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In the Company of Octavia
- Jeff M Chambers
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 22
In the annals of Silver Maple Dexters, few names resonate within our farm with the enduring legacy of SMD Octavia Certus #026256, affectionately known as "Tavie." Born of distinguished lineage, sired by Breoch Sultan and from dam SMD Alpha Ceti, Tavie embodied the quintessence of the Dexter breed's dual-purpose heritage.
From her earliest days, “Tavie exhibited that rare quality—call it ‘presence’ or ‘charisma’—but there was always something in her that said: ‘Pay attention.’ Her stature was compact and robust yet perfectly balanced and refined, a testament to the breed. Her coat was lustrous and silky black, shimmering in the Nebraska sun and mirroring the rich pastures she gracefully grazed upon. Her superb, gentle disposition and maternal nature endeared her to all at the farm.
Tavie's contributions to our breeding program were nothing short of remarkable. She consistently produced offspring that not only met but often exceeded our expectations. Several of her progeny achieved national recognition, standing as champions and exemplars of the Dexter standard. Her genetic legacy now threads through herds across the United States and North America, influencing the breed's development and enriching its genetic tapestry.
Beyond her prowess in the breeding paddock, Tavie was the epitome of a dual-purpose SMD cow. Her well-attached udder, fore, and rear, with teats ideally sized for both hand and machine milking, consistently provided rich, creamy milk, enhancing our dairy offerings and delighting those fortunate enough to sample her bounty. She produced and amply raised multiple steers that nourished our family with their superior beef, live weights of 750 at 18 months and 60% cutout.
In the field, Tavie moved with a grace that belied her strength. Her presence was both calming and commanding, always tempered with a hint of whimsy; she was a true matriarch who led by example. Deep and expressive, her eyes seemed to hold the wisdom of the ages, reflecting the cycles of seasons and the rhythms of farm life.
As we reflect upon Tavie's time with us, we are forever reminded of the profound impact one cow can have on a herd, a farm, and a community. She never won a national champion banner nor graced the cover of a publication and was never "the talk" of the breed. But oh, her legacy is so much the richer! It is a legacy etched in the pedigrees of her descendants and their superior genetics, but most especially in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. Tavie exemplified the ideals of Silver Maple Dexters, and her genetics, spirit, and memory will continue to inspire our endeavors for decades to come.
Salute Tavie!
P.S. Tavie, we have a grandson of yours we're keeping a close eye on as bull worthy of carrying on your legacy with the SMD prefix.
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