It was created in Burlington County, New Jersey, in the late nineteenth century.

[5] The Jersey Giant was created by John and Thomas Black, with the intent of replacing the turkey, the kind of poultry used primarily for meat at the time.

[citation needed] Though its present size is considerable, it was heavier in the past.

[2] A large amount of food and time is required for the Jersey Giant to reach its full size.

The breed's plumage comes in blue as well as black and white; legs are willow in hue.