<P> For inclusion in the Pure (Holstein or Friesian) herd book, a heifer or bull calf from a cow or heifer in Class B of the Supplementary Register and by a bull registered or dual registered in the Herd Book or the Supplementary Register, and containing 87.5% or more Holstein genes or Friesian genes will be eligible to have its entry registered in the Herd Book . </P> <P> The breed currently averages 7655 litres / year throughout 3.2 lactations, with pedigree animals averaging 8125 litres / year over an average of 3.43 lactations . By adding, lifetime production therefore stands at around 26,000 litres . </P> <P> American breeders began to become interested in Holstein - Friesian cattle around the 1830s . Black and white cattle were introduced into the US from 1621 to 1664 . The eastern part of New Amsterdam (present day New York) was the Dutch colony of New Netherland, where many Dutch farmers settled along the Hudson and Mohawk River valleys . They probably brought cattle with them from their native land and crossed them with cattle purchased in the colony . For many years afterwards, the cattle here were called Dutch cattle and were renowned for their milking qualities . </P> <P> The first recorded imports were more than 100 years later, consisting of six cows and two bulls . These were sent in 1795 by the Holland Land Company, which then owned large tracts in New York, to their agent, Mr. John Lincklaen of Cazenovia . A settler described them thus, "the cows were of the size of oxen, their colors clear black and white in large patches; very handsome". </P>

When did the holstein cow come to america