About JacLin Farms
Welcome to JacLin Farms, where we're proud to be a small family-owned farm in the heart of southwest Virginia's mountains. Inspired by the legacy of our property's previous owners, Jack and Linda Barnette, we're committed to raising quality livestock at a reasonable price. Our farm is a labor of love, driven by our desire to honor the land, our heritage, and the values that have been passed down through generations. We believe that working the land is not just a means of making a living, but a way to build character, teach responsibility, and connect with the natural world. We're excited to share our passion for farming with you, and we hope you'll consider us for your next purchase.
Diverse Farming
JacLin Farms is home to a variety of animals, including horses, ponies, chickens, sheep, cattle, goats, and more. We believe that a well-rounded farm is essential for creating a healthy and thriving farm.
At JacLin Farms, we utilize cross-grazed pastures to promote parasite control and reduce stress on our animals. By mixing different species and allowing them to graze together, we're able to create a more diverse and resilient pasture that benefits our animals.
We're committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in animal husbandry. We often attend seminars and workshops through Virginia Tech, and we network with professional organizations and Extension Offices to stay informed about the latest developments in animal health and nutrition. We believe that educated farming is the key to producing healthy animals.
History of Fainting Goats
Fainting goats, also known as Myotonic goats, have been a part of American history for centuries. Originating in the 19th century, these unique goats were first bred in the Appalachian region of the United States, specifically in the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina.
The history of the breed dates back to the 1880s when John Tinsley, an itinerant farm laborer from Nova Scotia, arrived in central Tennessee with four distinct "Stiff" goats. These goats were later acquired by Tinsley's employer, Dr. Mayberry, and gradually gained recognition in the region for their docility, muscular build, and high reproductive rates, which led to an increase in "Stiff," "Nervous," and "Fainting" goats. In the 1950s, some of these goats were brought to central Texas and bred for larger size and meat qualities, earning them the name “Wooden Leg” goats. By the late 1980s, both the Tennessee and Texas varieties were rediscovered, resulting in two breeder camps: one focusing on historical traits and meat characteristics, while the other selected for novelty features like extreme stiffness and smaller size.
The name "Myotonic" refers to the goat's unique muscle physiology, which causes their muscles to contract and stiffen when they are excited or stressed. This phenomenon is often referred to as "fainting" or "stiff-leg syndrome," and it is completely harmless.
Fainting goats were originally bred for their meat production, but they quickly gained popularity as pets due to their unique appearance and endearing personalities. Today, they are prized by breeders and enthusiasts around the world for their ruggedness, intelligence, and affectionate nature.
At JacLin Farms, we are proud to be part of this long history of breeding and preserving this unique breed. We take great care to ensure that our fainting goats are raised with love, care, and attention to detail, and we strive to produce top-quality animals that will make wonderful additions to any family or farm.