Rensselaer Republican, Volume 17, Number 24, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 February 1885 — Carrier-Pigeons. [ARTICLE]

Carrier-Pigeons.

During the Franco-German war Metz and Paris communicated with the outside word by means of carrier-pigeons, and the German Generals declared them contraband of war. They continued, however, to be introduced into France from Belgium, where they are a specialty, pigeon-racing and breeding having long been a national sport there. The Belgium societies were never more flourishing than at present, and are very particular in regard to breeds, the Antwerp being the favorite; in some of their nurseries the boxes axe of mahogany, with solid silver embelishments. thirty miles an hour is the average speed pf the Antwerp pigeon, whicH always descends at night for shelter and repose, the carrier’s flight being guided by sight alone. A wealthy man who obtains his wealth honestly and uses it rightly, is a great blessing to any community.— H.