National Agricultural Library

A Short Story for Poultry Raisers, Enlarged and Illustrated

Union Fence Company. New York

This little book is merely suggestive of the great subject of poultry raising, being a collection of a few facts in regard to the principal breeds of poultry raised in this country, the hatching and raising of the chicks, the proper food under different conditions and the most suitable houses and runs. No attempt has been made to give a history of the different breeds and only the popular varieties are described.

To the prospective poultry raiser, whether amateur or professional, we would suggest that good pure stock be bought and raised. Good stock costs no more to raise than mongrels, and is always more valuable, if, for any reason, it becomes necessary to sell. Moreover, from chickens whose antecedents are known, known results will be obtained, whereas no one can tell what will come from mongrels. A good fancier, or one who is interested in his poultry, is constantly trying to improve his stock, both in the quality of the birds themselves and also in their products; the quantity and quality of eggs laid, the perfection and health of the chicks hatched — all these benefits are greatly intensified if the stock is good in the first place.

The facts in this book have been taken from the writings of authorities, many of whom are quoted. We are indebted to Messrs. Doubleday, Page & Company for the use of many pictures taken from their "Poultry Book." To those who wish full and detailed information about any breed or any branch of the great subject of raising poultry, we would refer them to this book.

This little book has been compiled in the hope that the readers will find it useful and convenient. We shall be glad if it adds to your interest in this fascinating pursuit, for increased interest in poultry raising will be of direct benefit to us.