The Auburn University Performance Bull Test started in 1951 and has been conducted each year since that time. This makes this test the oldest continuous performance bull testing program in the United States. This test has played a significant role in the development of the beef cattle industry in Alabama.
        The Animal Science Department of the Experiment Station conducted the first 31 tests. From 1981-1995, the test has been under the supervision of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service. Since 1996, the test has been under the supervision of the Alabama Cooperative System. The Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association (BCIA) and Auburn University work together in promoting this program for the beef cattle producers of Alabama.
        The most exciting day in the 52 year history of the Auburn Bull Test was February 12, 1982. On that day an Angus bull, consigned to the test by Mr. R.C. Price of Newville, Alabama, sold for a world record price for a perfomance tested bull of $320,000. Mr. Price came back to the Auburn Test two years later to sell two sons of the famous bull for $21,000 and $10,000.
        The Auburn Bull Test has one of the most modern test facilities in the nation. Electronically-operated feed bunks accurately measure feed consumption of each bull. From this information, feed efficiency can be determined for each individual. Very few test stations can provide this important data to the cattle inductry.
        It is interesting to study the history of this test as can be seen in the summary below. There is no doubt that this test has been an important part of the improvements the Alabama Beef Industry has enjoyed over the last 52 years.