[4]: 289 [5]: 278 The Randall derives from traditional linebacked or color-sided cattle once widespread in New England, in the north-eastern United States.

[5]: 278 [6] From 1912, a herd of cattle of this type was kept largely isolated from outside breeding on the farm of the Randall family in either Arlington[4]: 289  or Sunderland in Bennington County, Vermont.

[7] Randall cattle are quite variable in size and conformation and have a constitution that is suited to the New England climate.

Other subtle shades such as blue, mahogany, and gray have been observed, and there are now a number of recessive reds.

[8] Randall Cattle are an all-purpose breed, meaning they originally served as dairy, meat, and draft animals.