PRliFACE 



The purpose of this hook is to present an authentic history of the 

 origin and development of the American hreeds of domesticated fowls 

 and set forth the proper matings to he made in each of the varieties. 



The writer also has undertaken to explain the widespread popu- 

 larity which the American breeds today enjoy, by setting forth the 

 reasons why this type of fowl is the most useful and productive. 

 Moreover, it has been his aim to point out why a further extension 

 of their breeding is both practicable and desirable. 



With a firm economic foundation upon which to bui'.d, the next 

 step has been to show the permanence of the position occupied by 

 constructive breeders of these fowls and the vital relation that their 

 breeding yards bear to the poultry industry as a whole. 



It seems highly desirable to make plain this important relation- 

 ship between the breeder and the national industry of producing 

 poultry meat and eggs for human consumption, that the true dignity 

 of the breeder's craft may be fully understood and appreciated, and 

 that the beginner may feel justified in devoting the time necessary for 

 a thorough stud}' of the principles which underlie the breeder's work. 



The title of this book was suggested by James W. Bell, publisher 

 of the American Poultry Journal, and its production has been made 

 possible by him. More than a year has now elapsed since the work 

 was started. As I have proceeded in writing the manuscript the 

 horizon at times has seemed to broaden and recede. However, the 

 leisure necessary for research and study has been granted cheerfully, 

 and the expense of travel to gather certain details on history and 

 mating has been met as cheerfully. Therefore, may I not in the words 

 of Swinburne say to J. W. B.: 



"Take, since you bade it should bear. 

 These, of the seed of your sowing — 



Blossom or berry or weed. 

 Sweet though they be not, or fair. 

 That the dew of your word kept growing, 



Sweet at least was the seed." 



I desire to acknowledge with appreciation the suggestions of my 

 friend W. H. Smith, assistant professor of animal husbandry. Uni- 

 versity of Illinois; the freely given experience of numerous successful 

 breeders, each of whom is credited in the text; and the help and 

 inspiration gained from Eugene Davenport's "Principles of Breeding." 



Frank L. Platt. 



