Victoriana and the duck feather

During the Victorian era, or the time during which Queen Victoria ruled, 1837 to 1901, attention was paid to order in the home and to the well thought out ornamental aspects of home care. In a typical Victorian home there were areas for private use, and then there were separate rooms more carefully appointed, better kept, and intended for public entertaining; often this room was the parlor. And one element of Victoriana found in the parlor was the feathered bouquet, an arrangement set out to be admired by visitors. In its mindfully constructed architecture were placed items like the peacock eye feather and other natural elements such as cherry boughs. Duck feather adornments, likewise, could be found on fine millinery of the time due to the popularity of duck feathers.

Shortly after the Victorian era another use for feathers of another bird was invented. It was 1903 when the manager of a broom factory invented the ostrich feathered duster. Feathers had already been used for ostrich feather centerpieces accented with perhaps a duck feather or two, but the duster was a new idea that quickly took hold. Ten years after coming up with this idea in South Africa, Harry Beckner opened a company in the United States. This company is still operating today, as a matter of fact, in McDonald, Tennessee.

A practical use for the ostrich is not a rare thing, thanks to the household duster. Ostriches are also becoming increasingly popular animals for farms. In fact, this bird is farmed by feather suppliers in over fifty countries worldwide. In addition to decorative uses for the species, like displaying them with natural elements, like the peacock eye feather, in Victorian versions of home embellishment, like ostrich feather centerpieces, other applications make them popular for breeding. These are attractive, fascinating creatures, strong enough for small humans to ride, and adaptable to a range of climates and dietary regimens.