I've been tempted to dabble with some other projects, but frankly, one needs to know their limits. I've certainly reached mine which is why that light cockerel will find a home, either on another homestead or the freezer. One reason he's light is that he's a bit of a throw back.
Way, way back in Maine line, the word is there was an outcross with a White Rock. That seems right. The White will muddy the barring and add size, but the vigor gained? Outstanding. That is why it was done, I imagine. The Whites are also Rocks so this isn't/wasn't an out cross to a different breed, merely a different variety within the breed.
We purposely chose the Maine line for it's vigor. We fully expect it to take heavy culling and three to four generations to settle in. That's fine with us. The hens will lay eggs and the cockerels will eat just fine. There just won't be anything much show worthy for a while.
Jeff, I wish you success with the Del project. You've assembled the pieces from good sources.
