First State fowls: What’s the deal with Delaware and chickens?

A yellow and red button with a chicken in the middle reads "What's Cookin' Chicken? 1959 Delmarva Chicken Festival in Dover Delaware June 26-27"

Chickens aren’t native to this region, and yet they outnumber human residents by 200-to-1 over the course of any given year. From mascots to political campaigns, and farms to festivals, the chicken is the bird of Delaware. 

Find out more about the history of Delaware’s relationship with chickens in the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs’ latest temporary exhibit on the first floor of Legislative Hall. The exhibit will be on display until Summer 2026.

Historic artifacts show Delaware's connection to chickens: a red and yellow toy truck that says "Fresh Delaware Broilers for New York City" a button and a can of chicken broth.