Emily, the Cow – A Constant Reminder For Human Cruelty and Kindness

For many people, Emily the Cow does not symbolize anything, but for the locals who live in Sherborn, Massachusetts, it brings memories of a hero that nearly faced death and escaped bravely.

Back in 1995, Emily was only three years old and weighted only 730 kg (1600 pounds) and she was about to face death in a slaughterhouse located in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Miraculously, the animal managed to jump over a 5’ gate and escaped from that dangerous place – but that is not the only odd, yet miraculous thing.

After escaping, Emily kept running scared for no less than 40 days. Due to the fact that she was often seen and helped by locals, who hid her in their backyards, the animal gained popularity and even reached the newspapers.

Later on, the Randa family bought Emily from the slaughterhouse she ran away from. With the help of a few companions, the Randas created a sanctuary in Peace Abbey right before the Christmas day. As she became beloved by everyone and the news spread across the globe, Emily was visited on a daily basis by those who admired her bravery. She used to be friendly and, as people admit, she had a very kind look.

In 2003, Emily tragically died from uterine cancer, only a week after a Hindu priest gave her his blessing. In order to express their grief and love for the cow, the Randa family asked for the help of Lado Goudjabidze, a sculptor, to create a real life statue of Emily. Now, this monument lays in the city of Sherborn, Massachusetts, and it is a constant reminder for people from all over the globe that killing animals is one of the cruelest human acts.

Images via atlasobscura.com