More Columnists >>
<< Prev | Next >>

Middleton Place plantation recently restored a nearly bygone species to its stable yards. Two 3-month-old Guinea hogs, a rare and nearly extinct breed of pig not to be confused with the small terrarium-dwelling pet, arrived at the plantation off Ashley River Road a little more than a week ago. Ancestors of these two likely roamed the same space in the 19th century, according to Middleton Place marketing vice president Pat Kennedy. Once the Southeast's most common pig, Guinea hogs now number fewer than 200. They arrived from West Africa and the Canary Islands during the slave trade and produced meat but became less popular than larger, less fatty breeds. Carolina Heritage Farms in Pamlico, working to preserve the breed and create herds, donated the pair to Middleton. Kennedy said the plantation plans to breed its new residents, which will grow to weigh about 150 pounds. Middleton Place will hold a Plantation Days event Nov.

Text-a-Friend >>

<< Prev | Next >>
More Columnists >>