Feathers on the Frontier

Have you ever wondered what chicken keeping was like at the turn of the century?

Well, I sure did! So, for the past year I've immersed myself in research to gain a better understanding of what poultry farming was really like on the Canadian prairies during the pioneer era. Along the way I stumbled across some amazing photos and made some surprising discoveries! I know there are others like me...those who find historical farming - and especially poultry-keeping - fascinating. So guess what? I wrote a book!

The Book

Feathers on the Frontier is a work of creative nonfiction that delves into the lives -- and the flocks -- of prairie settlers in the early 20th century. Personal stories and archival photographs bring the past to life, chronicling the poultry farming techniques and breeding practices of the time. We even get a glimpse into the exciting, competitive sport of poultry exhibition!

This also serves as a tribute to the birds that sustained families as a source of nourishment and income during the formative years of Canada’s modern poultry industry.

The Author

That would be me, Kathryn

The Research

The inspiration for this project was a family heirloom -- an antique trunk containing a treasure trove of agricultural newspapers dating back as far as 1905. The articles, advertisements, and editorials were a window into the past, and what I discovered challenged some of my previous assumptions about historical chicken-keeping on the Canadian prairies.
These remarkable findings deserved to be shared with others, and that prompted further research through libraries, Provincial Archives, the Glenbow Museum, and a collection of vintage poultry books and publications.

How to Purchase

Feathers on the Frontier is currently in the final stages of design and formatting and is scheduled for release this fall. It will be available for purchase through PageMaster Publishing, Amazon.ca, and possibly other online stores. Check back soon for buying options and links.

What People are Saying...

"This is going to be so interesting!!"
~ Jodi F.

"Definitely looking forward to reading your book. Putting together two of my interests - poultry and history!"

~ Kyle L.

"I think this book will interest many people. It will be the perfect gift for chicken lovers."

~ Felicia Y.

"This is amazing!!! I can't wait to read it. I personally started raising Chanteclers as a way to feel connected to my grandmother who originally told me about the breed. I feel this book is something really special."

~ Tamara T.

For my poultry friends who are students of poultry history, as I am, I am so excited to share that my friend Kathy Stevenson has penned a book on the history of poultry keeping on the Canadian Prairie from 1900-1920. Her book is scheduled to be released this fall and I can't wait to read it!

Robert A.

Blue Hour Poultry