(Source of top image: Florida Collection, Main Public Library, Jacksonville;

bottom image: Florida State Archives)

Because of the pressure to stop the poaching of wild birds, ostrich farming began to become a successful enterprise during the 1880s.  Ostrich farms popped up in Florida, California, Arizona, Texas, and Arkansas.  Many fashion conscious consumers turned to the use of feathers pulled from the big birds. 

These photos show plume plucking at Jacksonville's ostrich farms.  The top postcard dates from about 1907 to 1912.  The bottom postcard was sent from Jacksonville to Savannah on February 6, 1907.  Its message reads, "Drove out here this morning. Will write soon."

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