The rise and fall of Golden Gate Ostrich Farm

• The Golden Gate Ostrich Farm opened in 1913 at 47th Avenue and Balboa Street with a permit for 30 ostriches.
• "Extra Attraction!" a notice in the San Francisco Call advertised. "The interesting sight of Plucking the Giant Bird!"
• Another one promised an 18-inch special white French plume for $5.

Yes, but: When World War I broke out in 1914, the flamboyant feathers lost popularity as people began to dress more conservatively.

• The farm lasted about a year and a half before shutting down and donating (or ditching, depending on who you ask) their ostriches to Golden Gate Park.

Of note: You can still find ostrich farms in California — including Gilroy Ostrich Farm, south of San José.