The origin of the Hamburgh is wrapped in mystery. The spangled were bred in Yorkshire and Lancashire 300 years ago as Pheasants and Mooneys, and there is a book reference to black Pheasants in the north of England in 1702. In its heyday, the Hamburgh was a grand layer and must have played its part in the making of other laying breeds. However, its breeders directed it down purely exhibition roads, until today it is in few hands.