Joseph

Like oxen and goats, turkeys may come to mind when you think of America’s early history. Farmers raised domestic turkeys for the table, and the breeds they used were diverse. One of the important “heritage breeds” was the Bourbon Red, a breed that was developed in Kentucky in the late 1800’s and remained popular into the 1940’s. Its numbers dwindled, however in favor of the Broad Breasted White turkeys which have become the dominant bird on the market.

Joseph is a Bourbon Red resident at Ray of Light Farm. True to his breed, he is a handsome bird, sporting a rich, chestnut plumage with white tail feathers and wings. Joe is very friendly, and appreciates his chance to welcome our visitors. When groups of children visit, Joe will display his fine feathers and approach the children to allow them to pet his feathers and touch his waddle.

We believe that Joe is thankful to hold his important job as ambassador for heritage turkeys.

And as our friends at STAR Farm in Kentuck have said, “as one of the only domesticated animals to originate in North America, preservation of the rare heritage turkey breeds is like preserving a historical building or rare document. It’s a piece of American history!”

Come and see Joseph at the farm! We're open every day except Wednesday from 10:00-3:00.

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