This image, taken about 1940, illustrates the preferred conformation at that time.  Fat animals were preferred, reflecting the market for fat until then.  Thereafter, selection and cross breeding dramatically changed the conformation of beef cattle as fat became less valuable and muscle more valuable.

Steer circa 1940

Credit: Ron Nelson

Digital Credit: Harold Hafs

Publisher: None

Rights: Image Gallery user terms

Description: This image, taken about 1940, illustrates the preferred conformation at that time. Fat animals were preferred, reflecting the market for fat until then. Thereafter, selection and cross breeding dramatically changed the conformation of beef cattle as fat became less valuable and muscle more valuable.

Resolution: 1980x1474

File Size: 1.08 MB