Posted on August 31, 2026 at 1:23 PM by Anna Egan
Art Rieber was raised on a farm outside of Hancock, Iowa, and at the age of 14 joined 4-H. His lifelong passion started when he raised his first birds to show at the county fair.
Art knew the value of sharing his knowledge, as he would talk about chickens to anyone who would listen. Art judged an average of 15 county fairs for over 30 years, including the Harrison County Fair. He is licensed by both the American Poultry Association and the American Bantam Association, a distinction his oldest daughter Diana also holds. They became the first father/daughter duo in the US to hold these qualifications. They traveled together for 18 years, judging shows across the country. His second daughter, Helena, also gives back by judging numerous county fairs in Iowa each year. To this day, he still walks in any poultry show hall with a smile and willingness to answer any questions.
The Speckled Sussex is his favorite breed and has earned him the distinction of master breeder, an award he cherishes as his biggest accomplishment. Art’s dedication led him to be one of the most prominent waterfowl judges in North America, judging National shows in both the United States and Canada, including the Iowa State Fair 4-H/FFA shows. Art was inducted into the Iowa State Fair Poultry Hall of Fame in 2013 for his dedication as an Iowa breeder and ISF Staff member.
Art spent a lifetime nurturing individuals who showed interest in exhibition poultry. He spent 70 years mastering the art of poultry because of a 4-H project he chose to do at a county fair. Poultry is more than just a hobby for Art; it is a way of life.
