EAST SAN JOSE OSTRICH FARM. 

Ostriches in a pen at a farm. Also shown is a small flock of chickens.

The farm was located at Alum Rock Ave. and King Road. 

The ostriches were raised primarily for their plumes, which were very popular fashion accessories at that time. When ostriches reached their peak popularity in the early 1900’s, ostrich eggs were sold alongside their feathers in stores as a novelty. 

The ostriches were raised primarily for their plumes, which were very popular fashion accessories at that time. Ostrich farm operated by Colwell P. Leith in 1904; up to $200 per pound was paid for the feathers.

Ostriches stand up to be eight feet tall and can weigh up to four hundred pounds. When threatened, ostriches snap their beak and kick. Ostriches have long muscular legs with two sharp toes, not an animal you would want to kick you.

"Ostrich Farming is getting to be a big industry in Calif., and this is one of many Californian farms, all of which are a success."