UC-NRLF 7D ft m MINUTES OF THE ioi) (fleeting OF THE COTTOH STBTES OF THE Commissioners of Agriculture, HELD IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA, Oct. 24-27, 1899. THE VIRGINIA-CAROLINA CHEMICAL CO. OFFICES HILLYER BUILDING, ATLANTA, OA. Have recently published a very handsome catalogue, entitled " WHERE GUANO IS MADE." This catalogue contains very handsome cuts of the different fertilizer factories of this Com- pany. It is well known that this Company are the largest man- ufacturers of fertilizers in the world,_ q,nd now control the brands :^Mcli;h9Cv9 been most popular in^the Sputk for the past, 4i&*ter century.- . •" Parties interested in fertili- zers will doubtless find this catalogue interesting reading, and the Company will be pleased to send a copy to any parties who may write them so requesting. JOHN W. HTIGER, Manager, Atlanta, Ga« W. L. PEEL, R. F. MADDOX, G. A. NICHOLSON, B. L. WILLINGHAM. President. Treasurer. Genl. Manager. Superintendent. OLD DOMINION GUANO CO. Manufacturers of the following Celebrated Brands of Ammoniated Fertilizers and High Grade Acid Phosphates: Old Dominion Guano, Blood and Bone Super-Phosphate, Potent Pacific Guano, Etowah Super-Phosphate, Clark's Soluble Guano, Farmer's Special Sup-Phos., So. Am. Dis. Bone Gttano. Old Dominion Dissolved Samana Guano, Bone and Potash, and Old Dominion Acid Phosphate. FACTORY : Old Dominion Station, on Central Railroad, near Atlanta. OFFICE: 30 West Alabama Street* Atlanta, Ga. GANTT GUANO DISTRIBUTER. Without an Equal! Gantt's Patent Cotton Planters and Guano Distributers. Strongest, Most Perfect Made. GANTT COTTON PLANTER. They are fully guaranteed. It is econ- omy to use them. Every farmer can afford to buy them. Gantt's Guano Distributer is far supe- rior to anything on the market; has full rotary motion ; so arranged as not to pack or clog in the box. Unsurpassed for put- ting out all kinds of guano; easily regulated to distribute the proper amount; no waste in turning rows; opens and puts in guano at one operation. This Distributer will more than save the price of itself every season over the tin horn system or other makes of distributers. They are now being used in several States with best results. Also used for drill- ing oats, wheat, &c. Gantt's Force Feed Planter is well known in all the cotton growing- States, and acknowledged by those using them to be the best Cotton Planter made. They have steel beams and coulters, with detachable steel plow points and the best steel springs. We also make Gantt's new style Gins, Feeders and Condensers. Repair work on all makes of Gins solicited. J. T. GANTT, Macon, Ga. MINUTES. ATLANTA, GA., October 24th, 1899. The Commissioners of Agriculture met this morning in the cham- ber of commerce, at 11:30 o'clock, for the purpose of temporary organiza- tion. The convention was called to order by Commissioner O. B. Stevens of Georgia. Prayer was offered by Rev. C. P. Bridewell, pastor of the First Pres- byterian church, Atlanta. The address of welcome was delivered on behalf of the State by Governor Allen D. Candler of Georgia. An address of welcome on behalf of the city of Atlanta was delivered by Mayor James G. Woodward. The response to the addresses of welcome was delivered by Commis- sioner Leon Jastremski of Louisiana, who replied, representing Governor Foster, of Louisiana. Hon. Frank Hill, Commissioner of Arkansas, nominated Commis- sioner Leon Jastremski of Louisiana, for temporary chairman The vote on the motion was unanimous, and Commissioner Jastremski was asked to take the chair. Commissioner O. B. Stevens of Georgia, nominated Royal Daniel of Atlanta, for temporary secretary, and the vote was unanimous. On motion of Commissioner Redhead of Mississippi, the following committees were appointed by the chair : Committee on Permanent Organization— Commissioners Redhead, Hill, Stevens. Committee on Resolutions— Culver, Patterson, Jastremski, the latter name being placed on the list on motion of Commissioner Redhead, be- cause Commissioner Jastremski occupied the chair. Before the committees were named, Commissioner Stevens moved that the convention adjourn and the committees be named later, but the motion was withdrawn at the request of other commissioners, as it was stated that the convention had all the work before it that could possibly be attended to, and it was important that all speed be made towards per- fecting a permanent organization as soon as possible. Commissioner Redhead asked for information if the organization was to be permanent, aud his inquiry brought the following motion from Commissioner Hill, which was seconded by Commissioner Stevens: Resolved. That it is the sense of this meeting that we go into a permanent organ- ization, with a view of holding a series of annual meetings of Agricultural Commis- sioners of the Cotton States. This motion, after discussion, was referred to the Committee on Permanent Organization. It was suggested by Commissioner Redhead of Mississippi, that mem- bership should be limited to Commissioners of Agriculture only, but that in addition a representation should be allowed from each congressional district, say of one delegate, which would make the attendance larger and which would secure more extended views. Commissioner Redhead of Mississippi suggested that the organization could easily be made the coalition of all existing farmers' organizations, and should be a Southern Farmers' Congress. Chairman Jastremski thought the purpose of the organization was more to bring the commissioners of agriculture together than anything. •72. V It was the opinion of Commissioner Hill that it would be a very diffi- cult matter to secure the attendance of delegates from each congressional district. The suggestion was made by Conimfssioner Patterson of North Caro- lina that directors of all State experimental stations be included in mem- bership of the organization of the convention, which suggestion he embodied in an amendment to the motion of Commissioner Hill. Commissioner Culver found objection to the amendment, declaring that if all the directors of all the State experimental stations were allowed membership in the organization, there would be a very large membership, and might cause some complications, as there were negroes in Alabama who were members of the State experimental station. The chair suggested that all matters of detailed organization should be referred to the Committee on Organization for adjustment, and this suggestion was embodied in a motion, introduced by Commissioner Hill, which was unanimously adopted. Professor J. B. Huuuicutt, editor of the Southern Cultivator, Atlanta, was introduced by Commissioner "Stevens to the convention, and he deliv- ered an address upon agricultural interests. On motion of Commissioner Stevens, the convention adjourned until tomorrow at nine o'clock in the morning. Those who were present at today's session were: Commissioners Leon Jastremski of Louisiana, I. F. Culver of Alabama, Frank Hill of Arkansas, 3. L. Patterson of North Carolina, J. A. Redhead of Mississippi, O. B. Stevens of Georgia. ROYAL DANIEL, Secretary. Approved: LEON JASTREMSKI, Temporary Chairman. ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 35th, 1899 The convention was called to order at 9:80 o'clock this morning, in the Chamber of Commerce, by Temporary Chairman Jastremski. The minutes of the previous day were read and confirmed, with the addition to the list of those present, as follows: Dr. W. C. Stubbs and Col. Charles Schuler of Louisiana, and Capt. Richard Cheatham of Ten- nessee. The courtesy of the convention and privileges of the floor were extended these gentlemen, upon motion of Commissioner Patterson. Commissioner Stevens moved that the same courtesy be extended all members of the press who might attend the session of the convention, which was carried. Commissioner Stevens announced that Commissioner L. B. Wombell of Florida had notified him that he would not be able to attend the session of the convention on account of business matters that were imperative. A letter was read from Commissioner George W. Koiner of Virginia, stating that he would not be able to be present. He assured the conven- tion of his hearty support and cordial wishes and co-operation. Commissioner Redhead moved to defer the reading of all papers until the business before the body was given attention and a permanent organ- ization was effected. Commissioner Redhead moved to take a recess of thirty minutes to enable the Committee on Permanent Organization and By-laws to get together and make its report. The report of this committee was announced, and was received as follows: CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS. I. — This organization shall be permanent, and shall be known as the Cotton States Association of the Commissioners of Agriculture. II. — Its object shall be to improve and promote the agricultural in- terests of the Cotton States of the United States of America. S — ' III. — The membership of the Association shall consist of the Com- missioners of Agriculture and Assistant Commissioners of their respective States. IV. — Where there is no officer known as Commissioner of Agriculture, then the head and his assistant of the Department of Agriculture of each State shall be members of this organization. V. — If there should be any State without a Department of Agriculture or farming organization, the governor of said State may appoint some per- son to represent said State, who is identified and in sympathy with the agricultural interests of his State. VI. — The officers of this convention shall consist of a president, a first and second vice-president, a secretary, an assistant secretary and a treas- urer. Said officers shall be elected on the day of each annual session. A majority of the votes cast shall elect. VII. — It shall be the duty of the president to preside overall meetings, or should he be absent, then it shall be the duty of the first vice-president, and if both of the above named officers be absent, then it shall be the duty of the second vice-president. VIII. — It shall be the duty of the president to appoint an Executive Committee, of which he shall be the chairman, who shall discharge such duties as may from time to time be assigned to them by the Association. IX. — The president shall appoint a Committee on Rules, by which the Association shall be controlled. He shall also appoint a Committee on Legislation. X. — This Constitution may be amended, at any regular meeting, by a two-thirds vote of the members present, by written notice of the proposed amendment in writing, whether by resolution or otherwise, given to the Association. XI. — The terms of the officers of the Association shall be annual. XII. — The time and place of the regular meeting shall be fixed by the Association, but in default of action by the Association, or in other emer- gency, the Executive Committee shall have such power. XIII. — The Executive Committee shall call special meetings of the Association whenever, in its opinion, it may be advisable. XIV.— The Order of Easiness shall be as follows : Call of Boll ; Read- ing of Minutes ; Report of Standing Committees ; Unfinished Business ; New Business. After the business of each session the Association may have addresses ' essays or discussions upon agriculture or its kindred subjects. XVI. — Four members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business of this convention. XVII. — That the said Commissioners, through their Executive Com- mittee, shall, whenever deemed desirable, request the attendance of repre- sentatives of agriculture, of the different States, at the annual meetings, the said representatives having all the priviledges of the meeting, save those pertaining to the official duties of the Commissioners. Commissioner Hill moved to fill in blank in date of election of officer "by making it the second day of the annual session. The motion was car- ried, and Article VI of the Constitution was declared so amended. Commissioner Redhead suggested that essays and discussions should come after the session of each day, and, on motion of Commissioner Hill, the suggestion was put into execution and the article so amended. On motion of Commissioner Hill, the Constitution and By-Laws were adopted as a whole. Commissioner O. B. Stevens, of Georgia, was nominated by Coinrnis sioner Redhead for permanent president of the Association. There were no other nominations, and the election of Commissioner Stevens to the chair as permanent presiding officer of the association for the year was unanimous. — 5— Royal Daniel, of Atlanta, Ga., was nominated for permanent secretary and Frank Fleming, of Atlanta, Ga., for permanent assistant secretary. Commissioner Hill nominated Col. B. F. Wright of Georgia for the position of secretary, and Royal Daniel of Georgia for place of assistant secretary, taking the position that the secretary of the association should be a member of the body. Colonel Wright withdrew his name, by permission of Commissioner Hill. The vote was unanimous, and Royal Daniel and Frank Fleming were selected secretary and assistant secretary. Upon motion of Commissioner Patterson, Commissioner Hill was elected unanimously first vice-president. Upon the nomination of Commissioner Redhead, Commissioner Pat- terson was elected second vice-president. Upon motion of Commissioner Jastremski, Colonel R. F. Wright of Georgia was unanimously elected treasurer. At this juncture the chair announced that the official program, which had been arranged, would be executed, and Commissioner Redhead of Mississippi was introduced to the convention, who delivered an address upon the subject of cotton. Assistant Commissioner Wright of Georgia moved that the convention request Dr. W. C. Stubbs of Louisiana to address the convention in the afternoon. Commissioner Redhead amended the motion by making the invitation include Colonel Charles Schuler of Louisiana. The motion, amended, was unanimously carried. Commissioner Patterson of North Carolina was then introduced. He read his paper, " Cotton Factories — an Aid to Cotton Fields." Commissioner Jastremski moved that the paper read by Commissioner Patterson be printed for distribution. He thought it would be a good idea to print all the proceedings of the convention, and he suggested that the chair appoint a printing committee. Commissioner Hill suggested, not as a motion, that all papers should be submitted to a committee, who should be a censorship, editing and eliminating as deemed best; reporting back to the association. Commissioner Jastremski objected, declaring that any censorship of papers would defeat the very purpose for which the association was organized, as the commissioners had met, and proposed to meet in the future, for the purpose of getting the different views of various men; and if all of the views were the same, there would be no necessity for. an asso- ciation or for annual meetings, as no good could result. Assistant Commissioner Wright stated that he hoped Commissioner Hill would withdraw the suggestion, which he did. It was announced by the chair that Commissioner J. P. Smith of South Carolina would not be present, because of important business matters. Commissioner I. F, Culver of Alabama was introduced to the conven- tion, and he read a paper, " The Better Handling of our Cotton." On motion of Commissioner Redhead, the convention adjourned until 3 o'clock in the afternoon. ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 25th, 1899 AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order at 3 o'clock this afternoon, Presi- dent O. B. Stevens presiding. Colonel Charles Schuler, at the invitation of the convention extended at the morning session, was introduced by the chair and addressed the convention. On motion of Commissioner Jastremski, Colonel Schuler was invited and requested to put his remarks in writing, and to furnish them to the —6— secretary so that they could be printed in the regular proceedings of the convention. Dr. W. C. Stubbs of Louisiana, at the invitation of the convention extended at the morning session, delivered an address before the session. Dr. Stubbs was unanimously asked to put his remarks in writing and to furnish them to the secretary for publication. Commissioner Jastreinski moved that the convention invite some dis- tinguished gentleman to appear before the body and deliver an address on the subject of the square bale, since Commissioner Culver's paper had dealt entirely with the round bale. The motion was seconded by Com- missioner Hill, and unanimously carried. Upon the suggestion of the chair that a compress man be invited, Comm ssioner Culver asked that the invitation from the convention also be exteinded a round bale representative, so that both sides of the discus- sion could be heard in an intelligent manner and from men who could give figures that were official and authoritative. Commissioner Jastremski amended his motion to meet with the sug- gestion advanced by Commissioner Culver, and the vote was unanimous, and the secretary was instructed to invite a representative of the square and the round bale to appear before the convention the next day at noon and deliver an address upon the merits of the two packages of cotton. On motion of Commissioner Bedhead, the paper of Commissioner Jefferson Johnson of Texas, who was absent, was read before the conven- tion by Commissioner R. F. Wright of Georgia. On motion of Commissioner Redhead, the convention adjourned until tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. Approved: ROYAL DANIEL, Secretary. O. B. STEVENS, President. ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 26th, 1899 The convention was called to order at 9 o'clock this morning, President O. B. Stevens presiding. The roll call showed a quorum was present, and the minutes of the preceding day were read and approved. President Stevens announced that an invitation had been extended the convention to attend the Brumby sword presentation at the State Capitol at 11 o'clock. By unanimous vote the invitation was accepted, and it was decided that the convention would adjourn at 10:15 o'clock until afternoon. The following resolution was read by Commissioner Redhead: Whereas, The opening of a short route to Japan, China and the Philippines will create an unbounded new field for sale of Southern cotton, timber and other products, therefore, be it Resolved, That this convention of Commissioners of Agriculture of the Cotton States do most earnestly urge the senators and representatives of the i espective Cotton States to lend their aid and support to the opening of the Nicaraguan canal, or such inter-oceanic route as may be deemed practicable by Congress. Motion of Commissioner Jastremski that the resolution be referred t° the Committee on Resolutions. Commissioner Culver moved that it be adopted by the convention without its being referred. The motion prevailed, the motion of Commis- sioner Jastremski being withdrawn. The convention then heard the paper by Commissioner Leon Jastrem- ski read: " The Syrup and Sugar Cane Industry." The following committees were named by the chair, after which the convention took a recess to attend the Brumby sword presentation exer- cises at the State Capitol: Executive Committee— Commissioners Redhead and Jastremski. Committee on Rules and Regulations —Commissioners Culver, Patter- son and Redhead. Committee on Legislation — Commissioners Patterson, Hill, Wright. Committee on Transportation — Jastreniski, Wright, Culver. On motion of Commissioner iastrernski, that he be relieved of the chairmanship of the Committee on .^Transportation, he was made chairman of the Committee on Resolutions, and Commissioner Culver was made chairman of the Committee on Transportation, the chairmen being changed from one to the other. ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 26th, 1899 At noon the convention was called to order by President Stevens, the members having returned from the presentation of the sword to Lieuten- ant Brumby at the capitol. A paper was read by Commissioner Hill of Arkansas. The following resolution was read by Commissioner Jastremski : Whereas, The survival of sugar cane in the Gulf States through the unprece- dented cold weather of last February, has demonstrated the practicability of increas- ing largely the area of sugar cane culture in said States, thereby saving to the country vast annual expenditures for foreign sugars ; and Whereas, Many cotton planters would find greater profit in substituting sugar cane culture for cotton culture ; and Whereas, Such substitution would, by consequent reduction in the excessive yield of cotton, improve the price of the latter product; and Whereas, Authenticated reports lead this assemblage of State Commissioners of Agriculture to believe that the Amazonian departments of Peru produce sugar cane of vast tonnage, yield and vitality greater than any other variety now cultivated in the South: and Whereas They are also informed that the same and other departments produce prolific kinds1of cotton of .various colors and hues, which would be advantageous in the manufacture of cloths, and m«re profitable to the cotton growers of the South than most of the varieties they now plant ; and Whereas, The improvement in the species of sugar cane and cotton planted in the South would greatly assist our agricultural interests and contribute to the wealth and commerce of the entire country ; be it therefore Resolved, That this assembly of State Commissioners of Agriculture do hereby most earnestly request the Honorable James Wilson, Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, to promptly secure conclusive information upon the reports referred to, and if such reports be satisfactorily verified, that he be further requested to obtain ample supplies of the said cane and cottons and appertaining lints, in order that experimental plantings, etc., of a general character may be made at the State experi- mental stations and by planters and by farmers in the sugar cane and cotton growing sections of the South. Be it further resolved, That the secretary of this assembly be requested to for- ward a copy to the Honoreble James Wilson of the preceding preamble and resolution. The following resolution was read by Commissioner Bedhead: Whereas, The agricultural classes of our Cotton States will expect some message from us, be it Resolved, That the president issue,an address to our people, setting forth that the independence and prosperity of our farmers depend largely upon diversifying their farm products, to the end of making their farms self-sustaining and making their money crops a surplus. The following resolution was read by Commissioner Jastremski: Whereas, Justice to the buyer of cotton and justice to the grower of cotton, alike suggests that reports of the condition of cotton during the period of cultivation and of the probable yield thereof, should emanate from sources of the most reliable character and Whereas, The cotton markets are largely governed by reports made by calcula- tors on the one hand and by Federal and State correspondents on the other, who are responsible to no authority for the accuracy of their reports or estimates of crops : ani Whereas, The belief is current that the cotton grower is the principal sufferer from the calculations and reports referred to ; and Whereas, The necessity is apparent for the creation of a system of official reports emanating from officials upon whom responsibility can be placed for the accuracy of their reports and estimates of cotton and their crops ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the Cotton States Association of Commissioners of Agriculture do hereby earnestly petition the Governors and Legislators of the South to enact laws requiring the county tax assessors to report at stated times to the State Commissioners of Agriculture of their respective States the number of acres devoted to the cultiva- tion of cotton and other products ; the condition of said products during the period of cultivation : estimates of the yield thereof; the shipments thereof; and such other information relating thereto as may be deemed useful. Resolved further, That the said reports of county assessors should be made on blanks of uniform character furnished by said State Commissioners of Agriculture ; and it shall be the duty of said Commissioners of Agriculture to compile the said re- ports of the county tax assessors monthly and to publish said compiled reports and to transmit copies thereof to the president of the association for general compilation and promulgation. —8— The following resolution was read by Commissioner Patterson: Resolved, That this association most heartily and earnestly memorializes the congress of the United States to grant the franking privilege of the post office depart- ment to all official publications issued from the department of agriculture of all the States and Territories of the Union. Resolved that the Senators and Representatives of the States represented in this association be served with copies of this resplution, and be earnestly requested to en- deavor to secure the adoption of the resolution. The resolutions were all adopted and ordered spread on the minutes. A cordial invitation was extended the convention to meet next time in Memphis. The invitation was extended by Captain Richard Cheatham of that city. A unanimous vote of thanks was extended Captain Cheatham for his kind invitation. An invitation was read from the state assembly, inviting the conven- tion to attend its sessions, with the privileges of the floor extended. A unanimous vote of thanks was extended the legislature for the invitation. At 2 o'clock the motion to adjourn was made, and a recess until 3 o'clock was taken. \ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 26th, 1899 The convention was called to order this afternoon at 3 o'clock, Presi- dent O. B. Stevens presiding. State School Commissioner G. K. Glenn of Georgia was introduced by the president, and he delivered an address before the convention on the subject of manual training and improved school methods. Upon motion of Commissioner Jastremski, Commissioner Glenn was unanimously asked to put his remarks in writing and to furnish same to the secretary, so that they could be published in the printed proceedings of the convention. Commissioner Redhead moved that when this convention adjourned that it be sine die, and that the next meeting to be held should be the first annual meeting. Commissioner Jastremski moved that the next annual meeting be held in New Orleans, on the second Wednesday in January, which was carried unanimously. The paper by Mr. S. P. Williams of Savannah was read by Assistant Commissioner R. F. Wright of Georgia. At 6 o'clock the convention adjourned until tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. ROYAL DANIEL, Secretary. Approved: O. B. STEVENS, President. ATLANTA, GA., Oct. 27th, 1899 The convention met this morning at 9 o'clock, and was called to order by President Stevens. A quorum was present, and the minutes of the previous day were read and approved. On motion of Commissioner Patterson, Mr. D. A. Thoinpkinsof North Carolina was introduced and requested to address the convention. A vote of thanks was extended Mr. Thompkins, and he was asked to put his remarks in writing, so that they could be published with the gen- eral proceedings of the convention. An invitation was read from the State Legislature, extending an invi- tation to Dr. W C. Stubbs to attend the sessions while in the city, and to deliver an address before the joint session of the house and senate this evening at 8 o'clock. On motion of Assistant Commissioner Wright, a recess of five minutes was taken, and Dr. J. B. Hunnicutt was introduced and asked to deliver an address upon agricultural interests. During the recass the committee on Resolutions held a meeting and prepared its report. —9— When the body was called to order at the expiration of the recess, a rising vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Thompkins for his address. The following resolution was read by Commissioner Wright : Whereas, Certain butter substitutes are now and have been on the market for years, with increasing indications for future sale ; and Whereas, These substitutes known as Oleomargerine, Butterine, and by other names, are in direct competition with the product of the dairy, being cheaper, thereby forcing the dairyman to lose the profit he should receive on his legitimate profits ; and Whereas, The dairyman and the customer are entitled to protection from these substitutes, Therefore be it resolved, That this convention use its best endeavors to secure such protection as is necessary, securing the proper marking of all cans, cases and packages containing the substitutes, and requiring all dealers in and users of the sub- stitutes to brand the articles as substitutes. Be it resolved, That further, this convention will, in all ways possible, aid and encourage the dairymen in the removal of all obstacles that may impede their progress to success, assuring them of the sympathy and co-operation of this convention. Adopted. The following resolution was read by President Stevens: Whereas, The annual loss accruing each year in the handling of cotton, growing out of the loss in weights and failure of bale to come up to the sample classification, which is due to the fact that there is no standard system of weighing and classification ; and Whereas, These reclamations destroy all the profit of the business to the mer- chant, and indirectly is taken from the pockets of the farmers, Be it resolved, That we use our earnest and energetic efforts to bring about the desired results ; and Be it resolved, further. That we invite the assistance and co-operation of such exporters of cotton who realize the importance of the movement, and who, from ex- perience, are in position to furnish substantial aid. Adopted. The following report was read by the Committee on Resolutions: Considering the practicaily unlimited capabilities of the South, its vast resources in minerals and timbers, the fertility of its soil and its adaptability of the cultivation of grains, food stuffs, fruits, cotton, sugarcane and all kinds of vegetables, the advan- tages it offers for stock raising and dairying, the superiority of its climate and health- fulness, the opportunities it is offering at this time for the safe and remunerative investment of capital in manufacture of cotton and other products which it presents in increasing quantities ; considering also that the interests of agriculture will be vastly promoted by the establishment of manufactures, whereby the southern towns and cities would naturally increase in wealth and .population, and become better home markets for the many products of the farm, and considering the vast areas of unoccu- pied lands which offer homes to millions of thrifty people ; considering the foregoing, which proves the South to be the best field in the world for the capitalist and the worthy and industrious immigrant. Be it resolved, therefore, by the Cotton States Association of Commissioners o* Agriculture, That a new invitation is hereby extended to the capitalists and the immi" grants to come among the Southern people and partake with them in the blessings of the grand era of prosperity which is dawning upon the South ; and Be it further resolved, j hat individually and collectively this association will do its utmost to facilitate the desired advent of the capitalist and immigrant into the South. The time having come in our history when trained intellect and mechanical skill and manual dexterity are everywhere needed to develop the resources of the Southern States, it is Resolved, That every modern agency available for developing the above forces be fostered by proper legislation. We therefore urge that agriculture be taught in our rural schools, not only as a means for increasing the wealth of the country, but as a basis for training the mind unsurpassed by any other studies. We earnestly commend our agricultural and mechanical colleges and oar indus- trial and technical schools. We invoke liberal legislation in their behalf, We believe that farmers' institutes, so potential for educating our farmers, which are simply schools for the farmers, should be encouraged by proper legislation, so that the best talents of the country shall be secured therefor, and that every farmer of the country can enjoy the benefits of at least once a year. We commend the organization of farmers' clubs, associations formed, not for political reasons, but for educational and scientific advantages. We commend State and county fairs and exhibitions as being object lessons of great educational value. We commend the erection of cotton factories in every community, being powerful adjuncts to the growing of cotton throughout the South. We also advise the erection of cotton oil mills, so as to secure the largest profits of our chief staple. To aid both of the above, we earnestly commend that each State in the South —10— establish as soon as possible textile schools for the training of the experts for the.'e industries. Resolved, That the president of this association be requested to ascertain the probable cost of printing the proceedings of this meeting, and that he be further re- quested to communicate such information to the members of the association, and to communicate to commissioners not yet elected to membership, with the view of arranging to cover the cost of such printing and to determine the number of copies to be printed and distributed. Kesolved, That we regard as the proper field to include in this association the States of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, North and South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri and California, and the territories of Oklahoma, the Indian Nation, New Mexico and Arizona, and the presi- dent is requested to invite all of these States and Territories to be represented at our conventions and in our association. Resolved, That at the meetings of this association the members may present for election to honorary membership the names of presidents and professors of agricultu- ral colleges, directors of experiment stations and State chemists, in their respective otates. Resolved further, That honorary members shall have the same privileges to par- ticipate in discussions as members, without, however, the power to vote. Considering that the lack of an adequate merchant marine is operating so as to give to the European nations the command of markets, which owing to their proxim- ity to our southern ports should instead be commanded by the various southern and and American industries ; Be it resolved, That we urge the senators and congressmen of the S9uthern States to advocate and support proper measures to rehabilitate the American merchant marine, with the view of establishing direct intercourse between our southern ports and the markets referred to. Be it resolved further, That to aid in such intercourse, we would urge said sena- tors and congressmen to endeavor to have created direct mail service with the markets referred to. The report bythe Committee on Resolutions was unanimously adopted. A paper by President O. B. Stevens was read on the subject of fertil- izers. On motion of Commissioner Jastremski, Dr. W. C. Stubbs of Louisi- ana was elected an honorary member of the association. The following resolution by Commissioner Jastremski was unani- mously adopted : Resolved, That the president be authorized to have the proceedings of this session printed, in consideration of the privileges tp attach advertisements to said proceed- ings, in case he finds a contractor willing to make such publication upon the above stated terms, or otherwise upon the most favorable terms, according to the resolution already adopted. The following resolution by Commissioner Jastremski was unani- mously adopted : Resolved, That the warmest thanks of this association be and are hereby tendered to the Governor and the General Assembly of the great State of Georgia ; to the Mayor of the beautiful and progressive ciiy of Atlanta ; to Hon. O. B. Stevens, Commis- sioner of Agriculture of Georgia, the worthy originator of this association : to Colonel Robeet P. Wright, his able and urbane assistant; to the faithful and efficient Secretary, Mr. Royal Daniel, and to his assistant, Mr. Frank Fleming of Atlanta ; and to the citizens of Atlanta, the press of Atlanta, for the courtesy that they have been pleased to extend us on this occasion ; and to the City Council for the generous use of the hall of the Chamber of Commerce. On motion of Commissioner Jastremski, President Stevens and Assis- tant Commissioner Wright were requested to prepare the program for the next session of the association. On motion of Commissioner Redhead, the convention adjourned to meet in New Orleans on January 19th, which is to be the first annual meeting of the association. ROYAL DANIEL, Secretary. Approved : O. B. STEVENS, President. E. VAN WINKLE GIN & MACHINE WORKS ATLANTA, GEORGIA. Manufacture a Complete Line of Ginning Machinery, Also Complete Equipments for COTTON SEED OIL MILLS AND ARE WOT MEMBERS OF ANY TRUST OR COMBINATION. CORRESPONDENCE SOLICITED E. VAN WINKLE GIN AND MACHINE WORKS, ATLANTA, GEORGIA. Htlanta Journal Daily and Semi-Weekly DAIT.V, $5.OO PER A^VNTJM. SKMI-WKKKI/V, 81.OO PER THE DAILY JOURNAL HAS REACHED AN AVERAGE CIRCULATION OF MORE THAN THIRTY THOUSAND. THIS IS AT LEAST TEN THOUSAND IN EXCESS OF ITS NEXT HIGHEST COMPETITOR. THE SEMI-WEEKLY'S AVERAGE IS MORE THAN FORTY THOU- SAND COPIES. THE JOURNAL RECEIVES THE NEWS FROM ALL THE WORLD, OVER ITS OWN LEASED WIRES, AND HAS PAID CORRESPONDENTS IN ALL THE PRINCIPAL CITIES OF THE UNITED STATES. IT ALWAYS HAS THE NEWS, AND PRINTS IT ON THE DAY IT HAPPENS. AS ADVERTISING MEDIUMS, THE DAILY AND SEMI-WEEKLY JOURNAL ARE UNSURPASSED. ADDRESS, THE JOURNAL, Atlanta, Ga. A SOUTHERN SEED-HOUSE. UBS is a Seed-House of and for the South only. Our efforts are for the South- ern trade only, and the seed stocks that we carry are adapted to your soil and climate, and our entire aim and purpose is to furnish you with seeds that will give you satisfactory results. We furnish you stocks of seed that are grown for us. not the ordinary cheap-grade stocks that are on the wholesale seed markets. The South has for years been the dumping-ground for old and inferior seeds. These have generally been worked off through country stores and the commission boxes left on sale. Naturally, such seeds do not give you satisfactory results. '1 he sale of such seeds is a damage to every pur- chaser. If you have always used that kind of seed you do not know what real first- class seeds are. We can say in perfect good faith that there is no seed firm in the country that can as wel) supply your needs and wants as we can, We are aware that you will find many firms that will sell you seeds at a lower price. You will also find that the quali- ty of the low-priced seeds is so poor that they are really more expensive than ours at a half or third the price. OUR AIM AND PURPOSE is to make every customer a satisfied customer, so far as prompt, courteous, honest treatment and best quality of seeds can make him so. We have an interest in the seeds we sell beyond the simple matter of dollars and cents that they represent. We are con- stantly striving to get new and better varieties or improving existing ones. It is our life-work, and we seek to leave as a monument when we have passed away an improved condition of Southern agriculture so far as it can be affected by the seed supply. The pride that we take in our life-work is the best guarantee against inferior seeds. Our moral responsibility is great. We realize fully that on our knowledge and care depends the success or failure of the crops of thousands of our customers, and with seedsmen worthy of the name this moral responsibility is the strongest possible safe- guard of the planter. Our pride in our reputation among our customers is more to us than dollars, and therein lies the difference between the real seedsman and the dealer in seeds. OUR 50-PAGE ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE WILL BE SENT YOU FREE if you will ask for it. H. G. HASTINGS & CO., Seedsmen, 4 West Mitchell Street, ATLANTA, GA. Continental Gin MAIN OFFICE BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA. FACTORIES : Birmingham, Ala., Prattville, Ala., Atlanta, Ga. Bridgewater, Mass., Avondale, Ala. Manufacturers of the most complete and approved line of ». Cotton Ginnery Machinery ON THE MARKET. Up to date with the largest line and the latest improrements in Cotton Gins, Cotton Presses and Seed Cotton Elevators. Comprising the well known and popular Ginning systems of "MUNGER" "SMITH" "WINSH1P" "EAGLE" "PRATT" ALSO, ENGINES AND BOILERS, SHAFTING, PULLEYS, HANGERS, ETC. IT WILL PAY YOU TO GET OUR PRICES. WRITE FOR CATALOGUE DESCRIPTIVE OF OUR SEVERAL LINES. Address all Communications to, CONTINENTAL GIN Co, BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA. ATLANTA, GA. HIGH GRADE FERTILIZERS OFFICE : 912 and 913 Prudential Building:. WORKS : W. & A. R. R. , Southern Ry . , L. & N. Ry GAYLAMOUNT PAMPHLET BINDER -^ Manufactured by ©AYLORD BROS. Inc. Syracuse, N. Y. Stockton, Calif. YC 60836 M262351 S31 THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY