Henry County Fairgrounds – It was a proud day for young exhibitor James Howard Coffin, who made his debut in the 4-H poultry show at the Henry County Fair — and walked away a champion.
A member of the Salem Stars 4-H Club, James is in his very first year of 4-H and showing animals. Despite the newness of the experience, he impressed the judges and the crowd alike with his poise, care, and striking birds.
Among his birds were a stunning pair of Dark Brahmas, which James affectionately introduced as Emmett (the rooster) and Pauline (the hen). “They are a very good pair, and they are quite beautiful to me,” he shared.
James keeps his birds at home alongside other breeds, where he helps care for them daily — an effort that paid off in the show ring. He earned first place in his class for both his Dark Brahma pair and his Mille Fleur d’Uccle, a small and beautifully feathered bantam breed.
His efforts didn’t stop there. James was also awarded Champion Reserve, an outstanding accomplishment for a first-year participant. “I feel very happy,” he said, with a smile that said it all.
With a strong start and plenty of enthusiasm, it’s safe to say this is just the beginning for him in 4-H poultry showmanship.