Re: [PyrNet-L] Re: French vs US &Uk Pyrs(Long)

[JGentzel <JGentzel@aol.com>]

The initial discussion seems to have petered out.  Lets see if we can energize
it somewhat.  

Any more when I think about the state of the breed and ponder its differences
geographically, I have to think about the most dramatic world wide influence
on the breed.  This without a doubt was World War II.  To say times were
difficult for our European Friends is a huge understatement.  The times were
desperate and the breed suffered considerably due to it. 

I believe that the breed in North America benefited from this tragedy
occurring in Europe.  Mary Crane in her love for the breed virtually rescued
much of the worthy (and not so worthy) breeding stock from France.  This
included Belgium and Holland as well.  The Crane's with their immense social,
political, and economic resources were able to be a pool for the world to use.
Mostly North America benefited as the import restriction laws in England
surely prevents importation of very much stock and the French never seemed to
notice.  I don't want anyone to think I am being the least bit derogatory of
the dogs or people of England or France.  IMHO, most of the best breed stock
ended up in the Kennel of Basquaerie of Mrs. Crane at the time war was raging
in Europe.