Originating in Holland almost 200 years ago, Barnevelders are medium-heavy fowl known for their striking coloration and production of large dark eggs. The breed was derived from mixing imported Asian fowl with local Dutch breeds. These Asian fowl arrived in Europe in the 1850s and soon became known as the “Shanghai” chickens. These birds were first crossbred among themselves before eventually being developed into distinct breeds such as the Brahma, Cochin, and Croad Langshan. Around 1865, some of these Shanghai chickens were crossed with local farmyard chickens in the Barneveld region, contributing to the development of what would later become the Barnevelder breed. It is believed that the Langshan breed had the most significant influence on the Barnevelder, contributing to its hardiness, ability to lay brown eggs, and strong winter production.

Originally, this breed was created to meet the demand for high-quality brown eggs. They are a dual-purpose breed that has been adapted more for display in the past several decades than farm life. More than a dozen Barnevelder varieties in both large fowl and bantam have been developed. 

The most striking visual feature of the breed is the double-laced feather pattern; an intricate arrangement that is as precise and beautiful as the most exquisite hand-sewn lace. The first Barnevelder chickens were imported into the United States around the 1920s and have since become a popular choice among backyard poultry enthusiasts. 

There is considerable variation in quality in this variety of Barnevelder, and frequently we found specimens that had red-tinged feathers and blurred lacing. These birds we avoided, and we spent time locating flocks that displayed deep black feathers with precise silver lacing. The silver double chevrons appear to be delicately painted on a deep black background, with the exceptionally precise penciling often eliciting astonishment and admiration, even from the most experienced poultry enthusiasts.

Despite their striking color patterns, Barnevelders—affectionately known as "Barnies"—are renowned for their docile temperament and productivity. Hens typically produce 180–200 medium tan eggs per year, while the breed also boasts a well-proportioned, meaty carcass. Roosters typically reach a mature weight of 7 to 8 pounds, while hens generally weigh between 6 and 7 pounds at full maturity.

They are a somewhat active breed but not very flighty. We have noticed that as the summer temperatures rise, they tend to slow down. Because they are not an extremely active breed, this breed can do very well in a medium-sized coop or run.

The Silver Laced Barnevelder have a single, straight comb, red earlobes and yellow legs. 

To view the standard for the Barnevelder, please view this site: Breed Standards - British Barnevelder Club

We incubate at 99.5F and 55% humidity. This breed tends to hatch very well! We typically see about an 80% hatch rate from our incubated eggs. While most chicks hatch on day 21, some may require an additional day or two in the hatcher before fully hatching.

When hatching eggs of this breed, chicks should be carefully examined to ensure their legs are free of feathers. Occasionally, a chick may exhibit a few feathers on one or both legs, which is considered an undesirable trait. These chicks should be culled to prevent their inclusion in a breeding program.

The most distinguishable difference between the two lines lies in their eggs. The newer line (2023 import) produces eggs with a more tan coloration, lacking the distinct pink undertones, and are also slightly larger.

Import Notes

Greenfire Farms has imported this breed twice, first from Holland in 2016 and more recently from Belgium in 2023.