Chick Hatch at South County Museum

South County Museum holds its annual Fourth of July Chick Hatch in the Metz Exhibit Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the historic Canonchet Farm in Narragansett, R.I.

This once-a-year event gives visitors, both young and old, the opportunity to observe eggs hatching in the incubator, hold day-old chicks and view the museum’s two Rhode Island Red heritage flocks. The flocks are replenished every year with the new chicks, which numbered nearly 200 last year.

Museum visitors can learn about raising their own Rhode Island Reds, an American breed of chicken first developed by William Tripp in Adamsville, R.I., in 1854 and designated as the state bird 100 years later. It is a popular choice for backyard flocks because of its egg-laying abilities and hardiness. South County Museum’s heritage flocks, maintained since 2006, meet the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection, considered the foremost authority for poultry judges, breeders and exhibitors.

“Just as the American Kennel Club recognizes purebred dogs, our Rhode Island Reds meet the official standards of the breed,” said museum director Jim Crothers.

Fee for the chick hatch is $2 per person. Babes in arms (under 1 year) and members are free. Exhibits in the Metz Exhibit Hall will also be open to the public.