The Flock

Our membership is called "The Flock", and we are the best of the best - we are "Merino"! This year, all who sign up to be members will be designated Charter Members - and will keep that status for as long as they renew their membership.

About Merino

Wool from the Merino sheep is the most prized wool in the world. The Phoenicians introduced sheep into Asia Minor and North Africa. They reached Spain in the 12th century. Spain began breeding sheep for wool quality and softness - resulting in the Merino sometime in the 14th century. Fine wool became a source of income for the Castile in the late Middle Ages. Exportation of a Merino sheep was a crime punishable by death until 1723 when the first flock was exported to Sweden. Later, a large flock was given to Saxony in 1765. A small flock of Merino sheep was the prize possession of Thomas Jefferson. Merino prices vary according to the fineness of the wool.

Our members deserve recognition! We thank you all!

Guild Charter Members:

Foxy Ladies Rug Hooking Guild, Nurturing, Naperville, IL
InterKnit Machine Knitters Guild, Fostering, Aurora, IL
Naturally Sassy Knitting Guild, Fostering, Barrington, IL
Windy City Knitting Guild, Nurturing, Chicago, IL

Business Charter Members:

The Dragonfly Yarn Shop, Janesville, WI
Homestead Wool & Gift Farm, Monroe, WI

Individual Charter Members:

Barbara Bundick, Woodstock, IL
Debra Childers, Byron, IL
Bill Dineen, McHenry, IL
Liz Djupe, Glenview, IL
Joyce Jackson, Creations by Joyce, Lexington, KY
Paul Law, McHenry, IL
Arthur Lifshin, Oak Park, IL
Jean Lytle, Arlington Heights, IL
Debbie Moyes, Highland Park, IL
Irene Oldson, Rockford, IL
Dawn Olson, McHenry, IL
Adrienne Rieck, Olympia Fields, IL
Rhonda Rushing, Wonder Lake, IL
Georgia Sylke, Milwaukee, WI
Elizabeth Tures, Crystal Lake, IL
Benjamin Walker, St. Charles, IL