A rediscovered historical plaque celebrating the arrival of Guernsey cows into the United States in 1840 has returned to public view.
The first Guernsey cattle arrived in America in 1840.
Almost a century later, when the Second World War began and the Germans invaded Guernsey, the American Guernsey cattle breeders feared for the survival of the island’s iconic breed.
They established the American Island Memorial Gift Fund in 1947 and donated $22,294 to Guernsey farmers to help restore the number of livestock.
This is equivalent to almost $315,000 (£240,000) today.
In 1960, a group of Americans gifted a plaque to the island celebrating this connection.
It was displayed in the Market Buildings until various renovations hid it from the public.
Marco Ciotti, the secretary and Aide-de-Campto of the Lieutenant-Governor, rediscovered the plaque.
Today (11 April 2025), General Richard Cripwell unveiled the plaque's new position, outside the new Visitor Information Centre in Market Square.
The unveiling coincides with the visit of the first scheduled cruise ship of the season, which has American passengers on board.
President of The Royal Guernsey Agricultural & Horticultural Society, Bill Luff, says it is symbolic.
"This plaque is more than just a marker of history; it is a symbol of friendship, resilience, and the shared agricultural heritage between Guernsey and the United States.
"We are delighted to see it restored to a place of prominence where future generations can appreciate its significance."
Robin Alden from the American Guernsey Association says the international friendship remains strong.
“We are proud of our deep roots in connection with the Royal Guernsey Agricultural & Horticultural Society and our shared mission of preserving and advancing the Guernsey breed.
"We thank the Society and the people of Guernsey for bringing this fine golden breed to the United States and look forward to our continued
collaboration for years to come.”
@islandfm 👀 A rediscovered historical plaque celebrating the arrival of Guernsey cows into the United States in 1840 has returned to public view 🇺🇸x🇬🇬 🗣️ Speaking: Guernsey’s Lieutenant-Governor General Richard Cripwell #Guernsey #channelislands #cow #america #historytime #cows ♬ original sound - Island FM
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