Chickens have become a common sight on Martha’s Vineyard, with many residents embracing the charm and utility of keeping them for personal use or small farm stands. Whether for fresh eggs, the joy of raising animals, or as part of the island’s rich agricultural tradition, chickens hold a special place in the daily lives of many Vineyarders.
Chickens for Personal Use and Small Farm Stands
While it’s hard to pinpoint the exact number, a significant portion of Martha’s Vineyard residents keep chickens for personal use. Backyard coops are becoming increasingly popular for those who want a source of fresh eggs right at home. In addition to personal use, small farm stands across the island also sell eggs, often providing a taste of truly local, farm-fresh food. Places like North Tabor Farm and other local growers sell eggs along with produce, creating a symbiotic relationship between local farmers and the community that supports them. Check out what North Tabor Farm has to offer this week here.
A History of Chickens on the Island
Chickens have been a part of Martha’s Vineyard’s farming landscape for generations. Historically, families on the island relied on raising chickens as a sustainable source of protein and a way to generate extra income by selling eggs. Farming was—and continues to be—a central aspect of life on Martha’s Vineyard, with its small-scale, family-oriented farms that blend tradition with modern practices.
Over time, what started as a means of self-sufficiency has evolved into a valued community activity. Chickens are no longer just a practical part of life; they represent a commitment to local, sustainable food sources and a connection to the island's agricultural roots.
The Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair: Showcasing Chickens
The Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair, held every August, is a beloved event that highlights the island’s strong agricultural traditions. Chickens play a key role at the fair, with an annual show chicken competition that draws enthusiastic participants from kids to seasoned community members. The fair offers a chance for island residents, young and old, to show off their prized birds, from heritage breeds to more common varieties, all groomed and presented in their finest condition. Check out what the Agricultural Society has planned year round plus more history of farms on the Vineyard, here.
For kids, raising show chickens is not only a fun project but also an educational experience. It teaches responsibility, animal care, and an appreciation for agriculture. Children from local 4-H clubs often participate, fostering a sense of community and instilling a deep connection to Martha’s Vineyard’s agricultural heritage.
These chicken competitions have become a fair favorite, with families gathering to admire the different breeds, from the fanciful-feathered to the more utilitarian layers. It’s a celebration of both the beauty and practicality of chickens, and it strengthens the island’s farming community spirit.
Chickens as a Symbol of Island Living
For many on Martha’s Vineyard, chickens represent more than just a source of food—they embody the island’s connection to the land and the values of sustainability and community. Whether you're raising them for personal use, selling eggs at a local farm stand, or grooming a bird for the Agricultural Fair, chickens are an enduring part of Martha’s Vineyard life.
As the trend of backyard chickens continues to grow, and farm stands flourish with local eggs, it’s clear that chickens are not only a nod to the island’s past but also a vibrant part of its future. Whether you're looking to add a few hens to your own backyard or simply admire them at the Agricultural Fair, Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect place to experience the joys of chickens firsthand.
