422 AMERICAN POULTRY ASSOCIATION 



CHAPTER II. 



THE PLYMOUTH ROCK AS A GENERAL 

 PURPOSE FOWL. 



The shape of Plymouth Rocks required by the Standard 

 of Perfection is such as to insure the highest quality as a 

 table and general purpose fowl. The "rather long" back, 

 which is "broad its entire length"; the "broad, full, moderately 

 deep, well-rounded" breast and the rather "long, broad, 

 deep, full" body which extends "well forward", guarantee the 

 largest proportion of edible flesh and the least waste in bone, 

 feathers and refuse. The long keel bone, the plump breast 

 and large thighs, all of which are well covered with tender 

 flesh of finest texture, give the exceptional quality desired for 

 table use to the choicest portions of the bird. 



The shape of the body also affords ample room for large 

 and vigorous egg organs and a digestive system which is con- 

 ducive to high egg production. They produce large numbers of 

 brown shelled eggs and also produce flesh rapidly. They are 

 rapid growers, quick to mature, and fatten easily. 



The economic value of the breed is shown by its wide 

 scope of usefulness. They are well suited for pleasure or 

 profit J for a city lot or for the farm ; for the show room or for 

 cottlfwercial purposes. It matters not what may be wanted, 

 broilers, roasters, mature fowls, capons or layers, Plymouth 

 Rocks possess qualities which recommend them if they have 

 been selected and bred according to standard requirements. 

 Birds of this breed are of a quiet, gentle disposition and they 

 are easily confined. 



Because of their combined market qualities and egg laying 

 ability, the Plymouth Rocks are recognized as a great dual 

 purpose or general purpose breed. 



Plymouth Rocks are faithful sitters and good mothers. 

 They are active as well as good foragers, and will find a good 

 portion of their living if given the opportunity. Their combs 

 being of medium size and their bodies rather blocky, compact 

 and well feathered, they are prepared to withstand severe 

 weather. Their type is one that is symbolical with great vigor, 

 and is well adapted to varying conditions ; it is also one which 

 combines many desirable qualities in one fowl. 



The chicks reach maturity quickly and some pullets have 

 been known to lay at five months of age. It is not advisable 



