Although many would assume Polish chickens originated in Poland, their namesake is actually derived from the Dutch word for 'top hat' which describes their extravagant head feathering. Early accounts of the breed show that it was developed in the ancient Russia area, however, some have claimed to trace the breed as far back to the 12th century in the Netherlands.   No matter where the Polish breed originated from, it is a striking breed that gained popularity in the royalty of Britain in the 17th century.  At one time it was considered a great layer of white eggs; but the breeds egg laying utility has been lost to develop fuller and larger “crests.”  These crests are helped in part by an actual protuberance over the skull.