Cawston Ostrich Farm

An ostrich drawn cart from the Cawston Ostrich Farm, circa 1919

Cawston Ostrich Farm was a historic ostrich farm located in South Pasadena, California, United States. Established in 1886 by Edwin Cawston, an Englishman who sought to commercialize ostrich feathers for use in the fashion industry, the farm was among the first of its kind in the United States and played a significant role in the development of agritourism in California.

History

The farm was founded when Edwin Cawston shipped 50 ostriches from South Africa to the United States, overcoming significant challenges related to the birds' survival during the long voyage. Upon arrival, the ostriches were settled on a farm in South Pasadena, where Cawston aimed to breed the birds and harvest their feathers, which were highly valued for use in hats, boas, and other fashion accessories during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Cawston's venture was a success, and the farm quickly grew into a popular tourist attraction. Visitors to the Cawston Ostrich Farm could tour the grounds, witness the ostriches up close, and purchase ostrich-related products in the farm's gift shop. The farm also featured rides on ostrich-drawn carriages, making it a unique destination for both local residents and tourists.

Decline and Legacy

The popularity of ostrich feathers in fashion eventually waned, leading to a decline in the farm's profitability. Advances in the automobile industry and changes in societal norms further reduced the demand for ostrich feathers. Despite these challenges, the farm continued to operate until it was finally closed in the 1930s.

Today, the Cawston Ostrich Farm is remembered as an important part of California's agricultural and tourism history. While the farm itself no longer exists, its legacy lives on through historical accounts, photographs, and the occasional ostrich feather found in antique shops.

Impact on Agritourism

The Cawston Ostrich Farm was a pioneer in the field of agritourism, demonstrating how agricultural operations could diversify their income and attract visitors. Its success inspired other farms to explore similar ventures, contributing to the growth of agritourism in California and across the United States.

See Also

• Agritourism
• History of California
• Ostrich farming