South County Museum today announced that it will hold its 13th Annual Fourth of July Chick Hatch from 11 am to 2 pm on July 4, 2024, on the museum’s campus on the historic Canonchet Farm in Narragansett.
This once-a-year event allows visitors to observe eggs hatching in the incubator, hold days-old baby chicks, and view the authentic, official state bird, the Rhode Island Red Heritage flock, which is maintained on the museum’s small working farm. 100 chicks are anticipated to hatch this 4th of July.
In addition, attendees are invited to a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 1pm and are encouraged to visit the Museum Press which printed a replica Declaration. Music for the event will be provided by The South County Jammers; concessions, a raffle, crafts, and games will round out the family fun.
Admission to the event is $10 adults; $5 children, toddlers 2 and under are free. Entrance fees directly support the museum’s small working farm and gardens.
The event was initiated by Dr. Wayne Durfee, retired poultry science emeritus from the University of Rhode Island, as a way of celebrating the significance of the Rhode Island Red, which was first bred and named RI’s state bird during the 1850s. Dr. Durfee, museum staff and volunteers will be on hand to facilitate and answer questions.
Visitors can see the full-grown birds which were hatched out last year. After the chicks are hatched, they live at the farm for the year and are then sold to people who want their own flock. South County Museum has maintained the heritage flock since 2006. The Rhode Island Red is a utility bird, raised for its meat and eggs, and is a popular choice for backyard flocks because of its egg laying abilities and hardiness. The RI Red is also a show bird and the South County Museum’s heritage flock meets the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection.
Executive Director Rebecca J. Kelly (pictured above) offers, “ I am delighted to help continue this South County Museum tradition. It is a really unique way to celebrate the 4th. From the chicks, to traditional music, fun and games it is a family friendly event with something for everyone.”
At a Glance
WHAT: South County Museum’s 13th Annual Fourth of July Chick Hatch
WHEN: July 4, 11 am-2 pm
WHERE: South County Museum, 115 Strathmore St., Narragansett
ADMISSION: $10 dollars – Toddlers 2 and under free – Entrance fees directly support the museum’s small working farm and gardens
INFO: www.southcountymuseum.org
