With the industrialization of farming, a few breeds of livestock have been standardized for maximum productivity. This expansive growth of the few breeds resulted in the critical endangerment of many other breeds, with several becoming extinct. These pre-industrial breeds, known as heritage breeds, possess a priceless genetic diversity that can help farmers, and society at large, adapt to variable conditions, ranging from new consumer tastes to varied landscapes.
Wyandottes are a true American breed of chickens, developed in New York state in the early 1870s. They get their name from the Wyandotte Nation, but they have no direct historical association with the tribe. The original Wyandotte was the Silver Laced Wyandotte, which was first accepted into the Standard of Perfection in 1883. Other Wyandottes were developed from the Silver Laced by crossing it with other breeds.

The Silver Laced Wyandotte was first referred to as the American Sebright or Sebright Cochin.  There is a bit of mystery as to the true origin of the Wyandotte, but the Silver Spangled Hamburg and the Dark Brahma was used to make this breed.  

Today there are many more color varieties of Wyandotte, with the Blue Laced Red being one of the most recent.  Famous for their docile disposition, the ability to lay eggs in cold weather, and the utility value for table use still remain popular today.  Wyandottes also have taken their place in the show ring.  Being easy to handle, having a rose comb, and existing any many color varieties, have won the hearts of American poultry exhibitioners.