For the first time in the exhibit's history, MSI visitors will have the opportunity to view the Black Javas October 8-31, 1999 at the Museum of Science and Industry's "Food for Life" exhibit.

In the 1800's, the Black Javas, were one of the most common breed of barnyard chickens in the country. They were prized for their tasty meat (their average weight is 6 - 8 pounds) and eggs, and for being efficient breeders. Now, due to a loss of commercial interest, there are only 300-400 known Black Javas in the world. The biggest collection is a flock of 175 at the Garfield Farm Museum in Lafox, Illinois – Illinois' only living history museum.

"I have long been a visitor of the Garfield Farm and I have always been fascinated by their efforts to protect farm animals on the brink of extinction," said Tim Christakos, exhibit specialist of the chick hatchery at MSI. "When I first learned of their work with Black Javas, I knew the Museum's chick hatchery could provide the perfect means for hatching this almost extinct breed. Of course, we had no way of predicting the incredible find that resulted – two of the 70 eggs that we hatched ended up being White Javas. What we've essentially witnessed is the rebirth of an extinct bird through recessive gene reproduction!"

Peter Malmberg, Director of Operations at the Garfield Farm Museum, is encouraged by the Museum's collaboration. "Many people throughout the country have been interested in helping us breed the Black Javas, but we are very selective with those whom we allow to hatch the Javas," he said. "Tim Christakos and the Museum of Science and Industry are the perfect match for our cause because of their expertise and experience in hatching chickens. We are now looking forward to mating the MSI White Javas to reinvigorate the gene pool of this rare breed. The implications for genetic science are astounding!"