Bantam history

backyard flock.

Modern Game Bantams

Modern Game Bantams originated in England and are a counterpart of the large Modern Games in type and color, and like the large Moderns were recognized in 1874. Known as the ultra fanciers creation, they are very striking in their many colors. Modern Games show very erect carriage, extreme length of shank and lower thigh, round bone, long slim head and neck, short trim body, small whip tail and are the possessor of our lowest weights. All specimen should be trained to pose in order to show to their best advantage.

Old English Game Bantam

Old English Game Bantams originated in England many years ago. Popularity in America has greatly increased since becoming a Standard breed in 1925 and they often are among our largest Classes in the show room. Type and color is the same as for the large Old English with the possible exception that the tail of the Bantam does not show the full development of the large Old English. The long flowing hackle of the male is commonly referred to among breeders as the shawl. They are hardy and vigorous and in addition to the usual beautiful colors, come in the very attractive Spangles and Wheaten.

Single Comb- Clean Legged - Other Than Games

Japanese Bantams present one of the extremes of the Bantam World. The disproportionately large comb, head, wings and tail of the male and the remarkable shortness of legs are striking characteristics. The male tail is further distinguished by the long sword-shaped main sickles carried slightly forward of the perpendicular, accentuating the grotesque figure of the Japanese Bantam.

The Frizzle Bantams are sometime called Peony fowl and are one of the oddities of the feathered world. They are an attraction wherever they are exhibited with their unorthodox appearance.

Rose Comb Clean Legged Bantams

Sebright Bantams were originated around 1810 in England by Sir John Sebright, the result of some thirty years of intensive breeding. They represent the greatest feat of fancier skill ever performed, for not only are they known for marvelous perfection of lacing, but even more so the fact both male and female are entirely hen-feathered, the male showing no pointed sex feathers in hackle, saddle or wing bow, nor any tail sickles.

Black and White Rosecomb Bantams are noted for perfection of comb and lobe, quality of feather, lustrous plumage color and distinctly proud and stylish type.

All Other Combs, Clean-Legged Bantams

Polish Bantams are very attractive in the striking White Crested Black, Laced Golden, Silver and Buff varieties and the solid White. The large protuberance or knob on top of the skull from which the crest feathers grows, and the large cavernous nostrils are found only in the crested breeds. Size and shape of crest and beard is of paramount importance.

Cornish Bantams are hard to surpass as a dressed bird for a small family and they are very good layers--something one does not usually find in a meat type fowl.

Feather Legged Bantams

Cochin Bantams have been a favorite in North America. Cochin Bantams originated in China and were first known as Pekins and in England are still known by this name.

Silkie Bantams are one of the oddities of the poultry world with their nearly black skin, face, comb, wattles and bones, and their hair-like plumage in which there is no web. Ancient writers referred to fowl with hair instead of feathers and they are believed to have originated in Japan although information of them also comes from India, China and the Malay states. They are further distinguished by a crest, also bearded and non-bearded varieties, and five toes.

Mille Fleur Booted were introduced in this country in 1911 from Germany where they were popular, being known under the name of Gold Porcelaines. They were also popular in Belgium and England. The name Mille Fleur (Thousand Flowers) was adopted by the Belgian Specialty Club, most prominent in promoting their advancement.

Booted White Bantams show extremely developed characteristics, such as vulture hocks, extreme foot feathering or boots, and very erect, well spread tails with prominent breast carried high. They are very ornamental.

Frizzle Bantams are prized for their degree of frizzling or intensely curled feathers and are a constant source of attraction at shows. They have long been popular in England. They must be bay, black, buff, blue, red or white in plumage color and have single combs.