Prairie State Wire

Illinois State Fair officials unveiled the Butter Cow sculpture at the Dairy Building on the fairgrounds. The theme for this year's creation is "Harvest the Fun," crafted by sculptor Sarah Pratt. The sculpture features Illinois dairy farmer Lorilee Shultz from Mill-R-Mor Dairy in Orangeville, Illinois, depicted harvesting milk from one of her cows.

Lorilee Shultz continues a family tradition, having taken over operations from her grandfather. Her daughter Lucy is also involved in farm activities, which inspired a second sculpture featuring Lucy with a calf. This additional piece was sponsored by Illinois Farm Families and created using butter donated by Prairie Farms. It supports the 'We are the 96' campaign that celebrates Illinois farm families.

Sarah Pratt expressed her honor in creating the butter cow each year: "It is a privilege to honor Illinois farm families by sculpting the famous butter cow each year." She added that this year was special as her daughter Grace contributed to the project: "Family is at the heart of Illinois farms and to be able to honor that, while working alongside my 19-year-old daughter passing down this tradition to her is precious."

Jerry Costello II, Illinois Agriculture Director, emphasized the significance of family in agriculture: "The butter cow is a destination for many families during the Illinois State Fair, so it is only fitting that this year's sculpture portrays a dairy farm family right here in Illinois."

Midwest Dairy Manager Kendra Anderson shared her enthusiasm for this annual event: "The butter cow sculpture is one of my personal favorite attractions because it is the perfect ode to the hard-working Illinois dairy farm families who produce delicious and nutritious dairy products for all to enjoy."

In keeping with tradition, 13 hearts are hidden within both displays symbolizing milk's 13 essential nutrients. The Butter Cow will be on display throughout the fair's duration and can be viewed via a live webcam.

The fair will take place from August 10-20. More information about events can be found at statefair.illinois.gov.