Rhode Island Red Chick Hatch…A Local Tradition at South County Museum

South County Museum holds its Annual 4^th of July Chick Hatch in the Metz Exhibit Hall from 10 am to 2 pm on the Museum’s campus located on the historic Canonchet Farm in Narragansett.  This once a year event gives visitors, both young and old, the opportunity to observe eggs hatching in the incubator see and hold day-old baby chicks, and view the Rhode Island Red Heritage flock maintained on the Museum’s Living History Farm.

The Rhode Island Red is an American breed of chicken first developed by William Tripp in Adamsville, RI in 1854. It is a utility bird, raised for its meat and eggs, and also as a show bird. It is a popular choice for backyard flocks because of its egg laying abilities and hardiness. South County Museum’s Heritage Flock meets the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection.  According to Jim Crothers, Museum Executive Director, “If these were dogs, they would be considered American Kennel Club Purebreds.”  In 1954 the RI Red was designated as the state bird.  South County Museum has maintained the Heritage Flock since 2006.

Exhibits in the Metz Exhibit Hall will also be open to the public, including a “Vogue Dolls 1948-1972” exhibit and a “hands-on” Victorian kitchen. There is ample free parking.  A donation of $5 is requested.

South County Museum is located at 115 Strathmore Street in Narragansett, RI.  Exhibits are open during July and August from 10 to 4, Tuesday through Saturday. For more information call 401-783-5400 or visit them online here!

Chick Hatch sponsored by Astro of New England Moving and Storage