A piece of local history is taking a short road trip as Petaluma’s famous “Hatchery” sign was carefully lowered from its perch on North Petaluma Boulevard this Thursday.
The Petaluma Argus-Courier reports the 91-year-old neon chick is headed to a Vallejo shop for a complete restoration after months of dedicated community fundraising. Historians say the sign will return in about two months with a fresh look, including a blue eye and a return to its original “Baby Chicks” lettering from its days as the Poehlmann Hatchery.
Crews spent nearly three hours unbolting the historic landmark, which has stood between its support poles for nearly a century. Property owner Mamie Strong and local preservationists watched with excitement as the crane lifted the metal bird, which will soon feature hand-bent glass from Blue Flame Neon.
Fans of the iconic chick can follow the restoration progress online, with a grand homecoming celebration expected just in time for the summer season.
