The late sixties and early seventies mark the beginning of the Meulemans, one of the most prominent strains in the pigeon world today. During the partnership of Adrian Wouters and Karl Meulemans, the Golden Pair was established. After Wouters' death, his son-in-law Frans Marien continued the partnership with Karl Meulemans. Marien died in 1980 and Meulemans has carried on the strain. Hackemer Lofts was the first American loft to import the Meulemans and to realize their potential. Our flying record has been enhanced by their addition to our race team and our customers continually report success with these birds.
The Golden Pair, made up of the Van den Bosch cock (B67-6729926) and the Janssen hen (B66-6122023), has probably been the most influential pair of birds in the sport during the past 25 years. Some of the most renowned progeny are the Merkx (21 firsts, 1974 Ace Pigeon of Belgium, Olympiad representative); the Kadet (6 firsts in 1973, fantastic breeder); and Witneus (sire of exceptional breeders). Others are the Schoondonker Hen, the Madelon, Prins, Bonte Duif, Liebling, and the last son, Benjamin.
To fortify the strain, these offspring were then mated to Janssens and Hofkens. In reality, the base of the unique Meulemans family consists of the Van den Bosch, Janssen, and Hofken bloodlines. The impact of the Meulemans has been phenomenal, both as flyers and, more importantly, as breeders.
These beautiful birds are known for their speed and stamina. Meulemans are outstanding at the middle distance. They hold up very well in extreme heat and have no problem winning firsts at 400 miles with headwinds. As of late, we are competing successfully with them at the 500-mile distance.
We fly our Meulemans straight, but they are a family that crosses well with both long and short distance birds. They impart hybrid vigor to other strains and their offspring seem to maintain the characteristics of the Meulemans when crossed.
The birds are pleasing to the eye and the hand. They have excellent muscle and feather quality. The eyes are exceptional and distinctive, often carrying a heavy pearl and occasionally violets and greens. Colors are also unique, ranging from blue, heavily pencilled blues, and dark checks, to the recessive reds.
Hackemer Lofts is proud to feature Magnum, a very exciting performance pigeon from Gerard and Ries Schalkwijk of Ijsselstein. This beautiful cock had a stellar flying career, causing his handlers to be hailed as the "Terrors of Ijsselstein."
We were also thrilled by the return of the 176 Frill to our Meulemans breeding stud. In 1988 and 1989, this cock bred twelve birds that produced First Place winners for fanciers across the United States. From 1990 to 1993, he bred First Place winners with four different hens for Wally Tienprasid. The 176 Frill is one of the absolute best Meulemans breeding cocks in the country.
Hackemer Lofts is confident you will be delighted with any of our Meulemans. They are an excellent addition to almost any loft and a joy to the fancier.
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