the judge evaluates each individual fleece and explains its merits. Ribbons and premiums are awarded for the top placing entries.
Angora Goat Show Judge: Bonnie Pember Naumann
Bonnie Pember Naumann was born and raised in Bandera, Texas. She grew up raising and showing angoras and sheep. Her father, Mike Pember, was one of the premier fine hair Angora goat producers in the region. Bonnie was active in her county 4-H program showing animals and judging wool and mohair. She attended public school all twelve years in Bandera, Texas, graduating in 1972. She held various accounting positions and retired from the oil and gas industry after 39 years.
In Bonnie’s words:
In the fall of 1985, I met Dale Naumann, and we were married in August of 1986. We have two grown children, three grand kids, and one great granddaughter. My family has long been involved in the Angora goat business, and we continue the tradition. Our angora business is a sixth-generation operation of dedication to breeding and raising Angora goats here in the Texas Hill Country. Dale and I raise registered goats to sell to other breeders as well as to 4-H and FFA students. It is here that we take pride in working with all the youth to continue the angora industry. In addition, we process our own mohair, selling our fiber and mohair products at fiber shows across the country. We focus on the niche market, spinners, weavers, and the niche crafters. We breed mohair goats for natural white and colored fiber to meet customer demand. Our approach has always been to put the customers’ interests first. We take the time to understand what our customers want and deliver. We have attended shows in New York, North Carolina, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. I have judged goat and fleece shows in Texas, as well as in other regions of the United States and Canada.
I have been a member of AAGBA, TAGRA, CAGBA, MCA, Farm Bureau as well as serving as a director, President, and officers of these organizations.
Dale and I love what we do, and our customers are so interested in it.