Robert Colling

British stock raiser

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June 24, 2026

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Robert Colling, along with his brother Charles, were pioneers in scientific livestock breeding, specifically focusing on Shorthorn (or Durham) beef cattle. Inspired by the work of Robert Bakewell, a renowned stock raiser, the Colling brothers began improving cattle quality in the Tees River valley around 1782. Their efforts were part of a broader agricultural revolution in Britain during the 18th century, which emphasized technical improvements and scientific methods in farming and animal husbandry. Stock raising, the occupation of raising livestock, became a significant part of the agricultural landscape.1234

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Robert Colling and Charles Colling
His brother, who occupied another farm in the district, later turned to cattle breeding. Charles’s wife, the former Mary Colpitts (1763–1850), also is credited with valuable work in cattle breeding.
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His brother, who occupied another farm in the district, later turned to cattle breeding. Charles’s wife, the former Mary Colpitts (1763–1850), also is credited with valuable work in cattle breeding.
Read More