| = i = t OP. Sed “obit Ob ew /* a, 1 A & Fim, ‘| if Vivag > £0 egtnoyy +) ie he a +; f r ag E at a aii da pie ee 518 ee a pen A ig " ph 1) on ie. yt ‘et wy ae rig ‘s a wer. Aa ss {x th a i lab Me 4 weal oa t re wets a bai) ee ve Rae Ye eR: ny? i f Pay aphasia: ny aa » a ny) Ber hace ta ee - ate i: . vee 4 nee Mg J TRARY MONTHLY REPORT men. ¢ meacAL OF THE DEN CONDITION OF THE CROPS. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, July 10, 1863. The Commissioner of Agriculture submits to the consideration of the farming community the following monthly reports of the condition of the crops for the months of May and June, together with such matters of the weather as con- nect themselves with these crops. For the meteorological observations he is indebted to the Smithsonian Institution, under the direction of Prof. Henry ; and the farmers of the country owe much to that Institution, and to the observers connected with it, who, in the different sections of the country, with patient watch- fulness, note the flying clouds, mark the changing weather, and gauge the falling rain, unsalaried and unpaid, save in the consciousness of doing a good work. He is assured, from the workings of the system adopted to obtain information of the growing crops, of its general correctness and great utility. Whatever imperfections it may now have will be speedily overcome, as its practical opera- tion will be more fully understood by his correspondents, and Congress grants to him facilities for the attainment of his object. He looks, too, with confident assurance to the ready co-operation which the secretaries of agricultural societies and clubs can give him, by carefully prepared answers to his circulars Hereafter a similar report will be issued on the tenth day of every month ; and that this may be done with promptness, the Commissioner requests all eor- respondents and observers to transmit their answers and reports to him on the first day of every month, as more fully stated in the following report. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. (FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. ) MAY AND JUNE, 1863. The Agricultural Department, in issuing its first monthly report of the con- dition of the crops, desires to make known its purpose in preparing these reports, and the means it has adopted to collect the information embraced in them. . 1. No nation has ever developed such agricultural resources as the United States, whether the amount and the variety of its products, or their relations to manufactures and commerce, are considered. The amount of the capital it has invested in lands and farming implements is nearly seven billions of dol- lars, producing an annual value of two and a half billions of dollars. It em- ploys and directly supports about seventeen millions of the population of the 2 United States. Its products are not only those cereals and animals from which our breadstuffs and meats are obtained, but embrace also those textile materials that sustain, not only our own manufacturing industry, but the great cotton manufactures of the world. Hence our manufacturing industry has been ere- ated by, and is dependent on, our agriculture. The capital invested in our manu- factures exceeds two billions of dollars, yielding an annual product not much less in value. This diversified industry has created a commerce of not less proportionate magnitude, which, employed in distributing these provisions and materials and manufactures, uses as its means of travel and transportation rail- roads, canals, and river improvements, costing two and a half billions of dollars, and employs a tonnage in value about two hundred and twenty-five millions of dollars. Such are the gigantic operations of American industry, making its na- tional inventory one of the most extraordinary records of progress the world has ever beheld. Nor is this all. The wants of Europe have established a great and rapidly increasing dependence upon the United States for its agricultural products. This is seen in the magnitude of the exportation of these, even when civil war has closed so many ports, and paralyzed the agriculture of so large a portion of the country. ‘The world leans on us. To meet demands of this great magnitude is the mission of American agri- culture. The merchant and the manufacturer, the operative in the factory and the mechanic in the shop, those at home and those abroad—all, as much as the farmer, cannot but feel deeply interested in the monthly report of the progress of an agriculture upon which these classes depend. Statistical information is collected slowly, and generally not published until the immediate interest in them has passed away. Thus, for instance, the American Almanac, an annual statistical publication of the highest authority, does not generally bring its statistics nearer than two years of the time of its publication. Even the imports and exports of the United States are not made generally known by the Treasury Department until eighteen months after the close of the fiscal year. In the mean time the vast crops have been sown and harvested and sold, with no reliable information of their amount, save what cer- tain interests obtain through agencies, in which the public are not regarded as having any concern, nor any right to the information they give. This is unjust to the industrial pursuits of our country. Those who produce, and those who consume, have interests as well as the purchaser who stands be- tween them. A knowledge of the market is essential for all, and this market ~ is governed by supply and demand. The relations between agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, demand that something should be done to obtain and publish, at brief intervals during the crop season, reliable information of the amount and condition of these crops. The connexion between the industrial pursuits creates mutual interests. ‘There is no clearer principle of political economy than this, that as the farmer is en- riched all other classes prosper. His pursuit, as stated, embraces two-thirds of our population—the great body of consumers of manufactured products—and of these he buys in proportion as his own occupation gives him the means. Hence, the more he consumes the greater is the demand for manufactures. The office of commerce being to interchange the products of agriculture and manufacture between their respective consumers, it, too, prospers in proportion as the farmer and operative thrive. Individuals, however, do not regard the common welfare, but are constantly impelled by self-interest to take from it to enrich themselves. Hence commercial speculations are common where general ignorance prevails of the true conditions of supply and demand. Every public interest is injuriously, affected through this self-aggrandizement. The Wall street speculations in gold, which led Congress to enact the first law ever passed in this country to regu- late discounts, are not the only instances where individual gain disregarded the public good. 3 Ignorance of the state of our crops invariably leads to speculation, in which oftentimes, the farmer does not obtain just prices, and by which the consumer is not benefited. The interests of labor, therefore, demand that the true con- dition of these crops should be made known. Such knowledge, whilst it tends to discourage speculation, gives to commerce a more uniform, and, consequently, a more healthy action. Its influence on manufactures is not less beneficial. The probable supply of textile material directs the extent of manufacturing industry, and the prices and consumption of its products. 2. Holding these opinions, the Commissioner of Agriculture believed it was his duty to adopt some plan to obtain each month, during the months from May to October inclusive, general information of the amount and condition of our leading agricultural products. He was aware of the difficulties that surrounded an attempt of this kind. The department had no means, except in a copy of its annual report, these monthly reports, and seeds, to pay for answers to inter- rogatories necessary to procure information. It had but one reliance—the vol- untary aid of intelligent farmers—a class to whom the government, in its utmost need, ever appealed to, and not in vain, for aid and protection. The plan that has been adopted is to issue a circular for each month, com- mencing with May, to end with October, and in it to make inquiries relative to those crops the condition of which is of most importance to be known. It was desirable to avoid perplexing interrogatories, and to select those only which could be answered briefly and definitely. In the subjoined tables it will be seen that the questions relate to but two matters, the amount sown in 1863 compared with that in 1862, and the appearance of the crop in May and June. ‘The an- swers are given in figures, by adopting 10 as the representative of an average of the amount of acres sown; making each number below or above it represent one-tenth of a decrease or increase. So 10 represents also an average appear- ance. The figure 9 would be one-tenth below the average appearance, and 11 would be one-tenth above it. These answers are simple, not likely to be mis- understood, and enable the department to make, readily, averages of a county, and from these of a State, and from all the States a general average. With this explanation every person will easily understand the tables. The difficulties of collecting these statistics were several. The correspond- ents were unknown; who were reliable, from the interest they would take in the proposed plan, could be ascertained by trial only; who would procure the information, necessary to approximate to correctness, was uncertain. As farmers communicate to each other, and to persons in towns, especially to dealers in produce, the state and amount of their crops, there soon obtains in every county a knowledge of their condition, whether more or less than an average has been planted, whether injured, and by what cause, and to what extent. With no ereat deal of trouble, this information can be collected and transmitted through the plan adopted. From no other source can the condition of growing crops be ascertained. It is obvious that as our correspondents better understand the general character of the information this department needs, their inquiries will be seasonably made, so that their replies can be given clearly, and at the de- sired time. It is designed to issue the circulars about the tenth day of each month, and have them mailed for their return on the first day of the ensuing month. This will give time to take averages of the answers, to prepare the meteorological tables, and to make such statements in the report as may be desired, and have it printed and distributed to correspondents, with the next circular, by the tenth. Unseen difficulties, inseparable from every undertaking where experience has not yet fixed the routine necessary to be pursued, has delayed this first report The irregularities of the mails, delay in the printing of the circulars, time required by correspondents to make arrangements to procure the desired information— these were some of them. The number and character of the answers received, + especially under these disadvantages, give ample assurance that the plan adopted will be successful, and that this department will soon be in regular correspond- ence with many of the most intelligent farmers of the several States. The replies from which the following tables were made are not as numerous in some of the States as was desirable. But the answers from the great grain- producing States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Iowa, were full and satisfactory. It is due, too, that the promptness of the new and distant States of Minnesota axd Kansas should be kindly acknowledged, and their example commended to States much nearer to the capital. Our correspondents will notice that the envelopes accompanying the circulars for July are prepaid. ‘This course was rendered necessary by the construction given by the Postmaster General to the law of last session of Congress, regu- lating the franking privilege. ‘That law declares that “all official communica- tions addressed ¢o the several executive departments by an officer resposible to that department, who shall mark it ‘ official,’ with his signature thereto, shall be free of charge, but all others must be prepaid.” The act of May, 1862, creating the Department of Agriculture, enjoins on the Commissioner the duty “to acquire and preserve in his department all useful information concerning agriculture, which he can obtain by means of books and correspondence, by: the collection of statistics, and valuable seeds and plants.” And to enable him to discharge these duties, it declares that ‘said Commis- sioner may send and receive through the mail, free of charge, all communica- tions, and other matter pertaining to the business of his department.” The other departments of government, where duties are enjoined upon them requiring action or information outside of Washington, have their officers, by whom and through whom these duties may be discharged, or this information be communicated. 'The Post Office Department has its deputies and mail agents. The Department of the Interior has its land offices, its Indian agents, &e., &e. The Navy and War Departments have their officers, when sailors and soldiers are to be recruited, or drafted, or clothed, or fed, or marched, or paid. The State Department has its consuls and ministers, and other representatives, in every civilized nation. The Treasury Department has its custom-house officers wherever a duty is to be collected, and its assessors and collectors wherever an internal tax is to be levied and collected. Whatever information is needed by them these officers can give, and may frank their answers. But the Department of Agriculture has no such officers. All it has are in the rooms of the department. Yet to discharge its duties under the acts of May, 1862, and of February, 1863, it must have a correspondence from ocean to ocean, and from Maine to 'Texas. A just construction of the act of Congress of last session would seem to have limited its restrictions to the departments having recognized officers through whom they may receive communications. ‘To apply them to the Department of Agriculture, which has none, is imputing to Congress the folly of enjoining duties on this department, which demands a most extensive correspondence, when it has no recognized officers, but voluntary correspondents only, giving to it the proper mail facilities; and then, retaining the duties, but withholding the neces- sary mail necessities. Congress may accidentally pass two acts having an ap- parent conflict, but the rule of construction in such cases is well known; and that is, so to construe the acts as not to conflict with each other. Rather than be unfaithful to the duties demanded of him by the act of Con- egress, and by the interests of agriculture, the Commissioner has determined to prepay all postage of his regular correspondents; for to ask of them unpaid information, and to pay their own postage, too, would be an act derogatory to the dignity of this department and to the courtesy which was due to them in their efforts to advance the interests of agriculture. 5 THE TABLES OF CROPS FOR MAY AND JUNE. Winter wheat—The appearance of this crop in June varied in different lo- ealities. In Nebraska Territory it was destroyed by the winter, and in New Hampshire much injured from the same cause. But the general appearance is but one-tenth below an average. In the great wheat-producing States of Illi- nois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Wis- consin, the average is still better, being but a half-tenth below it. Ohio is the only large wheat-producing State that falls below the general average, being two-tenths below. The injuries from Hessian fly, rust, freezing out, and all other casualties are so small as to amount to but one and one-third tenth. Against this we have in the table for May a tenth more land sowed than in 1862, which was the largest crop ever grown in this country. Spring wheat—This presents a better general average, being but three-fourths of a tenth below the average of a good crop, and having sustained but one-tenth injury from all causes. Barley —This crop is excellent, being one-tenth more than an average in the amount sown, and but a half-tenth below it in appearance. Corn.—This, our national crop, is reported as generally small in. size on ac- count of the drought of the latter part of May and the first half of June in some States, and nearly the whole of it in others. The entire injury it sustained from worms, drought, and all other causes, is but one and a half tenth, and its ap- pearance is but one-tenth below the standard of a good crop. This crop is tried hardest in the usual July drought, but every appearance of the weather, which is now generally favorable from the fall of warm and abundant rains, gives assurance that there will be no July drought. Oats.—This crop has undoubtedly suffered much from drought. If it escapes the rust it may still be better than the crop of last year. New York and Penn- sylvania are the great oats-producing States, and in the first of these this crop has not suffered much. Tobacco——On account of the war this has increased rapidly in the loyal States. ‘The amount planted this year, as shown by the table for June, is sev- enty-five per cent. over that of last year. In appearance it is nearly an average, being but one-tenth below it. Grass—This crop is certainly injured very much from drought generally, and, in certain localities, from freezing out. The table for June shows it to be two-tenths below the standard appearance of a good crop. But great as is the value of the hay crop, being second only to that of corn, yet its deficit is always supplied by greater saving of the wheat and oats straw, and cutting up and topping corn. Flaz.—As was expected, this crop has increased over that of last year, in the amount sown, one hundred and twenty per cent., being in the June table 22, or twelve above the average of last year’s crop. Should the drought permanently injure it so as to decrease the yield per acre of lint, yet, from this great increase in acreage, there is no doubt that the country will still have a good supply of lint out of which cotton flax may be made, should the experiments now making by this departmet prove successful for the conversion of the lint into flax cotton. The quantity of seed will be largely increased. Wool.—The tables show an increase in the number of sheep over those of last year of twenty per cent. Much has been said of the great clip of wool this season, many placing it as high as one hundred million of pounds, It is neces-- sary to show what the increase is, and what is the crop of wool. The number of sheep, by the census report for 1860, is 24,823,566, and the: pounds of wool, 60,511,343. From this number of sheep is to be deducted! 1,166,200 for mistake in the census report of those for Indiana. 'The rebel: States produced 5,717,587 of the whole number, which must be deducted trom, 6 it, as they are not now represented in the wool market. Kentucky and Mis- souri raised in 1862, 2,039,601 sheep, and the ravages of war have destroyed largely of these. Deducting 1,000,000 on this account, we have the following table : Whole number in 1860............ be see be IOs UA. wal ce ae 24, 823, 566 From which take— Mistake tm, Img@iquay Meteins «22 boos 4 + bc ao 0s Scere om 1,166,200 Sheep of theidisioval States. .<... 20.0050 one. a Onf17,987 Loss in Kentucky and Missouri... 230500 sse00s 1,000,000 — 7,883,787 Number in loyal States in 1860........ motel a rel 16, 939, 779 The increase in 1863, as stated in the June reports to this department, is twenty-five per cent., and allowing it to be the same in 1861 and 1862, the whole number for 1861 would be 21,174,724, and in 1862, 26,468,405. This is the number from which the clip of 1863 was taken. The average yield of sheep, per head, according to the census returns in 1850, was 2.42 pounds, and by those of 1860, 2.55 pounds. But this is clearly too low for the principal sheep-producing States of the north. The number of the sheep of the loyal States was 17,198,219 in 1860, and the pounds of wool, 50,183,626, making the yield of wool 2.92 pounds per head. The number of sheep of the disloyal States was 6,097,587, and the pounds of wool, 9,748,702, making but 1.59 pounds per sheep. The following table shows the yield, per head, of the following five large wool-producing States, according to the census returns of 1850, 1860, and the returns of the correspondents of this department in June of this year: 1850, 1860. 1863, aw WOME ssh. ew ehils ial, Kees BM ewe wikis ee Oe 2.91 3.67 3.80 Pennsylvania yond) sas. «dbs oR eee days Vatiey 2.46 2.82 3.33 Uae FS JO EA tk Ale fel ee saath eo SPR eee oes bret 2.58 3.33 3.03 ET EN eaten a cnn, sp. scam beep, Saale eee a tae ae Ae 2.87 2.68 3.67 WEPMOM Ur, bucentet, Mile loi snditils. Sates sae eiaee Meme ee. & 3.39 4.02 4.54 VOTER E! os Sida sti sb die ate ai valteghas te (a ek Wei) afd 2.83 3.31 3.77 From all these data, it is safe to assume the yield in the loyal States at three pounds perhead. ‘The estimated number of sheep for last year being 26,468,405, the clip of 1863 would be 79,405,215 pounds. Sorghum.—TVhe increase of this crop, as stated in the June table, is twenty- seven per cent. In appearance, it is but little affected by the drought. Sup- posing that the increase, as given in the May tables, was too large, the inquiry as to the amount was renewed in the cireulars for June, as the amount could then be better ascertained. ‘The greater number of the returns for this month _are also in their'favor, and hence the increase of twenty-seven per cent. is, doubt- less, correct. Cotton —So far the appearance of this crop is favorable. The dry weather enabled farmers to free the crop from weeds and grass. During the drought it was but one-tenth below the average of a good crop; and, in amount, the increase ‘is eighty per cent. over last year in the localities where it is now cultivated, which are much fewer than those of last year. Weather —Under this general heading will be found in the first four columns ‘the number of counties which have made returns of the weather, and the charac- 7 ter of it with reference to the crops. A good many correspondents did not make returns of it, and hence their counties are not represented in the table. The first column shows the number of counties where the weather was favora- ble to crops; the second, where it was dry, not injuring them, but holding them back; the third, where it was very dry, producing an injury to them, especially to grass and oats during the month of June; the fourth, where it was wet, so much so as to be unfavorable to wheat and the cultivation of comm. The fifth column shows the average amount of rain that has fallen during the month, ex- pressed in inches and hundredths of an inch; thus, 1.50 means an inch and a half. The sixth shows the times when the rain fell, whether in the beginning, ' middle, or end of the month. The word “ distributed” shows that the rain has _ fallen at different times during the whole month. 'The seventh column indicates the number of observations from which the mean of the amount of rain was de- rived. These statements of the amount of rain are derived chiefly from the reports of the observers of the Smithsonian Institution. Hereafter it is expected to prepare a separate table of the matters connected with the weather; but, as all these reports are not in, it is thought best to connect them, at this time, with this table. The table of the weather presents much that is highly interesting. In most of the States the month of June has been very dry, but in Kansas, Kentucky, and Missouri, there has been enough rain. In Ohio and Pennsylvania plenty has fallen, but during the last half only of the month. ‘The report from Michi- gan is very extraordinary, showing a depth of rain of 19.07 inches, ten of which fell on one day. The returns from the farmers corroborate those relative to the fall of rain, by the Smithsonian observers. ‘They are, in other respects, exceedingly interest- ing. Thus we see in Kansas (which lies on the line separating the showery summer climate of the States from the dry one of California and New Mexico) the entire returns present an abundance of rain. So, too, but not quite to the same extent, are the reports from Missouri, of which, however, there are few on account of the war. But Iowa is the reverse of Missouri, reporting fifty-one counties very dry; Wisconsin has fourteen very dry, eleven dry against twelve favorable, ind the entire returns from Minnesota exhibit every county as very dry. Why this remarkable difference between Kansas and Minnesota? Again: all the States lying east of the great lakes have had much more rain than those south of them during the first three weeks of June. Whence have these rains come? Were they produced by the cold west winds condensing the evapora- tion from the lakes? And why do Kansas and Missouri receive so liberally from the evaporations of the equator, whilst the States north of them have so little, and Minnesota none? The answer to these questions, to be understood, must be preceded by an explanation of that wonderful atmospherical machinery which the Creator has designed for the diffusion of heat and the distribution of moisture. The reports for the Smithsonian Institution must be closely scruti- nized as to the temperatures, the direction of the winds and clouds, and the altitude of each place of observation. An article on these matters will be pre- pared for the ensuing monthly report. 8 MAY.-REPOR T: CONDITION OF THE CROPS. WINTER SPRING RYE. CORN. OATS. POTATOES. SORGHUM.| COTTON. WHEAT. | WHEAT. | | | za | za |= [es [2 [es | [eg [= fee = les |* ge fe =e — = - = [ais le ie l= =e a. Ae a, ae a, ss 2. = a b= iS OS jeer [O* fey S ies |S Jeo 1S leo |S a2 J°elas, (2./23 19 122 Jo 8s [Seite Ne ee) 1c cee =5 ejz= |. oles |, oleae |, ole Bo bre oan Mu oe bor) oj=e ° Ba (Se|5a [SSS [Se/SG [Se/Za [SEBS [Sz/5E [oslse loa 28 oo == oalee SSS elas Seles SS oles ee SS (2c/*o j2e|sS |Se/F5 lgsiaS jezie2 jetles jezial |s2 Saa(6 Seals |SealE [Stalk ideale (Seale |eeclt Homelen aee SeQis |SeQis |esSis (Seis MWSSSils esha joes < ES < \i< it |< Sues < |< = ie q |< \< Connecticut .....| 10 10 10 | 10; 10 | 10] 10 | ll LOD et aT eereece neat 5 Delaware........ 9 9 8 9} Il 11} 12 o>) ge 87) 792 9 12 \( Soe oe MAUIMOIS conatntcisieie’s|| Le 2: 2 9 9 |} 10] Ill 9} 10 9 | A) | 10.) 16) 20)) SS Indiana..... eeeeee | 20) hE |) Ol Os 0) On) TO re 9: |.10} LL || :10.| 15 ||) DONO sare WOW Ble xp oie sice. coe LG) 10!) 22) EL) 12-10) 12 a) AS Os ONY 4. see 5 Kansas ...... Scien 18 | 12 62.) 1b] 1S |W] 10 pL) 104/10") 32) | 12°) 33) Ot esa Kentucky......... J es ie PS ar Bae 9 9 8 | 10 8 9) 9.) 920) 15.) 10) Brae WENT age oo noccge ice Oc) he dae LD kOe) TO 16 9 | 10 O° 00s), Baa WO aes. soc one NMAEVIANG..coeees'| LO) LO) aes esc fe ALIA. SC ea) 8 Q So) EO) Le ae 0 | 10 Massachusetts ....| 10 OM Us 10 11 10; 10 9 9 |} 10} 10 UCU RSeciaicy ess | for - Michigan..... Sacco) tu 16))) AO) 20) 107) 10)) WS 10s) 7 2 10) 21°) 10] 25 |) 100) saeeo Minnesota........| 18 11 12 ll 10 H 13 10 13 10 11 10 19 10 30 10 Missoui..... soéalt Lee ei tt) Sa ae ae | 10 ) 8} 10 | 10) IL ) 20) ee New Hampshire ..} 10 8) 10} 10 | 10 See 08) eet a LO ieeseec vecnsie|eces New Jersey.cccce0) JL) 229 90!) 10 | 10 | 10)] De 4qto 9) 0} BO Or) 12) On See New York. <.4...) Jd 10 10 10 10 9 10 10 ll 10 ll 10 1l We 2,5 . Uae acre sl cetoeee 9 8/ 10 |} 10] 10 Sf geet Aboot fg Heol bes G1) Of AT" 00) 4 ae 10 Pennsylvania.....| 10 | 10 8 | 10 9 9) Wh Oey LOD On) Ua 9} 23 9; 6O | 10 Rhode Island.....| 10 10 10 10 10 10; 10 10 9 10 10 MUR Isang Sood) tdannos| atin Vermont.........- SE 10 | A074 LOI MON SOF end Dis Cae et LU Lees afo(h| eeterabetel inate Wisconsin ..... .| 12 10 12 11 1l 10 il 10 12 1] 11 10 28 LO\:|\ b> > >| -& >| |g p> > my >| 35 b > >| at b 5 > Bas| S|882| Slessieses| 2/388] S| 88s) S| ee | S| Se | BS) s88] 8 Be | S|P8E] 3 S38) 8 | 285 | 8 |SSR/SEK Bs) 8 |(SEss) -8 | Sag) 8 Ad |.p| Fa £|6se|/-8| od | ws | eS] =e ret 5 3 FS ant Gm) oY ma] 53 sui) 55 3 FQ 55 = SA 9 S35 7 9 55 i=") a5 My So ca (= Wr ae Bie) erty Be eth ceeribys 3) OO ee Sis a§ 3 Mel tate ef < ws | Sao oe Pes lao | SES] e60 |Se aseleo] @mtl col] sSeP | eo Bs |ec| @2 | ga | Ses | ca pt |sa| R's | Fo BEE | 50|5e8!] 50 |eon) A” B| so Ps 5/50 |FS6 | so ie 50 ee Ba] Woe] so =a Be | org | 30 See) Te | wes | Sg Bz o| Po @2| So] p-Bo}| Po Oo | Po a5 fo 5B | 20 e Pol EF Po Q2a5 = Zoe bac) a Se bene] PS = Sask = eo “ny = ™ L—-w a) & my | St ee boned Bos gs | ges q| & 255) @ | 2Se] 8 | Boe g| *§ S| tges g Ba 9 | ak g p © g “Be| €/"Rs} §| 88) Ges| &| Bag] 3|° Fa] s Sole ree! | Se) o1 Be | *NOLLOO *WOHDUOS "100M *XVId "SsSVUO “OOOVaAOL "SLVO *nitOO "AATUVEA “LVIHM ONIUdS|LYBSHM YALNIM **anRJoAR [viouay ***A101NI9,7, BYSBAGAN tees eeesee® HISUOOST AM, be eeee eeeeee OUL OA tees sees DUDS] apOUy see sees BlUuBAlASUUad feet tere eee e ee OIG Veeeeseeee sO MAN Steen eeeeees TINOSSITE ‘eeeeeeres plOSOUUTAl Maia ass eMC BIT ORIAL teeeees SHOSNOUSSE “+ OUE * Ayonqua yy *** sesuRyy °° BMOT seee -guvipuy ‘eee ress eeeees SIOUILF teeeeeeeees gipmvpad tees eeeeseqnonaaulog "SdOUO AHL AO NOILIGNOD DL DO dee WNL 10 JUNE REPORT—Continued. WEATHER. Ne a a a a aT S ‘a 3 a = > 3S Distribution of Number of observations. 3 s 2 rain. °o 4 > as = = pon bos aM het fe a > E = Connecticut ......-...; 2 1 3 |...e..| 2.52 | Beginning........| One observation. Delaware........ eal’ 2 a aaisterare Reve eieial lsreleleyaicis tcl] Wa elsialmn o's alelaale Sac IAG SS poogoc bone corey fee! 15 39 3 0.94 | Middle and end..| Mean of four observations, Indiana, oe cee. cee 25 13 US pelignacacdiy Weick ae || iene sanoeses One observation. Towa..... SCOR OCS 9 11 Ut en eerie 1.46 End. .......++..| Mean of four observations. STISAS wisleisleidiacialn c's 3D ebono acdos eeleseee.| 5.95 | Distriruted ......| One observation. Kentucky ....sceceee- 4 1 allies 4.26 | Distributed ...... One observation, Louisville. Maine ...- csc scecvces 1 4 6 2 1.71 | Beginning........ Mean of three observations. Wieread Fl ileccacagocarod|) 2 3 6 |..... | 1.83 | Distributed ......| Mean of two observations. Massachusetts......... 9 8 6 1 2.01 Distributed ......| Mean of three observations, Michigan.....ses.s2s0.| 20 12 5 |..ee-| 19.07 | Distributed ......| On 22d day, 10 inches, Minnesota......0..00- Adodod \ocoa 28 |..... | 0.27 | Middle and end..| One observation. Missouri ..... ».+. Beis 5 1 ites oe 3.59 | Distributed ......| One observation. New Hampshire ...... 1 4 Si atwicists .| 2.70 | Distributed ......} ne observation. New Jersey. 20 oe. 8 5 4 |......| 1.04 | Distributed ......| One observation. NEW; XKOLK.) ace) sess] ) OL 14 8 9 1.67 | Distributed ......| Mean of five observations. GNIO 2c. weneinoa cane| 2S 14 2. tie escar c) 2.43 | Middle and end..|} Mean of nine observations. Pennsylvania.......... 30 4) 84 |......| 3.36 | End generally....| Mean of seven observations, Rhode Island.....-..- 2 1 Piel (Geico Borissae | |oceoinees 0 S0atendar Vermont ....... oe acre lO 3 3 tL 2,22 | Distributed......| Mean of three observations. Wisconsin............| 12 11 14 Nines Levee Distributed ,....| Mean of two observations. Nebraska Territory ...|.c000 |eve.celeescee|csace 2.84 | Distributed. ....| One observation. Candia East. cecccccce| sows |eneewslvanersi'cceets|) Lad Distributed ......| Montreal. UTAH. Whilst reading proofs, the June return from the board of directors of Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society has been received. Wénter wheat is not so well adapted to Utah as spring wheat, of which 6,000 acres are now sown. Its appearance is fair. Corn and oats were good in appearance. Tobacco was growing well, but was regarded as an experiment only. Grass was suffering from drought; the number of acres in meadow was 1,500. Cotton was not cultivated. The wool crop was estimated at 60,000 pounds, and the number of sheep at 20,000. Weather on the 1st of July was dry. METEOROLOGY. FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The following tables show, first, the temperature and the amount of rain falling in the months of May and June, and then the comparison between the weather for those months of this year and of the same months in five years previous. this season thus far compares with the average of other years. An examination of the last column in the last table will show how Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- fixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and. tenths, ) for May and June, 1863, at the following places, as given by the observers named. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m., and 2 and 9 p.m. TEMPERATURE AND MOISTURE OF MAY, 1863. Place County. Observer's name. Date. | Max.|} Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain. MAINE. - 3 6 aa Belfast. .-<5--- 2... Waldo s- -22.-- 25 Geo. E. Brackett. -.. 22) 87 7 33 54.9] 3.4 MEIADON \2e 95- -- dae.< Androscoggin....| Asa P. Moore......- 22 | 92 7 38 55.9 | 2.22 Cornishville -.....-.. Work... aaht erie G. W. Guptill ....-. 22'| 92 7 34 56.6 | 2.138 Steuben .....- fabs Washington ..... J. DL Barker ssc. 22 | 89 8,15 37 51.0 | 4.00 Moxcrofti= <<. -- <<) -- Piscataquis ...--- Mark Pitman......-. 30] 85 15 34 54S ylveaeiet NEW HAMPSHIRE. Muttlotony.. <<<... -- Grafton’. <<5-~- 32 Robt. C. Whiting. -. 23} 89 5 30 55.8] 45 VERMONT. Burlington ........¢ Chittenden ...... M. R. Petty ..-.--.- 23 | 82 3 32 55.2] 6.88 Lunenburg......-... SHOX. ose Gain cee Hiram A. Cutting... 21} 88 6 40 57.1 | 3.52 Bramdon:. 2-2-3 = utland: -s-<5 6 Daniel Buckland....| 21,23 8&8 3 33 56.7 | "7.56 Craftsbury ......... Orlesnss.-- 22. Kossuth ......--- Dr. & Miss McCoy. . Towa City -..------- Johnson -.--..... Theo. S. Parvin ..-.- Pleasant Plain ...-.- Jefferson .....--- T. McConnel ....-:- “Byron township --..| Buchanan -...-..-- A. C. Wheaton ..--. Dubuque.--...-.... Dubuque. ....-.-.- Asa Horr, M.D ..... Fort Madison -.----- GG Searee atetarela ial Daniel McCready. - - WISCONSIN. Bloomfield * .....-.-. Walworth .....-- Wm. H. Whiting -.-. SU ee Douglass .....--- William Mann...... Madison -.-..---.---- Wanner rs atee erat John W. Sterling - -- Milwaukee .....---- Milwaukee ...... I. A. Lapham, LL.D. MICHIGAN. Mepavant =. 2-6... Washtenaw ...-.. C. S. Woodard ...-.. PMonrde---5-=------- MOnrOG:)) oo o-3-.55 FlorenceE. Whelpley MINNESOTA. US TEN ee ese IRAMISHY coe mote oe A. B. Patterson..... Forest City......-.. Meeker....--.--- Henry L. Smith .... Beaver Bay --...--.- LS eee ee Boe) ere Hee ner Gace NEBRASKA. Bellevue. -..-..-... SEP Yo aco -;..2- - Monroe.-......... F. E. Whelpley..- --- 17 93 Marquetie ..-....... Marquette .....-. Frank M, Bacon .... 14 94 IOWA. PM BUSt el cele - cleals » <= Clinton 2...<...32- P. J. Farnsworth -.. 14 94 ARONA). oo =) as sa Kossuth - .....<.- F. McCoy, M. D., and Miss McCoy ..- 12 94 Fort Madison..... ee Naar la et Daniel McCready -.. 15 94 LES NETS Se Cee Aare Buchanan .....-- Alex. Camp Wheaton 16 94 MINNESOTA. Forest City ........| Meeker.......... Henry L. Smith .--. 14] 94 KANSAS. Manhattan . ........ RUlGy, 22-2 e aa Isaac T. Goodnow .. 27 92 Fort Riley. .....---- Davisie-ee--ne = W. F. McAlister. --. 7 94 NEBRASKA. Bellevue. .........- NALpY 422556 6 ase Wm. Hamilton...--- 27 90 Huchland: = .-.22 <0. Washington ..... Miss A. M. J. Bowen 27 96 WISCONSIN. Milwaukee ......... Milwaukee -....-. Paul Winkler....-... 14 90 Rocky Run. ........ | Columbia...--... W.) Wi. Custes = === 20 84 Manitowoc ........- | Manitowoc ...... Jacob Siips........- 14 92 Bloomfield . ......-. Walworth... --- W. H. Whitney...-. 16 92 MISSOURI, Harrisonville -...... @ags(e =. 35.) s25 55 John Christian..-.-- 27 82 | Aihionges 2.22. 22--! Clavicl 328500 2 J. F. Caldwell. ..... 14] 92] Wayaconda Prairie. .| Lewis .......... George P. Ray...--. 16} 100 CANADA EAST. Montreal ........... Montreal -....... Arehibald Hall, M.D. 30 83 Date. | Min Oo 8 53 6 48 8 49 4 58 3 46 2 52 3 48 21 50 1 49 if 44 if 49 8 51 Ns 50 Zi 50 5 48 5 42 7 46 5 48 3 52 7s 52 2 48 22 53 9 57 20} 48 pak 52 6 47 6 40 3 50 3 50 8 56 7 54 ts 50 Si} 52 61. 09 70.17 72. 84 67. 50 67. 89 62. 20 59. 21 62. 44 61. 80 71. 29 76. 09 70. 80 65. 49 1.14 ge v The following tables show the average temperature and the average Jall of rain in the different States during the months of May and June every year since 1854: MAY. 8 Averages, | Averages, | Averages, | Averages, | Averages, | Av. for | Averages for <= 1855. | 1856. 1857. 1858. 1859. the5years. 1863. Sy ? States and Territories.| = 8 : ‘ F , Yi 2 2 2| &-\4/ 8/8) 8 |e) eg) e146) 2 |e ee pe) )f Sf) ef) 4 8) 2 8) 5 8) 21 ss fil Rett =f eat = Pe ler = A = C0) = CS) ibe cel ip il is Deg. | In. | Deg. | In. | Deg. | In.| Deg. | In. | Deg. | In.| Deg. | In.| Deg. | In. MMiaING & s-)ek=Si2 e225 6 | 49.7 |3.4) 49.6)5.7) 51.7 )4.1) 50.1 13.5) 54.7 13.5) 51.1 14.1) 54.5 | 2,99 New Hampshire ...-. 3 | 54.7 |1.1) 52.4 (4.6) 54.5 (6.0) 51. 743.6] 51.2 | 2.2) 52.9 13.5 | 55.8 | 4.50 Wermont! 245. | 2522: 4 | 54.2 10.2) 51.7 |3.0) 52.1 |4.8] 52.3133) 57.9 |1.8) 53.8 |2.6) 55.6) 5.57 Massachusetts . ...--- 12 | 55.1 }2.9] 52.4 /6.3| 54.6 |5.2] 52.8 13.1) 57.6 |4.8| 54.5 14.5] 57.6] 3.21 Connecticut ..-..-..- 4 | 55.3 (2.2) 53.1 15.5] 54.1/5.2) 53.1 |2.8)] 57.5 | 4.0) 54.61/40) 58.2] 3.66 New Korkee.2. 22. -2 17 | 56.7 |}2.8) 54.0 |3.3] 53.9 |4.6] 54.1 14.4] 61.5 |2.8] 56.0 |3.6) 58.0] 3.66 New Jersey —-.---... 4 | 60.2 |2.7| 57.3 |4.0} 56.6 | 8.1] 55.4 |4.7) 60.6 |1.8) 58.0 |4.2| 61.3] 273 Pennsylvania..-...---. 19 | 61.1 13.0) 58.5 |2.8] 57.7 |6.6) 57.8 |7.4| 64.3 |2.1] 59.9 |4.4) 60.8 | 2.46 Maryland... 3.25.2. 4| 64.0 |2.6/ 62.1 13.5] 61.8 16.3] 59.0 16.7) 64.1 /3.5| 622/4.5| 635| 4.30 District of Columbia..| 1 | 64.2 |1.4| 55.3 |/4.2| 61.3 |5.7| 60.9 |7.3| 64.8 |3.9] 61.3 |4.5| 60.0] 3.79 WHO} aoeaee. ace -~ 20 | 62.4 |3.8] 60.3 |2.9] 55.3 |5.0] 58.8 |7.3) 65.5 |2.6) 60.4 | 4.3] 62.6 | 2.34 MiGhi gai specs cee 7 | 59.1 11.5) 52.9 |3.9} 52.1 {3.3} 52.3 (6.1) 56.9 |2.9) 54.6 |3.5) 61.8 |....-. WNGANS eects oc 5 | 64.5 |3.5| 61.9 [3.0] 57.4 |4.4] 60.7 |8.9| 67.1 |2.2] 62.3 |4.4| 64.5] 3.03 UNOS emacs sk oses 13 | 64.1 |5.1] 61.0 |4.4] 56.5 2.9) 58.2 |8. 1) 63.3 | 4.3] 60.6 |5.9| 59.1] 3,40 Missouri). 22:..). as - 2 | 66.8 | 7.2) 62.1 [3.0] 59.2 |3.1] 64.0 |10. 6) 68.2 |6.6) 64.1 5.4) 55.3] 2.41 WVISCODEIN GS .32 2c,25.055 6 | 60.3 |3.1] 55.0 |3.5] 50.4 |4.1] 52.1 16.8] 56.8 |4.3] 54.9 /4.5] 56.7] 3.94 Towa <=. ooeee cee 9 | 62.9 |3.2] 60.8 |3.5] 56.2 7.3| 55.7 |7.3)] 63.2 |5.4) 59.8 15.3) 62.7 | 3/55 Minnesota ...-..-.--. 3 | 60.9 |....| 58.9 | 4.2) 52.4 |2.8) 51.7 |2.8} 53.5 |5.6) 55.5 |3.8) 57.3] 1.94 Nebraska Territory ..| 3 |....-.|..-- Eoeeee _ ded ee ....| 53.1 | 4.4] 64.6 |5.6] 58.6 |5.0) 63.4 |...-.. jess ee Be oy pee ee iain | EAN ....| 55.8 |2.7| 61.7 |5.2| 66.6 |8.0| 60.7 |5.2| 69.5] 4.87 California ......-.-... Ressacaleces | 61.9). 9]. 63:6 [sas .| 62.3 }052)| 63.50 | 1.31) 62.77 "ela ee ere JUNE. PVISUING Fran ein iteiel ena 6 | 61.7 6.1| 63.8 |2.9/ 59.3 13.7) 63.3 /2.1| 60.3 |7.2| 61.7 |4.4/60.57| 2.29 New Hampshire ...-. 4 | 63.9 |3.8) 67.2 |2.0| 61.8 |3.3| 67.4 |2.3] 53.7 |5.1] 62.8 |3.3 | 60.93) 2.70 Wermont;- 26! =<. 5 | 60.7 8.4| 66.3 |2.5| 61.2 |4.9| 67.6 |3.8] 62.0 | 4.0] 63.6 | 4.7/61.33]) 2.14 Massachusetts ....--. 12 | 54.3 |4.0] 66.6 |3.0] 62.5 |2.5] 66.9 | 4.7] 63.6 |6.5] 62.8 |4.1/61.67] 1.80 Connecticut ......---. 4] 64.8 4.1] 67.4 |2.7| 62.1 |3.1) 62.1 |3.9| 62.9 | 7.3) 63.9 | 4.3) 57. 63)...._. New sViOnkes so 5s 2|ao-- ae -...| 70.6 |3.3| 74.5 |7.1] 71.0 |2.8] 70.9 |4.3/67.69) 2 84 Repeeaeee oe ed ee 2, |S es ee Si |_...] 721 11.1| 74.9 [83] 73.2 15.8] 73.4 |5.1| 71.50] 5.91 G@aliformiaye eens --- = OE ae eee 69. 3 0. 0| 66.5 |0.2| 68.1 0.1) 72.4 }1.3] 69.1 ju4 jeceeas|eneeee yA» a f ” v0 Ze 7 Yb OMQ) MONTHLY REPORT OF THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, August 10, 1863. In presenting the monthly report for July the Commissioner of Agriculture congratulates the farming community upon the flattering prospects which all the great crops of the country present. ‘The wheat crop, just harvested, is most excellent, both in amount and quality, and the corn crop promises to be a full one, although in some localities in the west, where the drought of June has extended into July, it may be not so good. To his regular correspondents he would convey his warm thanks for their continued co-operation in aiding to render his Department useful to agriculture, and to many casual ones he tenders his best wishes for their suggestions on many useful subjects. He has but one regret to communicate: Last month he caused circulars to be sent to the county agricultural societies and farmers’ clubs, that he might learn the names of the societies and of their officers. This was done that the Department might be placed in communication with them, as he regarded them the proper medium by which the annual and monthly reports and seeds should be distributed. He regrets to say that not more than one- half of them responded to the circulars sent. If the farmers of counties having such delinquent societies do not receive these reports and seeds, they will know that the blame does not rest on this Department. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. JULY REPORT ON THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS. In presenting the July report on the condition of the crops during that month it is desirable to call attention to some matters connected with the operations of this Department: S 1. The character of the seeds distributed—In the cireular for July an inquiry was made as to the quality of the seeds distributed. This was done because much complaint has heretofore existed against the seeds sent out by the Patent Office, both as to their varieties and the goodness of the seed, but little of it germinating. It was thought useless to send out these sceds unless extensive inquiries were made as to their excellence in every respect. 2 The answers received are very gratifying. Butfew complained that the seeds failed to sprout, and so general has been the answer that they all germinated that where they failed to do so it is evidently to be attributed to unfavorable weather, or unskillful planting. Assurances are abundantly given that the varieties sent out are equally as good, and it is hoped that farmers will care- fully preserve the seeds from the varieties received from this Department. Several of our regular correspondents stated that they had not received any. The failure to do so must not be attributed to the Department. They, above all others, shall receive from it whatever it has to distribute, because by their voluntary and kind aid to advance the objects of the Department, they justly merit every favor the Commissioner has to bestow. Nor can there be doubt that Congress also will show its regard for this aid in providing them with every facility essential to the intelligent performance of their voluntary duties as correspondents. The Marsden Spring Wheat has entirely failed to sustain its character in this country as a “spring” wheat. It is an English variety, of great excellence there, and hence it was desirable to test it here. But there is a great difference between the English and American climates. Although England lies much north of the United States, yet the Gulf Stream passes by it, and mitigates the rigors of winter by its immense heat. The English farmer can plough at all times of the winter, and spring wheat is sown in February and March. Their harvest is much later than ours—at least six weeks—and hence their spring wheats have a season of growth double the length of our own. ‘This is the reason of the failure of the Marsden variety, and has much to do with the full and perfect development of its beautiful grains. The following correspondence shows the circumstances under which this variety was purchased, and the hopes that induced its trial: ‘DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ‘* Washington, D. C., August T, 1863. ‘‘Dear Sir: The very handsome looking ‘Marsden White Spring Wheat,’ purchased by you last fail of Charlwood & Cummins, in England, has not proved successful as a spring wheat in any part of our country. From your large experience in the grains and climate of both England and your own country, you can explain this to the satisfaction of the farmers of the country. ‘« Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ‘“TISAAC NEWTON, ‘* Commissioner. ‘Colonel B. P. Jomnson, ** Secretary of the New York State Agricultural Society.’’ ‘¢SraTe or New York, AGRICULTURAL Rooms, ‘‘Albany, August 10, 1863. ‘‘Dear Sir: In answer to your letter of the 7th instant, in relation to the ‘ Marsden White Spring Wheat’—that it has not proved successful here as a spring wheat—I pre- sume the reason of this is owing to the difference of climate and time of sowing. In Eng- land spring wheat is sown usually in February or early in March, and the wheat plants in England are slow to start into a healthy growth. The season there being longer than ours enables them to secure the crop in good condition. ‘‘T took the best advice I could obtain, aud, from the advice received, purchased the variety sent you, which, if it had proved as I hoped it would, must have been of great advantage to our country. I regret its failure, as the wheat was of extraordinary fine quality. ‘* Very: respectfully yours, ‘““B. P. JOHNSON. ‘¢ Hon. Isaac Newton, ‘* Commissioner of Agriculture.” 3 2. Chmate has a great influence on all vegetable production. The climate of the United States is a peculiar one, marked by great extremes of heat and cold, and wet and dry. It is as essential to study its characteristics as it is to determine the properties of our various soils. Hence the importance attached to it in these monthly reports, by a publication of the meteorological tables furnished by the Smithsonian Institution, showing the phenomena of the climate for each month, and when compared with a period of five preceding years. These tables will be preceded by an article in reference to them, and by which it is hoped the American farmer may be induced to take an interest in a climate so peculiar in its differences between the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, and in its changes, uncertainties, and extremes in the older States. For this purpose, too, it is recommended to carefully preserve these reports, because references to preced- ing reports will constantly be make in succeeding ones. 3. The tables for July demand that the earnest attention of our regular cor- respondents be called to the manner in which our estimates are made from their reports, First. To questions asking the amount of a crop, answers are returned in two ways: fir-é, by the whole amount being stated in figures, thus: wheat, 120,000 bushels; and second, by the amount stated as an average, thus: 10, meaning there is an average crop; or in tenths above or below an average. Now, in such States as California and Ohio, where the amounts of the crops are annually taken with reliable care, there is furnished to our correspondents a basis by which they can estimate the amounts raised; but where they are not thus taken, the estimates must partake too much of guessing. But as it is desirable to. have uniform returns, it is requested that all answer according to the above second mode; that is, by stating how much it is above or below an average crop, which is represented by the figures 10. This Department possesses better means of determining what an average crop is for each county than its eorre- spondents; and the familiarity of the statistical division with the general sub- ject enables it to make the proper investigations. When the several States shall have adopted a proper and uniform mode of returning their agricultural productions annually, the difficulties embarrassing our correspondents and this Department will have vanished. Second. A good many of our correspondents make no returns of the zmjuries to the crops. This leaves it doubtful whether there is any injury, or whether the injury is omitted to be stated. Such course involves this difficulty :. If ten counties are returned, and of these the injury to a crop is stated in five, and not stated in the remainder, the amount of the injury of the five is-taken and divided by ten, the number of all the counties, because any other course would make the five injured crops represent the condition of the entire ten. Hence, our correspondents are especially asked to give the injury imall cases, and where there is none to represent it by a 0. Third. An intelligent correspondent suggests that in making up: the averages for the States from the returns of the counties, counties of equal production should be averaged together. This is doubtless the correet mode when precise quantities are to be obtained, but that is unnecessary in our tables of the con- dition of the growing crops. Our purpose is to show whether the crop approxi- mates to an average one, and this is sufficiently determined when all the counties are averaged together. The labor of averaging counties of equal production, that the small differences in the two modes might be obviated, would be too great. Fourth. A gentleman who is a corresponding seeretary of the State Board of Agriculture of a leading western State thus writes: “There are too many abstractions in it, (the table,) and the results are too complex—rather too ‘crowded’ to suit the majority of readers. It is so condensed that it requires men to think, and very few take that trouble about anything.” There is more than one truth in this extract, and that contained in the last clause of the last sentence is as troublesome as it is unfortunate. The multi- plicity of books and papers have rendered thinking an obsolete labor, and that men may be informed without thinking demands a multiplicity of words that requires a much greater extent of printed matter than the monthly report con- tains. ‘lhe tables are as stated. They require a little study—not much, how- ever—and, conscious that that little would not be given by many, the matter immediately preceding them was prepared for their benefit. It would be desi- rable to show the condition of the crops of each State separately in words, but to do this will necessarily require an enlargement of the monthly report. It is the purpose of the Department to do this as soon as is advisable. But still a great excellence of the plan adopted in the table is this very con- densation. Its utility may be seen by comparing it with newspaper articles on the crops which have recently appeared in some western papers. Statements of bad crops on account of drought from eight or ten counties make such an im- pression as to induce the belief that the crops are to be generally a failure. Amoug the peculiarities of our climate are these localities of great dryness, and the sutfering crops in them are certain to elicit great complaints. They appear also in the returns from our correspondents, but when condensed with the great number of counties where the drought does not prevail, the injury is brought down to its proper proportional amount. 4. The favor given to the first monthly report is gratifying to the Department. The purpose had in view meets with general approbation, and letters communi- cating it are constantly received. The difficulties that surround the undertaking seem to be appreciated by many, and the time essential to perfecting the plan is accorded by all. 5. he wheat crop is safely harvested, and it is one of the best, if not the very best, ever grown in the United States. It is not free from local injuries, but this is true of every year. A correspondent from Indiana thus writes on the 3d day of August: “ Wheat threshing has been in progress for ten days, and shows a greater damage from the midge than was anticipated. On one farm last year the yield was an average of twenty bushels per acre; this year five. Some farmers put the average below cight bushels; my opinion is that the crop for this county will not vary much from ten bushels per acre.’ Although the threshing often exhibits injuries not before suspected by the farmer, yet the returns to this Department since spring show a much less injury to the crop than usual. It must be regarded as a most excellent one now, but the returns next month, which will be based on the threshing, may somewhat modify this opinion. An interesting inquiry with every farmer is, ‘“ What will be the probable foreign demand for wheat?’ Large as was the crop of last year, the general activity at home in most branches of business, and the heavy foreign demand, assured to him remu- nerative prices. So long as the war lasts the same home demand will prevail, but present indications are not favorable to so great a foreign demand. All accouuts represent the English crops as very favorable, but still they may be much injured before they are harvested. This Department ought to be placed in close connexion with our consuls abroad, so tiiat interrogatories, similar to those answered by our home correspondents, might be addressed to them. The following table shows the exports of breadstutts from the port of New York for the first seven months in the years 1861, 1862, and 1863, ending July 31 of each year: 1861. 1862. 1863. Wheat OUT. = co srs. barrels.. 1,484,599 1,780,733 1,441,220 WV OOM es sa. -- -,- +s barrels. - 6,557 5yseill 4,079 Corn meal..... Ft Ne tee barrels. . 64,304 97,720 79,894 Wiheateee aeons ascot bushels.. 11,990,578 9,906,370 8,835,633 Oy /CR oS ao eee bushels. . 257,842 938,457 358,537 AU OUT eRe ees ere ee bushels... 5,178,335 7,222,475 6,441,593 5 The decrease in amount, although not in value, which this table exhibits, is chiefly owing to an advance of prices here. How far there is hope of an im- proved or an Y equal demand that will prevent a further decrease cannot now be determined positively; but, as remarked, the indications do not favor a demand equal to the present. 6. The losses to the wheat crop from 7njurious insects are far greater than is generally supposed. It is only when they become widespread, causing a par- tial abandonment of the crop, as was the case in New York and the New Eng- land States on the advent of the aphis, that these insects attract observation. But this Department receives too many letters, such as that from which an extract has been made, to be insensible to the necessity of aiding the farmer against losses of this character. Congress, too, has deemed them too important to be disregarded, and has directed this Department to engage the services of a skillful entomologist. This has been done, and, that his services may be rendered as efficient to the farmers as possible, his instructions to them will form a part of the monthly reports. They will find that these injurious insects have their inatural enemies, and to preserve and protect the latter is the duty of all. 7. Frutis—In the tables will be found inquiries in regard to- fruits. They constitute a great element of agricultural wealth. Although they are scarcely known in the tables of our foreign exports, yet they constitute an important article in the home trade, and, what is still better, a most healthful food to every citizen. Whilst individual energy has done much towards the multiplication of them, yet much more remains to be done, for the extremes of our climate, and ts numerous destructive insects, call for concerted public action, that the injuries arising from both may be alleviated. To aid this work is a duty of this De- partinent ; and both its entomologist and botanist, as will be seen from this report, are discharging this duty of the Department. But co-operation by all is also essential. We have referred to the fact of having received no intelligence from the grape districts of Cincinnati. This has been done, not so much to complain of the remissness of our correspondents there, as to show that there is no union of action in the extensive and diversified horticulture of the United States. The grape rot is still a mystery. Opinions as to the cause are abundant, but true progress towards its explanation and cure depends on a systematic observation of all the conditions of atmosphere and soil and cultivation attendant on its coming, its action, and cessation, in every prominent locality where the grape is grown. Local natural evils must be viewed through the telescope, and not through the microscope. As in astronomy there are numerous observers in every part of the world constantly in communication with each other, so there must be like observers and correspondence over the world of American agriculture and horticulture. This Department should be the centreing of these observations and correspondence. The grape rot will illustrate the practical bearings of these remarks. It does not exist in California; it has a partial existence in Europe ; it is fatal in most parts of the Atlantic States. Why this difference ? Clearly because there is a difference of climate, for like soils are common to all. In what does this dif- ference consist is the first inquiry, because it is the true starting point in the investigation of the causes of the rot. And this is a much more comprehensive one, needing the aid of many observers, than a local investigation of local phenomena. The following table of the fall of rain embraces much of this difference of climate. It is prepared, partly from the meteorological tables of Mr. Blodget, and partly from those of the Smithsonian Institution: 6 AMERICAN. PACIFIC CLIMATES. Inches of rain. Spring. |Summer | Autumn | Winter. | Total. California. NECTION LO meccnetadoan cosetedeaceem, she 0.1 3.2 6.9 13.5 WANBHILAN CISCO oe iccyopic a ojeesies Re z3 > Plo id Bes | fe | 98) 3] 2 Pe] 2/88) gl Fel slFel ¢| g| 3| #2 eee eee | | eS | RST oe) Ble | Bl el oe ag < Ss 8 Se) A Sel e ae le eee lor aaler (mls mula g “HRA01I0 Fssvup “NOMDHOS "TOOM *"NOLLOO “"XVTi “OOOVaECL *NHUOO *‘SLVO “AS1IUVEG ee [ cy iB I ra I ; t t 1 I I j if + Tl 16 if t spear I I oe bisialeee vee eee $ j if 3G 9-1 1 ‘ I | Fl T sy - fs} e. e c = = Q< SS => >> es es "35 anes a= ic} 2 ex 2 | E¢& co ey Ps by es -| = cS) < LYAHM |.nvaan OmIwds ars Oe oo a a * @oRIvAv [v2auAy OOM eee ee ew et woes ress wane £20110,5, RYSLIQAN cee teeeee . sereceee UISUODET AL seeeess QUOULDA se" puvysy apouy ** uluval{suuad es ONO theses OR AON cer ees: AasJ0f MAN ** auiysduupy Man sree ss LINOSSIIA see eees BIOSGUUL LAT seeee sees TEBIITOL EN + ores eeeees srasmqoRssy IW BEC OOUOON TTT AW EDT Tee eee teen eens eee ee OIL TAT Pee ee reese wees cree eee e tees oeee Ayonquay Teeter oe eee susmy Stee sees ewes seen: BMOT te eeeeeeeesees pHLIDUE THEO te ee teen eeee rece eeeeeeeeenee eee eens KIOTIITLD SC OCSOSEOOE EET Thy} | Stent ee eeeeeeeeee cess eseees ana GIUU ee ey feet eee see eeeres Seow ees eeees sees “SLVLe ‘hyng fo yjuow ayy 40f sdoso ayy fo uornpuos ayy Fumoys ajQvy, 11 ISOUL UT [Jes O8 aaa SaUNfUT ay] asuroag ape st aTURYyO IL *passaidxa os aq sfrm[R [IM setinfa atl Joifeaiaxy ‘trata Jo wamatvis qaadto siqy Aq pooissapun Atyammb asout aq pinoo Kaqi puke ‘y1ta1-auo yo sted [enonordy Inq aq 01 se saseo “Yad -oto Jo yey auo suBoul F *) aandy ayy Aq Afoasp aaow parsaadxa st Aanfur ayr aiqea sty uy -aSeseAe ayy UE) ssaq Yidaj-auv duteg *G Aq Safqu} s9u40J ay) UT possaddya sea Y1ua)-auU jo Aunfur ue ‘9, Sutaq dodo azvsaAk ayy, “Ajlvouip Posuaseidas st sdo1d ay} 0} Aunlur ayy ajqea aAoge vy) Ul—"sLoN i as S6'G Ob°G EOL &b'6 0G°9 GLG 69'S L6°S LOL ‘ured JO sayouy $6 DAs KMOFANoOANT | — Beh RBar) t= SE OONGFOSCSORMAeEArKCA 611 _—_— -_ SASSO oT Boo Cr Moo "YAHLVIAM mm Q danjanesiesie he Ars MRMORNTONNFOASCS zs tMOrSCHOSONSSCOOMHA-SSo -™ ee aon Ne ain = i—) —] *Aup Ala A *ajQuOAvy “Ane ul Wnay Jo aouvivaddy *saad1 40 Indy 07 Ainfuy $9041 10 yng 03 Aintuy “SaHOVad “Suluuaddsvu 6 IT c-p iat al 8 aes: lao ag Seaniele ol IL [ 6 iT R L michele! fT Sg ar ro t 1 t g 6 GI rt T 8 IL TI rt G 6 6 t IL I L IT t PI cs 8 aI veseeeeel TT z 91 1B IL & al j LI & 01 t ol FI SL c-I 06 t OL t If a6 6 i ll TG ra re at G al veseee! og ORs Il al cl Cd Il [ 3 I oa t rat | ln ral or eee see tI 9 es eee > > = > = Ses Ss i=] s mare Seales | ge o oD M< 2s M¢ s| 53 a> | 53 2= uF = a) = eo) ic} Es | $8 7 aay "3 |e < == Sa == is} 77 . 2 a a5 Pa a o ™ aR ae ” Ga ae 2 a) 8 fa | ar 1.3% = | 63 are Hs ea = on 5 Qa eleaict the ler BOYD GLOGS OO 0 OOOO SOO RIIOS SLT EY WEL EY UISHOOST AA ceeees QUOWIaA °* pus} apouy * viuualAsuvadg teers wees OG Fes ees eee sees eHOX MONT sete a EA AS TICS IO L/L P SY AY seer eee wens cone DES OOS OGOOACOOOUOGO ST Ti hTCy 4 MON testes teen eeereeceeneeeeeee ss wees BHOSSTT Fett ee ee tee ee eeeeeeees cesses pOsgIUL TREE PO eee e es Oe e Peewee CHEE Hwee EEE ee Ee HOee uvaIyolA Tee tees Ce nee eee sees sees vereen sees eens SEN OESST OR OOO HO ee CEH He OOOH. EEE ES HHH Ee He pur eg CO eo ae i i i rs aul bielclelelesset lain e\ais\eslsie/a Monieneieic Senn eieiscie we WA WOT TARE Tee etenee sce seeeees seeecees sees seuss soso: ppSUB yy te teereeeeees: BMOT Te eeee sere eeees BHBIDUT ‘teeee eee eree - 09 SIOUITY See tees seen tees eeeeen case tees enee sees esens QuUMBLad eee reece reeerssons a a aS IN WOU} ra) ELS | Ce ee er a ee ee er | Joy» 40 104 Wosy Asntuy “Aine ut dois jo sounseaddy ‘asnuo Jaye JO donq owiod wos Ainfuy “egal yim pared -u0d pamieyd jnoMy "SaIUHaAAMVULS a 3 e < >) ° a —. ‘ALVLS ‘ponuyuog—hjne fo yauow ayp tof sdo1a ay) fo uorrpuos ayy Sunoys a19QvJ, 12 INFORMATION TO CORRESPONDENTS ON SPECIAL SUBJECTS. The farming lands lying within the scope of the Department of Agriculture, covering the half of a continent, present a diversity of climate and soil not elsewhere found in any one country, and giving rise to an infinity of sugges- tions and inquiries. I'rom some portion of this vast country letters are daily rec ived requesting from the Department information running through the whole range of agricultu. al learning, from the agriculture of a State to the cause of the destruction of a leaf, and from the pedigree of some herd of noble animals down to the smallest aphis that sucks the plant-life out. That th se matters may be understood by all, and that the information sought by one may benefit all, it is the intention of the Commissioner to give, in the monthly reports, material that shall serve as a general reply to intelligent questioners. And among the subjects to which attention has been repeatedly called, both by letters and in the return to our circulars, is that of mildew on the grape. It is now very generally recognized that mildew is the greatest enemy the grape culturist has to contend against, and the question of profit or loss in the wine-grower’s account depends materially upon the absence or presence of this disease. Notwithstanding the importance of the subject, it is somewhat remark- able that but little is known with regard to its origin. ‘True, opinions are plentiful, but so widely varied and conflicting that they tend to mystify rather than throw light upon the origin of the malady. In a letter recently received from an old, experienced grape-grower, it is observed that mildew never appears until the temperature rises to 85° or 90°; others attribute its appearance to heavy rains on undrained soils; again, it is seen on dry grounds in dry weather; and some hold the opinion that the mode of pruning will determine whether or not the disease will be prevalent. It is thus obvious that pomologists have not as yet come to any settled opinion with reference to the origin of mildew, and the subject is here briefly noticed with a view to direct especial attention to the atmospheric phenomena attendant upon its appearance, as well as to the condition of the soil, and accompanying peculiarities of cultivation. It is well known that some varieties of grapes are more liable to mildew than others; the grouping of such as are exempt, or partially so, would also be of great importance in the future improvement of this fruit. There is certainly no subject connected with wine culture in this country of more importance than the disease here noticed. The Department is assiduously collecting all noted varieties of the grape, for the purpose of comparing their merits under similar conditions of climate, soil, and culture, and solicits the co-operation of all who are interested in the culture of this fruit. Plants of new or valuable varieties will be particularly acceptable; these are not desired for purposes of propagation; the Department will be guided in that matter by the donor, and all instructions, so far as propagation is con- cerned, will be rigidly enforced. It may be remarked that no better criterion of a new fruit need be desired than the opportunity of comparing it side by side with the extensive collection of the Department will present. ‘These remarks are deemed necessary in order that the intentions of the De- partment may be fully understood by grape-growers and others interested. INJURIES BY INSECTS. As it is the intention of the Department of Agriculture to commence a series of observations and notes on the various insects injurious to vegetation, which 13 are sent almost daily to this office by the farmers, from the various States of the Union, for examination and description, and as several of the letters accompa- nying these insects contain sound practical information as to the best methoas already practiced by the writers for their extermination or for preventing or lessening the destruction of their crops caused by their ravages, it may be well to make known to the public, through the pages of this monthly report, the re- .sults of such experiments as have already been made, and to suggest others which may perhaps aid the agriculturist in diminishing the number of the insect foes which are at present destroying his crops, trees, fruits, and vegetables. As it is not to be expected that every farmer should be an entomologist and know the scientific name for every different part of an insect, it may be necessary, in the first place, to give a brief description of what an insect is, and to explain the various transformations it has to undergo before attaining the winged or per- fect state. Moreover, as these papers are intended for the practical farmers alone, who have had neither time nor opportunity to study Latin and Greek deri- vations, and not for the scientific naturalist, the use of scientific terms, which would only confuse, will be carefully avoided as much as possible, excepting, of course, the names of the insects themselves, many of which have no English name whatever, or, if they have, are known by different local names in almost every State in which they may be found. For example, take the grain weevil: in some States it is understood to siguify the wheat midge—a two-winged fly infesting the heads of growing grain; it is also sometimes applied to the small moth or miller which is found in grain when stored, whilst in other places it means the small blackish brown hard-wing cased beetle so common in grain that has been kept some time in sacks or bins—the last-named insect being the only true weevil; whereas the scientific name, although very ditticult to be learned at first, is the same throughout the whole civilized world. Besides this, the same remedies could not be used with any success, for the reason that all these three insects belong to different orders, have different habits, and only two of them are found in the same situations. The word insect is derived from two Latin words, signifying ‘cut into,” as all insects are divided into several seginents or rings, and their bodies are separated or cut into three distinct parts, namely : the first part, or head, which is furnished with eyes, a mouth consisting of either jaws for biting, or a proboscis for sucking or piercing, and two articulated or jointed horns called antennze ; the second part, or middle portion of the body, is commonly known by the name of ‘ thorax,” and bears ‘six legs and generally either one or two pairs of wings; the third part, or hinder portion of the body, is called the abdomen. ‘T'rue insects never have more than six legs, and undergo three transformations after leaving the egg. The first stage is when the insect appears in the grub, caterpillar, or maggot state; it then feeds voraciously upon vegetable and animal substances, and the outer skin is shed several times before attaining its full size. ‘This first stage of insect life we shall, for the sake of brevity, call larva, as this term, signifying a mask, can be used indiscriminately for either the grub, caterpillar, or maggot. The second stage is when the larva sheds its skin the last time and assumes the pupa or chrysalis state, when it re- mains for a longer or shorter period of time inactive, almost motionless, and does not take any food whatsoever ; this is the case with beetles, bees, butterflies, and flies. ‘his state we shall call pupa. Finally, the pupa skin is burst open by the insect within, and the perfect winged butterfly or beetle makes its appearance to pair and deposit eggs for another generation. This is the last stage of an insect’s life, as after laying the eggs it becomes enfeebled, and dies. Grasshoppers, plant-bugs, and dragon flies, or mosquito hawks, although they also undergo these three transformations or changes, are active and feed in all the stages of their existence as larva, pupa, and imago or perfect insect. The life of a common grasshopper may serve as our example. An old female having deposited her egg in the earth, where it is hatched by the heat of the sun, the young when just emerged from the egg presents much the same appearance as 14 the full-grown grasshopper, with the exception of possessing no wings whatso- ever. It has the legs, antenne, and jaws, very similar to the old grasshop- rpe, and hops about destroying vegetable substances in the same manner. In the pupa state the rudimentary or imperfect wings make their appearance sheathed in short cases on the back or sides. The insect in this stage also is active and eats voraciously, but it is only in the perfect state that the imsect possesses true wings, and is able to fly about to propagate its kind. The farmer little thinks that the green and black striped caterpillar which is found so plenti- fully in his vegetable garden upon parsnips, celery, and parsley, during the summer and autumn, is produced by the beautiful black and yellow banded, swallow-tailed butterfly which may be seen early in spring and summer hover- ing over his flower beds, or that by destroying the impregnated females of these butterflies early in the season. before they have deposited their eggs, he might probably save his celery and parsnips without having the trouble of picking each caterpillar singly from his plants. As an experiment, let the farmer merely put some of these caterpillars, when nearly fully grown, into a box or glass, con- taining some of the leaves of the plant upon which the caterpillars were found, taking care to supply fresh food daily, and he will have the pleasure of wit- nessing all the transformations already spoken of. Every farmer keeps a cat to destroy the mice in his storehouses, and a dog to kill the vermin on his farm, yet he allows the small insect-eating birds to be shot and destroyed indiscrimi- nately, although they are of the greatest utility in destroying thousands of noxious insects early in the spring (before the fruit is ripe) when they make their first appearance, and when each insect, if left undisturbed, would deposit the eggs which produce the myriads of grubs and caterpillars i in the summer and autumn that destroy his fruit and vegetables. A pair of wrens or mocking birds in a garden destroy thousands of noxious insects, and, moreover, cost nothing for their food. It is true that several birds eat our fruits, yet they more than repay us for the few cherries or currants they may have taken, by exterminating the insects themselves which, if not thus killed, would have laid eggs more than sufficient to produce a swarm of grubs that would have destroyed even the trees. Toads feed almost entirely upon insects, and are constantly busy during the evening and morning, or in damp weather, hunting for their insect prey ; so that, insead of being eed and setae to death as disagreeable pests and nuisances, they ought to be protected as benefactors and considered in the true light as one of the instruments or means used by Divine Providence to check the too rapid increase of the insect tribes; which, it undisturbed, would soon multiply to such a degree as to destroy all vegetation. Let the farmer merely once observe a toad closely when it is hopping or crawling about in the evening twilight, and he will soon be convinced by seeing it dart out its viscid tongue at every passing insect; or, if not yet satisfied about its utility, let him kill a toad early in the morning, after a good night’s feed, and if cut open, the stomach will be found completely filled with insects, some partly digested, whilst others more recently caught are in a perfectly uninjured state; nay, some of them so fresh as to be fit to be placed in a cabinet as specimens. All insects, however, are not noxious; some are even beneficial and useful to the farmer by destroying the insects which injure his crops. Hence it would be well for the agriculturist to be naturalist sufficient to be able to discriminate between friends and foes, or the insects that benefit him by destroying injurious insects, and the injurious insects themselves; and in these papers we shall endeavor, when de- scribing the habits of each noxious insect, to point out the parasite or other in- sect which destroys it. We will merely take as an example the small round red beetle, spotted more or less with black, commonly known to farmers as the lady- bug. ‘This is useful in the highest degree in both the larva and perfect state, as its food consists entirely of other insects exceedingly injurious to vegetation ; one yellow species, spotted with black, alone being injurious to squashes, pumpkins, &c., on which plants it is to be found abundantly. But more of this hereafter. a METEOROLOGY. FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The following tables show, first, the temperature and the amount of rain falling in the month of July, and then the comparison between the weather for that month of this year and of the same month in five years previous. An examination of the last column in the last table will show how this July compares with the average of other years. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- jixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths,) for July, 1863, at the following places, as given by the observers named. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a. m., and 2 and 9 p. m. TEMPERATURE AND RAIN OF JULY, 1863. Place. County. MAINE. Cornishyille ........ | York:.-.......-2 MESUDEM 50.6 eset Washington ..... Moxeroft .,..--.)..-. | Piseataquis .....-. BORRONIGN =. «= 57.5 2 | Kennebec . ----.- NEW HAMPSHIRE. SST 7 Lee ee MGOON 25 42350-cee8>= Claremont -........ Sullivan......... VERMONT. inci Hutland == Thomas B. Arden. ..| 3, 9, 26 80 |17,18,21; 61 75.0) 6.81 NEW JERSEY. INGWAl KK cso. 6 ennie= = UE ole aN Oo iW,7A, Whitehead: <.|:-.cas.c\eeoee- 22, 2 60 72.9} 5.96 Progresé. 225.2)... Burlington ....-.. Thos. J. Beans. -... 3 96 17 68 78.8 | 9.99 PENNSYLVANIA. Philadelphia. ....... Philadelphia. . . .- Pf. J.A. Kirkpatrick . 15 87 | 17,18 69 77.0 | 5.69 Harrisburg --.--.-=- Dauphin ........ John Heiseley, M.D. 25 89 17 64 77.1 | 13.58 Canonsburg ..-..--- Washington ....- Rey. W. Smith, D.D. 5,8,23,29} 84 18 o2 70.6 | 3.10 AB TaITS VEO) els Soe aa Ingianay.°- Ys 7-5 W. R. Boyers -.--.- 8, 24, 27, 92 )2, 12, 13 50 67.0 | 5.62 31 | tol6 Susquehanna Depot-| Susquehanna....| H. H. Atwater.....- S|) Our te livsee 61 7%.3>|--6, 41 Evening Hose... flo Center... -s4'ss.\- Samuel Brugger .... 1l 92] QL, 22 58 73.7 | 2.80 Mount Joy:..-.5..-: Lancaster ......-. ets EOS OIE tee eae 25 99 17 63.\|co cee 3.70 INGE Jssassens seses MOP ae ep ea BE. T. Bentley....... 11 96 | 22,23 54 (3.4 |s-sene - MARYLAND. Sykesville.......-.- Carroll S25. Miss Harriott M. Baer.) 25, 26 82 17 62 75.4 | 13.10 Chestertown - ....-- Went sa: os: --)-4 Prof. J. R. Dutton -. 28 89 | 18, 22 67 77.3 | 5.56 Sisany!s os -e1-— iy Mary?s =. ~ 1 Rey. J. Stephenson - dL 86 17 66 77.5 | 5.49 DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Smithsonian Ingt- ~~ >} Washington -.j-.|- lace ces soce crc. 3 88 22 633} 76.4 | 8.37 OHIO, Westerville ......... PYranklin' (2... 3 Prof. Jno. Haywood. 3 92 17 52 72.9,| 1.45 Urbana University..}| Champaign ...... Prof. M. G. Wiiliams.| 3, 24 92 16 56 74.0 | 2.10 Welshtield...-.-..-.. Geauga. .......- B. F, Abell, A. M.-. 1,3 90 16 52 71 | 247 Portsmouth......-.. DClOUS ¢ \5an toatl L. Englebrecht ..... 2 89 17 59 75.6 |, 4.05 New Lisbon .....-.. Columbiana ..... J. F. Benner ......- 3| 96 17| 52) 72.97) 2:15 Kelley's Island. ..... IDN2e 6554+ Seese Geo. C, Huntington. 3 88 16 56 71.4] 1.43 Cleveland .......... Cuyahoga ....-... G. Al Hydew ists 4 3 84 17 57 72.2] 1.65 Cincinnati .-....2-1. Hamilton.....-.. Geo. W. Harper....| 2) 24 96 17 61 77.4 | 3.21 Bowling Green ...-.. Wood -. 2.25...) 3 W. R. Peck, M.D... it 88 16 52 70.6 | 2.75 Néwark 25. ..222. Rieking tr...) J. Dill eee ee 24 97 17 46 74.9 | 2.18 Austinburg ........ Ashtabula ......| J.G. Dole and C. L. 1; (Guiting eee 1,3 89 | 17,18 52 69.7 | 6.00 Moledojyris2- =~ -~ = -/-3 Tuucas --/..-...).. J. B. Trembly M.D-~ 2 93 18 ol 74.5] 3.44 MICHIGAN, Monroe 2-65. - <. IOWA. Pa VONB ee me 2S = Cling Soe 4 a5 2 P. J. Farnsworth, Mere = Sar a Dubuque is Se aiox S Dubuque. ..-.-.- Asa Horr, M.D- -.--- IPOHB ome GNoS. Kossuth << 22: | F. McCoy, M.D.,and | F | Miss L. McCoy . --' Fort Madison -..... LO ee ee | Daniel McCready . .. Independence .. ....| Buchanan ..-...- | A. C. Wheaton -.-.-.. Pleasant Plain ......| Jefferson ......-.- | E. MeGonnel ——___-- Muscatine ...---.. Muscatine .......| Suel Foster .... ..-. MINNESOTA, ) SU Sh 5] ee es Ramsey -..-...-- | A. B. Patieson...--- NEBRASKA Bellevue ..2----5.2.¢ SanDW dec se. =: Rey. Wm. Hamilton. yd) 7 Washington -.... Miss A. M. J. Bowen. KANSAS. Lawrence .......- Douglas......... | Arthur N. Fuller. ... Manhattan -.-.. .- aley eee 525s: H. L. Dennison... --. 18 The following table shows the average temperature and average fall of rain m the different States during the month of July for the years named. No reports for this year were received from two of the States. g | Averages, Averages, | Averages, Averages, | Averages,| Av. for Averages for = 1855. | 1856. | 1857. | 1858. 1859. the5years.| 1863. | ; } States and Territories. z | ES r Z 2 p 4 ae |e é ra fy : 2) 6°81) 8 be) & lel & lal 8 (Sa § | ace a/ 2jf/2)]4 = 4 =e) 2 || se E |) 4 8) 4 = elalalalalale|elelalg|¢lelaa -l[os | Ss) se | a] se ts |) = |e) Ss | a) & | ose ee aS = g | & ~ a Wie pcs & 2 g 2 z = = = aA || & a | | # = = = = = = Deg. | In. | Deg. | zn | Deg. In oe | In. | Deg. | In. | Deg. | In. | Deg. In. [Ct eee 6 | 67.9 |2.6| 69.3 | 4.4] 67.2 3. 6 | 65.7 |6.6| 67.3 |2.4| 67.5 |3.9] 69.7] 6.82 New Hampshire ..--. 4| 71.8 |4.7| 71.4 |2.5| 71.5 4.3) 67.5 14.1] 65.9 |3.5| 69.6/3.4| 69.2) 7.77 ReNMonbssss=.4.52—2 4 | 69.6 |6.2| 71.2|3.1| 70.7 |5.0| 67.8 |4.9| 66.5 |1.6| 69.1 |4.2| 69.2] 7.77 Massachusetts . .----- 12 | 71.4 15.8] 71.3 }2.6| 70.2 | 4.7| 69.2 |4.5| 68.7 |2.1] 70.2|3.9| 70.8) 9.43 Rhode Island... ...-- 1 | 72.9 |3.25 72.1 |4.20) 69.9 /3.45) 69.8 /4..90| 69.2 |1. 14) 70.7 |8. 65] 69.6 | 9, 42 Connecticut ..-.. .--- 4| 71.8 |5.8| 72.7 |2.7| 69.7 |6.8] 69.5 |3.5| 68.1 |2.0] 70.4 |4.2| 70.4 | 11.16 New, Works occ. 255s 18 | 72,1 |4.8| 73.3 |2.9| 72.0}4.1 | 71.9 |4.6] 69.2 |3.3| 71.7 |4.0| 72.2) 5.67 New Jersey .-..-.--- 4 | 76.2 |4.5| 77.2 |1.4| 73.016.1] 74.4 | 3.4] 72.0 |4.0] 74.6 4.0] 75.8] 5.97 Pennsylvania. .-..--. 20 | 76.4 |5.8| 76.7 |2.1| 70.2 |3.6) 76.1 |3.1| 73.4 |2.8| 74.5 13.5) 73.6] 5.99 Maryland ........... 5 | 77.0 |3.2| 78.9 |3.6| 74.3 |4.4| 77.2 |3..0| 74.5 |2.5] 76.4 13.3] 76.7} 8.05 District of Columbia-..| 1 | 79.0 j41 79.1 |3.9| 74.7-|5.4]| 78.3 |5.0| 76.1 |1.6| 77.4 14.0) 76.4) 837 Rentickyge---+ 255 == 4|78.1|3.0| 79:4 |2.4| 73.6|47| 78.5 |5.0) 78.2 |2.3) 77.5 |3.4|.02 fo) seeee nine: mentee a 18 | 74.7 |5.8| 76.0 |2.7| 74.5 |4.9| 75.9 |5.0] 74.4 |1.6) 75.1 |3.9) 73.3) 3.20 Michigan ....--.----- 8 | 76.1 |8.8| 72.3 |2.3) 71.6 2.9 72.9 |2.3) 70.7 |1.8| 72.7 |3.6) 65.6 | 2.83 Indiana sees 4| 77.7 |7.0| 79.3 |2.2| 74.2 |2.8) 77.4 |3.1] 77.8 |1.9) 77.3 13.4) 73.8) 3.94 Mlinois o32 eect 13 | 76.3 |6.2| 77.3 |3.6| 76.3 |2.1] 75.3715.9| 75.8 |1.7] 76.2 |3.9| 72.6) 3,87 MMASBON TE ss Sch soe ais 2 | 79.6 |5.2| 81.6 4,9| 76.8 |3.3| 82.2 |2.9| 78.9 |5.5| 79.8 |4.4| 76.9] 1.64 Wisconsin ...-..--..- 9 | 72.0 |3.7| 68.3 |2.6| 67.1 |2.4! 70.9 |5.3] 73.0 |2.2| 70.3 3.2) 68.6) 2.65 iinies See 8 | 74.3 |4.8 75.6 |3.8| 63.6 |2.9| 73.9 8.3) 75.7 |4.3| 72.6 |4.8) 72.5) 3.44 Minnegota ....------- B70! 2)|5- 72.8 |2.7| 76.3 |1.0| 68.7 | 8.8 70.0 |4.2) 71.6 |4.2| 68.5] 0.63 Nebraska Territory ..| 2 |-.---- ee oe eae Petar bark ofc la7| 76.2 |15.8] 77.7 |1.8| 77.1 16.4) 71.8) 2°25 Kambageee = eee as Ail see [Sep eee |...) 81.2 13.2] 80.6 |6.0| 80.6 |3.7| 80.8 |4.3] 76.3] 233 California ....---.=-- 2 ie 73.5 | 0.1) 60.7 10.0] 69.4 | 0.0] 66.9 |1.3] 67.6 |0.3]..--.-]...- | | | | TEMPERATURE OF JULY. As a whole. the earth receives less heat from the sun in July than in any other month of the year. Our planet does not revolve around the sun im a cir- cular, but in an elliptical or elongated orbit, and therefore is nearer the central luminary at one season of the year than another. At the present time—that is, near the middle of the 19th century—the earth is nearest the sun on the 1st of January, and furthest from it on the fourth of July; or, in other words, the whole earth receives the greatest amount of heat from the sun on New Year’s day, and the least on the anniversary of our national independence. This condition of affairs is not permanent, but is constantly, though very slowly, changing. In about ten thousand years the earth will be nearest the sun in July, and furthest from it in January. This will very much increase the intensity of the heat of the northern summer and the cold of the northern winter. The cause above mentioned is, however, too slow in its operations to have produced any very appreciable effect during our historie period, although in the long geological ages it probably assisted in producing the changes of climate, which are proved from the remains of plants and animals to have taken place on different parts of the earth’s surface. What we have said relates to the heat received from the sun by the whole earth, and not to the heat of any place in different seasons of the year. The 19 latter, as every one knows, depends principally upon the higher or lower position of the sun above the horizon at 12 o’clock. Now, in the United States the sun is highest on the 21st of June, and lowest on the 21st of December; and hence, at first sight, we might suppose that the 21st of June ought to be the warmest day, and the 21st of December the coldest. Although the intensity of the sun’s rays at any place in the United States, irrespective of the temperature of the surrounding atmosphere, is greatest on the 21st of June, yet the warmest weather, on an average, occurs several weeks later. This fact, so familiar to every one, is perhaps not generally as well understood as it might be. Its explanation depends upon the principle that every body while receiving heat is also at the same time giving off heat. If the body re- ceives more heat in a stated time than it gives off, it will be growing warmer; if the converse, it will be growing colder; and if the amount given off is just equal to that received, the body will be stationary in temperature. Now, the northern portion of the earth in autumn and winter gives off more heat than it receives, and consequently cools down; while in spring and summer, as the sun increases in altitude the heat received exceeds that given off, and the tempera- ture continues to increase even after the sun has attained its greatest altitude; for although the intensity of the rays diminishes daily after this point has been reached, they still give more heat to the ground than it loses by radiation, and it is not until some weeks after that the two become equal and the highest tem- perature is produced. A similar explanation is given of the fact that the greatest heat of the day is not at twelve o’clock, but some hours afterwards. Though the temperature of the different months of the year, at a given place, depends mainly on the position of the sun in the heavens, there are other causes which affect the result, particularly the wind, which transfers the temperature of the south to the north, or conversely. From an average of a number of years it is found that the warmest month over almost the whole of the United States is July. There is, however, a remarkable exception to this rule in the lower part of western Texas. Over a circumscribed distriet of this part of our country the warmest month is August. A few places in Maine also present the same anomaly. Temperature—By the tables in the preceding number of this publication it appears that the temperature for May was higher in nearly all the States than the average for that month during the five years from 1855 to 1859, inclusive, and that in June it was lower in every State in which the comparison was made except one. In July, especially in the western States, the temperature was rather below the average. As all the stations at which the observations were made from which the means for the several States were drawn are not the same in the different years, the comparison is only an approximate one, but the general result as to whether the temperature of the present season is higher or lower than the average is probably correctly represented. The observer at Westfield, Massachusetts, remarks that the average for July was higher than it has been there for nine years. Mr. Whitehead, who has kept a meteorological record at Newark, New Jersey, for many years, states that the past July was one of four only in twenty-one years in which the mer- cury did not rise above 90°, and during the whole period there was not one whose maximum temperature was not higher, and that its mean temperature was below the average of the month for the same period, only nine Julys being colder. At Gardiner, Maine, according to the record of Mr. R. H. Gardiner, last J uly was more than a degree and a half lower than the average for the past twenty- seven years. About the middle of the month an extensive frost prevailed in the western and northwestern States, sufficiently severe in low situations to injure corn, sorghum, and tomatoes. ™ ae : F ¥ y ~ te » i SS = eu y.P - © hk, - ; a =, ys § tai a , ; oe | : #. 3 r otey Ai lf a efits (a " Wasnt sun Yue ib igi D nie Whi bie divers ad, weld aohiyel ( re revaed frere oi. tf ee uff 7 aes sia a ayn Tiss ware $i: a “eh Peer ie! re Eat So. vei ve 3 it eal? ij (rhe oh fii oe "i agent id S448 te as adonis isl be PETE) es ee ans: arya (OBR ti Larierg ton © io pay a Ter heet sana bs « ty. Yoo. ail] j uy uth yy ee ; e ° j i I Pt 9* wives ati tear att ie inte oe . nh a ; % j been ‘We, L. ma weve bay Hoss ‘ s non a iy ve , > iP : Feo Me mity : P . “ear ; Maes G x i ni : } . a! " rig! “il iT 2 Pe eae ry) hes 4 t TT 5 ele TOR foie 4ift Bi) mats? ee FY, \ t 5 - > . j ; . it vy oud ree % gitar - : Sats iain 7OG ai ; ¢ . Tee Saeiee 5 Be y's ' ma "i . atl ; eh | 4 4% mi a {nh | K . 7 *} ' i SSS a, Ded . Mee GN Oe toes VE. Oe, Aug . : yyea Vifiolontt "iat MONTHLY REPORT OF THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS, FOR AUGUST, 1863. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, September 10, 1863. The Commissioner of Agriculture again tenders to his regular correspondents his grateful acknowledgments for their promptness in replying to his circular for August.. Their increased numbers and carefully prepared returns give the best assurance of the ultimate complete success of the plan adopted to collect reliable monthly accounts of the condition of the crops. Despite the local injuries to the fall crops from drought, corn, tobacco, sor- ghum, and buckwheat would have been excellent had not the frost of August 30th occurred. As nearly all the returns of correspondents were made from the 28th of August to the 1st of September, the injury by frost was not given by them, as will be seen in the tables, but many held back their returns for a few days to report it. ‘These last accounts present a general average injury of about one-third or 33 per cent; but, for reasons given at some length in the body of this report, it is believed that this is a great overestimate. Although so general a frost is ordinarily very destructive, yet there is a great difference between frosts occasioned by the fall of cold rains when the ground has been. cooled, and those produced by a storm bringing the cold of the arctic regions over heated soil, and into a warm atmosphere. But to better ascertain the ex- tent of the injury, inquiries have been made in the September circular relative to the condition of all the fall crops. The state of the crops in Europe, especially in England, continues favorable, and indicates a lessened exportation of breadstuffs from this country.. But a particular account of it will be given in the next Monthly Report, when more full information will have been received. Since the last report many agricultural societies have forwarded.to the De- partment the list of their officers, &c., but there are still many of them. which have officers, and are unreported. It is very important, for the interests of the societies and for the Department, that the list be immediately sent. In answer to numerous interrogatories, there will be found in this report short. articles on the manufacture of sorghum sugar and molasses, and on mildew and some of the injurious insects. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. 2 AUGUST REPORT ON THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS. Different modes of reporting the crops.—It was out purpose to throw some light on the controversy among certain papers about the condition of the crops: some being positive that the general crop was most excellent; others that it was much below an average. But the late frosts have rendered this unneces- sary, further than to say that as the crops are, in the section where the papers are located, so are the views of each paper. This is natural; for until we can fully realize the vastness of our country and the character of its climate—deluged with rain in one section, and parched with drought in another; the hay crop injured by daily showers in one part of a State, and the corn blades wilting in another; in one part of a county favorable weather, in another scarcely a shower—until these peculiarities are justly appreciated, opinions will take their coloring from the condition of the crops near home. ‘Then, again, good crops are passed by without much comment; but the bad are the subject of much complaint. A person unacquainted with farming takes a railroad trip through two or three States, travelling night and day, dashing by cornfields with a ve- locity that sets every stalk in the most fantastic whirling around uncertain centres, fences appearing most contemptibly low, and a wheat field appearing thick or thin as the cars may be on or above a level with the grain, and reports to the pavers, as he has to this Department, that the crops are good or bad, and gravely assures us that correspondents in every county, who see crops from horseback, and learn their condition from the most reliable, because best informed, sources, are mistaken. If such opinions could have any approximation to correctness, it would be a useless labor to make the extensive inquiries that are made by this Department, or for it carefully to examine every return to learn whether a correspondent fully understands the nature of the questions asked, and whether he has answered each one according to the manner laid down in the directions, or for it to collate the returns of counties, that the general condition of each State may be shown, together with the climatic conditions of each for each month, or, as given in this report, for each week. It was Curran whe said that truth is slow and painful in its progress; but that error was flippant and compendious, hopping over facts, but perching on assertion, which it called conclusion. A railway view of the crops is a “hopping” one—that of this Department slow and laborious. The condition of the crops prior to the frost of 30th of August—The June and July reports of this Department exhibited a most favorable view of all the crops. ‘Those harvested are undoubtedly large; but the fall crops, as will be seen more fully in this report, were injured in many localities by the continuance of the drought through August. Corn was held back, so that when the frost came, it found much of it in a condition unfit to withstand its severity. The reports of the month of August show more the effects of the drought than of the frost, for many of these had been written on the 28th, 29th, and 30th days of August, before the frost, and those returning after it, were too prudent to return that which could not then be known, except by uncertain suppositions. But many gave their opinions separate from their regular returns, and to a por tion of these we now refer, that the extent and character of the frost may: be seen. The frost of August 30.—The frosts of August 28, 29, and 30 were among the most remarkable irregularities of our climate, and, we fear, among the most destructive. From intensely hot weather and a soil heated from Minnesota to Texas, that of itself was sufficient to preserve the temperature abovethe freezing point for weeks of ordinary weather, in two days, ice was formed of an eighth of an inch in thickness over most of the latitudes between Minnesota and the Ohio river, and seemingly varying in its intensity but little between these 3 places—the destruction to the crops of Minnesota appearing to be no greater than on the lands adjacent to either side of the Ohio. It was occasioned, evidently, by a storm extending from the pole to the equator, bringing down the cold air from the arctic regions. Here the early morning air was pleasant, but that of the middle of the afternoon and evening very disagreeably cold for several days. At night when the wind fell, the heat of the ground warmed the air so as to preserve all the eastern States north of Washington from frost; but the northwestern wind, during the day, brought down the cold air, so disagreeable, in the afternoon. But in the northwestern States, which lay more directly in the track of the storm, the heat of the soil was insufficient to shield against frost. To what extent the northwest wind continued blowing during the nights in these States we have no present informa- tion to determine. But one of the peculiarities of this, as of most frosts, was its “ variousness,” as generally termed. And, from all accounts, it is this which will show a much lighter damage than at first generally supposed. It is proper, therefore, that the cause of this should be examined into. Every person has observed, in the spring of the year, those peculiar warm bodies of air which have a forward motion from the south to the north, and a spiral one of greater or lesser force. Some will make the dried but unfallen beach leaves rustle from the combined powers of these two forces, whilst others pass among them without moving the leaves. Now, these bodies of warm air are brought directly from the south by the wind. The pressure of the colder air on all sides gives them this rotary motion, and serves to keep them from mixing immediately with the colder air. Just as in meeting arise in a large river, spots of muddy water are first met with; these gradually become more numerous and larger, until the clear water is seen but in spots, and presently all is muddy. So it is with bodies of heated or cold air as they are forced into a mass of atmos- phere of different temperature. There are warm spots and cold ones of greater or lesser extent according to the intensity and duration of the storm. There are other causes also serving to increase this “variousness.”” Cold air, being heavier than warm, settles in the lower places, such as in the sink basins of the cavernous limestone regions, and in valleys bordering on creeks and rivers. In the basins the corn is killed, whilst out of them it often is not. In the bottom lands, where the frost would be most intense, the air is kept above the freezing point by the warm exhalations of fog from the creeks and rivers. So, in a like manner, the air from large bodies of water, as the great lakes, pro- tect large districts from frost. A high country is above the frost line; hence the greatest injuries of the recent frosts will be found between the bottom allu- vial lands and the highest lands. Between all these causes we believe it will be found that the recent frosts, although very severe and destructive, have not done that injury which was gen- erally believed, nor can the extent of the damage be ascertained now; much of that supposed to be ruined, as sorghum, indicates an internal life, from its peculiar nature, that will throw out other flowering stems and blades suflicient to mature the plant, but not, probably, to effect such an elaboration of the sap as will render it perfect enough to make sugar. But especial inquiries relative to the injury sustained by the fall crops have been made in the circular for September, when the extent of the injury will be much better known than now. The extent of the frost was great, embracing the States of Minnesota, Wis- consin, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, parts of Kentucky, and the eastern portions of Missouri and Kansas, doing but little injury in these portions. Sufficient cold to produce frost appears to have been from four to five days’ duration in the more northern portions, and a day or two less in the southern. In its course across the lakes and over the heated earth the cold wind appears to have been so much mitigated that when it reached the States of New York, 4 Pennsylvania, and New Engkand, no frost was found, although fires were quite comfortable ; hence it will be seen that the crops in these States, and Maryland Delaware, and New Jersey continue to promise a most abundant yield. The returns received at the Department, written between the third and eighth days of September, from all the States visited by severe frosts, generally place the injury to the corn crop at from one-fifth to one-half the whole crop; but the average of the States of Minnesota, Michigan, and Illinois is three-tenths, and of Indiana four-tenths. The tobacco crop is reported as injured to a still greater extent. There can be but little doubt that this crop has suffered much more than any other. Sorghum is injured less than corn. But it is useless to dwell longer on the extent of injuries that could not be well ascertained at the time these reports were made; we must wait until the returns of next month. The Cincinnati Horticultural Society—In the July report we took o¢casion to refer to the remissness of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society in not respond- ing to the circulars of this Department, thereby withholding from it information of an interest for which that society has done so much—the culture of the grape. For three months circulars were sent to E. P. Cranch, secretary of the society, from whom came no response. Well knowing the public spirit of this association, and its high intelligence, we could look upon this neglect in no other light than unfriendliness to the Department, which was the more surprising, as we knew it had labored to have this Department established. The neglect of any other association could haye been better endured; but here in Washington, contrasting this the seat of our national government, on sacred soil, of magnificent distances; whose broad avenues are but dust in summer and bottomless mud in winter; where scarcely a flower blooms for the family, or an amateur cultivator is seen; where government has spent its millions on public edifices and grounds without calling into existence, apparently, any taste for horticultural pursuits ; a city whose market-places are as revolting as their prices are exacting ; where no gardens are in its vicinity to attest a horticultural taste or knowledge—contrasting these things with their opposite at Cincinnati, where this association had shed abroad on labor a taste and an intelligence as the sun sheds light and warmth and beauty wherever it shines—contrasting what the Queen City has with what Washington has not, we could not but ex- press a regret that this public spirited association stood aloof from this Depart- ment. But it seems that Mr. Cranch was not the secretary. The society in the fol- lowing proceedings exhibits its desire to promote the objects of this Department, and we commend its action to all other horticultural associations, with the injunction to each—Go thou and do likewise. ; “At the regular weekly meeting of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society, on the 29th August, it was— “ Resolved, ‘That a committee of correspondence with the Agricultural Depart - ment, at Washington, be appointed, with the view of furnishing the Department with monthly reports upon the agricultural and horticultural interests of the. vicinity of Cincinnati.” This resolution being unanimously adopted, the following gentlemen were appointed on the committee, viz: Daniel B. Pierson, College Hill post office, Mill Ureek township, Hamilton county, Ohio. R. Buchanan, Cincinnati post office, Clifton township, Hamilton county, Ohio. John H. Gerard, Mount Washington post office, Anderson township, Hamil- ton county, Ohio. Dr. A. Whipple, Delhi post office, Delhi township, Hamilton county, Ohio. Charles Remelin, Dent post office, Green township, Hamilton county, Ohio. 5 Robert Brown, jr., Cincinnati post office, Cincinnati township, Hamilton county, Ohio. Mr. Pierson is the president of the society, and Mr. Brown, secretary. THE TABLES OF THE CROPS FOR AUGUST. In our remarks on the tables no further notice will be taken of the States which have suffered by the frost, but those only noticed where the crops will, ee now mature without injury. These States are Connecticut, Delaware, ansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Corn.—lIn these States this crop is excellent. In Maryland and Pennsyl- vania it is but one-tenth below an average, whilst the rest are either an average or above it. The average of all is 103. Tobacco—This crop, in the same States, is within a very small fraction of an average crop. The injuries to it are small. Sorghum.—Of the States named, this crop is grown in but six of them, and in them it is just an average crop; but the heavy crop of this product lies within the frosted States, and hence it is unnecessary to dwell longer upon it now. Flax.—The crop of flax, being uninjured by frost, may be considered for all the States, except Delaware, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, which do not produce it. The crop is nearly a general average, being 92 bushels to the acre ; but the States producing most, as Ohio, Indiana, and Iowa, are below an aver- age, being 8, or two bushels below, and Illinois and Pennsylvania are 9, or one bushel below, for the yield of an average acre is about 10 bushels. The great amount sown places the actual production far above the crop of 1862. This will be seen from the report for July, where the general average is 120 per cent. greater than the crop of last year. The lint or straw of flax —To the question whether the lint or straw was saved, the returns show 213 yes against 46 no. In the heavy flax-growing States we have, in Illinois, 20 yes, 14 no; in Indiana, 24 yes, 13 no; In Iowa, 27 yes, 5 no; and in Ohio, 36 yes, and 7 no. The amount of straw will be ade- quate to the demands for it, unless the success of the improvements in machinery for spinning it should be such as to create a demand beyond what the want of cotton will produce. The world is determined to show itself independent of King Cotton, as will be seen from the following notice of the increase of flax culture in Ireland, in the London Money Market Review, August 29: “ Flax cultivation—The impetus given to the cultivation of fibrous articles, in consequence of the absence of our usual cotton supplies from America, is shown in the large increase of land under flax cultivation in Ireland this year, the total being returned at 214,092 acres, against 150,070 acres last year, being an increase of 64,022 acres.’ Cotton.—As nearly all of this product, of which we have returns, is in the frosted States, we must await the next monthly report for an account of its condition. But here we set right an erroneous statement made in reference to the production of cotton in Utah, in our July report, being led into it by returns made in the northern part of this Territory. Mr. J. E. Johnson, of Spring Lake Villa, near the southern line of the Territory, about equidistant from Los An- gelos, in California, and Salt Lake City, thus writes to the Department: “Last year we produced cotton—say, 75,000 pounds—some ten or more tons of which was hauled across the plains and sold in New York. This year we shall probably fall not much short of 200,000 pounds. The cotton-growing district is on the Rio Virgin and Santa Clara, some 350 miles south of Salt Lake City, where we have a colony of some 500 families.”’ 6 The supply of cotton is an interesting subject, for the condition of American affairs will induce every country to make trial of its cotton-growing capabilities. An article from the London Times shows that for six months ending June 30 the total imports of cotton into England were 2,134,775 ewt., of which 6,876 cwt. only came from this country. India furnished 1,204,763 ewt., and Brazil and Egypt 565,763 ewt. The whole number of places from which cotton was received was sixty-six. The Hay crop.—This great crop of all sections of the country has been secured in a much better condition than was anticipated from the constant rains in the eastern States during the harvest. In Connecticut, Delaware, Massa- chusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, the condition of the hay was two- tenths below an average, and in Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, it was one-tenth below. In the remainder of the States it was of an average condition, or above it. How far the frost may have injured corn fodder, so as to make foddering substances scarce, cannot now be determined, but where hay is searcest the fodder is most injured. But the wheat straw in these sections is excellent. Fruits —The general returns in the column for Grapes present a favorable account of this delicious fruit.- It is 95 in appearance, but the returns from the frost are meagre. ‘The rot, nevertheless, has prevailed to a considerable extent in many localities, and the Concord which an eminent pomologist at Cincinnati but recently classed among the hardy varieties, has suffered much from mildew. It is yet too early to determine how far the Delaware can uphold itself against heavy soils and unfavorable climatic influences. The following report of the condition of the grape crop in the west has been forwarded to the Department : CuirTon, September 10. Dear Sir: At your request I present a report on the grape crop. In the vicinity of Cincinnati, and for thirty or forty miles around, the yield will be from one-third to one-half less than an average crop, supposing 200 gallons to the acre to be the average. ‘This will also be the result around Ripley, Vevay, and in those parts of the Ohio valley on the limestone formation. In the coal and sandstone regions, and in the islands and on the shores of Lake Erie, the crops, with very few exceptions, are good. The 7oé, so injurious to us, did but little damage there. In Missouri, southern Illinois, and Indiana, I am informed the rot has destroyed one-third of the crop. But on the Upper Mississippi, and in Wisconsin, the grapes are said to be very fine. In Kentucky, near Lexing- ton and Frankfort, some vineyards have escaped, whilst others have suffered from this disease. ‘These remarks apply, of course, to the Catawba grape, with which nearly all our vineyards are planted. The Delaware, Norton, Concord, and some other experimental varieties, have showed but little, if any, rot. Since the rot ceased, in August, the weather has been very favorable for ripening the grape, and the quality of the wine ought to be good. Very respectfully, R. BUCHANAN. D. B. Pierson, Esq., President Cincinnati Horticultural Society. The Peach crop shows a great deal of irregularity, as is usual with it, but it may be set down as a good crop. That of Apples possesses much of the same irregularity. In Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Ohio, the crop will be light, but in the other States it will be greater than last year. Pears are more hardy than apples, and their production is evidently increasing. Potatoes-—The continued drought in many sections of Iowa, Illinois, and 7 Indiana, have materially lessened this crop in those States, and the frost of August will destroy much of the late :planted. Our table shows the crop as injured by drought chiefly, and in these States it is ¢wo-tenths, or twenty per cent. below an average. The injury from potato bugs has not been so great as usual. In Maryland, Minnesota, and Rhode Island, their condition is the same, and in Ohio it is down as low as 7, or three-tenths below an average. The rest ot the States exhibit an average of nearly 11, or nearly one-tenth above an average. Gardens.—The appearance of the gardens is not much different from that of the potato crop. ‘They have suffered from drought in the large western States, of Ohio, Indiana, Llinois, and Iowa, as also in Minnesota and Nebraska T'er- ritory. But they are increasing in number and extent. Pastures—lIn the great grazing States of the west the condition of fall pas- tures is not favorable, but in the other States it is unusually good, owing to he rains of August. Butter —The amount made is nearly an average, being 9,°;.. The droughts in the western States have caused a diminished amount. ‘The demand for it, however, has been above an average, being 11, or one-tenth more. The high prices of meats have led to this, and there is but little doubt of the fact, that so long as present prices rule for meats, butter will be much more largely consumed than usual. Cheese—Without entering into detail, it may be said that this product, as to supply and demand, is in the same condition as butter. Weather—There_is no part of our table more instructive than this. Here- tofore the reports have presented the condition of the weather for the country during the month, but in order to present it more accurately, returns of each week are given. We see at a glance the general condition of a State as to rain. Thus, Indiana has but 60 wet and favorable weeks against 135 dry and very dry. It is from this State that most complaints of drought have come. Ohio has 70 weeks wet and favorable against 134 dry and very dry. Pennsylvania is nearly equally divided between them, but it had a more favorable condition of the weather during the month of July than either of the States of Indiana and Ohio. ~ The general result is favorable, there being 550 weeks favorable, 336 wet, 448 dry, and 253 very dry, and 110 very wet. For the amount of rain, the reader is referred to the meteorological tables, Condition of the crops during August. HAY. COTTON. SORGHUM. TOBACCO. *poznoos fam Ley oy} YoOrAs UL WOHIpUo”y *poysoArey Tat doi jo sounineddy ‘aSnBo Lay}O IO 4ySnoap wos Arnlay 4ysnsny ut dow yo souvimeddy ‘ON 10 SOX 4 Ayuno0d oy} Ur paars Ajjesoues yall oy} SB AA *paes JO a10B god =pparé = payeurnysgy *asned 10q}0 1o yqSnoarp wos Aamluy 4ysnsny ut doi jo souvivoddy ‘asnvo 10q}0 10 yySnoap uos Aanfay ‘sndny ut dois jo souvivaddy ‘asnvo 10T}0 Io 4q3noap woay Aanfay “qsnsny ut dors jo aouviveddy STATES, @onnecticute-.---csee-eeee Delaware -..- Illinois Indiana sate oe eek cn waracee Vows. vaste Kansas: --<.- WKentnekey:-i tae stati i= Maine.-... Manyland 3234.5. 24 deccetee Massachusetts <2-.(s-c<: >< Michigan ....--. Minnesota veceerer paccmnae Missouri. -- New Hampshire--.- New WeIsey <= s2-:c5e5 oss Ohio Rennsylvania esac silse'== Rhodelslandescemeeeeeece hienmnont sone eae coer Nebraska Territory ........ WWASCONSIN 221s cee eeee 9 Condition of the crops during August—Continued. GRAPES. A 8 a |3 STATES. 3 a 5 ‘ Ssleg Panneehicut...<2 sath tere ass £0) < Delaware. 2.tscecseececces wens LON ss MINOIS eee eae eee ee sees cml: 10} ¢ Leche Ta Se 9 i Ot oes Soe ee ee 10.4 ON eee ere Sat BEOMUUCEY,. ts 5,0: 25 | Rev. J.H.Chickering| 2,10 92 31 46 70.0; 5.92 Brandon. ..*.-:-.-.- Rartianide = 5-2 | David Buckland ..-.| 2,5,6 88 31 48) 69.7); 7.2 MASSACHUSETTS. | New Bedford....... ISristilooac<- 22-5 Samuel Rodman... 3 90 31 56| 725| 2.42 in Hampshire -..-.. B.S. Snell 22 - ose 3 90 31 49} 70.1] 6.11 Menten. =| Worcester. ...-.-. Jno. Géorge Metcalf- 3 90 | 30,31) 53 } 71.0) 4. 6) Topsfield. _......_.. Dt aes John H. Caldwell... 3 92 31 53 70.3) 4.97 Williamstown .....:| Berkshire......-. Albert Hopkins .-.... 11 88 31) 45 69. 1 5. 24 Baldwinsville....... Worcester --....- Rey. E. Dewhurst -- 3, 10 86 31 49 65.9 | 5.00 RHODE ISLAND. | Providence -..-..... Providence .-...- Prof. A. Caswell. --- 9 89 18 51 70.3) 4.359 CONNECTICUT. etuniret: ...2- 82s Windham ....... Rey. Daniel Hunt... 3 87} 30,31 52{ 69.6 6. 24 Middletown ........ Middlesex -...... Prof. John Johnston. 3 94 | 27 50 70.9; 4.90 Place. NEW YORK. Fishkill Landing. --. Gouverneur Rochester Oswego South Trenton Oneida NEW JERSEY. Janesburg Newark Progress PENNSYLVANIA. MARYLAND. Sykesville St. Mary’s DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington .....-... OHIO. Welshfield........-- Austinburg College Hill Urbana New Lisbon Cleveland Bowling Green Newark Cincinnati Westerville Hillsborough Toledo INDIANA. New Castle South Bend-.....--.. iN 18 s Temperature and rain of August, 1863—Continued. | | . County. Observer's name. Date. | Max.| Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain. ° oO fo} In. Dutchess .....--- | W. H. Denning..... | 3 92 | 27,31 54 71.3 | 3.86 St. Lawrence. .-..| Cyrus H. Russell. - -.| 11 91 |18,30,31 | - 46 68.3 | 1.75 IMONTOG.\. 2-225. Dr. M. M. Mathews. 11 90 | 30,31); 46 69.1 | .3.70 Oswego .---.--.- Wm. S. Malcolm... - 11 90 31 49 68.7 | 5.25 Jefferson =... SB. O.Gregory messes 11 93 | 26, 30 48 66.0} 2.41 Oneida. 222. eee H. M. Paine, M.D... 11 96 31 47 70.5 | 5.84 TO: 2 coe William Ives. --..-... ll 91 31 44 69.8 | 2.96 Niagara <-<--5-e. E. S. Holmes ..-.-.--- 11 93 | 30, 3] 47 Ted |e eee Washington ..... G. M. Ingalsbe...-.-.. 2, 3, 6 88 31 48 71.0 | 10.12 Herkimer. --.=-<. James Lewis -..---- 11 88 31 46 7039) Soe eee Qneida'e2ne to eee Storrs Barrows o.255|§s2.cs eso oe sl cd th eh 5, 25 Madison ---....-- S. Spooner, M.D...: 11 92 30 46 69.3 | 12.73 Middlesex .......| Rey. Wm. M. Wells- 3 95 28 55 76.6 | 2.52 WSSEX - 225255 W. A. Whitehead. - . 3 91 30 53 73.7 | 4.98 Burlington .....- Thomas J. Beans --- 3] 101 31 56 79.4 |} 4.91 Philadelphia ....) Pf. J. A. Kirkpatrick. 3 94 30 60 * 4. 29 Danphin= - 22 ..52 John Heiseely, M.D-.| 10,11 93 31 53 79.4 | 1.06 Center ec e= seer Samuel Brugger -...) itil 96 31 42 72.5 | 3.23 WO ea: sock a casece HK. T. Bentley ..-.--- 10 96 31 40 WOitGa| sees Washington ..-.. Rey. W. Smith, D.D-} 10,11 91 30 41 71.8 | 1.85 Carroll eee ss. ss Miss HarriottM. Baer. | 3,10,11, 85 27 51 77.0) | O75. 14,21 St. Mary’s......- Rey. J. Stephenson - 16 95 30 62 80.0 | 0.27 Washington ..-.. Smithsonian Inst’n. . La 93 31 54 78.2 | 0.86 Geauga - ..-.-... B. F. Abell, ALM .--| 2,20 90 | 30,31 47 71.3 | 6.09 Ashtabula ......- J. G. Dole andC. L. L. Griffing -...--- 2,4 92 3, 31 41 701 | atl Hamilton ...,.--- 7. SE WWalsone 2)... 2 88 30 40 73.9) ||- 1.29 Champaign .....- Prof. M.G. Williams-| 4,15 93 30 41 72.6 | 1.66 Sclota 2.2555. -ere \ L. Engelbrecht ...-. 11 90 30 47 74.5] 3.00 Columbiana ...-- J. 02. Wpenner =-eees- 10 94 31 36 73.9) 1.89 Cuyahoga -.....- Mr. & Mrs.G. A. Hyde 5 92 31 49 73.3 | 2.06 Wane os... 5. =. W. R. Peck, M.D-.-. a 88 31 43 71.8 | 2.44 IMIGKWI P2255 sae Israel DWl6- = 222 -sen 4 97 | 30,31 41 76.3 | 2.58 Hamilton ........ G. W.. Harper -..=2-2 24 94 30 45 72.0 | 2:99 Franklin ........ Prof. John Haywood. ey il 30 43 71.8 | 3.66 Miehland =~ 2. =. J. McD. Mathews. -. 2 89 30 41 73.2 | 2.46 IPT pppaeospene J. B. Trembly, M.D. 2 95 30 48 73.0 | 2.21 IDG RpeaSeedereeae Geo. Huntington. ... 5) 89 | 29,30 52 72.2 | 1.74 Monroe. .......- Florence E. Whelpley 9 95 |29, 30,31} 50 70.9] 6,13 Washtenaw ..-.. C. S. Woodard...--. 2 88 29 47 69.6 | 5.00 Henry 65-50 .5.)- T. B. Redding ...-.2/14,15, 21} 93 30 36 73.8 | 3.12 St. Joseph. ...... Reuben Busrowghs- . 2 94} 29,30 40 70.8 | 4.85 1G 6 URenemingaicics Dr. E. S. Crozier: -. 15 93 30 45 75.10 |) 2587 New Albany.....- as * Average mean for 12 years, 74.8. — 4119 ‘Temperature and rain of August, 1863—Continued. Place. County. Observer’s name. INDIANA—(Cont’d.) _ New Harmony..---.-.- ROBBY! ites si Rhode Island .-....-- 1 | 67.9 |2.0| 69.8 |5.6] 66.8 |4.8] 66.4 |8.2] 69.2 |3.7] 68.0|4.9] 70.3] 4,59 Connecticut -...- -... 4 | 67.4 | 2.0] 67.6 |10.7) 68.6 |5.0| 66.5 | 4.4] 67.3 | 7.0) 67.5 |5.8] 70.3] 5.57 Wew York: oo 53-25-13 16 | 67.9 | 2.4/ 66.1 | 4.8) 61.0 | 4.7) 69.4 | 3.5) 68.8 |3.8) 66.7 |3.8) 69.6) 5.39 New Jersey -.-.-.... 4| 70.7 |2.9| 70.3 | 4.8] 72.3 |6.6]| 70.4 |3.7] 70.0 |4.6| 70.7 |4.5) 76.6] 4.18 Pennsylvania..-....-- 20 | 71.4 |3.8| 69.6 | 4.1] 69.6 | 4.8] 71.5 |3.4] 71.2 |4.1] 70.6 |4.0| 73.6} 2.61 Maryland .... 2--_-- 4 | 72.6 |5.7| 70.1 |5.1) 72.5 5.9} 73.2 |2.6] 73.2 |2.7| 72.4 |4.4] 785] O.51 " District of Columbia..| 1 | 74.9 |2.9] 72.6 | 4.2] 73.5 |10.2) 74.7 |4.8] 74.2 13.2] 74.0|/5.1| 78.2] 0.86 * Kentuchiyje. <---=2-- = 3 | 75:4 | 4.4). 72.6 13.5), 73.3 | 3:21 75.6 2. 3)| (72.6 | 6.4) 73/9 | 4. 0) 22sec ni eas Ohio: Sse Aas es eis 18 | 72.2 | 4.1) 68.3 |1.9| 69.9 |3.6] 71.5 | 4.4) 71.3 |3.9] 70.6 |3,6) 72.8) 2.66 Michipan -2. =. 2s2-=- 9 | 68.5 |2.3| 65.0 ]1.4] 66.7 |4.5}) 69.2 |4.0| 69.0 |2.6| 67.7 |3.0| 70.3} 5.57 LOA bi aie ene 4 | 74.0 |4.4| 71.3 |2.9] 72.9 |4.3) 73.7 |4.0] 73.6 |4.3) 73.1 |4.0] 73.6} 2564 UGG) See ee ee 14 | 71.7 | 4.1) 70.4 | 2.8) 72.7 14.5) 72.5.) 3.0) 72.2 |2.5) 71.9 1354) Tongue IMGRROUN <2 2212540. cio 2| 74.4 |6.5) 74.0 )4.4) 73.4 |3.5] 78.7 |2.9] 76.1 [2.9] 75.3 |4.0] 77.7 3.34 Wisconsin's. == 2....- 9:| 67.7 |1.8| 66.9 1.9] 67.4 13.6] 68.9 |3.6| 69.5 }1.8] 681 12.5] 69.3] 3.10 TOM eens- «oe eae 8 | 68.6 | 3.3] 67.8 | 1.6] 71.0] 5.8] 71.9 |3.3) 72.5 |1.8)] 70.4 |3.2] 74.9] 5.24 Minnesota). 2- 2: --5 3 | 63.4 |10.5) 63.4 |2.7] 67.8 |3.9 | 68.6 |3.9] 66.2 |4.1]| 65.9 |5.0] 67.0] 3.19 Nebraska Territory -.| 3 |.----- asses eeeslas- 228 10.1] 73.6 |1.9] 73.8 |1.8} 73.7 | 4.4) 72.5 | 2.70 DRANRAS: 23S sicher = 3p | (eee! | Gene fens Reema ets 75.8 | 3.9| 75.9 |4.0| 75.9 |5.6| 75.9 |4.5| 77.8] 4.72 California .....-..... OF) eee ae 0.0} 69.6 | 0.0} 61.7 | 0.0) 69.2 | 0.1] 71.3 |0.0) 68.0 |0.0)--..--|...... * (19, 75) W he MONTHLY REPORT OF THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS. FOR SEPTEMBER, 1863. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, October, 1863. In submitting his report of the condition of the crops for the month of Sep- tember, 1863, the Commissioner of Agriculture gratefully acknowledges the active co-operation of the farmers, and the various agricultural societies, in the transmission of statistical and other information pertaining to the crops of the country, which add so much to the importance of these reports. In. view of the great interests connected with this department, and which demand its fostering care, he feels impelled to invite their attention to some con- siderations which have not, as he believes, been heretofore suggested, and which have an important bearing upon the advancement of those interests. The in- exhaustible resources at our disposal, our wide-spread prairies and alluvial “valleys, afford the means of subsistence to many millions, and these means will continue largely to increase as we add to the improvements of the soil and its culture, and multiply the facilities for a successful prosecution of the art of husbandry. — The subsistence of our immense army and navy, and the revenues on which our government has not relied in vain for payment of its immense current ex- penses for crushing out this causeless and unnatural rebellion, all are derived, directly and indirectly, from the productions of our soil. And the more and the earlier we can increase those productions by the appliances of science and art, and by introducing improved seeds and valuable articles of produce, the easier and the sooner will the debt be extinguished which that wicked rebellion has made necessary to preserve this government and nation. By such improve- ments, not only will the produce per acre be increased, but the value of the products themselves will be enhanced, and we shall be the better enabled to compete with other nations in supplying food to the millions of Europe; thus gathering wealth in return and making our country more than ever the granary of the world, and our farmers the stay and staff of our government in all the vicissitudes of peace or war. It is the aim of this department to do what it can to promulgate the knowl edge which is indispensable to the prosperity of the farmer and producer as 2 sure means of promoting the general good of the country. Everything which has a tendency to benefit the tillers of the soil, is an advantage to the whole community, for their interests are reciprocal and inseparable ; and as the general eood is promoted by the fostering of the agricultural interest, it becomes the duty of those who are entrusted with the management and direction of public affairs to give special attention to this great interest which lies at the foundation of our national greatness. It is undoubtedly true that the agricultural is the most important interest of the country, and that it is an advantage to the government to protect the in- dustry of the people, especially when directed to so indispensable an end as the means of subsistence. It is also true that those who are engaged in this branch of industry outnumber all the other classes put together, and yet comparatively little has been done in the way of legislation to encourage and promote the success of agriculture. It is believed that one reason why the subject has met with so little attention at the hands of the national legislature is, that their con- Stituency have not urged it upon them as zealously as a proper regard to the subject demanded. And the object of the commissioner in now adverting to it is to induce those who are immediately interested in the subject to press as an argument upon their representatives the importance and the justice of bestow- ing upon this great interest that consideration which a due regard for the general welfare demands. A thorough system of. scientific and practical education in all the branches of agriculture is certainly of the highest importance, and while the department is doing what it can with the means at its disposal in the promotion of knowledge on the subject, it is believed that the establishment by the government of an experimental farm and agricultural school would afford large and better facilities for the acquirement of a thorough education, which is so indispensable to a sue- cessful prosecution of the profession of husbandry. We have only to look to the activity with which agricultural schools have been founded on the continent of Europe, and especially in Great Britain, if we desire to ascertain the esti_ mation in which such institutions are held there. Few of the leading German states have neglected to provide, at public ex- pense, some institution or other designed for the improvement of agriculture. In the kingdom of Prussia there are several well-sustained schools with ex- tensive model farms, comprising, in the aggregate, over five thousand acres of land. Botanic gardens and valuable herbariums are also provided, with other facilities for the education of youths designed for husbandry. About twenty years since the Emperor of Russia established a school in the neighborhood of St. Petersburg, which has been attended with much success. The imperial schools of France have exerted a wide influence in the agricul- tural progress of that country. Austria, Bavaria, Saxony, all have their insti- tutions for the increase and dissemination of agricultural knowledge, and the English government has been constant and decidedly successful in its support 3 of schools established for the education of the farmer and the protection of his rights. Each congressional district could be represented by farmers eager to enlarge the boundaries of their information, and the aspiring youth upon whom the country depends for the development of its resources in the future, could be trained up to usefulness and honor in the most material of industrial pursuits. As this project would require the authority of Congress, and an appropriation of the means of carrying it into execution, it is suggested, especially to those immediately interested in agriculture, and to all of our citizens who are bene- fited by an advancement of this interest, to do all they can in influencing their representatives to give to the subject that consideration which its importance demands, and from which the most beneficial results will certainly ensue ; and the commissioner will be pleased to receive an expression of the opinions of those interested in this subject. The commissioner derives great encouragement in the advancement of these views by the very general interest manifested by the farmers of the country in the meteorological and other scientific portions of these reports prepared from the observations of the Smithsonian Institution, show- ing their high appreciation of the employment of scientific education in forward- ing agricultural interests. An examination of this part of the report will show not only the temperature for the past month, compared with previous years, the amount of rain, but also the course and extent of those severe and unusual frosts which swept so severely over some portions of the country. Though destruc- tion fell so heavily on some of our crops, yet all the returns show great cause for thankfulness to the Giver of all good, for a most abundant harvest. ay ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. + THE FOREIGN MARKETS FOR AMERICAN BREADSTUFFS; THE AMOUNT OF THE PRINCIPAL SUMMER AND FALL BREADSTUFF CROPS OF THE LOYAL STATES FOR THE YEARS 1862 AND 1863; THE AMOUNT OF THEIR EXPORT AND HOME CONSUMPTION; THE ENGLISH CROPS FOR 1863; THE PROBABLE FOREIGN AND HOME DEMAND FOR 1864. In this article will be found estimates of the amount of the crops of our bread- stuffs for the years 1862 and 1863. In laying them before the public, the Commissioner of Agriculture deems it proper to give, in connexion with them, the nature of the foreign and home markets for them, that the American farmer may know the character and value of those markets in which are consumed the great crops produced by him. For with such knowledge he may the better estimate the value of the crops, and give a more intelligent direction to his in- dustry. Hence the following topics are considered in this article : 1. The foreign production of breadstufts. 2. The English market for breadstuffs; its average annual demand, and that for 1860, 1861, 1862, and 1863. 3. The export of breadstuffs from the United States for the same years, and its general annual average, both in value and amount. 4. Summary of the tables of these. 5. Estimates of the summer and fall crops of breadstuffs produced by the loyal States in the years 1862 and 1863. 6. Deductions from the tables of these. 7. The English harvest for 1863. THE FOREIGN PRODUCTION OF BREADSTUFEFS. Although the exports of our breadstuffs are very small when their amount is compared with the entire production of them in the United States, yet, when that export is a surplus, it relieves the home market from a pressure that would otherwise bear heavily upon it. To illustrate the effect of a surplus on home prices, let us suppose a hundred houses are built for rent, at $100 each per annum, and that there are but ninety families to occupy them. The owners of the ten unoccupied ones, to induce ten of the ninety famtilies to rent them, would offer them at $90, and as soon as that would be known, the owners of the ninety occupied houses would offer them at the same rate to induce the renters to re- main. Then the ten unoccupied would be offered at $80, and so the process of reduction would go on until the cheapness of rent would cause ten additional families to emigrate to the town in which these houses are built. So with our breadstuffs and meats. A tenth of production beyond the home consumption would have a like depressing influence on the home market, until the cheapness of prices would lead to a greater consumption, and thus the home market be relieved. Hence an export trade is of far greater importance than its mere amount would indicate, when compared with the amount of production. That farmers may understand the character of the foreign markets for their breadstuffs, we place before them in_ this number of our monthly report many interesting statistics relative to the English market, for it is our principal pur- chaser of breadstuffs, and its trade in them discloses the trade of the European countries. The table below shows the countries from which Great Britain obtains its supplies of breadstuffs, and the per cent. obtained from each. ‘The amount of grain is given in quarters, being a quarter of a ton of 2,240 pounds. The English quarter is, therefore, 560 pounds, equal to 8 English bushels of 70 pounds each, or 94 American bushels of 60 pounds each. THE DEPENDENCE OF ENGLAND ON FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The following is an official statement of the importations of wheat into Great Britain for six months, for which we are indebted to the courtesy of Mr. Homans, of the Treasury Department : i Half year ending June 30. 1861. 1862. 1863. Quarters. Quarters. Quarters. HROtaTIN pOrtahOn ss o6 see eat sas Sei 3 ccs 2s soae 3, 664,529 | 3,449,545 2, 489, 552 Per cent. Per cent. Per cent. I MOSES oc Sc Be ene ee eee Oe ee ee 14 114 14 TEP Geis Ag oe oy eee a fie ee Ree SO Ps Pa 15 184 23 (Meiers a hes ee ats SS PS ait So ess AR 4 14 24 Mceiclenbiute <2 4235 Sescte sce See ctos als 5 lessee 24 a 2 arise ho wHss css ae weet ee esses eel eee, 44 3 14 CTC Ome ae eer ees ee ae ee ecient tase oes 5 4 + urkey agus vincipalules=+—5 42 2s2o 5 <5 -6o2 552" 5 4 Qh DEST oe AN ie oe Seek Oa ae ee eee oe 6 124 15 (ited Statesmen Some Noe ange Joe a ees Seton 32 33 35 Betish) NOTH eAMenGa.- 0 sac 1s ok s ss 5c = occ ness i 44 2 ORBETICOMMUNESE oe a, ys a eee Sls il 7 2 UNS CHEE See & Sie bat nok Ty Came f 0 ete ee ene 100 100 100 FLOUR. Half year ending June 30. 1861. 1862. 1863. Barrels. Barrels. Barrels. PU IDLE ig 1 Ma A ee a | 3,677,460 | 3,562,717 | 2,425, 255 Per cent. Per cent. Per cent. PA RMNGe ROW Sati Fa55 eee 53 45253. 5255se0e aes: 44 3 ih LP SERCO Se aS 2 Ee ee eee eS ae 12 4 27 Wyted:States: 2.2. s.0.02) 22's mrs lusst seas 64 74 57 Bruen North America... so... ...2.- 02.02 225. 24 8 54 peememmmnmrentieoei. UAE. Pi. 256 lL. 17 1] 34 RIE scones a oss- eno ci scan ease 100 100 100 Of grain, other than wheat, the importations this year, and especially of barley and oats, have been extremely large. In the first half of 1861 the aggregate was 3,613,080 quarters ; in the same period of 1862 it was 2,827,816 quarters ; and it isnow 4,012,925 quarters. 6 It will be seen from this table that three nations are competitors with the United States in the sale of wheat to England: Russia, Prussia, and Egypt; and in flour, one only: France. It is not, therefore, without interest to examine into the wheat production of these nations. 1. Russia.—This is one of the best countries on the globe for wheat produe- tion. The lands most favorable are those of Poland and Little Russia. The wheats of the first find their market ports in the cities of Stettin, Memel, and Dantzic, on the Baltic, and those of the last, at Odessa, on the Black Sea. The extent of the wheat district of Little Russia, according to Mr. Claxton, our consul at Moscow, is about 1,200 miles in length by 400 in breadth. “The grain fields,” he remarks, “extend uninterruptedly for hundreds of square miles, and hour after hour, though whisked along with the best speed of four horses, nothing can be seen on the road from Koorsk to Khumurchuck but endless seas of rustling wheat, or tall waving rye.” We have no statistics of Russian production ; it is, however, sufficient to supply not only its own wants, but those of Europe also. But products, although easily and abundantly raised, must be cheaply mar- keted. ‘This is not the case with Russian wheat. he long sea voyage from Odessa to England injures the grain, and in Homan’s Encyclopedia of Com- merce this remark is found: ‘“ When this voyage is made in summer, unless the wheat be very superior, and be shipped in exceedingly good order, it is almost sure to heat, and has sometimes, indeed, been injured to such a degree as to require to be dug from the hold with pickaxes.” The cost of shipping a bushel of wheat from Odessa to London is about forty-three cents per American bushel. But where a limited commerce exists between two nations the cost of ship- ment is usually much greater than where it is otherwise. An export can be made cheaply as to freights, when the return cargo will be profitable. In all these things the United States has great advantages over Russia. The wheat of the northwest can be taken to England by a short voyage, and in a climate so favorable that the grain is never injured. ‘The cost of shipment to Liverpool is about fourteen cents per bushel from New York. The great trade between the two countries furnishes the best facilities for cheap transportation. Hence it is that, with all its great advantages in produc- tion, Russia sends directly to the English market only about one-third the wheat sent by our country. 2. Prussia—This nation is the chief competitor with the United States. It furnishes twenty-three per cent. against thirty-five per cent. by us. But yet its own production is not much greater than its consumption. It raises about 35,000,000 bushels of wheat, and having seventeen millions of population, a con- sumption of only two bushels per head, would leave none for exportation. 'The people live very extensively on rye and potatoes ; and what amount of wheat is left for exportation cannot, in the absence of statistical knowledge, be deter- mined. It cannot be much, as may be inferred from the following remarks of McGregor : “ We have no satisfactory account of the agricultural produce of the Prussian states. The exportations of grain show, however, that the production of good harvests is greater than consumption. But it must be taken into account that a greater part of the grain exported from the other states, and from Poland, passes through Prussia.” These “other states’ are the German members of the Zollverein; and hence the exports of Prussian wheat to England represent Germanic and Rus- sian production more than Prussian. 3. Egypt—The exports of wheat from Egypt to England present a rapid increase, from six per cent. in 1861, to fifteen per cent. in 1863. This is at- 7 tributable, we suppose, to the great attention now given in that country to the restoration of its ancient agriculture. Wherever irrigation can be effected in Egypt the most abundant crops are secured. Our knowledge of the extent of the progress of these recent improvements is too insufficient to enable us to de- termine the future increase of these Egyptian exports of wheat. 4. The exports of flour from France to England do not present a rivalry that need be much regarded, for it is occasional, rather than continual, as France has not, usually, much of a surplus of wheat. For the six months in 1862, it supplied England with but 4 per cent. of its imports of flour, against 74 per cent. sent from the United States. ~ As a general remark, it may be said that outside of Russian production no rivalry need be feared by us for the possession of the English market for bread- stuffs, for German manufactures are so rapidly increasing that the surplus wheat production of the German states will soon be required for home consump- tion. But the exports of wheat from Prussia and Russia will always have a material influence on American prices, and must limit our exports of breadstutts whenever their value here goes much beyond what they have been during the fiscal year of 1862. With good crops, and his superior market facilities, the American farmer may always’ maintain his supremacy in the English market. But with such an immense foreign trade in agricultural production as the United States has, and so much aiectad by European production, it is a matter to be regretted that we possess so limited knowledge of the latter. This arises from the fact that Europe takes no reliable statistics of its agriculture. A system, however, could be established for procuring reliable information of it, through our foreign consuls, by a person competent to devise it, after a careful and an intelligent personal examination of European agriculture ; its character, extent, vaimlcet facilities, commercial connexions, and home consumption. THE ENGLISH MARKET FOR BREADSTUFFS; ITS AVERAGE ANNUAL DE- MAND, AND THAT FOR 1860, 1861, 1862, AND 1863. As this market receives the far greater part of our exports of breadstuffs, it is important, both to the shipper and farmer, that its nature and extent should be known. It will be found to be very fluctuating. In 1792 England ceased to export breadstufts, and has increased its imports of them, as its manufactures and mining increased, and its harvests fluctuated. The following table shows the amount of grain, and flour and meal reduced to quarters, imported from 1847 to 1861, inclusive. ‘The average annual amount of all will be seen to be 10,101,316 quarters, or 94,278,949 American bushels. Table of imports of grain and flour and meal, in quarters, into England. Jrom 1847 to 1861. Years. Grain. Flour and meal Quarters. Quarters. I cn a Ee ooo aie bid. RY RO oe 9) 436,677 2x41/6,137 22... UR ee? ee 2 6, 945, 492 582, 980 DS eo nl oe he hg «a wg & dain ala nthe 9, 651, 956 1,017, 4 GE OPE HA 2 Li atarn a © 0 5 1a hain geet 7, 920, 864 1, 096, 72 USL Soe SN, eo ee nf wy eel 8, 093, 401 1, 524, 6 25 DGB, = pe Ss ht ss as . 6 6, 641, 729 1, 104, 940 UBS >= 1, 082, 261 510,744 1, 898 Sweden. .22 dh ccc settee eas tee 32, 926 (14,668) |22-ce se eee Denmark and the Duchies.......--- 264, 850 632, 535 27, 678 PIUSS1O.W.. oka see ces eee Eee 1, 149, 535 616, 239 7, 945 anise “DOWNS 32 -ceecmeee ere eee 174,914 269, 134 270, 980 Germany, other parts. ----4-2 2-22 ---5 185, 385 102, 240 10, 850 La lolhish dye See eters eeererrme es eens ae eee 29, 538 184, 913 1, 448 IMACS See oe eee aes ae eer 552, 602 393,519 | 1,751,043 SPAM sath adie Siow ee wire seca Sic Snell isle late eel | See ee ai 284, 126 MipetlianitS tates ce bees eer cee oe cick 83, 864 40, 474 11, 110 Wallachia and Moldavia.........-..- 97, 400 LQTS TAT ON 22-2 ~ cio otatete Murkish Womimions!s22-ssa- 2s-- 2 .-- 66, 599 DID F NOM eos see b see Bipwipiiis tees cess Cae eee ees cose 197, 265 Q1OKoee sp s25 2soSe British North America.----. ---....- 183, 442 168, 917 412, 658 WmmiedhStates 222s eces on eetaie's case 1, 499, 385 AVS 178 | 2,254; 232 Opuemcouliniessta2.- cers =e sees -< cee 62, 130 173, 382 36, 812 5, 086, 220 Lotaliquanters 2. 20-5 soei-' 5, 880, 958 7, 125, 662 | 1, 453, 205 Equal in American bushels to..-| 54,888,941 | 66,506,179 | 13, 563, 247 Other flour. 35, 150 328, 067 9 Table of the quantities of wheat and other grains, and of the flour and meal of wheat and other grains, imported into Great Britain during the year 1861. " Russia, northern ports 2222 Seer 2-23 Russia, southern ports..---.---.-...- EL GRA es Ane Ge he Bey eee Denmark and the Duchies Prussia Germany, other parts Holland iiiiteds states. Seer a ee eee be M@iher.epuntiries! 265 sc. -6. -. 3 /S8e. Total quarters. =..---2:.. 5-22. Equal in American bushels to. -.- Wheat. Other grains. | Wheat flour |Other flour. Quarters. 156, 260 885, 201 15, 131 228, 157 1, 027, 733 214, 146 129, 929 11, 181 180, 903 164, 404 206, 929 136, 498 94, 910 339, 811 5A, 525 2,507, 744 64, 353 6, 912, 815 64, 529, 607 Quarters. 511, 840 396, 888 595, 504 576, 876 502, 958 194, 898 108, 146 150, 209 107, 645 2,760 106, 694 489, 445 754, 394 526, 089 78, 164 I, 779, 652 184, 077 7, 366, 239 61,751, 470 7, 250 279, 609 12, 468 1, 937 460,775 467, 872 103, 166 1,573 805, 339 3,794, 865 175, 112 6, 152, 938 1, 757, 982 15, 707, 835 -e ee vee eee 57,878 540, 194 The deficit of the years 1860 and 1861 is very great, and of 1862, not much less ; but we have no statistical returns of 1862 and 1863, except for the first six These will be found in the following table, months of each of these years. from which it will be seen that the deficit of 1863 is much less than that of 1862: Table of the value of imports into Great Britain of flour, wheat, and Indian corn, for six months, ending June 30 of the years 1862 and 1863. Mecklenburg Hanse Towns France 13, 186, 550 1862. 1863. | Flour. Wheat. ‘Indian corn. Flour. Wheat. | Indian corn. seen Seeeecs $57 O1GS4 i Lees aes sseeae See ot Poet DOO UCase one ceee Boia cralchaat 85865) 145) bess see |omeee cee) th BU0, BOONE. sty aa anins Meese 2 cas 806,515) |e fos soe lee ee soos a (5G, 200! oan cieaeta <= Waves ei | 368 GOs aa eee ces sn | See Bed Le tS $439, 165 T, 390: O60 |e. ca cacnn= $610, 315 4695100 |¢sSsaseces- 267, 205 1,808,308 62-35 45-22 2, 644, 545 NG GAG | Bo See Bese see. 5. 440! WObv le seseee asa .n='||- woes ~== 5 Glo, 00s |pesees= a2 5 eee ie 52 BrS730 130) | eee ee ee eter Se OOU, Qta|o22.-- es = 9, 709,525 | 15,337,745 | $8,410,030 | 4,520,080} 9, 892,595 | $8, 438, 205 1, 049, 040 Teel 260) (eres ss <2 413, 085 Bi ToD) | > == ae fret Gl sie s2N078 10) [pees ee se 322, 380 504,000) |..>=ceaaees 43, 665,475 | 8,410,030 | 8,510,405 | 27, 740, 760 8, 438, 205 10 In order to present to our readers a more complete view of the importance of the English market for breadstufts, we give the following table, showing the value of the imports of these for the eight years prior to 1862: Table of the value of imports into Great Britain of wheat and other grains, and of flour of wheat and of other grains, for eight years, from 1854 to 1861, enclusive. - re 1854. 1855. 1856. 1857. i\Wiheatemeran peo se)0-c8 oe _ $08, 468, 685 | $48, 397,890 | $63, 581, 745 $47, 815, 495 Olhererainsacee 5 -y.s.5 sls 30, 325, 945 27, 574, 680 31, 172, 320 39, 255, 835 Mlourior wheat. .—.-2---- 19, 852, 745 11, 520, 530 20, 388, 640 9, 818, 110 Flour of other grains. -.- - 154, 340 50, 400 54, 405 13, 395 Potala ce eS Seems: 21/2 108, 801, 415 87,543,500 | 115,197,110 | 96, 902, 835 1858. 1859 1860. 1861. MWihGatisn te setene choice eee $45, 252,335 | $43,567,660 | $82,770, 415 $95, 207, 320 Other grains..........--- 39,541,340 | 34,673,800 | 53,769,975 54, 306, 485 Flour of wheat.........- 15,948,180 | 11,961,475} 21, 602,790 24,728, 175 Flour of other grains. ... -- 21, 350 7, 380 216, 410 301, 215 Wotal: (we eee 100, 763,205 | 90,211,315 | 158,359,590 | 174,543, 195 This table exhibits not only the fluctuating nature of the English market for breadstuffs, but its greatness also. The relation our country bears to it cannot be too thoroughly understood. Hence the following tables of our exports of breadstuffs are given, to show by the jirst, their VALUE generally, and by the second, their AMOUNT, and to what countries sent. EXPORTS OF BREADSTUFFS FROM THE UNITED STATES. Having shown the extent of the demand for breadstuffs in the British market, and the per cent., and the amount of the exports of the United States to it, we lay before our readers the amount and value of our exports of flour, wheat, and corn, for the three years of 1860, ’61, and ’62, during which the deficit of Eng- land was so much greater than usual. Table of exports of flour, wheat, and corn, from the United States, for the years 1860, 1861, and 1862. 1860. 1861. 1862. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Mlours- = ees barrels..| 2,611,596 | $15, 448,507 | 4,323,756 | $24,645,849 | 4, 882, 033 $27, 534, 677 Wheat. -=----- bushels..| 4,155, 153 4, 076, 704 | 31, 238, 057 38, 313, 624 | 37, 289, 572 42, 573, 295 Corn... 3525-2 -<--- do 3, 314, 155 2, 399, 808 | 10, 678, 244 6, 890, 865 | 18, 904, 898 10, 387, 383 Totalivalehe sme ci2| 2-2 <0'< 25 215/925, OL9) es ccs=-- = (OR shiOhe Stell ReeeSeaEe eae 80, 495, 355 11 The following tables have been furnished the Department of Agriculture by David Ogden, of New York, to whom we return our thanks for his kind attentions. The frst exhibits the exports of flour, meal, wheat, and corn from the United States to Great Britain and Ireland for seventeen years, ending with the Ist of September; the second shows our exports of flour, wheat, corn, and rye to the continent of Europe for nine years, ending the same time; and the ¢hird exhibits the exports of Canada to Great Britain and Ireland, of ‘various agricultural products for 1862 and 1863. Export of breadstuffs to Great Britain and Ireland from September 1, 1862, to September 1, 1863. Flour. | Corn meal. | Wheat. Corn. From— To date. | ¥ Barrels. Barrels. Bushels. Bushels. BPS NT po OS OR ee / Sept. 1, 1863 | 1, 164, 119 | 1,064 | 20, 471, 460 9, 836, 826 7) 0 GO) ee ee ee | 1863 | BEE eee ene GEE eRe ree Pesce Seem PaaS eee aa am JEG UEP ETE Se Sp Pb eee Sept. 1, 1863.| 121, 927 33 | 1,134, 318 201, 368 DESERET Cpe ree oe Se a Brat armel os «= | Sept. 1, 1863- 4G) Sos ao oe wie oS 306; 105 270, 074 TS. ee ie et See ee Sept. 1, 1863. 46, 123 BO) eae 16, 088 California and other ports --.---.-.------- Sept. 1, 1863. 100, 691 acon = Se eka 1, 255, 307 q 10, 000 “I | Total from Sept. 1, 1862, to Sept. 1, 1863. ...... -....... 1, 479, 413 | 1,147 | 23,167,190 | 10,334, 356 vy aaa Veg be Lea eh ae ae ee 2, 672, 515 1, 124 | 25, 754,709 | 14, 084, 168 a «° 1, 1860, Soy «Ll IS6E. Ss 22S sass 2, 561, 661 5 4,416 | 25,553,370 | 11, 705, 034 ie Se ALE AB59) pe 05) epee Se eo 717, 156 | 944 | 4,938,714 2, 221, 857 = fe 1, 1858, SS) Mad BoO) ss see oes aes 106, 457 58 439, 010 342, 013 = a ah Bor. ene ES: See eee Ree 1, 295, 430 143 | 6,555, 643 3, 317, 802 s na ts. LBob, aa [gl bo Sy (8 dee Oe Bape eae 849, 600 685 | 7,479, 401 4, 746, 278 FT B55, oa Ss BBG ee Soe ae oe eo 1, 641, 265 6,816 | 7, 956, 406 6, 731, 161 oa Mes AI Bo4: SS Totsone Assos soos s dae 175, 209 4, 768 324, 427 6, 679, 138 5 oe ea 1853, pie Oe! bl ee ee eee 1, 846, 920 41,726 | 6, 038, 003 6, 049, 371 s ae 1852, Se Bd SG ala ose ws castes: 1, 600, 449 100 | 4, 283, 519 t 425, 278 in ‘Pd, 185i, So lS WBO8 oo canta aes 1, 427, 442 1,680 | 2,728,442 | 1,487,398 us need lk BS) Se pat ahs 5k ee ee eee 1, 559, 584 | 5, 620 | 1, 496, 355 2, 205, 601 « er SSE a ra Le 5 ee 574, 757 | 6, 411 461,276 | 4,753, 358 = see 1848; SOA i died RACES fle eon eS 1, 137, 556 | 82,900 | 1,140,194 | 12, 685, 260 oe Se RET CO, MESSE. 53s S25 - 55. 182, 583 | 108, 534 241, 300 4, 390, 226 ve se PAS B4G: wet DISA 2 oh 2 ee se 3, 155, 845 844,188 | 4,000,359 | 17, 157, 659 ‘ofall for Uityears-< 22. stsccss 4.52 cos- se seco tos 22, 983, 842 | 1,111, 260 123, 098, 318 | 110, 315, 958 laid Y.Se EN Gi Gs ae eee Soe eee ed 1, 351, 932 65, 368 | 7, 241, 077 6, 489, 174 * 12 Exports of the United States to the continent of Europe of flour, wheat, corn, and rye. Flour. Wheat. Corn. Rye. Date. Barrels. Bushels. Bushels. Bushels. From Sept. 1, 1862, to Sept. 1, 1863. .-..-- --.--------- 213,579 | 2,343, 314 68, 957 435, 205 ag 1, 1861, iS ol B62. sae eee eee ee 626, 672 | 7, 617,472 322, 074 1, 612, 926 6 1, 1860, Bema IROL: peactadc cise eee 142,129 | 3,452, 496 101, 145 347, 258 . 1, 1859, 6S al 860. ee aatoe tose een 49, 243 178, 031 NOV S5S Albee aes ef 1, 1858, fo ANU S59 sccm een ias cearer 51, 388 57, 845 25. SLO) Samer ates ss 1, 1857, fe ST US58 nos cet os aU 303, 100 390, 428 16, 848 13, 100 ee 1, 1856, ETS MBS acho 2 cemiteeeeten 483, 344 | 2, 875, 653 543, 590 216, 162 es edigbo, Cet be Solace Aa aeSeonoaonS ae 748, 408 | 2,610, 079 282, 083 1, 975, 178 ef 1, 1854, Oe aS) Sea anemainceoce 7, 763 4,972 308, 428 35, 569 MBOTAl ONO hy, GANs ae = eee eee estate l= = 2, 625, 626 | 19, 530,290 | 1, 688, 002’ 4, 635, 398 ATMUal Average scn.cee. coon ecw ase = sce ee Leaee 291,736 | 2,170, 032 187, 555 ' 515, 044 Exports from Canada to Great Britain and Ireland, via St. Lawrence. Flour. Wheat. Corn. Peas. Oats. Oat meal. Date. Barrels. Bushels. Bushels. Bushels. Bushels. Barrels. From Sept. 1, 62, to Sept. 1, ’63- 687,986 | 5, 722,377 | 1,578, 458 « 694, 999 9, 024 1, 020 From Sept. 1, ’61, to Sept.1, 62. 617, 308 | 6,376,905 | 2,016, 040 822, 060 780, 756 7, 242 Summary of the above tables of exports. From these tables we take the following summary, showing the annual average of the amount of exports of wheat and flour to England for the last 17 years—the flour being estimated in bushels of wheat—and also the amount of the same exported to the Continent : Annual average exported to England since 1846, and to the Continent since 1854. To England: Elour;,in bushels, of wheat. .26.2...2.<7 Bushelstotswheateacde. cise ee cee eee Motaltoubmeland 4..< soheaes da en els nix G, 625)°455 ER elie fe Oo | - sao ee eels 3 Sa as 85, 174 Mer er eth freed =. cw, << wa A ee ie are suid 6, 710, 889 Pilenc rine fe oo. Se os Se be 599, 895 Micul, ieee eON..\. 02.5 1.2... ae oe oe eke oie 671, 400 "Notaltcamimete re ee ok ee eek Ae oiee cee bie: 1, 271, 294 14 Total exports for the year ending September 1, 1863. Wheat : To England anggihe@ontment. . .: i... = eee eee ee 33, 975, 419 To all other ippmepemer es oie o.5.0 26 6 5c eee Poe gale ee 6, 710, 889 Uptaileameme ieaot Wheat ..<.<, <.< dc. dite Cee eee -. 40, 686, 308 Corn: To Meatanea aud the Continent... --.---'2o-- ase -e- pee 10, 409, 048 PODER NET POTS. o.e,...0- 1. 25 ose on eee Se ae ee re 1, 271, 294 Total bushels of corm.......2..2 (oe Sake hee eee ee 11, 680, 342 ESTIMATES OF THE CROPS OF 1862 AND 1863. Having ascertained the amount of wheat and corn exported, it is now neces- sary to determine the crops of 1862 and 1863, that the home consumption and foreign exports may be compared, and from these deduce the character of the domestic market for 1863 and 1864. The four following tables exhibit the amounts of the principal summer and fall crops, of a cereal character. No one but a statistician can form any idea of the labor involved in their preparation, and none has been spared to render them reliably correct. The estimate of the crop of 1862 has been based on the census returns for 1860. As the crop of 1859, on which they were made, was under an average, and that of 1862 much above it, allowances were made for this difference, varying in degree according as an extensive knowledge of the agriculture of the country dictated was proper; and also for the general per cent. increase of each of the several States. During the summer and fall the monthly circulars issued by this department to about two thousand correspondents have been arranged, as to their interrogatories, to obtaining reliable returns of the crops of this year. Since the disastrous frosts of August 30 and September 18, throughout the western States, these correspondents have been zealous in their voluntary du- ties, as evidenced, not only by their clear returns to the circulars, but also by numerous letters containing their opinions. 'The general results, as exhibited by the tables for the crops of 1863, sustain the correctness of their views. Knowing the importance of such an estimate, the department has well matured its opinions as to the character of the crop of 1863, and it is satisfied of the gen- eral correctness of the facts expressed by the tables. Table showing the amounts of the leading summer cereal crops for 1863, based ® on returns to this department. States. Wheat. Rye. Barley. Oats. IMininey fae eens eit ci ears 215, 734 165, 951 1, 002, 636 3, 364, 581 New: Hampshire =o--2=---- ees, : 255, 163 145, 830 127, 159 1, 345, 829 Wiermont 2222 32 =)-50-sciec se sss 452, 683 130, 976 94, 102 3, 950, 556 Massachusetts 2222-2 22.555 225-2. 129, 765 388, 085 151, 752 1, 327, 585 ihodewlsland: 2.22... 2 2-62 1, 413 oa, O11 46, 117 203, 192 Bivins ch ae ee 59, 901 618, 762 20,813 | 1,764, 329 New: WOUkeee = aes a2s Sacco ene 13, 021,650 | 5,385,268 | 4,882,778 | 43,968, 916 ING Wa Cis Cymer seman mea Sas a 1,808,128 | 1,499, 497 29, 098 4, 902, 263 Penn syivaliaeeaaits sr cisice «= ein 15, 654,255 | 6, 843, 427 573,174 | 34, 233, 936 7, 208, 828 548, O11 19,699 | 4,072, 421 WiiedriGh 355 coon econ sonueedacs | 15 x Table showing amounts of leading summer cereal crops for 1863—Continued. States. Michigan TSU See ee ee ee See eee LU) ERS ee ee ae ome Missouri LS Se ee ae od eee Nebraska Territory.....-.-.----- California GTS bos) 5 ee eee Ears Otel SOAs een. oe et Wheat. 1, 217, 254 5, 546, 108 28, 742, 963 13, 966, 153 20, 292, 160 31, 408, 163 2, 853, 621 20, 842, 359 12, 649, 807 2, 634, 975 262, 953 180, 000 11, 664, 203 191, 068, 239 189, $93, 500 *1, 074, 739 | Rye. 37, 412 791, 447 863, 232 494, 197 411, 343 883, 190 219, 947 1, 012, 929 122, 392 179,791 5, 184 2, 000 15, 505 20, 798, 287 21, 254, 956 Barley. Oats. 5, 105 1,570, 364 302,014 | 3,562,772 1,399,086 | 12, 024, 028 407,885 | 5, 430,797 311,191 | 5,531,630 1,205,042 | 19, 681, 420 171, 377 2, 128, 522 950,589 | 14,598, 236 599,432 | 7,761,141 156, 412 2, 053, 848 5, 448 116, 270 5, 446 267, 939 5, 293, 442 1, 057, 592 16, 760, 597 | 174, 858, 167 17,781, 464 | 172,520, 997 *2, 337, 170 +456, 669 | +1, 020, 867 * Tnerease. t Decrease. Table showing the estimated amounts of the leading summer cereal crops for 1862. States. Wheat. Rye. Barley. Oats. Maine!.*2 > eo ee 350, 815 184,389 | 1,002, 636 3, 738, 423 Mew Hampoiite 22.0. .52S55 2222. 318, 954 162, 033 141, 287 1, 495, 365 RSE TIGR Weve so a oy ad 2 a as 502, 981 130, 976 94,102 | 4,389,506 MeN SACHUSCLIS © - = oc cs oee— 5-5 5=2 129, 765 388, 085 168, 613 1, 475, 094 eeniedend 20. 20/222) < 4: 1, 413 33, 911 51,241 253, 990 MOMNEGMCUG Tae 2. oe ee ok ee 59, 901 618, 762 20, 813 1, 603, 936 IN EN id CON oe ee 13, 021,650 | 5,385,268 | 4,882,778 | 43, 968, 916 Wet JIG eee oe eee 1, 808,128 | 1, 499, 497 33,220 | 5, 446, 958 Gnnsyivalie ess Se Soe 15, 654, 255.| 6,843, 427 636, 859 | 34, 233, 936 WO AN es yaa aces < 6, 553, 480 608, 901 21, 887 4, 524, 912 Lele corey eae ee ee ee 1, 217, 254 34, 011 4, 254 1, 308, 637 _ 9. J ie ee eee 5, 546, 108 791, 447 203, 014 3, 562, 772 Toni ¢2/ Seaai stell eo aD aa 30,796, 032 | 1,079,040 | 1,512,525 | 10,930,935 [oD Ras ae 14, 963, 735 494, 197 407,885 | 5,430,797 lucines: eee 20, 292, 160 444, 695 345,767 | 5, 028,755 ijiman |. ae 32, 213, 500 981,322 | 1,175,651 | 17,892,200 Witseoemmescs. 2-25 2s... 3, 170, 690 393, 262 171,377 | 2, 660, 653 Mipyenin 2 20, 765, 781 1, 066, 241 905, 323 13, 271, 124 Towa, 2 eae yt 10, 541, 506 111, 266 544, 939 7, 055, 583 MiiniiesD tas ee 2, 927, 749 155, 323 156, 412 2, 934, 067 [ANSAS <2 Jee et 202, 232 4,713 4,953 96, 892 Nebraska Territory2--..-.... 1... 150, 000 2, 000 2, 486 | 159, 954 oinOrnia . 3... sae Lt 8, 805, 411 15,505 | 5,293, 442 1, 057, 592 otal... o222gs5 2 sees eee 189, 993,500 | 21,254, 956 | 17,781, 464 | 172, 520, 997 16 Table showing the amounts of the leading fall crops for 1863, based on returns to this department. States. Corn. Buckwheat. | Potatoes. ETON Sa. 54.34 55355 se ae ea rh 1, 855, 285 452, 693 5, 949, 642 New ablampsaiteesn =. -t oo -5--o seen nee e en eeer 1, 668, 285 98, 995 3, 310, 163 WennOnieeer eter Ce ons otc Stet ee cach eee 1, 743, 522 233, 906 4, 118, 825 MMISRRREMIREiS tees ot ec kcsc aha Sete eeee 2, 465, 215 117, 137 2, 881, 711 Hahaesisiandes oo: © 2 2c seme ccc = coe ae 458, 912 3, 871 435, 084 MUMOHECITCUL, bss oeck = 6 a eee eens on eee 2, 265, 818 234, 032 1, 649, 834 emote co ae clo c 2 ole toe eee ees ce eee 26, 480,582 | 5,976,305 | 29,753, 393 any UiOyB Seema eee Base eeeea > aasoSe 10, 023, 336 947, 577 4, 223, 836 ierevlyentia, ace = Se aetee sae oele a= eieraraaae 30, 721, 821 | 6,017,788 | 14, 609, 335 oC a ig le ean cS Salta ort 8 = IY, 5p5,.938 218, 405 1, 213, 707 DDG eee ee ore es ee oP 3, 503, 104 16, 560 264, 552 SEIN S eee ie ae eee, Saf of ae oes 48, 032, 725 12, 769 1, 449, 138 Winks. occ} cee. see ae er 57, 433, 802 909,027 | 3,740,718 Michicantios 2722: so SSeeE eee tect este wees 11, 392, 603 810, 587 4, 562, 769 Weidianiates -- see eee ee 1, 292, 750 4,932 135, 810 @alifernianss) 3: 2r2 Se SS BE ee Sot 478, 169 14, 850 1, 298, 474 A PATy es aber ON Aaa vogstane I Brana 449, 163, 894 | 17, 193,232 | 97,870, 035 Table showing the estimated amounts of the principal fall crops for 1862. States. Corn. | Buckwheat. | Potatoes. IMiaING Se Stee he =a a So emee bo erates eye ees 1, 855, 285 452, 693 7, 437, 053 INGE ER (eae Se Nee esa mae Soa oS = 1, 668, 285 98, 995 4, 137,704 WG RERGER Soe toon oe Ree eS 1,585,020 | 233,906 | 5,148,531 Massachnscticee o> 2s 2chee..- seni). ae eee 2, 465, 215 123, 302 3, 201, 901 Rhodessland! 2952 non soo een om fae ee See 458, 912 3, 871 543, 855 Gonnectiul Pee. = o2shs sae as ai esis > cc oeeees 2, 059, 835 334, 032 1, 833, 148 NG eo eae oes eee ee sean Se Se EE 24, 073,257 | 5,976,305 | 33,059, 235 INGWAJ CISD yee eae ee eee eee ea = eee 10, 023, 336 | 1,052,863 | 4, 693, 151 FPennsylVaNlAo.-o.2 SSS eee 5.) - =e el 30, 721, 821 | 6,686,431 | 14, 609, 335 Ayla ental 5 ae Se eh EE oy 522, 5 = 14, 444, 922 242, 672 1, 517, 134 WRLC RE 282 oboe a. 22. 5 ee 3, 892, 337 18, 399 377, 931 Gi i iol “aN =D A .lo ~é Se x - > = Ss pee | Sue | Wel SS | efleel ele jeeiaa ar) s5 os Oo o| Ga SS] se lm ~“6)) Bo )|oaa |e e ° @ a | st co ie= ga jog Selsee|8a/ige Fol/esg|sa/So 58/5] ; : 2892 |2a\8 |RE/SE| a e :s ~— l-- = pane 2 ro) 2 H Deo | s So || -coue leans. |) ee | = eet | 5 2 Be la | ‘eis ° . yb 5 > oS|s = Ss |e am > a a S ze Soa i=" = be 2a | a a So Ss DS ae | ieee ae el LOR OAH | | —_ Ripe eas Wi ahs” (20> ROM ate TON tO) Ama. 2 _| © «—F < <6 ae eo — i—) 2| 9} 2| 8| 4 13 | 13 | 0) 30} 3 OF) Sie Otoe |!" 6 365, 94. Pp oe ea Pa a eae OW Fg Ch Sh Oe I 70 | 53/11/28] 2 F116 | 1s) See 42 | 75 | 35 | 25 19: | 15) 7 evsee cei Sal Say eae paee o7.|11| 6 39 | 33] 1|.-.. 4|3 | 3 |. Oe a METEOROLOGY. FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The following tables show, first, the temperature and the amount of rain falling in the month of September, and then the comparison between the weather for that month of this year and of the same month in five years previous. An examination of the last column in the last table will show how this September compares with the average of other years. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- Jjixved,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) for September, 1863, at the following places, as given by the observers named’ Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m., and 2 and 9 p.m. TEMPERATURE AND RAIN OF SEPTEMBER, 1863. Observer’s name. Place. County. MAINE. Cornishville .....---. Work< cece cesiacis HOxCrOnt seem - ah Piscataquis ------ Steubenie..-. 2--2.- Washington ...-. West Waterville....| Kennebec -...---- Williamsburg......- Piscataquis --.--- NEW HAMPSHIRE. Ginttile ton) = as--— se Gratton=.--s--=- Stratford ..-.-...-.. Cogs. 25. eee VERMONT. Burlington -.....--. Chittenden ....-- Craftsbury -.-.....- Orléansice--— n= Springfield .....¢--. Waindsors--se-s2- Brandonen- 2. s+ =~ Rutland). pee see Rutland. = -= a se GO. sa eek «nie MASSACHUSETTS. New Bedford......- STIRGOUS eere= f= = i Amibherst®-~- =-20e-=-2 Hampshire ...-.. Mend Ont. spare eee Worcester. ...--- Mopsielticssee cs ee ISSO XA -E Sele reas WWiesttteld- 2-2. ..2-- Hampden....-..- RHODE ISLAND. Providence ...-...--- | Providence -..-..- CONNECTICUT. Pomtiret:; a -ceeesee Windham ...:... Middletcwa....---- Middlesex ....... G. W. Guptill Mark Pitman Robert C. Whiting. - Branch Brown...-.--- McK. Petty James A. Paddock. - Rey. J. W.Chickering David Buckland .-.. Stephen O. Mead... Samuel Rodman.... E. S. Snell Jno. George Metealf- John H. Caldwell. -- Rey. Emersen Davis- Prof. A. Caswell... . Rey. Daniel Hunt... Prof. John Johnston. Date. |Max.| Date. | Min. | Mean. oO fo} ie) 16| 84 23:| 40] 581 15) 74 | 22/ 41) 549 16] 82} 24/ 34] 541 16] 87 93.| ~31.| 2376 16] 88 93] 31) 56.4 16| 82 28) 29] 53.3 GH neZ8 23| 35| 548 16] 83} 23| 31] 52.9 1S ee 23 | 32] 59.0 16] 84 23 | 341]. 584 16| 8&6 93) | - 39 | Mason 6 e798 23 | 42] 60.2 16} 80| 93) 82) Sind 16| 82} 23,24] 38| 59.0 16} 86 | 23) |= 37 #5828 16] 983 | 23) 361). Sia0 ! | 16] 82 23) 37.1 Saree | 15,16| 77| 231 237] 567 16 | 84.5 23. | 341596 Rain. 1. 74 ' Welshfield.......... | vo Temperature and rain of September, 1863—Continued. Place. NEW YORK. | Skaneateles --...--. NEW JERSEY. Newark PENNSYLVANIA. Harrisburg Philadelphia. --..--.. County. Monroe. - Jefferson Niagara - Onondaga Center Dauphin Philadelphia --.- Canonsburg INSTEON Ss. .' 2 3x2 = = 2 | Oil Gite aoa MARYLAND. Sykesville DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington OHIO. Austinburg......... Wit a Portsmouth New Lisbon | | Washington Northampton - -- Venango Carroll | Washington Geauga - Ashtabula Champaign | Seiota Columbiana Cleveland Bowling Green Westerville Hillsborough | Toledo Kelley’s Island. .-.---) Steubenville Cincinnati MICHIGAN. 1. ui eee See ) Ypsilanti Lansing Clifton INDIANA. New Castle South Bend New Harmony Rockville ILLINOIS. New Albany......-. | | Cuyahoga Wood Highland Lucas Monroe . | Washtenaw | Ingham . Kewenuw. ...--- Henry Floyd IPGOTla- “65/6)quaeme | H. L. Dennison..... a 95 18 39 73625) ia Arthur N. Fuller. -.. 7 98 18 39 72.0} 0.37 ‘a Table showing the average temperature and fall of rain (in inches and tenths) for the month of September, for each of the years named, and for the five years first named collectively, with the average number of places in each State in which the observations were made. } z | Averages, | Averages, Averages, | Averages, Averages, | Av. for | Averages for (Z| 1855. | 1856. | 1857, | 1858 | 1859. [five years! 1863. ; <= ! States and Territories. = ra 4 / z ae he ‘ z 03 ey 3 L L ee ee Cee epee, en ane sl © (eae erer|: are etre ley, ter bey ae | eben ete ah alll ies = } _ Deg. 'In.| Deg. In. Deg. } In. Deg. In: | Deg. In. | Deg. | In.| Deg. | In. Te ae 6 | 56.4 |1.8) 58.8 13.5) 57.8 |1.6) 58.8 (3.5) 55.9 /4.0| 57.6 |2.9/ 55.9] 3.68 New Hampshire ..--. 4 | 59.2 | 0.3} 60.1 |4.9] 58.7 |1.3| 58.1 5.0) 48.2 |4.2) 56.913.1) 54.9] 234 Vermonts.--.---..-- 4/581 /4.5) 58.3 | 4.0) 57.8 |1.8] 59.0 |3.8] 56.0 | 4.2) 57.8/3.7| 563] 3.42 Massachusetts . ...-.- | 12 | 61.1 1.0} 61.4 |4.8| 60.8 2.9) 61.1 |3.8| 58.4 4.0| 62.6 |3.3] 585 | 238 Rhode Island .--..--. | 1| 61.9 |0.3| 62.2 |5.1) 60.3 |2.3| 62.2 13.1) 59.6 |3.7| 615/29] 57.8} 17% Connecticut ..... .... | 4 | 6240.5) 63.4 |4.1) 61.5 |3.0| 61.4 |4.9| 59.1/4.0/ 616/33) 581) 231 Mave Works 2.0.36 4 | 1S | 62.2 1.9) G19 |3.7| 61.2} 28) 54.2 )3.7) 59.3 |4.2) 59.8 |3.3) 56.9) 231 New Jersey ..-...... 4 | 65.4 |2.9] 65.1 |2.8] 65.3 |2.7] 63.6 |1.5| 62.1 |7.3) 64.3 |3.5| 60.0| 1.30 Pennsylvania. --....- 20 | 66.7 | 4.5] 64.1 |2.4/ 64.4 /1.7)| 64.1 }1.7) 62.7 |7.0/ 64.4 |3.5/ 624) 252 Maryland’ _......--- 5 | 67.8 18.0} 66.7 |2.2| 66.3 }1.4/°65.1 13.6] 66.3 |8.4| 66.5 [4.7] 61.1 }.._--- District of Columbia..) 1 | 70.1 | 2.9) 67.4 |1.9).-.... 1.6) 66.5 |&%9| 67.2 |5.8| 67.8 |3.0! 63.3) 3.09 Kentucky ........... 3 | 74.5 [4.7] 64.8 | 1.4] 69.1 }23/ 67.3 | 2.8) 67.4 |3.2| 68.6 (2.9]......)...022 itl carer eae ae | 19 | 69.7 15.4] 63.3 )2.4| 65.4 11.4! 65.0 |1.6] 62.9 |3.4| 653/29] 621) 218 Michigan ........---- 8 | 65:0 }6.0) 57.8 |3.1| 61.6 (2.6) 60.3 |3.1} 63.5 |3.3] 61.6 |3.6) 56.5 | 1.98 Rnylinnigysct e222. 43 5 | 71.5 |5.7| 63.1 |0.7| 67.7 |1.6| 66.2 |2.9| 65.2 |5.4| 66.7 |3.3] 64.5 | 2.05 1ELTTGT Saeed ae 13 | 69.9 }2.6] 63.3 |3.0| 66.4 |2.2) 65.1 [3.7] 623 |3.0| 65.4 |29]) 63.2; 3.07 Meienouri oe: | ean 2 | 73.1 !3.9) 65.6 }2.9/ 70.0 /2.1] 71.3 /3.9| 66.4 4.4) 69.3 13.4| 69.0. 2.86 Wisconsin ....... ‘...-| 9 | 63.0 |4.5| 58.4 13.5] 61.8 /3.8] 60.6 |4.1) 58.0 |3.0/ 60.4 (3.8) 583 1.27 Rawat ath ese 8 | 67.1 }4.7] 61.5 |2.9] 65.2 |2.4} 63.7 |3.7| 61.6 |2.9) 63.8 |3.3| 62.2) 3.65 Minnesota ...-..-..-- | 3| 60.4 | 49.9 |....| 60.0 |3.0] 57.8 (3.6) 55.4 3.6) 56.7 |3.4) 591 /| 1.87 Nebraska Territory ..| 2 |......).-.. | Sees |---| 7.3/2.5) 64.9 12.6) 63.0 21 67.7 |24) 65.6) 1.75 a ee Bees |----|------|----] 70.6 |....] 69.8 |2.5| 68.3 |1.9) 69.5 |2.2) 72.6] 0.55 Calitornigyss.. =<... 2: ee ee Le ais i 0| 65.1 | 0.0} 68.7 |0.0| 68.8 |0.0) 68.2 0. 0| ee eee THE FROSTS OF AUGUST 1863. The most prominent feature in the meteorology of August was one of those ‘marked depressions of temperature which occur at all seasons and in every year, and which sometimes prevail over the whole of the United States, east of the Rocky mountains, and even beyond, both north and south. These changes are interesting alike to the agriculturist and to the meteorologist, sometimes awaken- ing the anxiety of the former for the safety of his crops, and always furnishing to the latter fresh materials for the study of those general laws which control the movements and changes of the atmosphere. The depression during the latter part of August, from its visible effect in the form of frost, has attracted much public notice; but changes similar in kind, though often less distinctly marked, so far from being unusual, are exhibited in the meteorological records of every season. It may be interesting to the observers to see grouped together a few of the principal facts exhibiting the beginning and progress of this depression of temperature. To investigate it fully, in connexion with the winds, moisture, and barometric changes, would occupy more space and time than these monthly publications allow, and would require registers from further west and north than have been received, and also the observations for the early part of September. 3 4 Minnesota.—The first appearance of this cold, which the registers thus far received exhibit, was on the morning of the 22d. At St. Paul, in Minnesota, it began on this day, and the fall was sudden. At 7 a. m. the thermometer stood at 51 degrees, which was lower than it had been at that hour on any previous day of the month, and 23 degrees lower than at 9 p.m. of the preceding day. The temperature, not steadily descending, but fluctuating somewhat, reached the lowest point on the morning of the 29th, when ice was formed an eighth of an inch thick, and corn was killed by a very heavy white frost. Nebraska—At Fontenelle, Washington county, in latitude 41° 31’, and not far west of the Missouri iiver, the cold was first noticed also on the morning of the 22d, the temperature at 7 a.m. being 62 degrees, which was lower than the morning temperature of any previous day, and 13 degrees below that of the pre- ceding morning. The coldest day of the month was the 24th, the mean tempera- ture of which was 50 degrees, and the lowest temperature was at 5 a.m on the 29th, when the thermometer was at 30 degrees, and there was a heavy frost, killing corn, sorghum, &c., in low situations. Iowa —In Kossuth, Dubuque, and Muscatine counties the cold began on the morning of the 22d. At Muscatine city the greatest change was on the 24th. There was frost in the morning, and at 9 p. m. the temperature was 26 degrees lower than at the same hour on the preceding night, and at Dubuque it was 25 degrees lower. In Clinton, Buchanan, and Johnson counties the depression was also manifested on the 22d, but later in the day; and at Fort Madison, Lee county, in the southeast corner of the State, in the night of the 22d, or morning of the 23d. At Iowa city the temperature was 23 degrees lower at 2 p. m. on the 24th than at the same hour on the 23d; and at Algona, Kossuth county, it was 20 degrees colder at 9 p. m. on the 22d than at the same hour on the 21st. There was frost to injure vines on the 25th, and on the 29th the frost was general and severe throughout the State, and at Lyons, Clinton county, ice was formed in low places. On the 30th the frost was lighter. Wisconsin.—At Beloit, in the same latitude with Dubuge, Iowa, the cold also appeared on the 22d, but a little later in the day ; the temperature at 7 a.m. being about the average for that hour, and at 2 p.m. lower than at 7 a. m. At 9 p. m. on the 23d the temperature was 19 degrees lower than on the pre- ceding night, and 27 degrees higher than on the following night. The frost was heavy on the last three days of the month. Kansas.—The three stations from which registers have been received are all in the eastern part of the State, and the cold began in the evening of the 23d. At all three of the stations the maximum temperature of the month was on this day, while at 9 p. m. it was lower than at that hour on any previous day. At Fort Riley on the 23d the thermometer fell 31 degrees from 2 p.m. to 9 p. m., at Manhattan 24 degrees, and at Lawrence 33 degrees. The temperature at Fort Riley and Manhattan at 2 p.m. on the 24th was 32 degrees lower, and at Lawrence 35 degrees lower, than at the same hour on the 23d. The observer at Fort Riley reports a light frost on the 25th and 29th, and at Manhattan a frost on the 30th sufficient to kill vines. Missouri.—Only two registers have been received—one from Harrisonville, in Cass county, on the western border of the State, and the other from Wyaconda Prairie, Lewis county, near the northeast corner. The fall began late in the night of the 23d, or early in the morning of the 24th, the temperature at both stations being higher at 9 p. m. of the 23d, and lower at 7 a. m. of the 24th, than at those hours on any previous day of the month. At Harrisonville the temperature at 9 p.m. was 34 degrees lower, and at Wyaconda Prairie 36 degrees lower than on the 23d. At Harrisonville there was a light frost on the 24th, 25th, and 29th, and at Wyaconda Prairie on the 25th a frost killing corn, sorghum, vines, &c., on low grounds, and injuring them very much on the 05 uplands. There was also frost here on the 28th and 30th, and the observer says a frost in August was never before known in that part of the country. Illinois —The registers are from nine stations, each in a different county, and extending from the northern border of the State to the latitude of the mouth of the Missouri river. On the morning of the 23d the temperature at nearly all the stations was low, but it increased during the day, and «tt 9 p. m. at all the stations, with only two exceptions, (and these barely so,) the temperature was ’ higher than at the same hour on any day of the month. On the 24th the cold, which continued to the end of the month, set in. At 7 2. m. it was from 7 to 21 degrees lower than on the 23d, at 2 p. m. 16 to 34 deg: -es lower, and at 9 p.m. 26 to 32 degrees. In Hancock and Knox counties a tight frost was recorded on the 25th. On the 29th frost wis noticed at a number of places, but on the 30th it was more general and severe throughout the State. At Galesburg, Knox county, water froze. Indiana.—The registers are from five counties, situated at both extremities, and in the interior of the State. The depression seems to have begun on the 24th, after the 7 a. m. observation. It was warmer at all the five sfations at that hour on the 24th than on the 23d, but during the forenoon the temperature fell; the 2 p. m. observation at Rockville, Park county, being 17 degrees lower than at 7 a. m.; at South Bend, St. Joseph’s county, and at New Harmony, Posey county, 10 degrees lower; and at the other two stations only 1 and 4 degrees higher. Atall the stations it was much colder in the afternoon and night of the 24th than on the 23d—at 2 p. m. from 10 to 29 degrees lower, and at 9 p. m. from 14 to 30 degrees lower. A light frost is recorded in St. Joseph's county on the 26th, and in Park county on the 26th and 27th. The frost was general on the 30th and 31st. At New Albany one could readily write in the frost on boards and fences; and at New Castle ice was formed an eighth of an inch thick in shallow water. Michigan.—Two registers have been received—one from Ypsilanti, and one from Monroe, both in the southeast corner of the State. At Ypsilanti no ob- servation is recorded at 9 p.m. on the 23d, but at 7 a.m. and 2 p. m. of that day the temperature was lower than at. those hours on any previous day of the month. It rose again during the night or next morning, and on the 24th at 7 a.m. it was 76, being 20 degrees higher than at that hour on the preceding day, and higher than on any day of the month at 7 a. m., except the Ist, 2d, and 18th, on each of: which days it was 78. During the forenoon of the 24th the temperature fell rapidly, and at 2 p.m. it was 8 degrees, and at 9 p.m. 22 degrees lower than at 7 in the morning. At Monroe the cold also began early on the 23d, and the mean temperature of the day was lower than on any previous day of the month, except the 17th, but the morning observation of the 24th does not exhibit the same comparative elevation of temperature as at Ypsilanti. The cold continued through the remainder of the month, and produced a killing frost on the 29th and 30th. Ohio.—The registers are from twelve counties, and represent nearly all parts of the State, from Lake Erie to the Ohio river. Without presenting the details of all these, it may be stated generally that the temperature was high on the morning of the 24th, and the depression which marked the end of the month began at some stations in the forenoon, at some in the night of that day, and at a few not until the morning of the 25th. The only frosts reported before the 30th were at Newark, on the 26th. and at Urbana, on the 27th; of the latter the ob- server remarks that it did not injure his most tender exotics. On the 30th and 31s! frosts prevailed throughout the State, at some places damaging corn, at others injuring only tender vines. The observer at Newark states that there were six frosts in June, two in July, and three in August. Pennsylvania—Only three registers have been received from this State—one from Canonsburg, near the southwest corner, one from Fleming, in the centre, 36 and one from Harrisburg, in the southeast part, and in the same latitude with Canonsburg. The cold first appears on the 25th, at Canonsburg and Fleming early in the morning, and at Harrisburg in the forenoon. At the two former stations the mean temperature of the day was lower than on any previous day of the month, and also at Harrisburg, except the 18th, which was two-thirds of a degree lower. At Canonsburg and Harrisburg the thermometer was lower at 2 p.m. on the 25th than at 7 a.m., and at Fleming it was only two degrees higher. At all three of the stations the 24th was among the warmest days of the month. A light frost is reported at Canonsburg in low situations on the 26th, 27th, and 30th, and at Fleming on the 27th and 30th. Maryland.—At Sykesville, (the only place reported from,) the 24th was among the warmest days of the month, and about 20 miles northwest of Baltimore, the beginning of the cold was manifested late on the 25th. No frost is men- tioned on the register. The lowest temperature recorded was 51, at 7 a.m. on the 27th, and the day of lowest mean temperature was the 31st. New Jersey —Two registers have been received from this State—one from New- ark, on which @nly the daily maximum and minimum observations are recorded ; the other from Progress, on the Delaware river, some miles above. Philadel- phia. The cold began in the evening of the 25th. With a very few excep- tions the morning of that day was the warmest of the month, and the morning of the 26th colder than any day preceding it. Neither of the observers record any frost. New York.—The registers are from nine counties, lying on the western, northern, and eastern boundaries, and in the central part of the State. There are none from the southern tier of counties bordering on Pennsylvania. In the western, central, and northern counties the cold was indicated carly in the morn- ing of the 25th, the 7 a. m. observation on that day being the lowest to that time of the month in some of those counties, and among the lowest in them all; while it began later in the same day in the two counties on Hudson river (Washington and Dutchess,) the temperature on that morning, instead of the lowest, being among the highest of the month at that hour, and falling in each of them ten degrees from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The only frost registered was at Gouverneur, Saint Lawrence county, on the 18th and 31st, and not sufficiently severe to injure vegetation. New England.—In these States the morning of the 25th, or the preceding night, was generally warm, and the decline of temperature began during that day, or early in the morning of the 26th. A light frost is reported at Lunen- burg, Vermont, on the 17th and 18th, and at Wilmington, in the same State, on the 18th and 28th. Besides the depression of temperature during the latter part of August, a sim- ilar period also distinctly appears on the registers about and previous to the middle of the month. On the 18th, at the time of the morning observation, at nearly all the stations from Maine to Illinois, the thermometer was lower than on any other day until the cold towards the end of the month. THE EQUINOCTIAL STORM. The registers for September, 1863, exhibit three periods interesting for com- parison: one near the beginning of the month, one about the middle, and one towards the close. The most conspicuous of these was the rise of temperature about the middle of the month and the subsequent fall, giving at all the stations a decided elevation and depression, and at a large number of them the actual maximum and minimum of the month. This change of temperature was ac- oO” companied in all the States by rain, constituting what is popularly known as “the equinoctial storm.” The compressed statements here given can present only some of the more prominent features, and those only to a very limited degree. Nebraska—The only register received from Nebraska is from Bellevue in Sarpy county. The rise of temperature began in the forenoon of the 13th. At 7 a.m. the thermometer (55) was below the average of the month, but at 2 p. m. it had reached 83 degrees, which was higher than it had been before during the month, and at 2 p. m. the next day was 93 degrees, which was the maximum. The mean of the 14th was 81 degrees, and of the 15th, (the warmest day,) 814 degrees. In the forenoon of the 16th the temperature fell rapidly, descending from 72 degrees at 7 a. m. to 65 degrees at 2 p. m., and it continued to fall until. it reached the minimum of the month, 37 degrees, at 7 a. m. of the 18th. The mean temperature of the 18th, the coldest day, was 46 degrees. The wind on the 14th, 15th, and 16th was from the south, and changed on the 17th to the north by way of the west. Hight-tenths of an iuch of rain fell on the 16th. Although the fall of temperature on the 16th was so decided, no change of wind is recorded until the next day. Towa. —At Algona, Kossuth county, the maximum of the month (95°) was on the 14th; on the 15th the temperature was higher at 7 a. mn. and at 9 p. m. than on the 14th, but lower at 2 p.m., and the mean of each of these days (the two warmest of the month) was 77 degrees. The 18th was the coldest day, and the minimum was on the morning of the 19th, when ice was observed a quarter of an inch thick. On the night of the 15th sheet lightning was seen to the north, and on the 16th rain fell from 1 to 10 p.m. to the amount of three-eighths of an inch. At Independence, Buchanan county, the maximum temperature and the warm- est day were both on the 15th; the coldest day was the 18th, and the lowest temperature was on the morning of the 19th. Ice a tenth of an inch thick was seen on both the 18th and the 19th. Half an inch of rain fell on the 16th from 6 to 9 p. m. At Dubuque the highest temperature at 7 a. m. and 2 p. m. was on the 16th and at 9 p.m. on the 15th. The 15th was the warmest day. On the 17th the temperature was lower at 2 p. m. than at 7 a.m. The coldest day was the 18th, and the lowest temperature was on the 19th. An inch and a half of rain fell on the 16th from 8.20 p. m. to 11 p. m. At Lyons, Clinton county, the warmest day was the 16th, and the maximum temperature at 9 p. m. was on the 15th, but at 2 p. m. it was a little higher on the 27th and 28th. The coldest day was the 18th, and the lowest temperature was in the morning of the 19th. ‘T'wo-tenths of an inch of rain fell_on the 17th from 2 to6a.m. The observer remarks: “The thermometer went down very suddenly at 4 p. m. of the 17th.” At 7 a. m. it stood at 62 degrees; at 2 p. m., 60 degrees; at 4 p. m., 48 degrees. At lowa City, Johnson county, and at Madison, Lee county, the highest tem- perature was on the 15th, which was also the warmest day; the coldest day was the 19th, and on the same day the lowest temperature also occurred, but not at the same hour; for it was at 7 a. m. at Iowa City, and at 9 p.m. at Madi- son. At Iowa City three-quarters of an inch of rain fell from 9 p.m. of the 16th to 7 a.m. of the 17th, and two inches at Madison from 94 p. m. of the 16th to 2 a. m. of the 17th. — ; Throughout the State generally, so far as the registers show, the wind was from the south or a southerly direction on the 14th, 15th, and 16th, and on the 17th changed to the north or northwest. The fall of the thermometer froin 9 p. m. of the 16th to 9 p. m. of the 17th was from 21 to 27 degrees, and there was severe frost on the 18th and 19th. Wisconsin.—Registers have been received from Manitowoc, Madison, Beloit 38 and Milwaukee. At all these stations the maximum of the month was on the 15th; the 16th was the warmest day, the 18th the coldest day, and the minimum was in the morning of the 19th; except that at Madison the temperature rose to the same height on the 16th as on the 15th, at Manitowoc the mean of the 15th was one-third of a degree higher than on the 16th, and at Beloit the temperature on the morning of the 25th was two degrees lower than on the 19th. Rain is recorded at Milwaukee and Beloit on the 17th, and at Manitowoc on every day from the night of the 16th to the morning of the 21st, with a thunder-storm in the afternoon and night of the 16th, and snow'on the 18th. No frost is recorded, but it probably appeared, as the minimum at all the stations was near or below the freezing point. The general remark may be made here for all the States, that a southerly wind prevailed during the warm days, and that the fall of temperature came with a change of the wind to the northwest or some northerly quarter. Kansas —Two registers have been received from Kansas. At Lawrence, Douglas county, the highest temperature of the month at 9 p.m. was on the 14th, and the same day was the warmest near the middle of the month; but on the 7th the temperature at 2 p.m. was three degrees higher, and the day was two-thirds of a degree warmer. The lowest daily mean was on the 17th and the 18th, which were the same, and the minimum of the month was on the morning of the 18th. A sixteenth of an inch of rain fell from 7 p. m. of the 16th to 3 a.m. of the 17th. At Manhattan, Riley county, the highest temperature near the middle of the month was on the 14th, but it was one degree higher on the 10th and two de- grees higher on the 7th. The warmest day of the same period was the 15th, but one day of the month (the 7th) was warmer. ‘I'he highest temperature of the month at 7 a. m. was on the 15th. The coldest day of the month was the 18th, and the minimum was on the morning of the same day. On the 15th, at 7} p. m., diffused lightning was visible in the southwest, and on the 16th a quarter of an inch of rain fell from 5§ to 9 p. m., accompanied by thunder and lightning. Missouri —At Harrisonville, Cass county, the maximum (98) occurred on the 14th and also on the 4th and 7th. The 14th was the warmest day ex- cept the 7th. The coldest day was the 18th, and the minimum temperature (48) was on the same day, except fhe 20th, when it was down to 46 degrees. Rain fell from 9 to 104 p. m. on the 16th. There was diffuse lightning on the evening of the 15th, and also with thunder on the evening of the 16th. At Canton, Lewis county, the temperature of the 15th was 92 degrees, and the mean of the day was 804 degrees. But there were higher temperatures and warmer days early in the month. The coldest day was the 19th, and the mini- mum (38) occurred on the same day. Rain to the depth of 1.38 inches fell from 2 a.m. to 5 a. m. of the 17th. Illinois —Registers have been received from eight different counties. The highest temperature and warmest day, during the period of high temperature in the middie of the month, was on the 16th at nearly all the stations, but at a few on the 15th. At four of the stations higher temperatures are recorded in the early part of the month. At three the 18th was the coldest day, and at five the 19th. The minimum also occurred on the days of lowest mean temperature, except at Upper Alton, where the lowest temperature at 7 a. m. on the 14th was 41 degrees, and on the 19th it rose to 45 degrees, and on the 20th fell again to 40 degrees, the minimum of the month. Rain is recorded at nearly all the stations on the 16th, and at all on the 17th, except at Upper Alton, where there was “only a few drops” on the 16th. The fall of temperature at the different stations from 2 p.m. of the 16th to 2 p.m. of the 17th was from 24 to 33 degrees. Michigan —The registers are from Clifton, Lansing, Ypsilanti, and Monroe. hs) At all the stations the maximum was on the 16th, except at Ypsilanti, where the temperature was one degree higher on the 28th. At Lansing on the 28th and at Monroe on the 29th the temperature was as high as on the 16th. At all the stations the warmest day was the 16th, éxcept at Clifton, where the mean of the 29th was one degree higher. At Clifton the coldest day of the month was the 18th; at the three other stations it was the 19th. At Clifton, (lat. 47°, long. 88°,) on the 16th, the temperature fell from 88 degrees at 2 p. m. to 36 degrees at 9 p. m., fifly-two degrees. The minimum was 20 degrees on the morning of the 18th. The observer says : “On the 16th, at 2.50 p. m., it commenced rain- ing heavily, accompanied with lightning and distant thunder; for about one hour it poured down incessantly, a strong south-southwest wind blowing; one inch of rain fell during an hour.” ‘The rain continued until 4.45 p. m. of the 17th, and measured two and one-eighth inches. At all the three other stations the lowest at this period was at 9 p. m.of the 19th; but the minimum of the month oc- curred on the morning of the 26th. On the morning of the 22d the tempera- ture was also very low. Rain fell at all the stations on the 17th, and also a very light rain at Lansing on the afternoon of the 18th. Indiana.—The registers from this State are from New Albany, New Haven, Rockville, and South Bend. The warmest day near the middle of the month was the 16th, and the highest temperature was on the 14th, 15th, and 16th. But warmer days and higher temperatures occurred earlier in the month. The coldest day of the month at all the stations was the 19th. At New Albany the minimum was on the 20th, and at the three other stations on the 19th. The principal part of the rain fell on the 17th. Ohio—Registers have been received from eleven stations, each in a different county The highest temperature during the warm period in the middle of the month occurred at three stations on the 15th, at six on the 16th, and at two on the 17th; and at all the stations except two the maximum of the month was on the same days. The warmest day at all the stations except one was the same as that on which the maximum occurred. With three exceptions, the 19th was the coldest day; and at nearly all the stations the minimum was on the night of the 19th or morning of the 20th. In a few cases the depression towards the close of the month was lower than on the 19th and 20th. ‘The fall of temperature from 2 p. m. of the 17th to 2 p. m. of the 18th was from 20 to 32 degrees. Rain is recorded principally on the 17th and 18th. Severe frosts are noticed on the 19th and 20th. Maryland.—The only record is from Sykesville, Carroll county. The highest temperature at 7 a. m. and at 9 p.m. was on the 17th, which was also the warmest day of the month. At 2 p. m. the thermometer was higher on several days than on the 17th. The fall of temperature began in the forenoon of the 18th, it being three degrees colder on that day at 2 p.m. than at7 a.m. After descending till the morning of the 21st the temperature rose on that day, but immediately fell again and descended to 43 degrees on the 23d, with a mean temperature for the day of 504. This was the coldest day of the month except the 26th, and the minimum temperature was on the 28th. One inch and thirty- five hundredths of rain fell on the 18th. Pennsylvania.—Registers have been received from five stations. The warmest day was the 17th. The highest temperature at 7 a. m. or 2 p. m. was on the same day. At Philadelphia, the’ warmest day and the maximum were on the 17th, and the highest at 7 a. m. was on the 18th. The register-thermometer there showed the same maximum on the 17th as on the 7th. The lowest daily mean, till after the temporary rise on the 21st, was the 20th. At Canonsburg the temperature fell till the 20th, which was the coldest day of the month except the 26th. At 7 a.m.of the 19th the thermometer was 26 degrees lower than at the same hour on the 18th. 40) At Fleming the temperature fell 29 degrees from 7 a. m. of the 18th to 7 a. m. of the 19th; also, 15 degrees from 7 a. m. to 2 p. m.’on the 18th, and 25 degrees from 2 p. m. of the 17th to 2 p. m. of the 18th. The coldest day until the thermometer commenced to rise again was the 19th, but it was colder after- wards. At Harrisburg the coldest day following the warm 17th was the 20th; but, after a rise on the 21st, the temperature fell still lower. At Nazareth the fall from the 18th to the 19th was 19 degrees at 7 a. m. and 20 degrees at 2 p.m. The daily mean decreased to the 20th, and rose again on the 21st. The minimum of the month and the coldest day were on the 23d. Rain is recorded at all the stations, except Canonsburg, on the 18th or 19th. At Harrisburg 2.43 inches fell, New Jersey—The only register is from Newark, and the record is made from the maximum and minimum thermometers. The highest temperature was on the 17th, and the lowest following it was on the 21st, but the minimum of the month was later. ‘There were light frosts on the 21st, 23d, and 24th. The rain was on the 17th, 18th, and 19th, and amounted to about three-quarters of an inch. ‘ New York.—Registers have been received from five stations. At two of them the maximum of the month was on the 16th, and at three on the 17th. The warmest day was the 17th, except at one station, when the 16th was one- third of a degree higher. The coldest day following this high temperature was the 22d. The descent to this date was not continuous; the principal fall was till the 19th, after which the temperature rose again and then descended a little lower. The minimum of the month was still later. The fall from 2 p.m. of the 17th to 2 p. m. of the 18th, at Wilson, Niagara county, was 37 degrees; at Rochester, Monroe county, 20 degrees; at Skaneateles, Onondaga county, 20 degrees; at “Theresa, Jefferson county, 4 degrees; and at South Hartford, Washington county, 28 degrees. At Theresa the fall was 26 degrees from 2 p. m. of the 18th to 2 p. m. of the 19th. Rain is recorded at ail the stations on the 18th, and at Wilson and Theresa also on the 17th. The largest amount of rain registered was an inch and a quarter, at South Hartford. Connecticut —Registers have been received from two stations. At both the highest temperature at 7 a.m. was on the 18th. At Middletown the maximum of the month was on the 16th, and at Pomfret on the 16th and 17th. At both places the mean temperature of the three warmest days, the 16th, 17th, and 18th, continued very nearly the same, being for the respective days, at Middletown 72.3, 72.1, 72.2, and at Pomfret 69.3, 68.3, 69.3. 'The fall from 2 p. m. of the 18th to 2 p. m. of the 19th was 20 degrees at Middletown and 15 degrees at Pomfret. At both places the coldest day of the month and minimum tempera- ture were on the 23d, and there was a rise on the 21st. At Middletown 1.32 inch of rain fell from the morning of the 18th to the morning of the 21st, and at Pomfret 2.10 inches from 1 p. m. of the 17th to the night of the 20th. At Middletown, the observer remarks that on the 18th there was a “ gale of wind with rain;’’ and at Pomfret, on the same day, from 4 to 7 p. m., “a violent storm from the south.’’ At both stations the frost on the 23d is recorded as the first of the season. Massachusetts —Registers have been received from five stations. The max- imum of the month at all the stations was on the 16th, and the highest, at 7 a.m., was on the 18th; at one station the temperature on the 9th, at 7 a. m., was the same as on the 18th. At Mendon, the warmest day was the 16th; at Amherst and Westfield, the 17th; at New Bedford and Topsfield, the 16th and 18th. With the exception of a rise in the mean of the 21st, the temperature descended steadily until the 23d, which was the coldest day of the month at all the stations except New Bedford, where the 25th was two-tenths of a degree AL lower. The minimum temperature at all the stations was on the 23d; at one it was the same on the 24th as on the 23d. The rain was from the 18th to the 20th. Vermont.—Registers have been received from five stations; at four of them the maximum temperature and highest daily mean were on the 16th, except one, where the daily mean was one-third of a degree higher on the 17th; and at one station the maximum and highest mean was on the 18th. The coldest day was the 22d, at all the stations, except one, where the 25th was two-thirds of a degree colder. There was arise on the 21st. The minimum temperature at all the stations occurred on the morning of the 23d; at one it was as low on the night of the 22d. Rain is recorded from the 18th to the 21st. The frost on the 23d is noticed as “ the first hard frost.” New Hampshire—The registers are from Littleton and Stratford. At both stations the maximum temperature and the warmest day were on the 16th, and the coldest day was the 22d. At Littleton the minimum was on the 23d; at Stratford it was two degrees lower on the 28th than on the 23d. At Littleton the mean of the 19th was 21.4 lower than that of the 18th, and at Stratford, 20 degrees lower. At Littleton, rain is recorded on.every day from the 19th to the 22d, but only half an inch in all; and at Stratford at 114 a. m. on the jolts aie Maine.—Registers have been received from Cornishville, Steuben, and Wil- liamsburg. ‘The maximum temperature and highest mean at all three stations were on the 16th. At Steuben and Williamsburg the lowest mean was on the 23d, and at Cornishville on the 22d. The minimum temperature at Cornish- ville and Williamsburg was on the morning of the 23d; at Steuben on the morn- ing of the 24th. The descent in the daily mean from the highest on the 16th, to the lowest, was without interruption, except at Steuben, where the 22d was a little higher than the 2lst. Rain is recorded at Cornishville on the LSth, 19th, and 20th, 1.23 inch; at Steuben, on the 19th to the 22d, 2.50 inches; and at Williamsburg, on the 19th to the 21st, not measured. “ e mote to me me ond OO BF Cin Fi ban a angie in i jain Aya ait my 4 ‘ gow tah tenting eit wih + Se QW Tie ere (ik pregeiy? Bru ha Waar. aa bine, {8 V8) 4% =< I : } Ae ' by Gieilout 2 Ven) wey ‘ “y i ‘Tt t v | ‘ Le "9 xt ' ; MONTHLY REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOR OCTOBER, 1863. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, November, 1863. In presenting the monthly report of the agricultural products of our country, the Commissioner of Agriculture gratefully acknowledges the deep and growing interest manifested by the farmers and Agricultural Societies in support of the unremitting exertions of the Department to develop that interest which under- lies our national greatness, and which is productive of the most effectual means for securing peace, plenty, wealth, and power. The extensive home and foreign correspondence of the Department, the samples of home and- foreign grains, plants, bulbous roots, and cuttings, which it is con- stantly receiving and distributing, and the scientific and practical information received and imparted by it, has already manifested an extent of usefulness not looked for by its warmest advocates. The Department is too limited in its means to cultivate the wide fields of usefulness awaiting its action. All its operations have been largely increased, and must be still more so, to meet the demands of the farmers of the country, who are now finding out that they have a Department which responds to their calls, and attends to their wants. The collection of these monthly statistics, from over two thousand correspond- ents, is attended with great expense, especially since, by the Post Office law passed at the last session of Congress, the Department is obliged to send out pre-paid envelopes, instead of franks, for the returns. The limits of the Propa- gating Garden, and its capacity, are quite too small to supply the requirements made on it. All grains, seeds, and plants received by the Department to be dis- tributed among the farmers should first be tested; to do this successfully, re- quires several acres of ground, and, through the kindness of the Commissioner of Public Buildings, permission has been given me to use about twenty acres adjoining the Smithsonian Institute, and the means of working it are required. These considerations are now strongly felt throughout the country, and Con- gress will not be slow in finding the temper of the people. It is my intention 2 to continue these statistical inquiries through the winter, covering various agri- cultural subjects, as cattle, horses, sheep, manures, fruit, agricultural machines, Xe. It was an object of the last monthly report to show the American farmers the foreign markets which purchase so largely of their breadstuffs, and in the present one they will see the extent of their purchases of the animal productions. It is due to them that they should have a clear idea of the relation of American agriculture with the commerce of the world. But they have been shut out here- tofore from this knowledge, not only from want of proper statistical information of that commerce, but by the very terms daily used to point out the operations of this foreign commerce. The quantities sold, and the prices given for American agricultural products are habitually stated in foreign measures, as “ quarters,” which are unknown to the farming community, and in a currency, as “ shillings,” so unlike our own, that the farmers cannot determine their meaning. Hence they cannot follow the operations of commerce, but lose sight of their wheat and flour, pork and beef, almost as soon as they are carried from the farms. To remove obstructions of this kind, now standing in the way of a complete knowledge of foreign commerce, I shall shortly present in my monthly reports all foreign measures and values in common use among us, reduced to the weights and measures, and the currency of our own country, in connexion with the amounts of our monthly exports of breadstuffs and provisions. The importance of agriculture and the necessity for its management are obvious to all as a means of national prosperity. The aim of this Department has been and will be to aid the farmers of the country in the advancement of their business, and to give them greater informa- tion of the productions and resources of this great country. The successful close of the agricultural year furnishes us with renewed occa- sion for thanksgiving, and will be especially remembered on the approaching day set apart for that purpose by the President and the governors of the several States. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. THE TABLES OF THE CONDITION OF THE CROPS FOR OCTOBER. In our last monthly report the returns of the leading swmmer and fall crops were given in bushels. The latter were formed not on answers to questions, asking the amount of the crops of 1863 compared with 1862, but on their gen- eral appearance only. In the circular for October inquiries were made of the amount of these fall crops, and from the answers the following table showing the corn, tobacco, buckwheat and potato crops for 1863 has been formed. If there is anything that is gratifying to the Department, it is the remarkable confirmation which this table for October has to the correctness of that for Sep- tember. By the latter the corn crop for 1863 was estimated at 449,163,894 bushels, and by that for October it is placed at 452,446,128 bushels—a difference of only 3,282,234 bushels. This is extraordinary, and gives the Department the 3 most satisfactory assurance that the mode adopted by it to estimate the amount of the crops results in far greater accuracy than the statistics taken at so great an expense. But the September and October estimates of the crop of tobacco are still more extraordinary, although the difference is greater. In September we stated this crop at 258,462,413 pounds, and the table below shows it at 267,302,770 pounds—a difference of 8,840,357 pounds. ‘The table for September, which was not published, but the entire amount given, was based on the returns to the September circular, giving the appearance and injury to the crop, and on the returns for June stating the average amount of acres of tobacco planted com- pared with 1862. Take into consideration the fact that the tobacco crop in the loyal States has increased in a most extraordinary degree, and very unequally in different States; that an unequal and extraordinary injury had fallen on it, and it will be seen whether the concurrence of the estimates for September and October made on answers to such different questions is not a test of the correct- ness of the system established by the Department and the skill with which it is carried out. The differences in buckwheat and potatoes are also very small, and still further strengthen the reliance in the mode adopted for estimating the annual crops. Estimate for October of the amounts of the corn, tobacco, buckwheat, and po- tato crops for 1863. States. Corn. Tobacco. Buckwheat. | Potatoes. _ A ee rr) 1, 855, 285 | 7, 000 407,424 | 6,693,348 Neywwrlanipshire: .....-...-/25 22 1, 835, 113 | 50, 000 98, 995 3, 310, 163 RE ee ee een | 1,743,522 40, 000 233,906 | 3,603,972 Minus hncetiign..22 22.503.) 22. 2, 465, 215 | 5, 200, 000 123, 302 2,881, 711 Rhode Island -........-...---- 413, 021 1, 680 3, 871 435,.084 Men ue eae ote ie! | 2, 059, 835 7,500, 166 300,629 | 2,016, 462 ER ea me ts | 24,073,257 | 10,088,017 | 5,378,675 | 29,753, 393 Meg dermey : 00 eb ee | 11, 025, 669 | 194, 330 947,577 | 4,693, 151 LESTOL Sg 0 en ee | - 90,721, 825 | 5, 567,774 | 5,794,907 | 14, 609, 335 mrmermrimiess 8S Ae ee | 14,444,922 | 48,721, 415 218,405 | 1,213,707 | Tee ae ie | 3, 892, 337 | 15, 618 | 18, 399 302, 345 Wii ee Se eee 52, 835,997 | 113,912, 938 14, 187 1, 449, 138 Ruben eters 5 ey! 0 57,433,802 | 28, 081, 869 827,364.| 4, 103,.005 tie a 10, 633, 097 | 207, 061 630,457 | 4,738, 260 oti te A 54,602,273 | 10,416,314 183, 898 | 3,485, 617 "ise be 83,013,681 | 20,397,537 | 258,802] 5, 155,523 Fi! Resale ale Sarin 43,743,295 | 26, 340, 505 | 95,703 | 1,493,519 ee | 8, 069, 642 | 153, 189 | 59,170 | 4,356,568 Meee... | 34,598, 276 300, 402 155,914 | 2, 880, 549 Vo (| 2,756, 898 43, 324 20,758 | 2,433,534 a | 8,518, 251 26, 881 27, 966 425, 952 Nebraska Territory.......-...- 1, 292, 750 1, 900 6, 146 124, 334 Galifornig sees. 3... 478, 169 34, 850 14,850 | 1,298,474 "Total seen | 452, 446,128 | 267,302,770 | 15,821 305 | 101,457, 144 Estimated in September report-.| 449,163,894 | 258, 462,413 | 17,193,232 | 97,870,035 eee eee SS SSS 1 + Sorghum molasses—In 1860 the number of gallons of this molasses pro- duced in the loyal States was 5,860,801, of which the chief part was made in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. This amount was at least doubled in 1862, which would give these States the amounts in the following table. The first column shows the amount for 1862, and the second the estimated amount for 1863, based on the returns as seen in the table of this report. 1862. 1863. Gallons. -Gallons. DULCE ies 5 4 Bact fee, I, aoe. 202 1, 241762 LIC .o40 5) (26 re oe re 3, 986, 948 1, 993, 474 WGP IS Cote SS soles wk so vce ts eee we 1, 594, 192 996, 371 DRT oc a ss a 3.s Siecle ccoat 0 A eeediols 1, 655, 554 1, 324, 443 ROPE etc eco sos ssn ond 6.10) sixie sisigis RRNA 1, 414, 832 1, 414, 832 10, 203, 728 6, 970, 882 This is a decrease of about three and a quarter millions of gallons, or nearly one-third. The product of this year will not much exceed between eight and nine millions of gallons. That there were large quantities of maple molasses made last spring is quite certain, but not at all enough to meet the inland wants Prior to the war, this country had become one of the greatest sugar-consuming on the globe, as will be seen from the following statistics: IMPORTS OF MOLASSES AND SUGAR. Molasses, (gals.) Sugar, (Ibs. ) LSC a ee ae Bie aVeeseetetan et s!% (siiette ni Jaen nee, Gli Ore 545, 262, 754 MS ibeca ei cunts craleroeg, che mis cle kdeceie. oa <> Caen 32, 705, 844 777, 063, 185 Dyer ep itn ier Shove settee Ce si.fo. dcskbud Aw nis 0: 0,0 eRe 24, 566, 357 519, 240, 945 Neb cys! = Siges git avatess isso po regu gyi: soe =: oso Mae 32, 818, 146 655, 868, 415 MT ety cto tycu Hasan choles fe iiciO OW. Soa ov eS 30, 922, 633 694, 879, 785 UENSIL (U2 BIE EO DSRATS Len TARO Oe eS 29, 941, 397 807, 938, 946 The molasses of the Louisiana cane was then about 16,000,000 gallons annually, and the sugar from it about 300,000,000 pounds; making the annual consumption of molasses about 45,000,000 million gallons, and of sugar 1,000,000,000 pounds. The ratio of increase in population and of the consumption of sugar since 1840 has been as follows: Population. Sugar. GEO SON TSA «lacie «: ascopedeneenens wae alk . ») L6per?cent. 50 per cent. “1S AC) [Le Fay a al ce ec Ga -- . 16 per cent. 34 per cent. TOE MOOD). te eis aleve: mheneuaters mee ete ae 16 per cent. 100 per cent. reese E SOO. « lferae leis ici Lyaraue eremase wets ks a ees 15 per cent. 43 per cent. otal”... 0.0. sis. Sees tyeher aoa vole! 63 per) Cent. 227 per cent. In 1840 the consumption of sugar for each inhabitant was 16 pounds, and in 1860, about 39 pounds. Although Louisiana has been in possession of the loyal forces, yet the esti- mated amount of the hogsheads of sugar that will be produced by it this year is placed at from 30 to 50 thousand hogsheads only, not a tenth part of what it was. ‘Ihe season has been favorable for the growth of cane, yet want of labor, high price of weod, and all things necessary for running the mills, render it cer- 5 tain that sugar cannot be made in Louisiana at prices which can compete with that produced in the West Indies and South American ports. ; To render this country independent in its supply of sugar and molasses is an object second to none other that can engage the attention of the farmer or man- ufacturer. Hence the following account, from a recent number of the Prairie Farmer, published at Chicago, of an attempt made to cultivate the sugar beet on an extensive scale, and to manufacture sugar from it, must arrest the atten- tion of every reflecting person: ‘‘Mr. T. Gennert, of the firm of Gennert Brothers, of New York city, had made a journey to Germany, carefully investigated for himself the cultivation of the beet and the minutia of manufacture, being afforded every facility compatible with the rules of the association of manufacturers. He fully decided to make the experiment on a scale which should thoroughly prove the matter in this country. Having previously travelled over nearly all the States of the Union, making himself familiar with the soils of the country, he decided to locate in Illinois. After having spent some time in examining locations so as to secure suitable land, cheap fuel, &c., he made choice of a location at Chatsworth, Livingston county, situated on the line of the Peoria and Oquawka railroad, between the main line and Chicago branch of the Illinois Central railroad, about one hunded miles distant by rail from Chicago. Contracting for two sections of land, the brothers at once commenced to prepare for a crop of beets and to erect a factory, a cut of which appears on our first page. Knowing the importance of a thorough preparation of the ground, they at once procured the necessary ploughs and teams to turn up and pulverize the ground to the depth of one foot, not eleven inches. It was mostly done by the Michigan doubleplough; apart of it was ploughed last fall and a part in the spring. About one hundred acres were prepared at a very heavy expense. “‘The seed planted was imported by them from the most reliable sourees—and planted, some of it beng drilled in, others sowed in drills—and notwithstanding the excessive drought and the unfavorable weather of the spring, which delayed the planting of a large part of it until quite late, the excessive drought of the summer, and the early frosts, they have now on the ground a crop which will yield in quantity as much as the average of the best fields of Europe. As to the quality in saccharine properties, an analysis of them made last week by Mr. Bender, of this city, shows 124 per cent. of crystallizable cane sugar, and 34 per cent. of other soluble impurities—of which, at least, 8 or 9 per cent. of sugar should be extracted, at which rate the yield of it would be from 2,500 to 3,000 pounds per acre. “*The building occupies a ground space of one hundred and fifty by one hundred feet, and the tower and main part a height of fifty feet—the whole being constructed in the most thorough and substantial manner; the supporters of each floor are entirely independent of the main frame of the building, and each floor independent of the others, so that in case of overloading-any one the building has no strain. **The machinery is driven by two engines—a large and powerful one for driving the graters, centrifugals, washers, &c.; a smaller one for the pumps and vacuum-pan. The machinery for grating and swinging out the juice have been imported from Germany, and are the best and most improved in use there, and we cannot doubt that abundant success will crown the labors of the Messrs. Gennert Brothers, who have been the first in the Union who were willing to risk so large a sum of money as was necessary (about $50,000) to make the ex- periment.” This first endeavor to establish the manufacture of sugar from the beet in the United States will be regarded with deep interest, for if successful it will add another important branch to northern agriculture. THE CROPS FOR 1864. These are wheat, rye, barley, and timothy meadows. The table shows a most gratifying account, both of their amount and appearance. The fall has, in almost every section of the several States, been propitious, and despite the large amount of agricultural labor now in the armies, there is a full average of these important crops sown. The agriculture of the loyal States, therefore, is starting fairly for success in 1864. FATTENING HOGS AND CATTLE. No more important matters could be presented in our monthly report than the number and condition of these, because they constitute the provision trade of the country, and supply so great consumption of our armies. The inquiries relative to them are, jirst, the existence of the hog cholera; and second, the number and condition of the fattening hogs and cattle. 6 The hog cholera has very little existence in the eastern and middle States. It is more or less in nearly all the western States, and is enough spread in the great hog-raising States of Illinois and Indiana to prove very fatal among the hogs driven on the alluvial lands to fatten. In 1860 these two States had 4,778,250 hogs, being a seventh of the entire number raised in the United States, at that time. Should the cholera spread among the hogs collected on the fields, many must die, and our reports indicate the loss of many in these States during the summer and fall. } The report for September showed the usual number of stock hogs in the country ; but the tables of October exhibit the fact, that whilst there is a gen- eral average fattening in the northern and middle States, there is a large falling off in the greatest hog-producing States. In Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Tli- nois, there are but eight-tenths of the number of last year. To arrive at the probable reduction in these States, the census returns of 1860 must be taken as a basis, for this Department has not yet formed an estimate of the farm stock for 1862, as it has done of the farm crops. In Ohio, there were 2,175,623 hogs in 1860, and in Michigan 374,664, making, with the above number for Indiana and Illinois, 7,328,537 hogs. Add to these ten per cent. for the increase since that year, and the present number would be 8,061,390. The usual allowance be- tween the fattening hogs and the whole number is one-half, which would give 4,030,695 as the number that should be now fattening. But two-tenths, or twenty per cent., are withheld, because of the scarcity of corn, amounting to 806,139 hogs. But the condition of the hogs in these four States is yet lower than their numbers. In Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana, the tables show it to be seven- tenths, or 30 per cent. below the average condition. In Ohio it is 20 per cent. below. For the purpose of showing how far it is possible for hogs to reach either their usual numbers or attain a weight at all approaching to the cus- tomary standard, we here introduce a few extracts from letters coming trom the best fattening districts in these States : “The number of fattening hogs raised in this county is probably about the same as last year, but then many were brought in from other counties to use up the surplus feed. This year I do not know of a single hog being fed, except the farmers’ own raising.” “Much of the corn has very little effect in fattening hogs. All that can sell are selling their hogs, so as to save their corn. There will be but few fat hogs taken from out the county compared with last year.” “Our farmers think the corn erop is fully one-half shortened, and so much injured that it is of little value for fattening purposes. Less than one-half the number of hogs will be well fattened in this county.” “The condition of the county is alarming, in view of the shortness of the crops compared with the amount of live stock that is unfit for market, and must necessarily be passed through the coming winter.” “Tn regard to the frosts of September, the effect has been to injure our corn about one-half for feeding cattle, and nearly to destroy it for selling or feeding to hogs.” “Hogs and cattle consume a large amount of corn, and will make growth, but little fat. The result will be light pork, and but few heavy fat cattle.” “The corn appears to make hogs grow when fed to them, but does not form lard. Large numbers have been imperfectly fattened and sold already. In some cases the hogs have been well fatted, but it has been upon peas mostly, of which larger quantities have been raised than heretofore.” “The corn has no strength. Fattening cattle are yet in the fields, and in about an average condition; but few will be corn-fed, as the price of beef here is not by any means in ratio wiih the price of corn.” These extracts, as well as the tables, go clearly to show that the frosted corn 7 cannot fatten hogs more than to give a limited supply of lard. he returns made to this department indicate that the demand for butter has been every- where in excess of the supply; and it must, therefore, be obvious that lard will reach the highest possible price compatible with but a limited consumption. This view is taken by those engaged in the provision trade. The New York Price Current of November 14 says: ‘There has been an active movement in new mess pork, mainly on speculation and for future delivery ; and with light arrivals, prices have advanced 50 cents: other descriptions have also been in good demand for consumption and export, at slightly improved prices.” The Cin- cinnati Price Current of the 11th says: ‘New mess pork is held at $17 50. The belief is that but few hogs will be fit to mahe mess pork, and hence the speculative feeling in that article here and elsewhere.” Hogs were then selling at the latter city at $5 75 to $5 90, averaging under 200 lbs., and those avera- ging 200 Ibs. and upwards, at $6 to $6 25. The provision trade seems to be active at Chicago and other points. The futtening cattle—Our tables show in these four great fattening States a like falling off in the number of fattening cattle. In Illinois—by far the greatest cattle-fattening State in the Union on account of its immense corn crop, a State that supplies the New York market with most of its spring beef— the number of cattle is seven-tenths, or thirty per cent., less than last year. The condition of the cattle is some better than that of the hogs, for the fall pastures were good in many places, but cut short by drought in some parts. In Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana, it is eight-tenths, or twenty per cent. below an average condition, but in Illinois but ten per cent. below it. The scarcity of good corn in these States must give unsatisfactory beef cattle, and the yield of tallow will be short. The exports of provisions, &c.—domestic consumption—The exports from the animal production of the United States, including such manufactures from it as butter, cheese, candles, soap, leather, boots and shoes, are as follows: MEMO ate tatara's ais oars Beene cas aetmterary ate © atte sshcere $21,411,900 EBs saa ee « eben aia eeNeear al ans gi ais, ns pb) eke peda ses DO Leet EL ue. Bon o'er rate 19,946,411 BBE Peale isthe es oars See AE ann nice siwinine aie cave 17,602,413 Een ar ehatt trate wreneis Grate ieee o's dine as 2 al aie cates 24,666,798 Sve era ia atet At cin ted eaten, aed Sas ue dteh alae of 2 8 27,715,392 ihern ay state seta a Ra SoA ee 0/8 ee a ea ee 3s «tas 42,200,006 The amount of this exportation is pretty equally divided between the hogs and cattle; but of the sale of beef and pork, bacon, and lard, the amount is largely in favor of the hogs. It is difficult to present the relative amounts consumed in the foreign and home markets, for want of statistical information. But the following statement of the estimated hog product for 1860, and the place of its sales, will present a general idea of them: The estimated amount of pork, in that year, which entered into the commerce of the country, was, in pounds..........-...- 523, 358, 800 Of which were exported as follows: MN RGMICL 5 ato ti h oo o a m3 w= = chee Sa + ays = > Sees oiete aielata 705, 618 291, 086, 665 lin G0 <4 See eee eee. 3 ore ae 86, 909, 005 Ly S70 SYS ies pea apm ng RI as A Pete Ea 204, 177, 660 Such is the immense pork trade of the United States, so vital to the great corn-growing States of the west. The Department has as yet no statisties by which to estimate the value of it, or that of the slaughtered cattle. It is ex- pected that statistics will be collected by it during the ensuing winter, upon which not only these, but all other farm stock, can be numbered and valued. Old corn.—The amount of old corn in the country is much less than usual. This was to have been expected from the high prices during the summer, caused by the consumption of the army. In Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Tllinois, Missouri, and Wisconsin, the tables return but seven-tenths of that of 1862. This is 30 per cent. less. In Iowa it is 20 per cent. less. It appears to be fed out to stock in nearly one-half the counties of these States. But the rapidly increasing value of corn will soon stop it. The value of the frosted corn.—It will be seen that our correspondents regard the frosted corn as wanting the usual fattening properties belonging in so high degree to this grain. Analysis shows that it has 3.88 grains of oil in the 100, and 41.85 of starch. The oil does not seem to be formed only at the close of a vigorous and perfect growth, with a moist ground and hot sun, and the starch chiefly in the last month of its growth. The analyses of Dr. Salisbury show that the sap continues in full flow until between the first and middle of October. The following shows the amount of water in the grain at-the times mentioned : ATUNG (SO Lio We Alka Mabtatens fed tibet rah LIER B.s'5 5 Ee 90.80 September cl Giy2), ssa aye ee ME che ele elas lesa as 78.75 October! 1.2 v.43 Sa ee ee eee lane eters ala wha eats 85.50 October LSl ci5 viguictsite Hae eeteatetstae ee sntars wim le es 'h weare 8.45 The killing frosts were on these first two dates, showing that the growth was stopped nearly two months before the close of the maturing season. All our accounts represent the grain as ceasing to receive any sap from the stalk after the blades were all killed. Hence all the nutritious elements in it are those only when the killing frost fell, which was too early for the grain to have any more than a small portion of starch and no oil. The weather —The returns of the condition of the weather, each week, in the month of October, show a favorable state, especially for the fall crops. There is enough of wet weeks with the favorable and dry to have kept these crops well growing, and the fall pastures up until the last of the grazing season. A remarkable snow fell on Thursday, the 22d of October. It seems to have been of a like character of the frosts of August 30 and September 18, and to have covered much of the same portions of the country. These three great northern “waves of cold will constitute a meteorological phenomenon of great interest to the farmers of the Mississippi valley, for they clearly show that this valley has 9 a climate differing materially from like latitudes of the eastern and middle States, which our isothermal lines, because of their generality, do not designate. What we need much is a line of observers north of Lake Superior, that this wave of cold air may be traced as far north as possible. At Green Bay this snow-storm is thus noticed: “On Thursday, the 22d, at noon, the weather being mild and the ground wet, snow commenced to fall, and continued without cessation until after dark, Friday evening. The snow did not gather much upon the ground until nearly night, Thursday; but on Friday night was full twelve to fourteen inches deep, damp and heavy.” At St. Louis the snow was from five to six inches deep, and extended as far south, it is said, as Memphis. It seems to have had no great eastern extension, and how far west we are unable to say. The annual agricultural report—This report would have been distributed last week, had the binding of the volume not been delayed by the strike of the binders in the government employ. It is presumed that arrangements will soon be made to resume the work on the binding. The monthly report for September has received a very general notice, and as favorable as it is general. The purpose of the Department in the collection and publication of the condition and amount of the crops, and the manner in which that purpose has been carried out, has met with such uniform approbation as not only to be gratifying to the Commissioner of Agriculture, but to those correspondents, also, upon whom the Department is dependent for the chief in- formation embodied in the reports. English grain measures—In our reference to the English quarter of grain, in the monthly report for September, page 4, it is stated that the quarter is 560 pounds, being a quarter of a ton of 2,240 pounds—equal to eight English bushels of 70 pounds each, or nine and one-third American bushels of 60 pounds each. To this statement objections have been made. It is contended that the English imperial bushel is 60 pounds of wheat, and that, therefore, the quarter is the eight bushels of measures of capacity, being 480 pounds, and not the quarter of a ton of wezght, 560 pounds. The question is not without obscurity, and hence we now briefly give the reasons of our statement. Webster thus defines the meaning of the word “quarter:” ‘3. In dry meas- wre, the fourth of a ton in weight, or eight bushels of grain, is a quarter of wheat ; also the fourth part of a chaldron of coal.”— Hutton. He defines the word bushel as a dry measure containing eight gallons. The Winchester bushel, used in England from the time of Henry VII to 1826, con- tains eight gallons of wheat; each gallon eight pounds of wheat, troy weight; the pound, twelve ounces troy; the ounce, twenty sterlings; and the sterling, thirty-two grains of wheat growing in the middle of the ear. The contents are 2,150.42 solid inches. ; In 1826 Parliament established the Imperial bushel as the standard of dry measures, and it contains 2,218.192 cubic inches. Thirty-three Winchester bushels are equal to thirty-two Imperial bushels. The act declares that one pound troy weight, containing 5,760 grains, shall be the standard measure of weight, and that 7,000 such grains should be a pound avoirdupois. Wilson, in his Rural Encyclopedia, (English,) says: ‘One Imperial bushel of fine wheat will weigh sixty-three pounds, but inferior sorts will not exceed fifty-three pounds. The average weight is rated at sixty pounds.” The English Imperial bushel is 584 pounds, computed by the weight of grains, and the Winchester bushel 48 pounds, avoirdupois weight. Thus, eight pounds of wheat make one gallon, and eight gallons a bushel; equal to 64 pounds of 12 ounces, making 768 ounces. Divide sixteen into this sum, to reduce it to a bushel avoirdupois weight, gives 48 pounds. The Imperial bushel being 10} 10 pounds more, the standard, strictly, would be 484 pounds; but 60 is that in use, because of the different weights of wheat having the same bulk. Mr. Woolhouse, in his excellent little work on the weights, measures, and moneys of all nations, says: ‘The weights and measures of the United States are precisely the same as those of Great Britian, with the exception of the measures of capacity, for which the old standards are retained. ‘Thus the unit of dry capacity is the old Winchester bushel.” Webster also says: “The Winchester bushel is used still in the United States.” But our Winchester bushel of wheat is 60 pounds, and as the Imperial bushel of wheat, nominally 60 pounds also, is 10 pounds greater, it is 70 pounds of our standard, our weight of the gallon of wheat being heavier; and eight such bushels, or 560 pounds, being equal to a quarter of a ton, the English quarter of wheat becomes such quarter, and not the two coombs of the English measure of capacity. Hence Webster’s definition that the word quarter is a dry measure, the fourth part of a ton in weight, or eight bushels of grain. Difficulties of this kind must always be recurring, until Congress will do for measures and weights what it has done for the moneys of the United States— sweep away the pounds of troy and avoirdupois weight, the twelve inches of the foot, and make 10 or 100 the unit for these, as it has done in our currency. The numeral figures are the same in all nations, and in them alone should be the common standard of weights, measures, and moneys. Other nations would follow our precedent, and thus common standards obtain throughout the com- mercial world. Imports and Exports for New York, For the ten months of 1863, from January 1 to November 1, the imports at Newavionkiinyeubeena. otc see Sate) eee Cee eee toe nomena eee ee $155, 000, 000 Add 40 per cent., as difference between gold and currency..-.--- ---..--- 62, 000, 000 Totalwvalueiof amportsy= 2s... Sis - Sees sees eeec eee asec Ree aes 217,000, 000 MinSracponsn Onin eisAMe mime) Wel am mets = = eet anole alae areal ie erent 145, 000, 000 Balancevarainstmthe United States. (fos. cose san cece soseeesoae ae 72,000, 000 To meet this the exports of specie have been: HromyNew, Votks 2 ene eee acatsnce aeccee tee sec haacoeess $39, 000, 000 romiCalifonniae aoe oe ecetiaGemee noc cheese a ereces jmnsiacsie 25,000 000 —— 64,000,000 Balancelduewor aim Pontes ees = eee ae ee ee ae a ele 8, 000, 000 The exports of breadstuffs, from September 1 to November 13 at New York, and to November 10 at Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, and California, have been as follows, in each of the following years, to Great Britain and Ireland : Flour. Meal, (bbls.) Wheat. Corn, BLS Ge, StS a pre ee 2 LE Fahad eee 3,367,916 239,459 GS Greene Zt ee. Ei eett Lee eee 220, 676 50 9,444, 579 1, 879; W775 BIE Sa eee Sk re eae oes ey eee 240,994 300 4,231, 048 3,167,776 TSI) ake ees ee oe ee ee ae 584, 116 2,413 7,799, 056 927,990 To the Continent, during the same period: AS Op eee ree eet a a Son eaelsecnecamere 22,613 None. 128,295 eee TSG meee cee UN phe Sockets BiO2il' sae eee 535, 189 5,218 Gh) a ee ee ee 340.586 79 (Eee ee 4,892,423 221,113 PSG0 Meee S = Wai Scien lec Seicaea seca 13,596 5H eeeee 96, 660 5, 000 These tables show a heavy decrease of our exports in wheat and corn, and nearly the same amount of flour. 11 Table of the amount, condition, §c., of the crops for the month of October, 1863. WHEAT. *1aqo}OO Suranp a doxd Jo WOTYTPUOD OSR.IOAY ‘COBL FO TRF UP poad or) -W00 UMOS PUBT 4,08 ‘AV | 10 ili 10 10 93 10 10 10 11 10 By ‘gost1n9 ye woz dow 0} Arnfay ior) ies) 3 | Ad 2 ‘ORT WIEM poawedutoo a dowd JO JUNOUIR 0dB.LIOAY COTTON. |POTATOES. ‘sosneo Ye wos dowd oy Aanfay 10 24 12 dowd Jo JuNoUIe oSRIOAY BUCK- WHEAT. *sosnRd [Ie woazy uyeud oy Arnfay dou JO JUNOUIY VIBIOAY 10 *sosund ye wor dowd 0} Arnfay SOSSB[OUL JO 4, WIR OdLLOAY 131 63} 4 | 19 ‘sosnmo Tw wor yoo, 0 Ammfay ‘CORT UPI poardutoo doaod JO JANOWIR OST.AOAW 13 NDR cere eta ate 3 14 14 CORN. | TOBACCO. SORGHUM. ! Ie wos uread 07 Aamfay dow jo yunoure osR.0Ay ll STATES, IMBING 3+. <..--.5-% - New Hampshire- Vermont --- 10 Massachusetts ..-. ---- Rhode Island. --.- 10 @onnecticut--..... =... New York . 10 11 44 10 124) 14} 123 3.| 12 INewiJersey = 22245. .c-.- Pennsylvania .-.------ Maryland.......- Delaware Kentucky .~ BMichican --.2 =). - Lacie) are Illinois - HURSEOUTIU a coe scsciae WISCONSIN... 52-2... LOS es ae ee Miismesota =. 2-5-2. Kansas...... West Virginia ........ Nebraska Territory .... 12 Table of the amount, condition, &c., of the crops for the month of October, 1863. IMSING = i>} 2 = Average amount of timo- thy meadow sown com- pared with fall of 1862. Average condit’n of same during October. 10) 1 ag Ope ste 10 | 10 #0), ) a 10 | 10 Ate 10 11 9 10 | 10 10 9 10 | 10 9 | 10 10.) alo 10 9 10 | 10 103] 10 10 | 10 8 8 114 90 11 9 9 9F 11 8 ya Average am’t of fodder compared with 1862. rr a SS Sr Swe et SS Neji eo) Gey ive) compared with 1862. Average amount of ha se es — oe So i=) co) _ oS died of cholera this sea- Average No. of hogs that son in the county. Yes. Is this disease in the coun- ty now? Yes or no. HOG CHOLERA. 13 Table of the amount, condition, §c., of the crops for the month of October, 1863 STATES, New Hampshire -.... io a Massachusetts. ....-. Rhode Island........ Connecticut -......-. Mew Works 92... +. New Jersey -....-... Pennsylvania Maryland Welawarer. 252)... 220 Michigan ladicn ain Minnesota ..-.------ Kansag\-----.--.- eepoe West Virginia ..----- Nebraska Territory - - - past +3 gt Se |3¢ ae gas 10 10 10 10 9 10 10 10 10 10 11 10 10 10 10 10 9 10 2 9 10 10 8 10 8 8 8 7 8 7 8 u 7 8 94 94 9 8 9 8 113] 10 8 11 10 9 FATTENING CATTLE, 2y 2} & a pala Se ° 888 | god S 5 22 | 822 fan | fas > - pap < < 9 10 9 10 10 9 10 10 9 10 9 i 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 8 9 8 9 84 8 8 8 84 8 | 9 8 8 104 9 9 9 12 10 114 | 10 9 11 12 10 or No, OLD CORN. ge=| 82 < 4 Yes. 9 2 8 6 ) 3 10 3 10 2 9 police 8 22 8 3 7 17 10 1 scl ah ease 8 2 uf il// 7 9 ai 11 7 17 a 5 eels: 8 | 24 Zz 3 5 2 Gapsas 9 oe WEATHER. el|A|rE| Ele ZO PG ese alle LS ea 1 I AO eee 2 4 SONS Orie aes ee Se 345) S45 Sasso i PH eres) rate Pilea IW oy ece Oeil Sars GAT S34] onl 36 2 Bel kel ee | 1 LOGH | 25a heeled 4 Die tt oae Boles Feet seo s|t et |p Ae | ee Bu eb ee 9 2 126) | 5On yi loer ees 36}, 33 | 2 | 21 1 86 30) | 18 742 3 87) 54) | 63 4 PO AS ae Gunes es Sil 28) 5-25 vol 2 50 | 44] 6] 48 lata Sn 2G (6c) e Olea seal ke eons fle Aa | eer 1 Be ssco Case ate Oh Fecal eocyeal eee a aS tL... See METEOROLOGY. FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The following tables show, first, the temperature and the amount of rain falling in the month of October, and then the comparison between the weather for that month of this year and of the same month in five years previous. An examination of the last column in the last table will show how this October compares with the average of other years. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- fixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) for October, 1863, at the following places, as given by the observers named. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m., and 2 and 9 p.m. TEMPERATURE AND RAIN OF OCTOBER, 1863. Place. MAINE, Cornishville * Waterville ......... Williamsburg-..---- Foxeroft Linneus NEW HAMPSHIRE. Plymouth North Littleton Littleton Stratford Claremont VERMONT. Burlington Rutland Craftsbury Wilnington Brandon Springfield MASSACHUSETTS. Mendon New Bedford Westfield Topsheld...-../.... RHODE ISLAND. Providence County. Observer's name. Date. | Max.} Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain. oO ° ° In. Work: s6tsiccseses G. W. Guptill --.-.-- 1 72 27 23 49.4 | 4.12 Kennebec ..----- Bo. Wii etinct cond caine el ee cig = 2 elec eee eee 4.55 Piscataquis ------ Edwin Pitman -.....- 1 74 26 25 48.6 | 6,18 Se COL ee seine eae Mark Pitman -.--..- il 12 29 24 47.4 | 6.46 Aroostook ..----- A. G. & Miss Young. ul 72 29 13 47.3 | 2.37 Grafton =~ ..--=~ Jabez S. Ryan...-.- 18 74 29 22 56.0] 4,60 LtdO sme cee eneeer Rufus Smith........ 19 64 28 11 Py oe ae Se | Ad Qn aecececees Robert C. Whiting- - 19 72 29 18 47.5 | 2.43 Coons. eeet one Branch Brown..--.- 1,19 69 | 27,29 16 41.3] 3.98 Sullivaneeeereeee Arthur Chase. .-.--- 19 72 29 21 49.0] 3.95 | Chittenden .--...- McK. Petty =--2-2-- 18 68 27 21 46.7 | 3.90 RAMAN seme eee Stephen O. Mead... 4 80 27 18 49 Aes ee Orleans! S22 =. --=- James A. Paddock. - 1 70 27 18 44.4 | 2.90 Windham ....--. C.D: Alvord 2 eee eel beseacee OM Pereretetets 41 5p. 94|) Sage Rutland. = =< David Buckland - .-. 18 76 28 21 50.6 | 2.88 | Windsor. -.......-. Rey. J. W. Chickering 19 74 29 18 50.0} 4.25 | Worcester. ..---- Jno, George Metcalf. Atha 722 27 28 53.1 | 3.10 IBTIstole ee eee = 2 Samuel Rodman .... TL 73 29 33 54.8 | 1.09 Hampden.....--. Rev. Emerson Dayis:|--5.---.|------|--------|------ 48.9 | 5.26 IDIHEES aigseacbono0ds John H. Caldwell... 1 72 29 30 52 Sie tad! Providence .....- Prof. A. Caswell....| 1,15 72 | 27,29 29 51.4] 2.97 15 Temperature and rain of October, 1863—Continued. Place. CONNECTICUT. Pomfret Middletown NEW YORK. Fishkill Landing. - - . South Hartford Skaneateles BEITENORH oom == ance cc Moachester’. <. =. =. = iS Newark OiuliCity 2-5 <8 Philadelphia. ....... MARYLAND. Sykesville.......... Bt. Imigoes: -....-... Chestertown. -...... DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington KENTUCKY. Louisville OHIO. Kingston:.--......-. Kelley’s Island Hillsborough Bowling Green Cincinnati MICHIGAN. MTenroe: ..2-.< -o =|-ocee- 24 iti LOMAS eee nee George P. Ray ..... 15 70 31 15 43. 6 Cassese eieeee ee John Christian...... 2,8, 16 78 31 26 51.6 Clinton) rye see. P.J.Farnsworth, M.D} 2, 9, 16 70 24 26 45.0 Buchanan ......- A. C. Wheaton ..... 16 72 31 4 42.3 Muscatine -...-..- Suel Foster.......- 15 70 31 14 41.7 Jefferson .-:.---- T. McConnel ..-.--.. 14,15 66 31 15 42.4 Kossuth -..--...- Dr. F. and Miss L. McC oygeenee =i -— 15 72 31 14 40. 4 Mesa bescoaase Daniel McCready - . . 16 79 31 17 44.1 Ramsey -.--.-..- Rey. A. B. Paterson - 14 66 31 17 39. 2 Washington ..... John Evans .--..-- 14,15,16 70 23 4 36.6 Saupyaee eee eecnee Rey. Wm. Hamilton 6, 11 70 31 14 42.5 Douwelasic2¢-5--- Arthur N, Fuller. ... 16 81 23 13 47.0 Davis!: 255 222.h- Elford E. Lee......- 16 85 30 18 ol. 7 Riley. : Sosceccicec H. L. Dennigon..... 15 79 23 11 48.5 Rain. 1. 37 0. 50 1, 00 1.10 0. 67 2.40 eee Tam] tea See —ecleel all Table showing the average temperature and fall of rain (in inches and tenths) Jor the month of October, for each of the years named, and for the five years Jjirst named collectively, with the average number of places in each State in which the observations were made. | 3 Averages, | Averages, | Averages, | Averages, | Averages, Avy. for | Averages for z 1855. 1856. 1857. 1858. 1859. _—| five years. | 1863. States and Territo- S cee . 7 ele a4 ly pda a] a a1 i/2i4/2| 2.81412) 4/2) 4 12/412 PL ete SSeS ek Stele fe) e aie) 8s Theresa PAs ye 3h 38 oe Skaneateles Gouverneur NEW JERSEY. IPPOPTORS: 2... ---=- =< Paterson PENNSYLVANIA. Harrisburg Nazareth Oil City Philadelphia Pittsburg MARYLAND. Sykesville.......... St. Mary’s City Chestertown DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington KENTUCKY. Wowisville:. =. 4.5-- OHIO. Hillsborough Westerville Austinburg Kingston .........-- Kelley’s Island New Lisbon Welshfield Portsmouth MoledoP ya 25-55. Coliege Hill Cincinnati County. Observer's name. Middlesex ....-.- Prof. John Johnston - Windham ......-. Rey. Daniel Hunt... New Haven ...-.. D. C. Leavenworth . New York......-. Prof. O. W. Morris. - Dutchess --..---- Wm. H. Denning- -- Washington --.-. Pp. A. MeMore ..-.--- Doers aah acae G. M. Ingalsbee -... OiinGDissecpae>- | William S. Malcolm. \@rieida 222. ¢24 Dr. H. M. Paine... IN GEEA hs aaenenc E. 8. Holmes,D.D.S Oneldareeccse soe Storrs Barrows ...-.. Monroe-- -.-.=. -- Dr. M. M. Mathews. Jefferson ....---. S. O. Gregory ------ Caytpaoninee--- John B. Dill..-.-... Onondaga -.-.--- W. M. Beauchamp. .- St. Lawrence....| C. H. Russell--..--- MSSOKi= tea. cee W. A. Whitehead. .. Burlington. ...... Thomas J. Beans --- IPassale= <-socl~'s William Brooks... . Wanuphin'y J. B. Trembly, M.D- Hamilton ........ John W. Hammitt-- Ie edo. Sere 28 2 G. W. Harper ....-- | Champaign ..---- | Prof. M. G. Williams - | Cuyahoga ....--- | Gustavus A. Hyde -- Wyood Wee e sn ae | W. R. Peck, M.D..- Date. oot or Or Ot OT OT GO OH or or on Hnwnanrnar ow 2,5 2,19 | Max. 67 Date. | Min. ° 30| 20 30 | 17 301 25 30| 28 | 30] 25 10} 10| 30| 18 30| 20 30| 14 30| 22 30| 20 301 16 30 | 22 30} 14 30 | 21 30| 25 301 25 30/ 93 30! 26 30| 23 30| 12 23| 22 30| 18 30| 25 30| 15 | 30| 15 30| 24 301 25 30| 22 30} 10 30| 12 30 | 10 30| 16 30| 14 30) 19 30| 16 30} 12 30 | 20 30 | 17 30) 1 30! 12 30| 9 30| 18 30! 19 | Mean. ° 43.3 | 41,9 44. 39.8 43.3 43.1 37.4 40.3 46.3 44.2 43. 7 43.5 42.7 44. 0 43.0 Rain. Le 1.73 5. 43 3. 28 3. 51 1. 04 4, 62 1. 83 3. 83 3. 75 2. 05 3. 48 4.15 3. 48 27 Temperature and rain of November, 1863—Continued. Place. MICHIGAN. Newcastle Spiceland South Bend Rockville New Harmony New Albany ILLINOIS. Peoria Galesburg Manchester Waverley Upper Alton Pekin NEBRASKA. Bellevue .- Fontenelle SOUTH CAROLINA. Beaufort ... 26 -54-8 NEW GRANADA. Aspinwall W. T. White, M.D..! 27 County. Observer's name. Date. Monroe :)=-=.-— =~ Florence E. Whelpley 4,19 Washtenaw .-.--- C. S. Woodard.--... 5 inp gham 3 <= =.02 St Prof. R. C. Kedzie- -|5, 13, 19 Keweenaw --.---- Wm. Van Orden, jr - 16 Delaware - ------ 1D dia eee rae 2 Honry?itt-)-isess T. B. Redding, A.M. 2 =ev@07S 2322 5 Bae William Dawson... .! 2 St. Joseph..-.--- Reuben Burroughs. - 19 Park .'52-52-4-45 Miss M. A. Anderson. 13 (Posey -7- === o5- Juno. Chappellsmith -| 2 NIG Gece ct ae en Dr. E. S. Crozier. -.| 2 Lab ere ree Frederick Brendel -- 13 Moore co =aeeer Prof. W. Livingston - 11 COLE: 4525-5 ee Dr. J. & Ellen Grant.| 13,18 Winnebago .....- J. W. Tolman ...-..- 11,12 Hancock. 5 -2.-= Ss DB: Mead! 2 oan 4 Méfrean:. ..-....- Timothy Dudley....| 4,18 Madison —... 2. <...< Mrs. Anna C. Trible- 4 Tazewell” ..-.:.- J. H. Riblett -...--- 13 La Salle...-..... Emily H. Merwin... 4 Milwaukee .....- I. A. Lapham, LL.D 5 Manitowoc .....- Jacob Liips..-...--- 2 PROC ee es plaeta eo Henry D. Porter- -. | 2,18 Ashland’. ©. - 2-22+ Bid yan Wig. sa = «ase ol stata cielo 53> OF Cee nberoseen John Christian... --- qd hewisi---+--<-..- George P. Ray -.-.- il Johnson. .-.-.....| Pr. T.S. Parvin, A.M! 12 Buchanan .-.-....- | A. C. Wheaton ..... 12 Hardintss*---2002 Nathan Townsend - -| 18 Muscatine -.----- Suel Foster .-.-.- .--- 4 Clinton = 323225 55< Sea 11,12 Kogsttl = ----.o.- nace ries agenl 12 Dubuque - ......| Asa Horr; M. D..... 18 Ted. 2). 282... | Daniel McCready - - ; 4 Jefferson ..-..--. T. McConnel -.--.-.-. | 13 Ramsey --------- Rey. A. B. Paterson.| 12 Meeker=- ==... EH LL. Smith Sip. 7 260 | 10... 3: se=2-2- 27 Pirres uly = 22's sae Boe, Be ee oo | 10, 9 oe ee 22 b WOe sees ee 24 SSreLibaveg Vel reget Ua Sea ee eee | 9, Waste 552-05 5 Se. Oh ees eae 28 ManeH DURE test DS. -- 2. 10, Aastak 2-44 | 20 |} 10......-.----- * 25 RpaAnCie es: 25 es eee 58 os. oe 10, 9p. mas - 2 | 18 | hs tate eet ee) Eee E ec MASSACHUSETTS. Le ee eee f 9, Meant ee fe 32.2 Baldwmawilleroese 4... soto sce ot { 10, Opin tas Beet Ue so kes 28.3 Mengunemreree 2: see 8) de } 10; Ops sUi-- et, SAG SS | SE Ee eet 30. 2 be ee | Fi, Fecme geet Beret, Pale i225 ae 32.3 OANC Wich eee se ete eo.) | 10, 9 poaieesze=e Ot. pee eee 30. 2 Topsteld oes aen set. 322256 s 2! | 10, Spa SiNee | IOs. -.4-sc0-s--= 34. 3 Walliamstown: 2222222 =... 2.2... |. 39. Tease 3.425 | v7 | ope ee Bee... sabes l Ce Wrestiield = Stmysesee = fe ee. | 11, 7 Gemmeeee st 28 ee eee 33.3 30 Table showing the lowest temperature, &¢c.—Continued. Place. RHODE ISLAND. Providence CONNECTICUT. Middletown New Haven Pomfret Auburn Convemeunsce soe s cee see eee ING We Olls- cance ceo che cee ae ee Oswego Rochester NEW JERSEY. assaics Walley x52 2 j-+ acco ese oe | IPEQRTORS1S -cinmin eee 5 poe te See PENNSYLVANIA, Canonsbitey ace. 5 es eiate ; 1M sida) See eee te ee JGR ats) 0) bie A ee Geo ; Nazaretht.is 225. Seer eeeee eee AMC itiyses Ja0 8.22 28a, be. eee Philadelphia 1/020 see. 5-42. } ERIS DULO No), 2 clinae eee ee eter MARYLAND. SHEEN UBS See SORE anes Aes ee eee MUU OOPS ase == 224 sie0 «ec a. == Cilncenta toy (ene AS anes she See DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Wiis iiiieint 922 555 559550 seep ssaee- SOUTH CAROLINA, IE OtOnt =. . 25 Ake BOCA ee ee eee Lowest degree. Coldest day. Date. |'Temper- | | ature. LO; Ospameee il, Cf Eee © ; 2 aay ame. fet 28 HO (iialn Wail= 4) ae 29 I? (ere tit eee 25 LO tame aoe 28 OPO prea ol LON Op. mes. 10 Oa pies 10; Ospmesee 31 i 7 apm = 10S Sip rm: saa 25 1 arm eseee > "Se..0 yD 0s al = ‘ 10, 7a. it oe MD eae ese on 3l OPN kas ime oe 30 Ohi ale es 24 LO} ian mle. LO OR sate te ce Sere 0 = 10, 9 p. m-.- ZY UR Gla.) eens 27.5 On ean. - ; 98 ee ge ee. Oo ip alee 10} ia. meee ; ce OOP tie == =e 27 OW #8. m=. 1D; 7 e-em: = “f es 1, eas ame. 8 28 ORY) Gry tee oe 22 LON 77a: mee 11, 7a. m..- ; 32 10; 7@as Mee sees 23 DW verte Sou 25 10; fas meee 11, 79. se ; ee LO va. meee 1 a. meee ; 2s 7 as Mee ee ee 30 LO, 7a. meee ee *32 Date. Temper- ature. LO esa sae eee 32.1 OM: Se eee 34 10+: Seo eeeee 37 ik) eee! See ee 30.2 9: 1Ol. aot oe Bie QS eo Spare ele aceon 33. 6 i eee es 16 1LOt2ese eee 34 10393 28.6 10.2525 36.9 1 URES a as = Siete Ue mens ee ee oe j (0 pee Shh Sh 2 31.6 1OSe. eee ee 28.3 LOR Ae See oe 29.3 9.103) k sees Son 1 Oy Peete eee Dane Oe but) ee 32 LOSS ae ee 25.3 910223 sae 31 1OS3 23 ee ee eee 39.3 1 See os 33 LO cas ees See Lif Ff Os ce ae Biel, HON: 235e2 ee 29.3 DeSales yt 30.7 hee ee at on LOM tic oe 37 OS 22 ce See 35. 5 10! Sade Aan * These temperatures were the lowest of the month, except on the 30th, The 8th was the warmest day of the month; mean temperature, 73. ol Table showing the lowest temperature, §c—Continued. Lowest degree. Coldest day. Place. Date. | Temper- Date. Temper- ature. ature. OHLO UO DHES So a Dae dae 2 ae ee Qyak Ba DRS 2s | 26 OS Fosse aes 29.6 (Oita sBeppseeedocn scene] sec LON a. Mes aoe 26 SEO ts 2 = 32 MAS boxO Uo NN. /s Bos sees a eee LOS ak Meee . 23 NOSE as cco ac - 29.3 Kelley Island =. 3-5-4229 3= sees Lena sane 29 Ones 2ss5555\05 33 IIB StON 2222 5..0\...0 Sapte eae eae ee 10; 4 dees eos 28 LOA 3 ee S183 INevaloisbon 2... Sa gace sense ace ae NOS an mnaeee ae 24 1 (Case se eee 29 Wollesesbtll 2% aeiceeras seat Dyed Ben Ee eee 26 Me baeeaReneee 30.3 orsmouth 223.2 seses 52s esses 10) 7 ancmeee = = 3] M0 gasssa24-2522 Soul Wibamals> = +52 ames 2 ay. = << 2 LO} Vea -. PAT Olt ae Slates IDWINIO UWE Bec soeS conc: - sone aeB eee Oso i den Tilers = 24 Oeeetetie cee 29 Pleasant Plain: 4252 teense. 39 Seapine Manhattan! 22.22 .cetu ast Soeeee LOS 7 sean eee = 28 2 epee ee a, 539) Since the above table was sent to the printer, registers have been received from Bermuda, in which the reading of the thermometer at noon and the mean daily temperatures are given. These show very clearly that this depression of tem- perature prevailed also on that ocean island, but about two days later than in the Atlantic States. The mean temperature of the 11th was 63, and of the 12th 62, which were lower than that of any previous day during the season; and none lower occurred afterwards till the 2d of December, when the mild and steady temperature of the island was reduced to 63 at noon, and 60 for the mean of the day, under the influence of the same cold which was so severe in the United States in the last days of November. MEAN TEMPERATURE OF NOVEMBER. By the following table it appears that November of the present year has been warmer, in nearly all parts of the country from which registers have been received, than the average of the month for a period of five years, from 1855 to 1859. ‘The only exceptions, so far as shown by this table, are Indiana, Mis- sourl, and Wisconsin. At Pomfret, Connecticut, the past November was the warmest in eleven years. At Newark, New Jersey, during the preceding twenty years, only five Novembers were coider, and none since 1843, and all except three had a lower minimum. At Providence, Rhode Island, the temperature was three degrees and one-tenth above the average of thirty-two years. 30 Table showing the average temperature and fall of rain (in inches and tenths) Sor the month of November, for each of the years named, and for the five years Jirst named collectively, with the average number of places in each State in which the observations were made. 3 Averages, | Averages, , Averages, Averages, | Averages, | Ay. for | Asvermdenie Z| 1855. | 1856. | 1857. 1858. | 1859. al eels 1863. States and Territo- s : 1h | ir ries. 2 | a |S 1a) pe epee a Pe eye gd |g. jog Shishi Sie! eae Sool sees | Se laa Sele! s | & Mose A a cd ad a) 8/2/48 |e) a |e = ee pow al Mee! = Lae as Deg. In. | Deg. In. | Deg. In Deg In. | Deg. | In.| Deg. | In.| Deg. | In IMU 6 2. of5 tae 35S 010 | 6 | 37.1 | 4.95! 35.1 [3.10 37.1 3 29) 30.7 2.07 35.5 4.68) 35.1 3.62 39.4 | 6.35 New Hampshire ..... 4 | 36.4 | 3.68 34.5 (2.60 37.5 2.01) 28.1 3.04 36.4 3.14) 24.6 2.89 35.9] 2.45 Memuont po... 24. 5 | 34.6 | 1.28 93.2 |2.28 35.7 2.24 30.2 2.88) 35.8 3.17 33.9 237) 381] 251 Massachusetts .....- 12 | 39.5 | 4.30 38.5 |2.97| 40.6 2.05) 35.3 2.56 41.3 2.92 39.1 i2 96) 42.8] 5.19 Rhode Island. ....- | 1] 42.0 | 3.75 39.4 2.00 42.3 2.40 37.2 2.40 43.3 2.27) 40.9 2.56 43.3] 7.51 Connecticut --...--. 5 | 42.6 | 3.34 40.7 3.49 40.7 3,01 35.5 3. 17| 41.7 2.61) 40.3 3.12) 43.1 | 5.30 New York.......... 18 | 39.8 | 1.98 38.9 2.35 38.2 3.18 36.0 4.18 41.4 2.92) 38.9 2.92 42.0 | 3.55 New Jersey ......-. 4 | 44.7 | 2.66 42.3 /4.01) 42.3 1.39 387 4.34 45.3 3.74] 42.7 [3.22 44.1] 2,68 Pennsylvania......- 20 | 44.3 | 3.01) 40.5 |2.54! 39.7 |1.93) 38.4 |1.33, 43.2 2.48) 41.2 2, 26) 43.6 3. 62 Maryland ..-....--. 5 | 46.5 | 1.49! 43.9 2.33 42.9 1.47) 40.3 3.79, 45.7 1.65) 43.8 2.14] 46.6 | 2.67 District of Columbia.) 1 | 48.3 | 1.12 44.0 [2.14 42.3 11.34 41.5 4.19 481 1,89) 44.8 214 47.0] 1.73 Kentucky ..-....-.. | 4] 51.4 | 3.62) 43.5 /4.06) 42.2 2.78 39.9 2. 57 48.8 3.01) 45.1 3.21) 45.7) 3.14 pinion th eed) | 21 | 45.4 | 5.23 40.1 |3.02) 36.1 5.70 36.9 3.85, 44.0 14.52) 40.5 4 46) 42.4 | 3.21 Michigan ...-.....- | 8 | 39.8 | 5.24 34.5 3.14 31.7 2.91 35.4 3.73, 38.3 3.83) 35.9 3.77] 38.3 | 1,89 indians) seeees fos | 5 | 46.2 | 3.65) 40.9 |2.98) 38.9 [5.81! 38.8 |3. 20] 45.7 |4.15! 42.1 |3.96) 41.3] 3.61 HILT fee a | 14 | 41.8 } 2.81) 35.0 |3. 62) 33.0 /2. 67) 34.8 |3. 76) 40.8 ;2.90) 37.1 |3.16| 38.7) 1.35 MUIREM ETL ese 221.4 3] 47.1 | 5.16 46.2 |4. 64) 39.1 [5.22) 37.6 4.92) 46.8 5.41/ 43.4 [5.07] 40.1] 1.26 Wisconsin .........- | 10 | 36.7 | 2.14! 33.7 |3.67| 29.5 [1.63] 35.5 [2.93] 36.4 2. 92, 38.0 |2. 66] 35.4 | 4.00 TOWy ft ne Se ne | & | 36.1 | 3.09) 33.5 /3.51) 30.7 3.53) 31.3 3.74) 38.7 1. 98 34.0 5.17) 34.8) 2.89 Minnesota.-......-- 3 | 33.1 | 1.37) 25.3 |1. 40] 25.2 2, 58] 26.8 /1.26) 30.0 2. 03) 28.1 [1.73] 30.5 | 0.25 Nebraska Territory.| 3 |-....-|..-.. eee tl, Hin 32, 1 |1. 75) 31.0 0.59] 37.3 1.24 33.4 /1.19) 39.3 | 2.00 Reampaverets = a2: s2-c fe) oe els eer nae eee 35.5 3.61) 34.3 2.19) 45.0 (0. 74| 38.3 |2.18) 40.6 | 1.86 California .......... (eh ones | 0.00! 52.2 |0. 65) 54.8 2 31] 55.5 0. 40) 53.5 9 03| 54.9 ja.4e)......|...... | ! | | | D4 AUTUMN. The following table shows the mean temperature and amount of rain for the months of September, October, and November for a period of five years, and also'for the year 1863, as deduced from the tables published in these reports : Temperature and rain of Autumn. j | TEMPERATURE. | RAIN. a ——| : a: = Es Average of | 1863. Average of | 1863. | 5 years. | 5 years. IW Ries = Soc 2S eee ar head Annee san teoas 46.4 | 47.8 URC) ic 7 Mey Hampshite <2. -=/2 2.52 - ane eee | 45.9 | 45.7 1S: Bees Wit OT hee ee a I RE As ee et a ala 45.7 | 48.0 | 9.9 | 9.79 MASSACHIISCLISG. 2 SU ice k = see ee ce eee 90.3 | 51,2 | 10.5 | 10.70 ferme Wstind 22 ct aie so eee eee te | 51.1 | 50.8 | 8.3 | 12,22 Wonnecticut 62. aes cee Bees a eee | 30.9 | 50.6 10.5 | 11. 86 Neve Onk soo Se See Seen eee oe oe eee 49.3 | 49.3 | 995") 7928 WWew: Jerseys. --seee eee ae eee eee oe eee | Sane ioe. | 9.5 8.50 Panusyivania + 2. 2222 eee eee eae == eee | 52.4 | 52.2 | 8.32) a0 enoy land ©. Set BE Bee oe oa ee -- Mae eee 54.6 | 54.4 9% Se Distnietiots Columbia Hee eee ee ace. ee ee ee } 55.8 | 54.8 | 7.6 | 9.84 Kentuckye: 2222 2 erie 4 ct iee Jee oan ea D0 o4| eae | 8. Sileeeeee Ohio. sae Bese Se ee Bees ta a ek Ae | 52.3 | 50.8 | 10.3.1) 18.57 Mighi mame: Sarre ahem ser ae eee ole Ee ie min | 48.3 | 46.8 | 10. 25 | f6a21 Tmdia ian se 2b sco eee eee aeaecee ene eee we ee ee le | 53.9 | 50.9 | 9.6 | 9.36 HA rayantsy ek ee eS Sk eS eee ee 51.5 | 48.8 | Vinh) wise Zl Missouriy. seco te pea eee eae ek oS te erat a ae Sf) || Be 122100 | aie Wiikwewitstiel = 02 Ses Sad Ieee sess ose aes ae | 48.5 | 45.6 | 9.1 | 38302 Gin?) -S bss SSeS See se = ees ASRS Gases 22 S5 ee 49.3 | 46.6 | j1.9 | 10.20 MIM eS OLE ae ene See ea eee ne eee ce | 43.5 | 42.9 | 6.8 | 3.49 IN@braSKa ee een meee pene een ees soctecsscccece led a Abs Vid |e Kansas ese. eee nee Chee eee eee Sacer Oe cts cos | DA. ol asa 8.0 3. 80 (EPI NI oo See eS Sl eae a ee | GES ieese- | 3, de eee are) AURORAS. Nov. 1.—North Littleton, New Hampshire. Auroral display, with clouds in the north. Rochester, New York. A moderate aurora this evening. Nov. 2.—New York city. A roseate blush, 3 to 5 a.m. Noy. 4.—Steuben, Maine. Aurora, class 1, 3, and 6, considerably bright. Lisbon, Maine. Aurora north to northwest, 8 to 10 p.m. quite brilliant. Williamsburg, Maine. Commenced at 9 p. m. Littleton, New Hampshire. Rather dim, 74 p. m. North Littleton, New Hampshire. Diffused light, defined by an arch below, dark clouds accompanying; brightness moderate; general appearance at Sop. my ena Vermont. Pale diffused light in the north, partially in bands. At 8 p. m. nearly sixty degrees above the horizon. Westfield, Massachusetts. Aurora in the evening. New Bedford, Massachusetts. Aurora. Providence, Rhode Island. Aurora in the evening, low down in the north, and not very bright. Neweastle, Indiana. 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The following tables have much interest, as they exhibit the progress of this great cattle or fresh meat market, sustained by the west, and giving so much employment to railroads. Year. New York.; Bergen. | Cows and | Veals. Beeves. Beeves. calves. | it: Poi eee 238, 692 24, 634 6, 742 | 36, 294 | ij; re 227, 328 8, 681 5, 232. | 30, 054 | [ty! TC eae a 206, 227 31, 002 5, 899 | 33,171 | te Lo 192, 922 32, 921 7, 276 39, 687 | 1. {a 168, 859 37, 334 9,515 37, 392 Delis) es See 164, 636 26, 651 10, 160 32, 645 | Sheep and Swine. lambs. 520,951 | 1,100,035 475,306 | 1,105,754 514,587 | 599, 582 516,790 | 320,329 506,961 | 399,119 450,027} 551,474 | The following table exhibits the number of cattle sold at Allerton’s yards being a principal one for New York, and the States from which they same. States. 1860. 1861 ewe ¥orkes 2 2) 00. See eee arc! « 28, 296 29, 280 Milingis #82 842) Se ee 2 63, 429 86, 445 LSTG TEA Te eS ey. de ee 12, 182 15, 142 Rais eee ee ee aE 11, 892 | 11,597 Winer se ore ne a oe 1253 iia Weg @omnecieui = 55: SCS) Se 519 Mescaehases = Soo28 2 ache te. tie 38 WWSenrininees . St:. <5 er By 2 ee 146 Oita ee ek: Coe eee ee oe 36, 710 36, 470 RCMUUCKY ean woe ee oe 13, 174 9, 058 Mirchioniresss io. Saas. Ae 3, 642 4, 650 Pennsylvania s2s2),422 3-228 5_526 24 2,786 1, 109 RSSOUT om ooee os ata cun aces 7,716 3, 730 Mave Janey s.- 35262555 386 LBS Soe a eas Se eee 99 wemmmnihe 2%. 21202 3 Se | 2, 008 1, 131 Gherokee Nation =~ 2s s-2 5.522. 64 Yearly average prices. | 1860. 1861. jay 1) ee per pound. | $0 08 $0 072 Cows and calves...--.----- +... - per head- | 38 50 34 77 Wie seer Apt Mi 8 per pound. . 54 43 Sheep and Jambs;..--.---.2..-+-- per head... 4 21 4 54 Hlogey linemese sso 22 2 a5 2. per pound-. 62 52 1862. 1863. $0 072 $0 092 34 50 41 00 5d 6 4 43 5 89 5 5 On the above tables Hunt’s Merchants’ Magazine, from which we take them, has these remarks: “The receipts from Illinois are larger than those of last year, and she is far ahead of any other State in the list of contributors. The decline in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, is owing in part to the direct con- tributions of those States to the army of the Cumberland.” Illinois is less 3a / 34 favorable to grass-growing than corn-raising, and for this reason is the fattening district of much of the west. The fat cattle sent to market by it is not all of its own raising, but a large portion of Indiana cattle are fattened in Mlinois. This is seen from the census returns. In 1860, Illinois had of “ other cattle’? — that is, those that were neither working oxen nor milch cows—881,877, and In- diana 582,990, being 51 per cent. greater, whilst it sends from six to eight times as many fat cattle to the eastern markets. Although Tlinois produces so much corn, yet it raises a less number of hogs than Indiana, because prairies are less favorable for them than woodlands. 'These facts are necessary to an understanding of the cattle representation that Illinois has in the New York market. PORK-PACKING IN THR WEST. The Cincinnati Price-Currents of January 6 and 27 give nearly complete re- turns of the pork packed in the west the present season. As the returns are not yet complete, we do not wish to report them as fully as we will do when all are received. The latest returns are as follows: Number.of hoes packed in 1862-1863 ~~. 223 - -|..-\-.- + = -0 2). «1 3, 449, 240 Number of hogs packed in 1863-1864.........--.-.---------- 2, 465, 407 Jo Wla(ly (elspa hae eae ee oi 9205 I eS) S| 984, 833 This is a great falling off, and there will be a greatly decreased weight also. In numbers it is almost forty per cent. below those of 1862-63. In weight it will not be far from 15 per cent. In the October report of this Department, an estimate was made of the pro- bable decrease in the number of hogs for the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan, four of the principal hog-producing States. This estimate we were aware would put to a severe test, as to reliability, the general estimates of the crops made in these reports. Although we had not made this estimate either with the data or great care bestowed on those of the cereal crops, yet the result is gratifying to us, as doubtless it will be to our correspoudents, upon whose returns chiefly the estimate was made. In that estimate the deficiency in numbers in these States was placed at 806,139 head ; a number close to the proportion of the whole number and loss of corn. It is expected that a fuller statement can be given in the next bi- monthly report. RELATION BETWEEN THE DISTRIBUTION OF SEEDS AND RAILROAD FREIGHTS The following letter is interesting as showing the utility of this Department in distributing seeds, especially when the productions of the country change from various causes. It is the duty of the Department to foresee such changes, and provide for them. It is interesting also because it exhibits the necessity of railroads to agriculture, and the almost providential construction of these just prior to the rebellion, and thus opening loyal communication between the west and the east, and without which agriculture and commerce must have been paralyzed. Mr. W. H. Osborn, president of the Illinois Central railroad, writes as follows: OFFICE OF THE ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD CoMmPANY, New York, January 30, 1864. Dear Sir: You did me the favor last year to send me a large package of tobacco seed, which was carefully distributed in southern Illinois. I am sorry 35 that 1 am not in possession of any special report of the out-turn of this seed; but I have no doubt that its distribution has been of great benefit. In our freight statistics for the year we notice large increase in the weight of tobacco forwarded, and it may interest you to see the quantity from various stations, which I annex below: Pounds. Ashley. -..-------------- 22 -- eee eee eee ee ee eee eee eee eee 272, 900 NTN al Set i te eae a2 82, 500 IMATE) 2 2200 2 Seater hk Fp otdnis Weld Slee Peed eee SS 315, 560 a ele Ne Ore ree ee ae See ee ae 438, 640 retene® 2S I8 Ark Se See ee 3 124, 260 Ohatantaley). 00 Jo 9A. gd eae Soge PRs se aS Ss. 4, 254, 000 Meer pecmamnthen, 15,2 Sk cg Rare SLATE ea es ee 420 Benes Noro. A See EE Jt SOS one seein ot ae SO eS ork 57 tad eden: = tli. Veet se SONS, Seapets Ay See. 2s oy 3 430 ROR Since d we ail einen ss oa Sia inact ears ees CO ae aa a oe 220, 910 MOORS 1/5 Be NCS PS CO IS PO SE Ie Fe A, ee 4, 450 Peaibiplet sa 21 SS NOD A 5 OS SM a 26, 540 gre (ee 8 A IS 38 2 Pe) aE a ee EI 3, 408, 280 3 soteely MGiarae sree. LEU SN Se oS) Pa A. ME 9, 726, 260 Very respectfully yours, W. H. OSBORN. Isaac NewTon, Esq., Commissioner of Agriculture. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. On the vexed question of what is the weight of an English bushel of wheat, Mr. David Ogden, of New York, sends the Department the following: “T find on pages 22 and 23 of your last report a letter from C. W. Atkinson, respecting the weight of the English bushel of wheat. He is entirely mistaken in his postscript. Wheat was formerly sold in Liverpool, and is yet in London, at 70 lbs. to the bushel, or at 560 lbs. to the quarter of 8 bushels. I will give you an example. In 1856 I shipped 10,836 bushels of wheat, at 60 lbs. to the bushel; it weighed 650,160 lbs. It was sold in Liverpool for 9,278 bushels, at 70 lbs. to the bushel, and weighed 649,460 lbs. In this country we sell corn at 56 lbs. to the bushel; in England corn is sold at 480 lbs. per quarter of 8 bushels—60 lbs. to the bushel.” But we recur to this subject principally for the purpose of saying that Con- gress recognizes the importance of acting upon it, for the House of Representa- tives, ai the present session, has added to its standing committees one on weights and measures. The Constitution of the United States confers on Congress the power “to coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coins, and fix the standard of weights and measures ;” but so long as it allows State legisla- tures to declare how many pounds shall constitute a bushel of any commodity it fails to meet this requirement; for the words that it “shall have power” mean that it must exercise it. And, surely, few subjects of legislation, in times of peace, deserve more speedy or better matured action than this. 36 THE TABLES OF STOCK FOR JANUARY, 1864. ' At this time it is unnecessary to dwell on the tables of farm stock which are published in this report, for in the next one very full and complete tables, show- ing the number of each kind of stock, and of different ages, their increase in value, and the total value of all, will be presented. It was impossible to esti- mate them in time for this report, for great care and much labor are required in preparing such tables. The figures show the ¢enths increase or decrease, from the years stated in the questions. ‘The number 10 represents the stock of these years, and the increase or decrease is in tenths above or below that number. The middle columns, under the heads of horses, mules, cattle, hogs and sheep, show the proportion of these to the whole number; and being most generally three, it shows that the young stock is ¢hree-tenths of all. ‘The third columns of prices are from two to nine-tenths above the prices of 1861—that is, from twenty to ninety per cent. increase. The returns from our correspondents, from which the tables in this repoit are compiled, are far more satisfactory than was anticipated from the difficulty in answering the questions proposed, and being the first asked them relative to the stock of the farm. The neceggity of such correspondents to the objects of this Department is an absolute one, and too high an estimate of the value of theiz services cannot be made. 37 Table of the number, value, &c., of farm stock, for January, 1864. COWS. CATTLE, “TO8T S9TI8 eo11d Ur osvatoul osvIOAW 13 12 13 GORT LAO CORT UL 10})Nq, Ul osvet0 UL oS tIoAV [or] 13 11 14 14 1] 14 “TOST WAL poweduros Joquina osRi0Ay 10 12 | 12 “TORT aouIs “Sqt QOT tod aod Uf asBaloal odBtoAW ‘TO UINM 9TOYAA 9yy YIM peavdurod ‘pro savod @ tepun sequinu advivay “TO8T W}tAa poreduros .oquinu edRi9Ay li MULES. HORSES. TOST oours add Ur asBorour eSRIoAW Loqurna ejOyM oy} YM poird -wiod ‘po savad g pus % UdesMjJoq JOquNM odRIOAW pee xedutod toquima oe, ay ‘TORT souls eortd Ul osvodour oSB.oAW | | 12 9 7 10 13 12 13 10 14 13 13 13 13 11 1 =a cc ee ee | pees 15 14 ‘requnu etoyM oY} WIM posed -u100 ‘pfo savoA g pur Z TodMJOq LequUInNU osRIOAV poredurod toquinu ostaisay 9 8 11 10 2 2 3 | 13 3 3 3 3 10 9 9 9 8 9 11 11 13 It STATES. New Hampshire..-..-. Vermont - Massachusetts - Rhode Island. ..---... Connecticut New York. 2 4....-552 New Jersey....-...--| 10 Pennsylvania ..----.. Blaryiagid.- <<... Kentucky... 5.2; -----) Michigan ......- Widians 63. etodes Hlinois b UIREISV0 tg (a WHSGOTISIM 25 oe esc Ses Vowal<--2. - Minnesota.. o Past Pape) sara edie aan | a January 2-25. 5.< 2.14 | 1.92 | 0.10 | 1.76 | 2.09 | 0.41 | 0.61 | 2.18 | 0.82] 1.53 | 2.19 | 1.31] 1.68 HERIUa Yes. =o 2-21-)- | 0.59 |} 0.78 | 1.35 ; 0.62 | 0.31 | 1.48 | 1.31 | 1.20] 1.41 | 0.38 | 0.26 | 0.81 pal Wii Ns 5s eerie | 1.48 | 0.42 | 1.75 | 0.97 | 0.73 | 0.88 | 0.77 | 1.63 | 1.89 | 3.74 | 0.68 | 1.25) 1.32 JAG os eS oneoes sS= | 2.58 | 0.30 | 0.26 | 1.97 | 1.77 | 2.13 | 2.01 | 0.95 | 1.44 | 2.29 | 0.54 | 1.35) 1.46 Waiyge eas siete e "1.60 | 4.03 | 1.94 | 4.38 | 0.87 | 2.05 | 1.80 | 3.04 | 1.31 |] 3.54 | 1.46 | 2.17) 2.06 ANN Semeosanereeees 2.54 | 1.53 | 1.48 | 0.88 | 1.91 | 0.78 | 3.10 | 5.15 | 2.35 | 2.33 | 4.46 | 2.21 1. 98 Dilys -ociescese ss | 4.17 | 2.40 | 6.30 | 1.43 | 1.22 | 2.55 | 2.18 | 2.72) 1.90 | 2.09 | 0.80 | 2.31) 2.30 August ......-...-| 1.87 | 1.77 | 1.45 | 3.50 | 2.80 | 1.46 | 2.49 | 4.16 | 0.50 | 2.40 | 1.96 | 2.03) 2.37 September ..... ---. | 2.41 | 0.58 | 1.15 | 1.99 | 3.52 | 1.05 | 4.05 | 2.82 | 1.78 | 2.74 | 3.47 | 2.13) 2.13 October: ----------= | 3.7 2.61 | 6.15 | 2.40 | 4.01 | 1.36 | 2.55 | 1.60 | 1.04 | 3.00 | 1.56 | 2°52 2.75 November -<.-2o=--¢ | 0.91 | 1.31 | 1.34,| 0.94 | 1.53 | 0.10 | 2.72 | 2.60 | 4.10 | 1.01 | 1.68 | 1.52) 2.00 Wecember==--.----- 0.30 | 1.27 | 1.12 jp1.88 | 0.30 | 1.53 | 1.95.) 2.03 | 0.94 | 1.49 | 1.26) Livy} a Annual amount. ./24. 37 |18.92 24.38 22.72 /21.06 /|15. 78 (25. 54 30. 08 |19. 48 26. 54 (20. 32 |20.77 | 22.52 aa bh | l Loe, JE Monthly maximum in 23 years, July, 1855..-......-.-.-------------------- 6. 30 eae sg ., § January, 1855 -.. So Seeee--- =e === === = 0. 10 Monthly minimum in 23 years, § Noveniber, 158) Su Meme iar. 2, 0.10 Meany» maximum in) 2d years, (L852 -— - sete n ee ee eee eee emails mimi == nie 32. 55 Yearly minimum in 23 years, 1858 .-...-...-.---. ---2-------------------- 15. 78 Greatest monthly average in 23 years, October ......--.------------------- 2.75 Least monthly average in 23 years, February.........-...----------------+ He 8) 48 METEOROLOGICAL REPORT. As intimated in the report for November, the depression of temperature which prevailed in the end of that month did not reach its minimum, in the States to- wards the Atlantic, till the beginning of the following month; and in illustration of this, and for the purpose of connecting the two months, we give here a few notes from the registers of some of those States for December. Throughout New England, the lowest temperature of this depression was on the 3d. In Maine, it was 7° at West Waterville; at Williamsburg, 49; Lisbon, 13°; Cornishville, 8°; Steuben, 6°. In New Hampshire, at Claremont, 10°; Littleton, 6°; North Littleton, 2°; Stratford, 4°. In Vermont, at Brandon, 9°, Lurenburg, 5°; Craftsbury, 39; Burlington, 9°; Rutland, 12°. In “Massachusetts, New Bed- ford, 18°; Sandwich, 169; Mendon, 13°; Amherst, 16°; Williamstown, 12°; Baldwinsville, 6°; Topsfield, 18°; Westfield, 17°. The above stations are those for Which the minimum was given in the table for November; and they are arranged in the same order, for the convenience of comparison. At nearly all the stations, the temperature of the 2d day of December was much higher than that of either the 1st or the 3d; and, at some of them, it is doubtful which day to select as the culmination of the cold, whether the 1st or the 3d, though at ail of them the 3d was colder than either of the other two. It often happens that fluctuations of temperature occur which interrupt its gradual descent, the ther- mometer rising suddenly, and, within twenty-four hours, falling again even lower than before, thus interposing, between two cold days, one much warmer. After the 3d there was another rise, and about the 7th the temperature fell again yet lower. It increased again on the 9th; and on the 11th was lower than on any previous day, and at some stations reached the minimum of the month. After these fluctuations, which prevailed to some extent in the western States as well as-the eastern, the warmest day of the month occurred in the States east of Ohio; further west, there was a warmer day earlier in the month, as may be seen by referring to the table of maxima and minima for December. We are able this month to make use of the valuable observations taken at various stations on the lakes, under the direction of Colonel Graham, Superin- tendent of the Lake Survey. Copies of these registers have been received, for several years, by the Smithsonian Institution; but they come several months together, in large packages, by express, and therefore not in time to be used in the preparation of these reports. The lowest temperature recorded on the registers which have been received is 32 degrees below zero, at Forest City,in Minnesota. ‘The station which gives the lowest mean temperature of the month is North Littleton, New Hampshire, 11.2 degrees. At St. Paul, Minnesota, and some other places in the west, as shown by the summaries inserted at the end of this month, the thermometer was lower in February, 1863, than in December. We began to prepare for this number a table giving the lowest temperatures which have been observed at various places throughout the United States and British America, but found it impossible to get it ready in time. Such a table would be useful for reference, whenever a day occurs (as it often does) which is said to be “colder than was ever known before.” While collécting materials for this table our attention was called to two instances of the power of the human system to endure cold, which may be interesting in connexion with the experience of many persons in the western States who were exposed only for a short time to the low temperature of the last day of December. Captain Ross, 44 in the narrative of his second voyage, mentions that, on the 5th of February, 1830, an EXsquimaux woman took her infant out of the bag in which it was carried and exposed it naked to the air at the breast with the thermometer 40° below zero. Captain McClintock, in his voyage of the Fox, relates a similar incident. He says: “ Esquimaux mothers carry their infants on their backs within their large fur dresses, and where the babes can only be got at by pulling them out over the shoulder. Whilst intent upon my bargaining for silver spoons and forks belonging to Franklin’s expedition at the rate of a few needles or a knife for each relic, one pertinacious old dame, after having ob- tained all she was likely to get from me for herself, pulled out her infant by the arm, and quietly held the poor little creature (for it was perfectly naked) before me in the breeze, the temperature at the time being 60° below freezing point [28° below zero.] Peterson informed me that she was begging for a needle for her child. I need not say I gave it one as expeditiously as possible; yet sufficient time elapsed before the infant was again put out of sight to alarm me considerably for its safety in such a temperature. The natives, however. seemed to think nothing of what looked to me like cruel exposure of a naked baby.” The principal feature of December, and one which necessarily attracted very general notice, was the intense cold and severe snow-storm which prevailed at the west on the last few days of the month, and extended in the beginning of Janu- ary, though with less severity, to the Atlantic States. The western papers at the time were crowded with painful and distressing evidences of the severity of the storm. 'The roads were blocked up by the snow, and for several days all travelling was interrupted, and there was no mode of conveying either mails or passengers; great numbers of cattle perished with the cold, and in many places men were severely frost-bitten, and some even frozen to death. In the Prairie Farmer, of February 6, a writer giving an account of the loss of two hundred and fifty of his sheep, says that, “nine years ago the 20th of January we had just such a storm, except it was not, I think, so cold.’ The tables for December and January give the minimum temperature during the storm. The duration of the cold, and other materials with regard to it, will be inserted in the next number. This storm presents the same general characteristics as all those great atmospheric movements which are sweeping over our continent season after season, and century after century, and which follow one another as unceasingly and as unchangeably as wave follows wave over the bosom of the sea. Since the mountains and the dry land of the continent, and the waters which surround it, were formed as they now stand, the course of these storms has, probably, not changed; and while nothing seems so fitful and uncertain as drought and moisture, heat and cold, calms and storms, yet they must be subject to laws as fixed and invariable as those which steady the earth in its ever-onward and ever- revolving motion, and keep its surface and its atmosphere ever exposed to the controlling power of the sun. These laws we now know only in part; but every observer who is accurately though quietly recording the course of the wind, and the changes of temperature and moisture, is contributing to that storehouse of materials which will reward another generation with clear and definite percep- tions of what we already know to exist, but can as yet see only in dim and shadowy outline. 45 FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The following tables show, first, the temperature and the amount of rain falling in the month of December, and then the comparison between the weather for that month of this year and of the same month in five years previous. An examination of the last column in the last table will show how this December compares with the average of other years. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- jixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) for December, 1863, at the following places, as given by the observers named. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m. and 2 and 9 p. m. TEMPERATURE AND RAIN OF DECEMBER, 1863. Place. County. Observer’s name. Date. MAINE, Fasbone. +2225 -24=3 -.| Androscoggin....| Asa P. Moore....-.-- 4 West Waterville....| Kennebec -..--.. Bi EY Wilbus-422.- 5 Cornishville -....... MOPK oh see sce G. W. Gupiill -_.-.. 5 North Perry....--.. Washington ..... Wm. D. Dana..-..-- 13 Sweuben ao 32 202 se et dot asters dab Parker 2s 222. 13 Williamsburg. .-..-- Piscataquis .....- Edwin Pitman ...... 2,14 NEW HAMPSHIRE. North Littleton -.... Grafton. i.-.-./ Rufus Smith........ 14 Maitdeton’ 22. s- -. 2.50. 1D Stes ee ee ae John G. Caldwell. -- 13 Mendon ees... 35x. Worcester ......- John G. Metcalf .... 13 Baldwinsville. ....._|..-. C02 ae Rey. E. Dewhurst - - 14 Sandwich’ £2-5.... Barnstablo-.-.-... N. Barrows, M. D-- 18 Williamsville -...... Berkshire. ....... Prof. A. Hopkins --- 13 Springfield) 2 --.: Hampden.-..-.... J. Weatherhead. ---. 4 Westfield-5.-- 22 eco i258: C0 ey ee oe Rey. E. Davis--.---- 4 RHODE ISLAND. Providence -........ Providence .....- Prof. A. Caswell.... 4 CONNECTICUT. Pomdreti:'.<=- 545 << Windham .......- Rey. D. Hunt--..---- New Haven ..-..... | New Haven ..... D. C. Leavenworth - 14 Max. | Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain, ° ° ° In. 48 22/—7| 23.3] 4.50 51 B18), ober | Gare 47 22}—2) 22.4] 4.29 56 Tut | Sey SEN be GSFC 49 21;—2) 225] 4.81 42 11}—6] 18.6] 5.84 { ak 39 Te 19) WeON Date 46 11|—10} 19.6] 3.39 ees a (eat Nees | ee 46 11 | 14.) .16.5)|| 3.75 Ai 410: Ie] —=.9')) 9ON0\|) ares 52 25 BC S75) lseesee 49 11} 2] 23.9] 3.84 48 ay Og eerie ou akseecs | sete 43 10/—8| 17.0] 3.70 45 10}— 4] 20.3] 3.96 55 Wp} ) 108 6369) | 5. 57 52 23 BAe Sas) | 5. 87 54 21 6] 29.3] 3.85 52 22 5| 26.7] 2.20 47 23/—6| 22.8] 3.66 56 | 10,21} 10] 31.6] 4.46 49 i 1] 24.5] 4.13 52 sat 1] 25.5] 4.43 50 Q 4] 25.3] 5,83 53 | 10,22 8] 28.5] 5.66 | 52 11 3| 26.6] 5.10 55 23 51° 90,0) |seeeee 46 Temperature and rain of December, 1863—Continued. Place. County. NEW YORK. Fishkill Landing. -.-.| Dutchess .--..--- Throg’s Neck, L. I.-| Westchester - ---- Skaneateles .....--- Onondaga --.---- Seneca Falls.-...... Senecar---=- ==. New VYork?os.s----— New York..--..-- Oswego -.---------- Oswego --------.- New York Observ’t'y| New York. .-.---- South Hartford ----- Washington ----- Fort Ann...--.-.--- sect Aasescoyar Gouverneur -.-...--. St. Lawrence. .--. Jamestown -...----- Chautauque ----- Hredonia -.------.-- Hoc alstossoches Battal Ole ae ea = = IES Samosa South Trenton...--- Qneidai------ = -- Clinton. ~ <---\-= = sais taesssssse Mheresa)-.ase=—==——= Jefferson ....--.- Rochester .-------.- Monroe. .....-.-.-.- lQWsocedsbSsess5 Bae wen soss4hse PATE STE pt Cayuga. -------. White Plains -....-- Westchester -- --- NEW JERSEY. Passaic Valley- --.-- Psasepieie cmeeeae Mount Holly.....---. Burlington. ..---- IN@wWARK C5 cacaee- 133). 4 oso o8edoe0 PENNSYLVANIA. Nazareth .......---- Northampton . .. WMG. Soarepessoeos WMOGape En nin~= sla Fleming..-.-..-.---- Wentetecereaasee OiliCiiye= == --------- Venango ........ Silver Spring------- Wuancaster 2-2-.-- Philadelphia-....-.. Philadelphia --..-. THORAC Se oo oem Columbia - -----.- Harrisburg -.---.--- Dauphin ......-. Canonsburg -.-.----.- Washington -..-- ittsburg------- = —-« Allegany ..-..--- MARYLAND. Sykesville...-.---..- @arroll/2sa-e en St. Mary’s City----. St. Mary’s--..--.-- DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington........ | Washington -.... SOUTH CAROLINA. | Beaton seine oes Beaufort ---..--.- KENTUCKY. Louisville .....-.-.- Jefferson --...... OHIO. Gineinnatic-- 2-25... Hamilton........ College Hill ..-.---. gona ha essSeeusar 10/0) 5- 4Se es seoeos so dbWie oe stess Hillsborough ..----- Highland ......-.. Westerville...-..--- Franklin .....-.. Wcbaneeeeeaeeeee Champaign ...... Portsmouth....-.-.- ISO oe ese eric Observer's name. Wm. H. Denning. -- Francis Morris. ---- - W. M. Beauchamp. - Philo Cowing Prof. O. W. Morris- - William S. Malcolm. Charles C. Wakeley- G. M. Ingalsbee ---- Pp. A. McMore C. H. Russell Rev: S.W.Roe, M.D. Daniel J. Pratt, A.M- William Ives Storrs Barrows Dr. H. M. Paine...--. S. O. Gregory Prof. C. Dewey ---- Dr. M. M. Mathews. John B. Dill Oliver R. Willis... -- William Brooks M. J. Rhees, M.D... W. A. Whitehead. .- .| L. E. Ricksecker --. E. T. Bentley Samuel Brugger... . James A. Weeks. --. H. G. Bruckhart- - - - pf. J. A. Kirkpatrick. John Eggert--.------ Jobn Heiseley, M.D. Rey. W. Smith, D.D. Prof. Dr. R. Mueller. Miss HarriottM. Baer. Rey. J. Stephenson. Smithsonian Inst’n. . Dr. M. M. Marsh. .-.- Mrs. L. Young...--- G. W. Harper John W. Hammitt- - 7, Wilson esse J. McD. Mathews. -- Pf. H. A. Thompson. Prof. M. G. Williams - L. Engelbrecht Date. 13 13 12,13,14 13 17 Max. 57 66 Date. 25, 20 ~ o BOStO tt te OS oo ew SO oo Min. ut 2% 18 28 PAW wwe BSAEBSSs 20d: 47 Temperature and rain of December, 1863—Continued. Place. County. Observer’s name. Date. | Max.| Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain. OHIO. }é a & In. Welshfield..-..-.--- Genugays 6-5 B: BF: Abell, AvM’-.- 4,13 53 24 9 32; Su aaom East Fairfield....... Columbiana ...-.. | S. B. MeMillan ..... 12S: 53 24 8 32. 8 5. 06 New Lisbon ......-.. See COs peace ... Ashtabula ...-.- | Dole & Griffing -.-.. 4 55 24, —4 31.0 | 4.40 Kelley’s Island. --- -- Ly CRE eeeee oe | Geo. C. Huntington -| 3 St 20 16 34.4 | 2.96 Dor (ae Preblosssce- neers | Miss Ollitippa Larsh-| 13) |) 56, ON leah 3h |, we Sees a ee MICHIGAN. Monroe City.....--- Monroe!) 52. .- Florence E. Whelpley | A 53 23 16 33.4 | 0.07 NASR eS aparece (in phamenss ara cians Prof, R. C. Kedzie... 4 49 6) 10 30.3} 2.19 INDIANA. Spiceland .......... Henrys ocean aimee William Dawson: --. 4 aS) 20 1 33.3 | 2.71 Murmcier a2-= 2s S-\5 Delaware - ...--- Hs) Je ACO eeee ees LOMTS |= 0 20; — 4 33.9 | 4.80 Rockville: ...<..5.: Park fee a sa5 it Miss M. A. Anderson. 3 50 19 [= 2 34.8 | 2.30 New Albany. .-.----. Whoy descent Dr. E. 8. Crozier -. 5 61 19 14 38.6] 5.19 South Bend..--.....-. St. Joseph. ...--. Reuben Burroughs. . 3 60 | 20); —6 30.6 | 4.20 Newcastle .........- Henryies-scs ess. T. B. Redding, A.M- 4 58 20 1 34.9 | 4.15 New Harmony...--.- PORGY; a -ssnias a= Jno. Chappellsmith - 4] 59 31 5 38.1 | 3.10 ILLINOIS. 121 2\07 tee Se Peoriaieacceset= Frederick Brendel - . 3 59 19|/—8 32.3 | 4.90 Upper Alton.....-.. Madison ......... Mrs. Anna C. Trible- 4 7 31 | —11 33.2 | 7.50 Galesburg -.......-- ROK, Jeera aa Prof. W. Livingston - 3 57 31 | —20 Qon1U) Sips BX moet so aeence 2 Tazewell.......-. Jie Riblett es -seose 3] 59] 19,31); —8 31.5] 6.19 (3) EGE Ree Gene See Iba Sallenaen css % Emily H. Merwin... 3 56 | 31 | —12 27.1) 2.20 Waverley =------.-- Morgan’. .-...--- Timothy Dudley. --. 3 58 | 31 | —14 31.5] 7.85 Winnebago ..=...--. Winnebago ------ J. W. Tolman ._-.-- 3 48 31 | —10 25.8 | 5.97 UB ora -- 19.0 | 33.0 | 28.0 | 26.7 | Cloudy; gentle breeze SE. Austinburg -.----- ------ 12.0 | 30.0 | 27.0 |.23.0 | Cloudy; very light breeze SE. Westervilles245- === PUN ENO) eS Se eee Cloudy; very light breeze S. Hillsborough ------------ 25.0 | 39.0 | 35.0 | 33.0 | Cloudy; very light breeze SE. Portsniouthie=-=—-- @---—- 25.0 | 37.0 | 35.0 | 33.3 | Cloudy; very light breeze E. Bowling Green .--------- 28,0 | 41.0 | 31.0 | 33.3 Clear ; very light breeze E. Cleveland -..----..------- 26.0 | 36.0 | 33.0 | 31.7 | Cloudy; gentle breeze S. East Fairfield-.----- ---- 18.0 | 28.0 | 27.0 | 24.3 | Cloudy; very light breeze N. Urbanse- 5.223222 =-eecee 24,0 | 28.0 | 24.0 | 25.3 | Cloudy; gentle breeze E. Kirieston sea 2022-255): 24.0 | 41.0 | 31.5 | 32.2 | Cloudy; very light breeze NE. Kelley’s Island ..-------- 30.0 | 36.0 | 31.0 | 32.3 | Cloudy; very light breeze E. ‘Gincinnatisesees Se. S222 | 98.0 | 39.0 | 32.0 | 33.0 | Cloudy; gentle breeze E. iatonse) oes SEE 25.0 | 37.0 | 29.0 | 30.3 | Cloudy, calm. *M@leveland!.-2s5--)es-225 23.0 | 35.0 | 29.0 | 29.0 | Cloudy; very light breeze SE. MICHIGAN. Vpsilanti-.¢.-+--------+- 22.0 | 34.0 | 24.0 | 26.7 | Clear, calm. Peps. 2.5. Co ceess2- 27.0 | 34.0 | 26.0 | 29.0 | Clear; very light breeze S. Clifton. .... ------------ 20.0 | 26.0 | 26.0 | 24.0 MONEOR soo: AG @ aes eae | 28.0 | 33.0 | 26.0 | 29.0 | Clear; very light breeze NE. AaWetrots- sass. Gc ee 25.0 | 39.0 | 39.0 | 34.3 | Clear, calm. *Mawas \City..--2--=-=-- | 28.5 | 31.5 | 30.5 | 30.2 | Cloudy; wind S. * Ontonagon..---- ------ 24.0 | 29.0 | 25.0 | 26.0 | Cloudy ; wind 8S. * Monroe. +: - ~- Rite Stee. | 26.5 | 34.0 | 23.0 | 27.8 | Clear; very light breeze SE. * Sugar Island....-------! 26.0 | 31.0! 30.0 ! 29.0 Cloudy, calm; snowing at 9 p. m. + Stations of the lake survey under the direction of Colonel Graham. 53 Weather on Christmas day, 1863—Continued. Station. INDIANA. MMnnCio =. <2 fs oe. Sete Weweastie: 32 ous). 22 South Bendis .2.4.. 9 Hockvaille eayss goose New: Harmony. 2722. ILLINOIS. Ottawasts. 98 saeeasou: Srl Wasees 42 y osecds Upper Alton (PLES eee ee ee gee Galesburg GOR Apes es encias was winia = Winnebago Augusta Sandwich WISCONSIN. Weyauwega....-..---... Madison ' MISSOURI. Harrisonville Canton ees oa sa: oooouw ocooococo ocoooo 3.0 0 Temperature. ah a oa ay Ge o Deg. | Deg. 46.0 | 33.0 38.0 | 30.0 39.0 | 32.0 40.0 | 33.0 38.0 | 36.0 42.0 | 38.0 45.0 | 42.0 42.0 | 37.0 ba das 33. 0 36.0 | 36.0 oak aue 42.0 42.0 | 40.0 35.5 | 35.0 43.5 | 41.0 33.0 | 30.0 39.0 | 37.0 43.0 | 34.0 39.0 | 39.0 37.3 | 34.0 37.0 | 32.0 30.0 | 26.0 33.0 |,30.0 30.0 | 29.0 38.0 | 40.0 39.0 | 38.0 46.0 | 44.0 45.0 | 40.0 32.0 1 35.0 39. dl. CoOWwWowoDoe Remarks. Clear, calm. Cloudy ; very light breeze S. Cloudy; gentle breeze SE.; quite pleasant; some snow on the ground in places. Clear; very light breeze SE. Cloudy; wind easterly. Cloudy; pleasant, gentle breeze SE. Cloudy ; very light breeze SE. Cloudy; gentle breeze SE. Cloudy; gentle breeze E. at7 a. m.; strong wind S. at 9 p. m. Cloudy; very light breeze SE. ; foggy most all day; snow melt- ing away. Cloudy; gentle breeze SE. Very light rain began at 9.50 p. m., and continued with intermissions till 3 p. m. of the 27th, and then a snow till 1] a. m., 28th. Cloudy ; very light breeze SE. Cloudy ; very light breeze E. Cloudy ; very light breeze SE. Cloudy ; fresh breeze SE. Clear; very light breeze SE. Cloudy ; gentle breeze SW. Cloudy. Cloudy; gentle breeze 8. Cloudy; very light breeze S. Cloudy; gentle breeze SE. Cloudy, calm. Cloudy; gentle breeze E.; rain from 6 p. m. to 9 p. m. Cloudy; gentle breeze SE. Rain began at 10 p. m., and continued, with snow, till 54. a. m., 27th. Cloudy; wind SE.; very light at 7 a.m. and 2p. m.; strong at 9 p- m. Cloudy ; fresh breeze SE. Cloudy; gentle breeze 8. * Station of the lake survey under the direetion of Colonel Graham. 54 Weather on Christmas day, 1863—Continued. Station. IOWA. Muscatine (Foster). ..---- Towa Balls: sessed gover © atte Ly Muscatine (Walton)... --- Towa Citivas saweee. otha see Fort Madison\-/-2 i222 2-..- Dabuques asset ws sr oe Mount Pleasant...-.---..- MINNESOTA. Steen! beta: Jace saat Forest City Mamaracke 2522 & December 30.—New York city. Meteor or shooting star at 8 p. m. from tail of Great Bear. December 31.—Fort Riley, Kansas. Meteor or shooting star in the southeast at 94 p. m., falling in a westerly direction. Meteor seen in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia on the twenty-first of Decem- ber, 1863. Mr. G. Murdock, superintendent of the water works at Saint John, New Brunswick, furnishes the following account of a remarkable phenomenon wit- nessed by a number of persons in the provinces of Nova Scotia and New Bruns- wick on the night of the 21st of December. On the 21st a very large and luminous meteor was seen about 11 p. m. and viewed from this city ; its course appeared to be from about SW. to NE. The writer of these notes had not the good fortune to see this rare phenomenon, nor to meet any one who had such a view of it as to be able to describe with unre- liable accuracy the manner of its approach and appearance when first and last seen. Many, however, saw and were startled by its flashing dazzling light, which is said to have been of a bluish color and to have resembled immense sheets of lightning. Its power was felt in closely-curtained rooms as well as in the open air, and after it had passed there was a deep sense of darkness which neither the clear rays of a full moon outside nor light gas inside could at once dispel. No noise was heard, nor from this city were any balls of fire or stars observed to shoot off from the main body of the meteor. The night was cold and clear. ‘Thermometer about 6° above zero, and wind light NW. ‘The ba- rometer had been pretty steady all day, and at 10 p. m. read 29.874 inches cor- rected for temperature. 'The following day was cold and clouded, but there was little variation in the pressure of the atmosphere. The following particulars of the progress and appearance of this meteor, as, observed at different points, may be worthy of record. At Halifax, Nova Scotia, (about 125 miles in an air line E. SE. of St. John,) it was reported to be seen at the same hour, 11 p. m., but its course was described to be from SW. to E. Its flashings were quick and brilliant, but no sounds or sparks were noticed. An observer at Parsboro’, Nova Scotia, (about 80 miles E. by N. of St. John,) says in one of the Halifax papers that it was “similar to an immense ball of fire, and for three several times it threw out brilliant sparks of fire in every direction, causing at the same time three distinct intense illuminations. The sky during these flashes was entirely overpowered with a bluish flame, through which the moon could scarcely be discerned. When the illumination ceased, so great had been the light that the sky appeared to have been almost pitch dark. In about one minute and a half there was a report sounding much like a heavy cannon. It awoke people from their sleep, and shook houses like an earthquake. A strong smell of brimstone pervaded the atmosphere, produc- ing a suffocating feeling.”’ Again, at Amherst, Nova Scotia, about 90 miles in an air line E. by N. of St. John, it is reported by another writer to have “crossed the zenith about 8. to N., about two seconds elapsing before its disappearance. The nucleus appeared to the eye of a spectator to be the size of a barrel, and to have a tail like a comet or rocket, the rapidity of whose flight it about equalled. The sky was cloudless, except at the south, where a small cloud appeared extending a few degrees above the horizon. Although the moon was at the full, and snow cov- ered the ground, such was the intense brilliancy of the meteor that for miles round the interior of every house was lit up as if by a noonday sun, and the flash was more startlingly bright than the most vivid lightning on a dark night. 61 It was more than a flash, for the brightness continued for two or three seconds» the color being described as red, white and blue intermixed. “After an interval, variously estimated from one to three minutes, came a crash of sounds from the north similar to the passing of electricity from one cloud to another over a partially clear sky, as sometimes heard overhead on a summer day. Here the sound, or rather succession of sounds, continued about three minutes, and appeared to some as a distant cannonade, and to others as a feu de joie of musketry ; to others, again, the rumbling of heavily laden carriages over a hard road or bridge, suggesting the idea of an earthquake. There was, however, no tremulous motion of the ground. ‘Thermometer 3° above, and ba- rometer steady at 294 inches for several hours before and after.” The next notice we have of it is at Moncton, in this province, about 30 miles in a straight line north by west of Amherst, and about 85 miles E.NE. of St. John. Of its appearance here the Westmoreland Times says: “About 11 p. m. we had several very bright flashes of lightning and some heavy peals of thunder, and in addition to this a beautiful meteor of great brilliancy. The first appearance of the phenomenon was in a westerly direction, and it gradually went off toward the NE. The moonlight, which was very good, was altogether eclipsed by the appearance of the above while it lasted. ‘The night was very cold.” Whether this extraordinary meteor was seen and can be traced beyond this to where it struck the earth is at present uncertain. MISCELLANEOUS. December 3.—The coast of England was visited with a terrible gale, which inflicted very great disasters on shipping, and caused much loss of lite. It was also very destructive on land as well as at sea and on the coast—chimneys, trees, roofs, barns, houses, &c., being blown down by the violence of the wind. The list of casualties extends over thirty columns of the London papers, and embraces almost every locality on the coast of the United Kingdom, and many points on the adjacent continental seaboard.— Newspaper. December 6.—Charleston, South Carolina. At 2 p. m., while a furious wind prevailed from the northwest, the iron-clad Weehawken, while lying at the en- trance of Charleston harbor, went down at her anchorage—— Newspaper. December 6—Utah. During Saturday night and Sunday morning (5th and 6th) there was another fall of snow in the valley. It came lightly, and lies well; very pleasant for sleighing— Deseret News, Great Salt Lake City, Utah, December 9. December 11.—Westfield, Massachusetts. First snow this season. December 11.—Boston, Massachusetts. Wet snow began to fall about 11 p- m., and now (12th, 10 a.m.) has not wholly ceased; about an inch has fallen; the first this autumn. The average time at Boston of the first whitening of the ground by snow is the first of December. The first fall in 1859 was on De- cember 4; in 1860, December 4; in 1861, November 25; and in 1862, No- vember 7.—Metcorological correspondent of the Boston Traveller. December 11.—Fleming, Pennsylvania. 'The first snow of the season fell to-day. December 11.—St. Augustine, Florida. The orange trees are now loaded with their golden fruit as heavily as ever were northern apple trees in a year of plenty. ‘There are whole orchards of them.— Newspaper. December 12.—St. John’s, Newfoundland. A severe northeast gale, with a heavy snow-storm, has prevailed since the 9th, and still continues.— Newspaper. December 12.—Springfield, Massachusetts. First snow of the season fell this day; unusually late. December 16.—Boston, Massachusetts. This day is the anniversary of the 62 most nearly insupportable day experienced here within thirty-nine years, viz: December 16, 1825. Throughout that day the thermometer was below zero, and lowest (11 below) at 6 p. m., and the wind a gale from northwest. The lowest in 1862 was one degree above zero in December. December 18.—Belfast, Maine. First sleighing of the season. December 18.—Rutland, Vermont. First sleighing. December 18.—Leavenworth, Kansas. Accounts from the plains represent great suffering among the men and stock. In consequence of a severe snow- storm no hay or grass could be had, and the stock was dying off by hundreds of starvation, and many lives were known to be lost by the intense cold. Four- teen inches of snow has fallen here, and much of it, being drifted all the roads are blocked up. No mails have been received here for three days.— Newspaper. December 18.—Florida. Peach trees in bloom.— Newspaper. December 20.—Louisville, Kentucky. At 8 this morning the mercury stood at: five degrees above zero. The weather is more moderate this evening, the mercury being 22 degrees. The river is rising rapidly, and there is plenty of water for the largest boats.— Newspaper. December 22.—F ort Laramie. Colonel W. O. Collins, in a letter dated De- cember 22, says: “The winter is very severe, and it requires great care to save men and stock at the mountain posts.” December 24.—St. Louis, Missouri. The Mississippi at this point is seven inches lower than ever known before, so that the record will hereafter be kept for the low-water mark of this month. Only three feet and a half of water are reported on the bars between this city and Cairo, and the board of underwriters have issued a notice to steamboat men that, till further notice, boats and cargoes will be at the risk of owners north of Cairo.— Newspaper. December 27.—New Orleans, Louisiana. For three days it has rained ter- rifically. On Sunday morning (December 27) the city was submerged to a depth varying from one to two feet. This lasted, near the river, for several hours. Back towards the swamp the streets were still under water.—News- paper. December 28.—Winnebago, [linois. Barometer, at 2 p. m., lower than at any previous time on record at this place. December 31.—Lunenburg, Vermont. This month has been unusually pleas- ant and warm. Sleighing is now good, but with not more than two or two and a half inches of snow; but the roads are good and hard frozen. December 31.—Sandwich, Massachusetts. This autumn and winter, so far, have been remarkable for the great number of heavy southeast storms, with thermometer very high. December 31.—Nazareth, Pennsylvania. First snow of the season in sufii- cient quantity to cover the ground, beginning at 12 m. and ending at 7 p. m., when it turned to rain, and the next morning the snow was entirely gone. Augusta, lilinois —Good sledding from the 17th to 25th, and from the 28th to 31st. December 31.—Lyons, Iowa. It has been a cloudy, stormy month, with about ten days of good sleighing. December 31.—Natchez, Mississippi. The morning was.sultry and close; thermometer 80°; wind south; cloudy. About 9 a. m. a remarkable. change occurred, and the wind increased and became chilly, and then stinging cold, with occasional warmer gusts. What was remarkable this cold wind blew strongly directly up the river, or from a point south 30° west. At 12m. the ground began to freeze, and the wind had veered round to west. At 7 p. m. the thermometer stood at 23°, and next morning at 10°, and in some localities in the country as low as 8° above zero. The cold lasted till about the 10th of Janu- ary.— William Harper. 63 Tamarack, Minnesota—The first snow to cover the ground fell on the 26th or 27th of November, about an inch and a half, and is now (December 2) nearly all gone. On the 28th of November the mercury fell five degrees below zero for the first time this autumn. Minnetonka lake closed at the same time. Auburn, Baker county, Oregon, latitude 44° 373'—The lowest temperature in December was in the night of the 29th. Atg p.m. the thermometer stood at 4°, and at midnight 2°; at 8 a. m. on the 30th, 8°. The 30th was the cold- est day. The highest temperature was 48° on the 2d. Amount of snow in November 54 inches ; in December 38 inches. SUMMARIES FOR DECEMBER AND FOR THE YEAR 1863. This month being the close of the year, some of the observers, in addition to summaries for December, have furnished abstracts for the whole year, and some have also added comparisons with previous years. These tables are of much value, and for the purpose of enabling all our correspondents to have the im- mediate use of at least a portion of them, we insert here the principal facts they contain relative to rain and temperature. The preparation of the tables has cost the observers much time and labor, and this publication affords an opportu- nity of giving them a wide circulation among those who will appreciate their value, and of placing them in a form to be permanently preserved and readily accessible. We would be glad to insert all the tables entire, but they would oe- cupy more space than can be spared, and parts of them have already appeared in our regular monthly issues; we therefore limit the extracts to such selections as come within the present scope of this periodical. The interest manifested in this publication has required the extension of the meteorological as well as agricultural portion beyond what was originally intended, and should it be con- tinued, it may be found expedient still further to enlarge it. SUMMARIES FOR DECEMBER. Saint John, New Brunswick—The highest temperature in December, 1863, was 48° at 9 p. m. on the 14th, and the maximum of each December for the last three years has been just the same, and it has not been higher in thirteen years. The minimum was 2° on the 21st and 22d, and the lowest in December in thir- teen years was 18 degrees below zero. The amount of snow and rain was rather below the average since 1850, and there was no sleighing before the 18th—G. Murdock. ; Providence, Rhode Island.—The mean temperature of the month is nearly four degrees colder than the average of December for thirty-three years. 'The warmest was that of 1852; the coldest that of 1831—Professor A. Caswell. Philadelphia —TVhe highest temperature of December in thirteen years was 71° on the 2d of December, 1859. The same day was the warmest day, mean temperature 23.309. The lowest temperature was 4$° on the 19th December, 1856, and the coldest day was the 18th, in the same year,mean temperature 11°. The mean temperature of the month for thirteen years is 35.18°, and the average amount of rain and melted snow 3.631 inches——Professor J. A. Kirkpatrick. St. Paul, Minnesota—December came in with a very moderate temperature, which continued until the 12th. ‘This was succeeded by a week of cold, during which the mercury fell below the zero point twice, reaching 22 on the morning of the 19th. Then we were favored again with a week of mild weather, the thermometer not falling below 23° nor rising above 31°. This was also a week of continued cloudiness, during which the sun was not visible, and on five days of which snow was deposited. ‘The month was terminated with an access of ‘ 64 severe cold. On the evening of the 31st the mercury had sunk to—28. The following table shows the comparative temperature and rain for five years: St. Paul, Minnesota. DECEMBER. ; WHOLE YEAR, Year. Mean temper- | Rain and melted | Meantemper- | Rain and melted ature. snow. ature. snow. 5 Inches. ° Inches. foot Rae Sa a 5. 41 0. 56 41.77 29. 35 |) 14. 89 0, 41 44. 37 28,74 ic 2 eae Se a 21.3 0. 10 42. 64 30. 00 Lie ae 22. 05 1, 37 41.01 29. 62 Pe cloncc == 255 20. 55 1. 30 42, 42 15, 89 The maximum temperature of the year 1863 was 91° on the 6th of July, 18th of August, and 15th of September. The minimum was —31° on the 3d of February —Rev. A. B. Paterson, D. D. SUMMARIES FOR THE YEAR 1863. Westfield, Massachusetts ——The amount of rain that fell in this town in 1863 was 60.97 inches, which is more than has fallen in arty year of which I have any record. ‘lhe following record was kept in this town by an accurate observer, showing the quantity of rain and snow that fell in three years : In 1786, 34.37 inches of rain and seven feet eleven inches of snow; in 1787, 34.84 inches rain and four feet ten inches snow; in 1788, 39.29 inches rain and three feet seven inches snow.— Rev. Emerson Davis. Providence, Rhode Island—The mean temperature of the year was 47.70°, which is 0.49° below the average of thirty-two years. The maximum temper- ature was 92° on the 24th of May; the minimum 6° below zero on the 4th of February. The warmest day was May 22, mean temperature 78.8°; the coldest day, Febuary 4, mean temperature 34 degrees below zero. ‘The warmest month was July, the coldest December. The quantity of rain was extraordinary, being 54.22 inches, which is no less than 13.05 inches above the average of thirty-two years, and nearly an inch more than in any year during that period. The large excess occurred in April, July, November, and December The rain fall of July, 9.42 inches, exceeds that of any other month in thirty-two years.— Prof. A Caswell. Buffalo, New York.—Temperature—The highest temperature during the year was 93° in July, the lowest —7° in February; the mean of the year, 47°, The lake was free from ice during the entire month of January. It was closed by ice on the 4th of February, and open again for navigation on the 26th. The best and nearly all the ice housed by dealers for summer use was cut after the 15th of March. ‘The creek cleared of ice on the 27th of March. ‘Three pro- pellers left port on the 3d of April, and the ice disappeared on the 4th. Erie canal opened on the Ist of May; ice formed over stagnant pools on the 26th and 29th of October. ‘The first snow of autumn, sufficient to whiten the earth, fell on the 26th of November. 'The Erie canal closed on the 12th of December. Vegetation —The opening of buds and flowers was in April, and one week earlier than in the previous year. Currants and lilacs were in leaf on the 4th of May; peach and cherry trees were in blossom on the 12th; strawberries on the 14th; plum trees on the 15th, and apple trees on the 25th. The sugar - 65 maple and horse chestnut were in leaf on the 15th, and forest trees generally on the 18th. The first strawberries grown in the county appeared in market on the 15th of June, thirty days from the blossom. Cherries began to ripen on the 24th. Arrival of birds—Robins came on the 24th of March, blue birds on the 4th of April, and swallows on the 19th.— William Ives. New York city—Maximum temperature during the year, 95°, August 3; minimum, 6°, February 4; mean, 54.24°. Amount of rain and melted snow, 57.03 inches. Snow fell on 32 days, rain on 125 days—Prof. O. W. Morris. Philadelphia —T he followmg table gives the extreme and mean temperatures _ and amount of rain in 1863, and the same for a period of twelve years, selected from tables prepared by Professor J. A. Kirkpatrick for the journal of the Franklin Institute : | 1863. 12 years. | | 26 ae s al — oo a | o ie} Hapnest temperature: 2.22322. 24.--252.5-2-..2. 95.0, August 10 --:2--2.5-=- 100.5, July 21, 1854. Wanmest day, mean ....--.2.---.----- Done ason [Seso, Ausast: 10) 2 esse! 91.3, July 21, 1854. Lowest temperature BRE ESO ARE eS See Sepa 5,05, Nebruary) -=-. se s- | —d.5, January 23, 1857. Welles Gay, MGAH.. 222 o.cc--s-545c0-cee oak ee | “1d? Webruary 4 «22:2. 222: | —1.0, January 9, 1856. Periercalancnnie rs. e823 oy. 28 5 Sess SS cay AR Fasc 6 4. sobre ates D4, 25. Amount of rain and melted snow...--..--------. I’ 49. 642 inehes) - 3. 2-5 jas | 45. 328 inches. Springfield, Massachusetts—Mr. J..Weatherhead furnishes the following statement of the amount of rain and melted snow during each month in the year 1863: : Inches. Inches. eiienyet $a 293. 20r s6. AE Onl RS oe a ee 9.77 ee) ee ANDi! Sp ATETIRE a4 2G 25 BE ae 3.35 MeCN seu sts wai wee 29s eels Gul2y\\_ Peplelnber: -...5 <1 ees 2- Rees 2.44 Pepgibers alc soci cep ae atin © Slack hae 82.0 63.5 69.98 PATO A Steet) aed fale aleia! bi sheretaiane eM 2 ain . rs eS HES 51 CEs Sie tae SJB DS Leni eee | 14,24; 38 7|}—9 29.3 | 5.06 Williamsburg. ---.-. .-| Piscataquis. -.-.- Edwin Pitman. --..-; 15,29 40 7 |—14 18.1 |- 4.03 NEW HAMPSHIRE. | North Littleton --.-. Gearon foo. =e Rufus Smith. ....--. 24| 36 7 | —26 | 13.0 | 3.59 Paiwletanaeh=< =) Se. Boas a eee a Robert C. Whiting. - 24 44 a2 fe eons | 4, 39 Plymouth -2... . - Bae LS Ba ge Jigs. AMV AM 2 oo 2 peer ey rean=c [eee alae SE tales sasoree pea Stratford. ........-. (O08. 53 ae: 5 +5 | Branch Brown. ..- -- 24 39 | To) 28), Jee | 3. 50 @laremont...>-..... | Sullivan....-... .| Arthur Chase-....-. 24 | 47 | 7/—8]| 22.0] 3.7% North Barnstead. ...| Belknap....-.... | Charles H. Pitman..! 24,20} 44] 7 |= Qe eos } 1.10 VERMONT. | | } ; | | Rutland .......... Rutland. ........ |S. O. Mead......... | 28] 68 7) 2! 8 ee Brandon..........-. beetde Sa aoe David Buckland....| 28) 50). 7/—l1| 242) 204 Lunenburg ......... PISSEX -AS oe aor H. A. Cutting ------} 24 40 7|—20; 188) 4.83 Grafisbury ~...... .- Orleans :.-.-..--. James A. Paddock. -/ 24 45 7|—18 19.2] 4.83 Burlington -........ Chittenden --.--. McKe Petty= se. a. -- | 24,28] 42 | 7 | —20 21.4 | 3.08 Middlebury..-...... | Addison. .......:| H. A. Sheldon... --- | 1 40 | 7);—17 2 | . | | MASSACHUSETTS. | New Bedford -.....- PTInGC re ooee -o i * Samuel Rodman... i 26 51 7,8 uf 30.4) 4.16 Aamberst. -... 5. Hampshire .-.-.- Prof. E. 8. Snell...) 24,29] 44 7)/—2}] 24.4) 2.70 Popstield-...--..... index: - = foe. J 2 2).5 John G. Caldwell. . | 25, 26 49 Ze 5 28.7 | 2.54 Moendoite 22/2. 2.55). « Worcester.....-- John G. Metealf .-..| 24 48 | a 0 25.4 | 3.40 Baldwinsville. ...._.].... iit oe ae Rey. E. Dewhurst - .| 29 45 | DY) 21.6} 2.87 Sandwach---- =... Barnstable .----- N. Barrows, M.D.. d 26 51 7 MO geo. Fl 4,89 Williamsville ....._. Berkshire. - - -. ...-| Prof. A. Hopkins -.- 28 47 2;—2 PAD sia (ims IEP Springfield.......... Wampden:..--... J. Weatherhead ...-} 27,28 52 { ll |—4 24.7 | 2.51 Westfield... 2s. 22. ]5-2. doe 45.0.5. Rev. Emerson Davis: 24 49 11|—7 23.3} 2.69 ’ . e RHODE ISLAND, Providence ...- 22... Providence... -.-- Prof. A. Caswell - -. 27 50 8 4 27.3 | 4.66 | ] | CONNECTICUT. OMT sco ae Windham ....--- Rev. D. Hunt ...-_. 28} 48 2) 0 26.0] 3.34 * New Haven ........| New Haven .-.... D. C. Leavenworth-! 26,291 52! 11) | — 2°) 270 ee 70 Temperature and rain of January, 1864—Continued. Plaee. County. | Observer’s name. Date. | Max. | Date. | Min. |Mean. | Rain. | NEW YORK, ° ° fo) In. New York..<,.-.2--2-.- New Worle... « Prof. O. W. Morris. - 29 62 | 2 12 35.2 | 4.02 New York Observ’y.|.-.-do. ........-.| Charles C. Wakeley-]........|--.--- |e oaccol es oo | aes sclek | eee Throg’s Neck, (L.1).| Westchester. ---- Francis Morris. - - --- 25 53 2 2.27 Fishkill Landing. -...}| Dutchess .....--- Wm. H. Denning...) 24,27 50 | af 1.97 Skaneateles..-...... Onondaga ...---- W.M. Beauchamp. - 28 58 Qe ees ieee ets Seneca Falls. ...-... RENECA ee ee san-1- Philo Cowing..-.--- 27 62 2 —— 2 eee Oswego. 222. sees Oswego .....---- W.S. Malcolm -- -.. 28 49 | 2 4.45 South Hartford ..... Washington ...-- G. M. Ingalsbe. ---.- 28 48 ai 1. 56 FortpAmnigta i. 325615 -%5 (Ch) eS sees: P) AtMeMore =... 5 30 78 | 9 Shon Gouverneur 5.--.--. St. Lawrence. ---} Cyrus H. Russell. --. 28 49 1 5. 39 Jamestown ......--- Chautauqua --.-- Rev. 8. W. Roe, M.D 28 56 2 2. 72 Predonia 1. - 2.2 pe ae do See clase | Danl. J. Pratt, A. M- 2 58 a) 9.05 Seno, oe eee Mrie-ffssceaeaoue William Ives ....-- 28 56 | 2 3. 17 ATP HENefse oli Cayuga -.----..- John B. Dill.....--. 28 54 27) 2) B6niie ee White Plains ...-..- Westchester -.--- Oliver R. Wiilis-.-.. 29 56 2), 6), On Ra eee RU EHORE ee nyo = a (a Jefferson .-..---- SO Grerory cocane 2 45 it 2. 73 NEW JERSEY. PTOPTENS easels == Burlington ...--.- Thomas J. Beans. -- 29 62 12 2, 46 Mount Holly. --....- Pelion ss aeescces M. J. Rhees, M.D... 29 65 12°) \ > 2) 30's eee 1 VEN Seas Seere anes PI Sees eB Sete c W. A. Whiteliead -- 29 57 10 2. 43 BUTS 1s oo. < = Burlington .....- John C. Deacon ....| 28,29 65 2.0 1.20 Haddonfield ......-. Camden ..-..--.- James 8S. Lippencgtt. 28 70 7) 7). 2nO a aeeee PENNSYLVANIA. Harrisburg -........ anime eee as Dr. John Heiseley --| 28, 29 H 53 2 3. 12 Nazareth <<<: 255. Northampton ....}| L. E. Ricksecker - - - 28 65 2) Ovliet2DiBale eee Corfneilsville. ....-.- Bay ette-sesac.. - John Taylor......-. 27,28 | 54 7 | —=10) | 27am pee Philadelphia......-. Philadelphia. - - - - Pi. J. A. Kirkpatrick. 29 63 2 2. 56 OMCty 2s -.-= sas0-- Venango .-...-.. James A. Weeks ..-| 28,29 60 2 \'— 7 | 26i20 eae WOR Seis psec ce = (MOS eS Sab ebee Ey. 1; Bentley. ..---- 27, 28 62 3} "8" |" (26.7 eeeeee Biormin gy an sled we CRNtSl emer ne = Samuel Brugger -- -- 2T 62 2 1. 49 MARYLAND. Chestertown... ...-..- Ment nepic smi. 5127 Prof. J. R. Dutton... 29 67 2 2.21 Sykesville .....-.... Carroll 32-3 s Miss H. M. Baer -..- 28 64 | 2% 3. 50 St. Mary’s Gity sek St. Mary’s- -..-.- Rey. Jas. Stephenson 24) 88 7 1. 00 DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington ........ Washington Smithsonian Instiva. 25 64 2 2. 58 KENTUCKY, | Louisville .......... Jefferson ...-+.... Mrpvbeewouns 02 27 71 8 3.19 OHIO. Cincinnati --. - - Lee.) Hlamiltone oss. G. W. Harper .-.--- 28 65 1 1.85 College Hill ........]---- Ove eeseeeee John W. Hammitt..| 27, 28 60 if 3.19 1D Ya) Ss ae Fone GO oer ence see J. EX. Wilson — 222s 28 66 il 3. 25 WIMP AN A so. een sas Champaign .-.--- Prof. M. G. Williams 28 | 64 6 3. 38 New Lisbon........ Columbiana Josiah F. Benner --- 28 62 2 2. 97 Bast Fairfield... ..-- Noo Sse se 8. Be Me Minilem ee seers em tala = 2.07 Welshfield...-...... Geauga 2.2225. B. F. Abell, A. M..- 28 58 4 6. 66 Austinburg. ..--..-- Ashtabula. .....- Dole & Griffing-.--- 28 58 2 8. 14 Portsmonthi.< 1.2... GIONS eters =/ae -atel L. Engelbreciit -.-.-.- 28 | 62 2 3.10 eingstonteese 2-3. --.- ORS ye cease e Prof. J. Haywood. -- 28; 67 2 3.47 Kelley’s Island. ----. ‘eee sdone ae seo. C. Huntington. 28 | 54 1 1.75 Westerville.......-. Branidiny ee. =r Pf. H. A. Thompson. ao eG 5} 6 1. 40 MICHIGAN. | | Monroe City--..---- MONTOG.~ j4e22) i Flor. E, Whelpley-. 28 | 63 | al 1.93 Coy) Oreste 1 ie) Byaneingy: sce sere Enehami re. eee Prof. R. C. Kedzie - .| Place. INDIANA, Muncie New Harmony Newcastle Spiceland South Bend. -...-..- New Albany Hockville.-.-2:.. ILLINOIS. Upper Alton.....-. Winnebago......- Galesburg Ammustars is. £5. 5 Hoylton Tishkilwa Sandwich Waverley Ottawasse 22.3: 26 MISSOURI. Re PQuise. scr - 2's. Laboryille........- Harrisonville Athens Canton WISCONSIN, Milwaukee .....-- Bs Beloit Manitowoc -_..... TOWA. Mount Pieasant.. . Independence... - Dubuque Towa Falls BONS oslo di Wraterloo._... .... MINNESOTA. A ees) Forest City Tamarack.......... NEBRASKA. Elkhorn KANSAS. Fort Riley Lawrence Manhattan ....... SOUTH CAROLINA. Beaufort Bellevitie: 2-44.52 71 Temperature and rain of January, 1864—Continued. County. Observer's name. ..| Delaware. ...-.- Bi Jt Riese ee. se. Be | ME OBO Yas naa se areal Jno. Chappelismith . oe Wkentyese a. = xeree Thomas B. Redding- Se | ee do. .--..----.] William Dawson - ..| -..| St. Joseph. -.-..- Reuben Burroughs. | Pa WBloyd 252-4 aes =t Dr. E. 8. Crosby - .. | MPaLKex.c8 2 bsg. Miss M. A. Badereon.| | J:|\Reoria, 20-28 =. Frederick Brendel - -| Palate dow J. H. Riblett —- 2.5: .-| Madison. ..-.--.. Mrs. J. Trible .....- ..| Winnebago..._.. | James W. Tolman... pin| Mi cGalep qs Be ee ae Prof. W. Livingston. 2: {elancock) =’. 225... SBS Mead Bs 23: J. ..| Washington -.... J. Ellsworth. .....-. sep burean. Se. tie. Verry Aldrich .....- PPS Kelby e.2 : N. Ballou. 2.22% =. so) Morpan 26.052: - Timothy Dudley. --. ei) ie, Salle jfoa-e 2 Mrs. E. H. Merwin. - | | See uomiss 2a 2 Augustus Fendler. - | Tiga dos eae a...) Walliaon Bini 225-2: a Case) 22 a2 Ses Se John Christian. ..-.. ee Olav ©. 8. os ae. J. T. Caldwell..._.. al SOO WIES ee ae George P. Ray...... Milwaukee ------ I. A. Lapham, LL.D. SS) phioek 28 eee Ee DS) Porter: 25-5: ..| Manitowoe .....- Jacob Liips-........ ..| Muscatine ..-.... Suel Foster......... aa tee GO ey eae eS eee Waltons... {A\ "Tees Boe 2e Daniel McCready. -. =p @limtone sees: P.J.Farasworth, MD -~| J eierson .. 2... *: Te MeConneliee....-: a.) eblenry soa. 455: B.S Brigess 25.2.5: ~. | usuchanan 2: ... A. C. Wheaton .. ... VP Onb wane... 4.-..,- Asa Horr, M. D .... Eu ilbekgs ith ea es N. Townsend..-.---- Bra | ES ORSUUERY ta sic:< ===. Dr. and Miss McCoy. . | Black Hawk..... i. Hy Doyles se eas4 =o | SRGMBeY, -.-- 22. % Rev. A.B.Paterson - ..| Meeker... -.- ..---| Henry L. Smith .... ..| Hennepin. ...... Mary A. Graye...-.. .-| Washington ..... Miss A.M. J. Bowen. BEN Gipy Seo. las. Rev. Wm. Hamilton. | Elford E. Lee....--. Se POU CLAN: S25... W. L. G. Soule... . BSR ale Sic xs: 6 Henry L. Denison ..- =o OORUTONE, +O. oss 5 M. M. Marsh, M. D. - | Date. R88 27, BNE 26, 27 Q7 Max. 62 52 52 Date. | Min. Leet eet” SO cee eee ee coe ee oo © 8) oe oe aAAQr He wore YWWHP HP NMOHPH EH YD ~ a 1a] iii = a | 2 Qe | _ oe] —— Mean. } Rain. ° In. 25.3 3. 65 29.0} 5.00 26.0-| 2.67 25.8 3. 03 30. 4 2. 63 29.7 3. 223 27.6) 3.10 23.4 | 1.42 22.3 1.60 OSU ulseeeat 15. 1 2.45 17.4 1.23 20.0] 1.98 19.6 | 3.80 22.2] 2.70 18.0} 2.17 26.3} 2.00 29:):5¢) fd 7O PAS Gils ese 21.9} 2.41 19.6{ 1.32 18:8} 2:15 15.8 | 5.10 20.5 TT 5 Atos ae L732 1.75 19:9) gseT 18.7 1.10 19.0; 0.90 als BA hae Dea WANG 147 Hosen. Os 19.8} 1.22 16.2} 0.46 TS OAs os Sree 11.3 0. 33 14.6565 eet Sere WAS ie oe 18.7 | .0.41 iv 0. 20 24.4 1.81 3.9] 0.44 46.0 125 72 Table showing the average temperature and fall of rain (in inches and tenths) for the month of January, for each of the years named, and for the five years first named collectively, with the average number of places in each State in which the observations were made. | Ay. number of places. States and Territo- ries. | New Hampshire - - - -| Vermont Massachusetts - -- --- _ Rhode Island Connecticut New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Maryland District of Columbia. South Carolina Tennessee Kentucky Ohio Hilinois Missouri Wisconsin Minnesota Nebraska Territory - Kansas California Averages, ‘Averages. Averages. | Averages.| Averages.| Ay. for | Averages for 1855. 1856. 1857. 1858. 1859. five years. 1864. . i | ! A Pe = FS A a Nar le 55 poh es j Soe a eae eee he) Pe aceiai Bees | | Deg.| In. | Deg.| In.| Deg. In.) Deg., In.| Deg. In.| Deg. In.| Deg.| In. | 24.3 | 4.83] 12.6 2.46) 11.9 7.81) 22.6 3.81] 17.7 |4.81] 17.8 |4. 74] 22.2) 4,02 25.8 | 5.65] 15.8 2.95| 10.4 3.34|°25.1 2.46] 16.1 3.821 18.6 3.64 20.1 | 3.27 25.3 | 1.95] 11.4 (1.48) 8.2 2.57) 22.7 (1.88) 18.1 (2. 63 17..1 (2. 10) 2255 snes 29.1 | 4.88) 18.0 3.24! 16.0 5.06) 31.2 3.20) 26.0 |7. O4 24.1 4. 68} 25.5 | 3.03 30.0 | 6.45] 18.6 5.25! 16.3 '5.50} 33.1 '3. 33) 29.3 |5. 75) 25.5 '5.26) 27.3 | 4.66 29.6 | 5.40} 20.3 |4.61| 15.8 4.32) 32.4 3.03) 25.8 |7.53) 24.8 |4.98] 26.5) 3.34 27.7 | 3.36] 16.9 \2. 82) 13.9 3.04) 31.0 (2.25) 26. 4 43. 52 23.2 '3.00| 26.4 | 3:26 32.4 | 3.37] 20.6 3.67) 19.6 4.43) 37.2 (3.58! 31.7 |5. 47) 28.3 4.10) 29.97) 2.03 30.0 | 2.72] 18.6 2.54] 18.4 2.69| 36.3 2.15) 30.5 |3.52\ 26.8 2.72) 98.6| 2.59 33.8 | 3.28) 21.9 |3.59] 21.9 2.88) 38.6 |1. 67) 34.2 |4. 69) 30.1 (3,22) 34.0 | 2,24 35.1 | ..=:] 21.6 |4.00) 21.8 0.89] 40:2 |1. 62) 36.3 \4. 54] 31.0 2.76] 33.51 2.58 47.2 | 1:31) 36.4 |6.47| 35.4 2.57) 53.2 3.98] 45.3 |3. 33) 43.5 (3. 53) 46.0) 1. 25 39.6 | 3.64) 25.6 138) 26.9 2.16) 45.8 4.56) 39.6 3:31) 35.5 3. 01)...... eae 38. 7 | 3.32] 20.9 |1.80) 24.7 (1.53) 42.1 (2. 66] 34.0 (3.05) 32.1 |2.47) 29.7 | 3.19 31.4 | 2.'73] 17.4 |1. 69} 16.8 1.39) 37.3 |1. 72] 30.5 2, 42) 26.7 |1. 99} 26.5 | 3.52 25.8 | 3.50) 13.3 \1. 24) 11.3 2.70] 31.7 4.01) 25.5 (2.70) 21.5 \2. 83) 24.4 | 1.61 33.6 | 4. 66] 21.5 0.80) 16.9 1.01) 38.5 2. 64] 31.8 2. 29] 28.5 |2. 28) 27.7 | Sida 28.2 | 9,24] 14.4 [0.96 11.7 0.72) 34.5 1.82] 26.2 |1. 78) 23.0 2.90] 20.1 | 2.17 33.8 | 4.66] 20.1 [1.03] 19.3 0.41) 39.6 2.85) 33.4 [2 32) 29.2 2.25] 24.4] 186 , 21.2 | 2.60] 9.7 8.56) 6.9 1.12 29.7 2.07| 19.7 jl. 21 17.4 3.11) 18.4] 2.67 23.5 | 2.08) 9.3 |1.04) 5.7 (0. 77 32.0 2,03) 22.9 |1. 05) 18.7 1.39 1710'|"" 12.28 0.8 | ----| 0.9 |2.35) 6.0 '0.91} 20.9 2.51],11.1 0,98] 7.9 |1.69| 11.4) 0.38 So Nce vo-[-eeeeefeeee|-eee--/s22-] 32.9 1,82) 22.4 0. 94) 27.6 |1,38) 17.4 | 0.41 pee wl], ¢-slete-)3mi 7 {L 29] 30.8 |: 43} 34.2 [1s6n) eae | 0.82 44.4 | 2.67} 65.2 in 57 50.1 1.49] 46.7 2.50) 45.6 |1.41| 50.4 2.53)...... | Boe | | | BI-MONTHLY REPORT THE AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT - MARCH AND APRIL, 1864. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1864. i "Bua 9 ‘ hi OL eae ‘ Di Wal Hin: ti Md pha BI-MONTHLY REPORT. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, April, 1864. As Commissioner of the Agricultural Department, I desire, whilst sub- mitting the Bi-wonraty Report for March and April to the judgment of the farmers of the country, to state the purpose and the necessity of these Bi-monthly Reports. Although the annual volume issued by this Department has been published to the number of 130,000, and 60,000 additional copies have been ordered, yet a half million of them would be insufficient to meet the demard for them. Whilst this demand attests the approbation it has received, yet objections have long existed to the volumes that have preceded it from the Patent Office, on the ground that many topics discussed in them should have been earlier considered, and the facts embodied in them made public at an earlier peried. Among the most prominent of like topics was such a collection of agricultural statistics as would serve to show the amount of each crop as soon as it was matured or harvested, that the price for it should be placed on the just law of supply; for if a commodity is scarce from the shortness of the crop, he whose labor has not met with its usual reward in quantity, from the vicissitudes of the season, should receive the compensation which the increased price gives, and not he who stands between the producer and consumer. . Again, a question like that of the proposed tax on leaf tobacco, suddenly presented for consideration and action; or, like that of the manu- facture of sorghum sugar and molasses, which the Department had con- sidered through its chemist, and those engaged in it should learn the results in time for their operations; or, like that presented in this report, of the direction the raising of stock is taking; or, like that of agricultural educa- tion, which a recent donation by Congress has invested with unexpected interest, by demanding immediate action upon it—all such subjects, to be effectively acted upon, need to be discussed immediately, and without that delay consequent upon the publication of an annual volume only. Again, this Department was scarcely established before many persons, devoted to the advancement of agriculture in its various branches, com- menced a correspondence with it. How should this correspondence be replied to? By discouraging it with that brief, formal red-tape style of letter-writing which belongs to ordinary official communications, and which would but inform every correspondent that the writer knew nothing of the subjects sought to be discussed? Leading agricultural writers demanded " + the establishment of this Department that the heads of its different divi- sions, representing different branches of agriculture and horticulture, could maintain a correspondence that would aid in developing principles through the facts communicated, and, in this way, advance the agriculture of the country. But is such correspondence to be confined to the writers of the letters and the Department? Shall the botanist, or the entomologist, or the chemist, or the statistician, write five or ten or twenty letters daily to as many persons, on subjects belonging to their respective divisions, aud which as much concern as many hundred thousand, or shall all have a like oppor- tunity to know, by their publication ? Considerations like these imperatively demanded the publication of the Bi-monthly Reports. But, in establishing them for these purposes, the Department has most carefully avoided occupying any ground that belonged to the agricultural press, by disregarding local topics and the details of general ones. General subjects, and such as demanded immediate discus- sion, like those named, are alone considered in these reports. If such do not belong to the Bi-monthly Report, then they do not to the Annual Report. If the Department cannot thus discuss agricultural subjects, it has no right to distribute a single seed, or plant, or bulb, because, in so doing, it may be supposed to come in conflict with individual interests. If it cannot do these things, then it has no right to collect any agricultural statistics for the general advantage of producers and consumers, lest it may come in contact with those who are gathering such statistics for their own special purposes and interests. And if it cannot do any or all of these things, then the Department has no right to exist at all. A more just view of the appropriate action of the Department will regard these reports as an aid, rather than a hindrance, to the agricultural press, by calling the attention of all to subjects of general interest, which cannot but create a general desire for that extended discussion of details and local application which it is the province of the agricultural press to give. Having thus briefly stated the purposes of the Bi-monthly Reports, the Commissioner would call attention to two articles in the present one. 1. On agricultural statistics. Tne Department, during the past year, has been testing the mode adopted to collect and publish the state of the crops and condition of the farm stock. That test has been satisfactory, and shows that the plan may be entirely relied upon for an approximation sufficiently near the facts for the practical purpose of determining prices so far as sup- ply should govern them. There is a great and an increasing interest in the collection of such statistics; and State Agricultural Societies, seeking to obtain them, may learn from it that correspondents and country societies cannot answer correctly as to the number of bushels, or pounds or tons of a product, but can reliably state, in tenths or hundredths, the present crop in comparison with that of the last year. How their returns aid in estimat- ing the bushels, and pounds and tons, will also be seen. Many difficulties which now exist will be removed by a future speedy publication of the census returns of the crops and stock for the counties. 5 2. On the number of farm stock. Political events have made and are still making a heavy demand on the stock of the country, used either for labor or for food. The heavy supply of these comes from the west, but the failure of the fall crops in 1863 has caused this stock to be lessened, except sheep, to which the greatest and most commendable care has been given. The returns and letters of the correspondents of this Department to the last cir- cular show that other stock is too much overlooked, and in laying the tables before the farmers their attention has been called to the importance of using every effort to timely guard against a deficiency in them. The benefit to the country, if the tables and counsel given shall be heeded, will a hundred fold repay every expense that the collection and publication of these statis- tics may occasion during the next twenty years. 3. Besides these leading articles, the farmers will find statistics showing the condition of the home and foreign markets, and in them will see the causes which give direction and value to their industry. That on the hog crop of the past season will serve to encourage better attention to hogs in the corn-growing States of the west than is now bestowed on them. 4. The meteorological part of this report will be found to possess more than its usual interest. The tables showing the state of the thermometer on the first day of January, and of the points where the cold was below the freezing point during the winter, as well as the most interesting phenomena of a winter remarkable for its changes, cannot but be both interesting and useful. That part of the report is prepared at the Smithsonian Institution, with a care and an ability worthy its high reputation. 5. Having tested the practicability of the present plan for collecting sta- tistics, and satisfied of its great utility, the Department directed its atten- tion to perfecting the workings of the plan. In the beginning, the names of correspondents were collected as best could be, without reference to their locality in a county. Hence, oftentimes there were several in the same part of a county, whilst other portions had none. Nor was there any concerted action between them. To have several returns from one locality rendered the labor of the Department greater than was justified by any greater cor- rectness accomplished by so large a number. To collect information from all parts of a county, through systematic and co-operative action, was a first duty in perfecting the details of the plan. This could be done only by re- ducing the number to one correspondent, and having him select as many assistants as he thought necessary, not exceeding five. So far this change has been attended with every good effect anticipated from it. The assist- ants have been selected in different sections of a Hae Other changes may, however, be proper in certain localities. 1. In some very large counties, or of great length, it may be desirable to have éwo correspondents, each with five or a less number of assistants. Of the necessity for such an additional correspondent we leave to the one now selected to determine. If any one who has a very large county to report, especially if his location is not central, thinks that there should be another 6 at a point remote from his own, he will select a competent person, and send his name and post office address in his return. 2. As nearly all correspondents will have, by this time, selected their assistants, they are desired to forward their names, together with their post office address. 3. Many of the correspondents having desired that the circulars should be sent for each assistant, this will be done—one for each assistant and two for the correspondent, that he may keep at home a copy of his returns to the Department. He will make up his own return from those of his assistants, and whatever other sources of information he may possess, and send only his own. 4, That the correspondent may keep a more complete record of the weather, and to prepare the way for meteorological observations hereafter, if thought to be desirable, the Department will prepare blank forms for such record, of a character that will impose no labor on its correspondents, but a pleasure rather. The object of it will be to keep, very briefly, a collection of statis- tics that will show the arrival of birds, the starting of the growth of plants, and the leafing, blossoming, and ripening of their fruits, and all those daily phenomena or signs that mark the progress of the seasons, together with the fall of rain and snow, the occurrence of storms, or other unusual incidents of the weather. For the numerous expressions of regard to the Commissioner for his man- agement of this Department he returns his most grateful acknowledgments, That the Annual and Bi-monthly Reports will serve to so increase the desire for agricultural information that instead of conflicting with the demand for agricultural papers they will but increase it, and that the seeds distributed will promote such interest in the vegetable and flower garden that they will create a greater purchase of those sold, is to him an indisputable fact, as seen in the result of every improvement in the mechanic and manufacturing arts, and in all other branches of business demanding invention. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS. ENGLISH, PRUSSIAN, AND AMERICAN MODES OF ESTIMATING THEIR ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIONS. The commerce of the world is so dependent on agricultural productions, that to ascertain their annual amount has become an object of the greatest utility. Nor less dependent on them are manufactures, and all the industry employed therein. The textile material, as cotton, wool, and flax, is essen- tial to the great clothing manufactories, and the animal, cereal, and vege- table food to sustain the health and strength of their operatives. A scarcity of these, or their abundance, affects the exchanges of the world. In view of this absolute dependence on agricultural production, the nations of the earth, especially those like England, which do not supply their own wants by their own agriculture, or like Prussia and the United States, which largely export agricultural products to the manufacturing nations, are forming plans to ascertain the yield of their annual harvests. The modes adopted have several objects in view. One, as the decennial census of the United States, aims to ascertain the general progress of the nation and its direction. Another, as the fifth-year census of Massachusetts, has the same object in view, but to determine these at shorter intervals. OLR dod soqenhd X18 0} MOST *Toysuq aod spunod Op 0} 9¢ ‘oSvioaBn uy ----Aqyenb poos jo ‘osdusoav uv ynoqy “4RUt oy yyUN Youur ynq ‘osvtoavr oAogy *posBump JOpUeUto. 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After reading all the returns, who can tell their result ? They convey an impression that the crops are good, but how much above or below a standard, or a normal, or an average crop, no one can tell. ‘They are too prolix, although as much con- densed as the plan will allow. For the forty counties of England they would require thirty-two pages of the size of those of this report. For the United States they would demand a large volume, which would be read by not more than one person in a half million of our population. Nor does this plan institute a comparison with the crop of any preceding year. These objections do not obtain to the plans adopted in the United States or Prussia. 2. Prussia.—This nation hasa Department of Agriculture, presided over by a Secretaty. In its operations agricultural societies act as an aid to the Department. They meet together and make up an annual report of the crops. We have no knowledge of the means adopted by them to collect the information they embody in their report, but the following quotations from their report for 1862 will show the plan adopted. Their estimates, it will be seen, are comparative, and the standard of comparison is 100, repre- senting an imaginary normal crop. As no census has ever been taken there of the number of bushels produced in any one year, the comparison must always be with this imaginary standard ; nor can their returns be re- duced to bushels, as they are here, for want of a basis which such census would furnish. The report is given for ‘‘Governmental districts,” which are nine in number, and the returns from which it is compiled are four hundred and twenty-nine. The jirst table exhibits the amount of the crops for the province of Prussia, with remarks on the quality, &c. The second, the summary for all the provinces. The third, the average yield for ten years of the provinces. THE HARVEST IN THE SEVERAL PROVINCES OF PRUSSIA. 1st Province of Prussia; from 81 Reports. a GRAINS. VEGETABLES. STRAW. = # 5 Governmental districts. % s = _|o3 : 3]. ae 5 ‘ 4 ais 2 i|gq \ aq * y E | o wife pg es Se a ees 7 Es Slelelal/eislfi2/8i8 |alelsleleial4 pb | & a s|lo]3a a =I >| ala 3 EFlelalole@lalalelale |AlEle&laléladia 1 | Kingsberg........--.---- 0. 79 0. 921. 121. 17/1. 14 0. 59 0. 63 0. 87 0. 70 0. 86 1. 01/0. “ds 90/1. 14.1. 1911. 23:0. 60 BMNGUMPINEN sco ao5e coe cen 10. 67/0. 94/1. 13}]. 18.0. 91)... ./0. 53/0. 96 1. 00.0. 93,0. 90/0. 93,0. 96/1. 14/1. 18/1. 05). aoe 3 | Marienwerdert ........-. 1, 02)1. 01/1. 02/1. 02\1. 23 0. 77/0. 97/0. 75 0. 80 0. 72/1. 02/1. 02/1. 040. 97,0. 98/1. 26/0. 81 QDS. as eceonncndd dain 0. 83/1. 01/1. 061. 07 1. 21,0. 70,0, 89/0. 79,1. 00,0, 71,0. 94.0. 971. O11. 04/1. 071. 22/0. 68 Average Socata tee gate 0. aa re ole uy. 120. 90. 7 ie 40. Bi. aa . 97/0. a 981. itt 10}1. 19)0 70 Remarks on the crops of the neighborhood of Kingsberg. Average weight: Of wheat, 82 pounds; of rye, 79 pounds; of barley, 68 pounds; of oats, 52 pounds; of peas, 85 pounds; of buckwheat, 57 pounds; of potatoes, 96 pounds; of rape, 71 pounds per scheffel, (14 bushel.) Hay of both cuttings, 0.92; first cut of a bad quality in many places; second cut of very good quality. Other field crops, 0.98; flax, 1.02; wool crop, 0.99. Wheat suffered much from rust; turnips from maggots. Potatoes showed the well-known disease of the vine, their development being therefore checked in many places,and suffering at the same time from maggots; beans suffered from mildew, 12 SUMMARY. Returns of crops in the several Provinces. GRAINS. VEGETABLES. STRAW. a Province. = o Ss = as |e = % |ad aie 2 \g8 : a s > Ete. Rem tes Uli el ue lees ca - Siole|2\8(e| 8) a1 ols 1818] cela ere i iad oS s = Ss 3 s lS =] is PH a 3 s Ele@ialolalalalelalo |AlE |e lalélala Prussia 0. 83.0, 97,1. 08)1. 00/1. 12:0. 69:0. 76)0. 84 0. 88 0. 81,0. 97 0. 97,0. 98:1. 07)1. 001. 19:0. 70 PORewes een aoe 56m 0. 88 0, 89)0, 89) 1. 02)1. 00,0. 72/0. 89/0. 69,0. 62.0. 68)1. 06 0. 82 0. 87.0. 85)0. 98)1. 02 0. . 70 Pommern 0. 82,0. 82/1. 01/1. 14/1. 0510. 39)0. 78\0. 880. 810. 861. 03,0. 80.0. 82 1, 02/1. 14)1. 100. 57 Brandenburg 0. 90 0. 98,0. 96|1. 00)0. 89 0. 76)1. 02'0. 85.0. 89.0. 82.1. 15.0. 87 0. 93 0. 94)1. 000 98 0. 84 RIE - 5 acc nlc ep cine 0. 97,0. 97,0. 94|1. 02)0. 930. 79, 0. 99) 0. 70.0. 78 0. 80/1. 06 0. 98 1. 02 0. 93)1. 05 0 96,0. 83 SUSSLD Se 555 0egee eee 0. 96.0. 93/0. 95/1. 07/0. 99.0. 90,0. 74 0. 67 0. 92 0. 96 1. 15 0. 92 0. 93 0. 96)1. 08 1. 06,0. 98 DRS AIA ee! 2 oes a0 wc oe 0. 87:0. 78 0. 991. 13/0. 95 0. 83/0. 76.0. 74,0. 76.0. 82.0. 86 0. 87 0. 86 0. 98)1. 12 0. 970. 86 Rhenish Province ........--- 0. 91) \0. 73)0. 95)1. 10/1. 03 0. 81/0. 710. 69/0. 90 0. 89:1. 07,0. 92 0. 83 0. 94}1. 09/1. 020. ee Hohenzollern- Be a aretto eee S| oes . Sat: 04 0. 97\0. 97) - 227210! oF 95 1. O11. 00)... + = - 0. 79,0. 95/0. ore 97). - Average SBS Aes 0. is aa asi a . 99 0. 74/0. 83)0. 78,0. 84 0. 85.1. 04 0. 89.0. 89 0. tae i wo 79 aa es a er a ee A 3 r as = o ao} Year. a S “ 4 = 3 = ay Mi RE ah he es IP lll Sa i i = a | ie) wv q a= 7) Somers Ve cee eieclas oe OPSd) | 0) B49) ORES 02 O80. 70" Ovo” Beste. |2aeees eee ISG 2225 a 0599 || 0598") 107990) 104 410: 92") 085622. co. |saeeee Seen LUBE Sele eeregme aeepeme O61 40566 | 103959100. 98> 110.67) | 0.61 ||. -----|-sease|eeeees USED. 2385 ase eee ae 0594) 9005) 1.100.) 1.04 12.05.) O82) |--- 224/22 oes eee LCS Sac OB Cee Se ete eae 1.02} 1508))0:.'73 | 0.6L | 0,44 | 0.95-)2.-225)2s2225) see SOR Aa ie a ee O73 OF8300: 65 | '0562)|.0.37 | 0290) 2-5). 2 eee UC6Y): 3.35 Se Secu ae eee 0.89) OS 7700.'70 | 0.83) 0°72 | ONS) |2-2~--| 2222 eee Lets 0). a SURE ER pee Ae ee 0797 1 02995)50..92 | 1.05 | 0589) | 0258) || 0: 0. 95 Speen cten cena esisele csc 0.95 | 0.80) 0.93 | 0.99 | 0.86 | 0.66 | 0.74 | 0.87 TCLS 773 6 a Se ee Se em 0.89 | 0.88 | 0.98 | 1.09 | 0.99 | 0.83 | 0.78 | 0.84 Average of 10 years-| 0.88 | 0 88 | 0.87 | 0.92 | 0.76 | 0.73 |..----|.-----]------ This plan is an admirable one. If aided by a decennial census even, so that the amount of the crop, in scheffels or bushels, could be ascer- tained and made the standard of comparison, instead of the supposed nor- mal one represented by 100, it would leave nothing more to be desired. It represents the least change in the crop, and is capable of a condensation that fits it for any extent of territory. The machinery through which it acts, so far as we can conjecture, is objectionable, because agricultural societies, although very useful in assisting to give information, are un- suited to direct the operations necessary to collect and arrange the returns. It should be done by the immediate agency of the Secretary ‘of the Depart- ment of Agriculture, 3. United States.—Before stating the plan pursued in this department, it is proper to allude to the causes which called it into existence. The vast agriculture of the United States, and the remoteness of the regions of great production from the places of consumption, require several 13 sales to be made between the producer and consumer. The meats and large quantities of breadstuffs are sold in the months of November and De- cember. The banks, to meet the great demands upon them for the purchase of so large products in so short a time, reduce their discounts largely in the fall, and thus the opening of the fall markets is in a greatly lessened amount of paper circulation. The scarcity of money, the abundance of the crops, with other well arranged alarms about the prospect of a European demand, led to a depression of prices, which generally was not well gotten over before the crops had passed from the control of the producer. Against this injustice intelligent farmers would remonstrate, but what availed their scattered and unconcerted efforts against the influences they encountered ? But with the successful formation of county and State agri- cultural associations, the means of more concerted action were at hand. The following circular, addressed to other State agricultural societies by the president of the Maryland State Agricultural Society, shows the nature and the purpose of the first effort to collect speedily the returns of the an- nual crops: CENTREVILLE, QuEEN ANNE County, Mp., July 16, 1855. Dear Sir: For the promotion of the farming interest of the country, we are anxious to procure the earliest reliable information possible of the crops, that the same may be laid before the farmer to guide him in the selection of the best time to dispose of the fruits of his labors. This duty should prop- erly be imposed upon an agricultural department of the general government, but in the absence of such provision, and in view of the artful practices of speculators and others, operating most disastrously through the base venality of the public press, upon this leading interest, the obligation is devolved upon us. The question arises, how shall we best discharge it? Shall we rest con- tent as heretofore to do nothing; to sit with our hands before us without an effort to secure that information which by concert of action is entirely within our reach; to see our brother farmers robbed of twenty to thirty per cent. of the labors of their hands, by the superior information and cunning of the astute purchaser, merely from an indisposition on our part to make that exertion necessary to secure the important end we should earnestly labor to accomplish? The answer is but too plain, and pronounces such a course to be altogether unworthy of sensible men. Let this charge, then, of ineffi- ciency, of want of energy to secure our own interest, no longer rest upon us; but if we have not already, let us at once so organize the societies of our respective States as to make them efficient in procuring this information so all-important to the farmers. Let us have gentlemen of intelligence and reliable judgment in each county of our respective States, connected not only by position as officers, but by interest, too, with our State societies, that we may have a right to call on statedly for information touching the crops of their different locali- ties. They can be directed to forward their reports to some selected officer, whose duty it should be to collate them and disseminate the information thus deduced through the public press, and by circulars transmitted to each of the State agricultural societies of the Union. We will invite your attention to the organization of our Maryland Agee cultural Society as well adapted to promote the object contemplated, and for your information, ask your perusal of a circular, which we herewith enclose; and which we had the honor of addressing to our sister societies at the time of its date. 14 We hope to be able to lay before you a statement of the wheat, grass, and oat crops of Maryland by the 1st of September, and of the corn crop by the Ist or middle of November. Earnestly soliciting your co-operation in this important matter, I have the honor to be your obedient servant, JAMES T. EARLE, President of Maryland State Agricultural Society. To ? President of ——-—— State Agricultural Society. Mr. Earle, at the same time, issued a circular to individuals and county societies, asking them to report, by the tenth of October following, the state of the crops, whether above or below an average, and the causes that have beneficially or prejudicially affected the crops. These efforts assumed a more definite form in the plan adopted by the edi- tor of the American Agriculturist, Orange Judd. In 1862 he issued a circu- lar to his subscribers and others, containing five sets of inquiries, one for each of the months from May to September, and all alike. The following is a copy of the circular issued by him; the explanations which were a part of it we omit: - ' Seite See come as me ceeice rele see ee creme |me o = |emin'=fea| ime ee | em cmicin| ne/niaoml| n=l sine > (ea a'en'=| nin risimicl||-airstein | = sie ciple eH ese eicoleose | act aie iim elses tee etnias x M A 1 L 8 a d oO N W iE >: I I H dD ru C | a @) a V. rg > rg a > > > a > b a > ta > > > > > > > > 3 ot Bt o u ° ° ¢ | fee | & © | Sleeh| Slect| Sleek] slesk| S| ees|e#| S| 288) .8| 3) 288) o£ | see ma og ° ) ra beaks, oral Pom tet pte BS 5 BS @ | Hen. S iS} asgeiles BO 20 2g 2 +] ven] Be a & | mod B | Sok Bol ecaneaits & | owe SSE | SE 8 See eens S2| SS ee 6.8 | ee ee 2 on 8 2 ma A =) Hlwae Bl SSB a |338 BR) Bes | gs Bi|338 | Be A | 33 6 Be u's o <4 Repeat. a o| |/afne 5 |/2Ba] Bo 6p |/eo8e¢l|/iye os |o8e io pa fe 3.3 ae | S55] 4B Srl ethos te Wee Bi lomo: lene |) Conte on en | IB oo od) abe) bao Smelieeas ep | 26s BE|GES|e2|848|e8|588| 63 | 262 \ 63 |SES| ES | ES | Reo Ee | Es | eee | ge | Ras oo . orn D +m 0 3 wm aa ? m n. oO m mn ca . 2 wa . d nD Le s+ e | Bee ei gea| es lee] es) deco] So )a¢ | S82 |22) ec) £2) 28) eo) 28) Se:\ 7 ae E eens a ae pb” > bo em] & es as ree ek pt ch oh am o”? fii ao =.° ea std ‘2 2 as Ae wo ao Ee ad mod ate ’ a3 ao ao By pee) amd i) we a3 © p Or ldo) Om "da Or ©2o OF oo OF Ore! 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In preparing tables for each State from the county returns it has been found necessary to retain fractions of tenths when the number of farm stock or of bushels of grain have to be calculated from the compiled returns in tenths for each State. But the details of the plan of Mr. Judd are defective in this, that they ask the correspondents to give annual averages for five years, when they have no basis on which to make them. This should be the work of the central agency, which should have all the statistics necessary to make the proper deductions. They are defective, too, in asking the same questions for each month. This Department has felt the necessity of asking many questions suggested by the returns of the preceding month. But we presume that to economize the expenses in printing, postage, and labor in compiling the re- turns was the cause of having the questions for each month alike. To Mr. Judd belongs the credit of giving definite shape to a plan for the annual col- lection of the statistics of the crops, by which their amount could be approx- imated to sufficiently near for all practical purposes. His plan is virtually the same as the Prussian, and it is the one adopted by this Department. The details, however, have been much changed by it, and made applicable to almost every matter belonging to agricultural production. With this brief allusion to the causes which led to this plan of collecting agricultural statistics in the United States, and the gradual progress made towards its present (yet incomplete) condition, it is unnecessary to give any table from our circulars to more fully show the character of the questions asked our correspondents, for the tables published in this and other reports show all the questions asked them. 4. The means used in the practical operations of the plan.—It is proper that these should be noticed, for we believe that before long this plan will be adopted in all commercial nations. Every month during the summer, and bi-monthly during the winter, the Department issued circulars to its correspondents. These are persons re- commended by members of Congress and others. The first trial showed that they could not give reliable statements as to thé number of bushels or pounds of any product, but very useful information whether the crop inquired about was a tenth or more greater or less than the preceding crop. Such inform- ation, whilst it is not to be implicitly relied upon, is, nevertheless, a most important element in calculating the bushels or pounds of a crop. ‘The number of such correspondents should not exceed one for an ordinary sized county of 400 square miles or 20 miles square, and about five assist- ants. They are not paid any compensation, except in copies of the Annual and Monthly Reports and seeds, and they ought to receive a copy of the abridged census reports and of the unabridged, so far as relates to agricul- ture, for the purpose of aiding them in the discharge of their duties. On a day named in the circular their returns are sent to the department by the mail, and as fast as received they are entered on rolls for each State, and when all are entered the returns are added up and the product divided by the number of counties returned for each crop. This gives the general average for each State in tenths and fractions of a tenth. The next step is to calculate from these averages the product of a crop in bushels or pounds, because these best exhibit the increase or deficiency. Herein, at this time, lies the chief difficulty of the practical workings of the plan. 17 For want of the census returns showing the product of the counties the correspondents have nothing upon which to base their estimate of present crops. Had this department been in existence in 1861, and had placed before it the returns for the counties, it could have made up county estimates from year to year since 1860, based on the estimates for each preceding year and the returns of the correspondents for the succeeding one. The publication of these would have aided the correspondents in their judgment. Since 1860 the effect of the civil war has completely revolutionized agriculture. With these two difficulties, (the first of which should not have occurred, and the last will cease with the restoration of peace,) the labor of estimating the amount of the crops in bushels and pounds is very great. It involves an examination of the general progress of the agriculture of each State for a series of years, which is shown chiefly by the census returns of 1840, 1850, and 1860. The per cent, increase must be ascertained of the progress made by each State in each crop, at different periods of this progress, also special causes acting on production, as railways, or other improvements in transportation, or on prices, as unusual commercial demand, or in change of products by the growth of manufactures. The duration, extent, and intensity of their action must be considered. At this time the points of government supplies must not be overlooked. How far each section of the country will be influenced by these causes must be judged of from a personal knowledge of the general agricul- tural condition of the country and of much of its local peculiarities. National and State censuses must be compared, and from every source of information must be derived the means of correcting the returns of correspondents, who, under the circumstances in which the country and they themselves are placed, cannot be regarded as always-correct. In ordinary times none of these dis- arranging causes are at work, and hence, when once the plan is fairly in operation, the annually published estimates of the production of counties will sufficiently guide the judgment of correspondents, especially when greater experience shall have familiarized them with their duties. But with all these extraordinary difficulties to contend against, the returns of correspondents are far more reliable than most of those made by township and county assessors, who collect agricultural statistics for several of the States. The omissions of these assessors are so many, their indifference and carelessness so great, the reluctance of the people so general to render an account of their annual products, lest they may be subjected to taxes, that the collected returns pre- sent most unreliable results. 5. The utility of these stafistics——From time to time brief references have been made in these reports to tie practical operation of the statistics thus collected. The plan has been in trial for a year—one of a most extraordi- nary character. To the disturbing causes from political convulsions were added the injuriés to the fall crops from frosts of unexampled destructive- ness. The statements made have been tested by time and commercial trans- actions, and they have been sustained in a most gratifying manner. Those who made immediate purchases last fall from faith in these reports are now rejoicing over the money saved. They at once established an advance of twenty cents a bushel for corn, and the farmer has received that which was justly due to him. In none of the facts stated has there been any material error. If, then, the-plan has stood these tests in a time so extraordinary, it cannot fail when with peace comes our accustomed agricultural prosperity, and with ordinary seasons our usual crops. 2P 18 i Ce0‘090‘LZT T6e‘OFS ‘Fe GL%‘POL‘ST) 8F2‘990‘'9 | F96‘9%z‘S GIL‘SPT ‘OT 029 “PS 988 ‘09T €S2 ‘FIL IPL ‘18S ‘T 6PL ‘00F €S9 ‘SIP ‘T GOL ‘Ter % 960 ‘S99 ‘% GPO ‘66S £99 ‘0% *G OPL ‘26 ‘T 8RZ ‘TRE OSL ‘926 6S2 ‘61% 80S ‘Sz8 Shs ‘OF GOI ‘29 GIS ‘FL £92 ‘E9 Tap ‘8s £8 ‘GP OL9 ‘oF “POST 696 ‘Ge 608 ‘86 GSS ‘LOL 191 ‘16 L&6 ‘SES Gar ‘PSs 's GEL ‘6LBS 82S ‘86h ‘S £99 ‘PLS £29 ‘SLLS C6 ‘oss 9¢2 ‘188 99% ‘1L80'T 680 ‘98% SLI ‘O16 SPS ‘LP OBI ‘SZ SLP ‘LI QF6 ‘SL esr ‘6 Ge6 ‘TS €82 ‘PS (uve).1waX| *EogT wax |( uve). waz *S9OH GOI ‘L 9%L ‘9G 988 ‘OF 9FS ‘881 966 ‘86 CS ‘SHE ISZ ‘GES €80 ‘16 G89 ‘00% 608 ‘969. 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The preceding table of farm stock for the year 1859 is taken from the returns of the census of 1860, and for 1864 has been estimated, taking the census returns as a basis, and those of our correspondents, published in the last bi-monthly report, as a means of aiding in computing the number on this basis. It is presented not with the same confidence in its approximation to correctness which we had in our estimates of the crops published in the September and October reports, but with the belief that it is entitled to much weight. The plan of taking these statistics could not have been ut toa severer test than in the formation of this table. Political events checked the numerical increase of stock in 1861 and 1862, and the war has made heavy demands for horses and mules, and increased that for cattle and hogs. It has called into the greatest activity every effort to sup- ply the want of cotton by the increase of sheep. This demand, the presence of war in some of the loyal States, and the scarcity of food in others, have created. an unusual movement of stock from one State to another. The usual per cent. increase cannot be relied upon as a means of determining the numbers for 1864 for each of the States in the tables. Had this depart- ment been in existence in 1860, and every year since made estimates of the amount of the farm stock, more especially if the census returns for each county had been published, and estimates on these had been annually made, then the difficulties now existing would have been. measurably removed, despite the existence of our national troubles, and their disturbing effects on stock production and consumption. But, nevertheless, we have much confidence in the general correctness of the table, and hence publish it. A brief notice of each kind of stock, of the causes affecting its decrease or increase, and the practical lessons embodied in the returns, will not be without interest and utility. 1, Horses——The decrease in these is 149,999 since 1859; but a greater decrease than this is estimated in Kentucky and Missouri. From the census returns, onefuurth has been deducted for the losses by war in these States in all kinds of farm stock. The Kentucky statistics for 1862 do not make it so much in horses, but in all other kinds so nearly approximate to it that we rely on this estimated decrease; for, so far as we can see, a heavier loss should have been experienced in horses than in most other stock. This estimated decrease in Kentucky is 88,926 horses, and in Missouri 90,468—together, 179,394; leaving, therefore, an increase in the other loyal States of 29,895. But all the States have not increased. In the New Eng- land States there has been a decrease of nearly fourteen thousand, repre- senting the gradual decrease of horses in most of these States. The decrease in New York and Pennsylvania show the purchases from them for the gov- ernment, as do also the western States of Ohio and Indiana; but these latter indicate in addition the effects of scarcity of food. Michigan and Illinois are nearly the same as they were in 1859; the great increase of the latter has been brought down by government demand and transfer to other States. Wisconsin exhibits considerable increase, but that of Iowa is very great. Even for a western State, the growth of Iowa has been extraordinary, and it has, doubtless, received a large accession to its stock from immigration. With all of its past and recent troubles, Kansas presses steadily forward in prosperity; and Minnesota, far north as it is, is rapidly advancing in stock-raising. The future market for horses is encouraging. A correspondent in Ohio informs us that farmers in his county were quitting horses and cattle, and. directing their attention to mules and sheep. Now an evil in our agricul-- ture is, that we aresgoverned too much by present demand, and continue in 20 the course it directs too long, until an overstock is the result. From 1855 to 1860 horses increased very rapidly, particularly in the west, through the encouragement of State and county agricultural societies. In Ohio the in- crease of stock from 1850 to 1860 was as follows: Horses, 63 per cent.; cattle, 40; hogs, 15; and sheep decreased. This great increase of horses was felt on the markets in 1860 in the west. But even, if we should have peace soon, and with it a large number of government horses thrown back to the citizen by sale, yet still there will be a scarcity of horses in the loyal States for immediate work. The purchases by government have been of this kind only, and the country feels the drain. With the return of peace will soon come a demand for them from the south, which for some time will continue to grow stronger as its means of purchase increase. In these things the farmer should now see every encouragement to continue his pro- duction of this stock. 2. Mules.—Although the tables exhibit a decrease in this stock of 20,762, yet when we take into consideration the fact that the estimated decrease in Kentucky and Missouri, on account of the war, is 44,893, there will be seen to be a general increase in the rest of the loyal States of 24,131. The pur- chases of government have been large, and when peace returns, the demand for mules will be great for the southern markets. Much of what has been said of the future markets for horses is applicable to those for this stock; and hence the farmer who adheres to mule-raising will not regret his deter- mination. 3. Cattle—The increase in cattle is 24,291. But the returns of our cor- respondents in Kentucky and Missouri show a reduction since 1861 of three- tenths or thirty per cent. This makes the decrease in those States equal to 370,787, and making proper estimates for an increase in 1860 and 1861, there is an increase for the other States of 395,078. Why the returns should show a less proportional decrease of cattle than horses and mules, can be seen from a moment’s reflection. Although cattle are purchased largely by the government for the army, yet the soldiers, when in the family prior to going into the army, were consumers of beef, though not to the extent they now are. Hence the government purchases should represent this increased consumption only, and not the whole of it, as in the case of its purchases of horses and mules. . Ohio and Indiana show a decrease of 122,437, and Iowa the large increase of 213,630. But in the first two of these States the purchases of govern- ment have been very great, and although the increase in Iowa is large, yet it is not so great in these tables as exhibited in the returns made to the State by its assessors in 1862. They report the cattle, in which we include oxen, and exclude cows, at 605,222, being 44,884 more in 1862 than we place them in January, 1864. But we take as the basis of eur estimates the census returns of 1860, which are generally lower than those of the States. Thus in Ohio, where the annual increase of cattle did not exceed 15,000, the census for 1859 places the cattle of Ohio at 243,000 less than the State enumeration for 1860. The increase of cattle in the loyal States, since 1859 is so small that, for all practical purposes, it may be disregarded. The average increase annually from 1850 to 1860 was about 34 percent. The warts of the government are great, and domestic consumption of beef is increasing, as may be inferred from the table published in our last report, showing the state of the New York cattle market. In 1862, the number of beeves in it was 236,009, and in 1868, 263,326. The foreign demand has increased largely. Our exports of beef in tierces and barrels have been as follows: CE eapeiniiehe's:s Siajere wic's.+ side telays): ak Sennen Ts ss $1,372,546 21 This demand abroad will, in all probability, continue favorable, for the prices of meats in the English markets are sustained, whilst those of cereals or breadstuffs have declined. The following comparison of these prices is taken from the London Mark Lane Express, of March 7. Flour was then but 84 cents per 112 pounds higher than in 1850, a year of low prices, whilst beef was $4 44 higher per 112 pounds, muéfon 74 cents per pound higher, veal 41 cents per pound higher, and pork $1 12 per 112 pounds higher, than they were in 1850. Here is a great difference, especially in beef and mutton, “the two principal articles of consumption,” as the Express says. That there is an increased consumption of meats in Great Britain is seen in these prices, and in the fact that more lands are being put down in grass. As the consumption of our meats increases there, the more will they be liked. All these statistics admonish our farmers not to neglect cattle-raising ; but keeping their attention constantly on the increase or decrease of any stock, and the causes of demand, to timely avoid a scarcity on the one hand, and an over-supply on the other. 4. Cows.—The general scarcity of butter and cheese, and their very high prices at this time, show that the home markets for them demand a larger supply. The increase of cows since 1859 has been 339,784 in the loyal States; but with these, as with other stock, the decrease in Kentucky and Missouri shows that the increase for the rest of the loyal States has been greater than this general increase indicates. The reported decrease of Mis- souri is, however, less for cows than for most other stock. The general in- crease of cows from 1850 to 1860 was 36 per cent., whilst our tables show it to be not quite 6 per cent. in the loyal States between 1859'and 1864. The table published in the last report, page 37, shows that whilst the in- crease of butter last year was but one-tenth, the increase in price was three- tenths. The exports of butter to foreign markets have been as follows : REPRE, 213 «is eek md bikjes Tae aeleis ohne & Bad aie. field $4,190,745 in cata dim, tm ee ae Gad aie ~ 5.5 oid Shel teas share 2 6,091,831 Ne eons alee lirei Sauron edna aliiaita mdse Atalanta : 7,176,648 And those of cheese, as follows : MOGESsc.3i oud es wix pia cacti wis vo Hines Stok. eee, TERT Ge jo di siae nike al pple ae > BP) 4,673,889 es Se ee mR te ee eee Pals 0 0 oe Sapoattatearets 5,603,884 Surely, in all these statistics our farmers must see that too much care cannot be given to an increase of cows, and to butter and cheese manufac- ture. 5. Sheep—There is no cha ge in our agriculture so gratifying as the in- crease in sheep. By our table it is 9,242,119, or about 61 per cent., since 1859, most of it being in the last three years. All the stock raising States have participated in it, except Kentucky and Missouri. But the returns from the first show a present increase; and in the latter, that the decrease occasioned by the war has been arrested.. The emigration of this stock from one State to another has been unusually great, for the want of cotton created such a demand for wool for home and factory manufacture, that every farmer, great and small, sought to have a flock of sheep, if he had none previously, or to have his old one enlarged. The increase during this spring will add from four to five millions to the number in January; raising the whole number to nearly thirty millions, or double what it was in 1859 in the loyal States. But little need be said as to the-future markets for wool and mutton. Until a peace is conquered, and a fair crop of cotton is raised, wool will be remunerative, even if it falls considerably in price after peace and before the production of such cotton crop, for the general deficit in textile material 22 is great, as shown in the last report. But with peace wi!l cease the gov- ernment demand for clothing, whilst the scarcity of beef and pork will make the demand for mutton insure good prices for it. Whether, then, the old ewes, now kept longer than usual for breeding purposes, should be fattened and sold for mutton, and such wethers as have been kept longer than customary, on account of the high price of wool, is a question that will demand the con- sideration of all farmers, and a careful watching of political events. We shall keep them well advised of every fact connected with these subjects, and of such legislation by Congress as may tend to more firmly establish wool production in the United States. If, as our supplies of wool increase, the imports of foreign wool shall be checked, and the introduction of foreign woollen cloths be lessened, the wool-grower may rest in better security, than if he is to be subjected to the ompetition of these, as he was prior to the rebellion. Hogs.—The great destruction of the corn crop last fall by frosts and other causes has caused a decrease of this stock of 911,323. The high price for hogs in 1859 and 1860 created a large increase in the number during 1860. The low price of 1861 caused a great English demand for our pork and lard in 1862, and the advance in prices in consequence encouraged increased production in 1863. But the scarcity of corn not only checked it, but resulted in the decrease just stated. In determining the state of future markets for pork, a reference to the present home and foreign markets gives every encouragement. As already stated, the number of hogs packed last season was about one million less than in 1862-’63, and they were much lighter in weight. The active demand and high prices for the products of pork indicate that the markets will be bare next fall. Nor is the foreign trade less encouraging. From the general table of exports of meats and of lard, butter, and cheese, published in the last report (page 32,) we take the following table : Year. Total export. /Beef, butter, and| Products of cheese. pork. L863. oe oocencatccuuc, cranes (654, 607, 993 /$15. 587, 574. 1$89 Gana USGA cus he inns lkaie carcien ca ale 46, 404, 102 | 12, 729, 142 | 33, 776, 960 DSO ene iene a cee’ oo tannkaysagae ete 22, 740, 776 8, 744, 462 | 13, 996, 314 Keeping in mind that these values represent our own currency prices, and not the foreign gold standard of value, and that, therefore, a good deal of this great increase is due to this cause, still we see from the table in the last report that the increased quantities show a most satisfactory state of our foreign trade in the hog produets. With the return of our usual corn crops, therefore, our farmers need not hesitate in giving more than usual attention to hog-raising. From this brief review of the condition of the markets in connexion with the tables of stock, we see how highly encouraging are the causes which ordinarily create profitable stock markets. THE PORK-PACKING OF THE WEST. The Crncrnwati Price Current of April 6, contains the full returns of the pork packed in the west during the past season. ‘The hog product is an interest of so great magnitude, that we give room for the summary state- ment of these returns. 23 Referring to the progress made in the raising of hogs, as evidenced by the number packed, the Price Current says: ‘“ Previous to 1861 the crop did not vary over four or five hundred thousand hogs, being sometimes one or two hundred thousand above, and then the same amounts below ¢wo millions; but in 1862 the packing run up to nearly ¢hree millions; in 1863 to over four mil- lions, and this season it has fallen off over three-quarters of a million.” These “rapid and extensive changes” it attributes to the effects of civil war upon commerce ; to the rapid increase of settlements in the west, especially in Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. We think there are other causes, showing that the aggregate increase in the production of hogs is not as great as here intimated, a fact not to be lost sight of in determining the future condition of this crop. Why should this great increase have manifested itself in 1862, when the price of pork was so ruinously low in 186162? In these years, when hogs were sold by the farmers, there were no evidences of im- provement to encourage the increased production of them. The prices of mess pork in New York averaged, during the year, as follows: 1859, $16 38 per barrel; 1860, $17 98; 1861, $15 89; 1862, $12 28; and 1863, $14 40. The price during 1860 was very encouraging, and as the increase of horses and cattle had tended to over-production, the direction of stock increase turned to hogs. Hence alarge increase was made in 1860 and 1861. Inthe fall of the last of these years, stock hogs in September were worth in the west about one-third what they were in September, 1860. This was the result of the war, chiefly, and partly from too great an increase. Many hogs were held over, which swelled the number in 1862. And those packed were in- creased by the fact that the heavy trade in live hogs to the south from Ken- tucky, into which State they were taken from western States, was entirely stopped by the war. These causes greatly increased the ratio of the number packed over that of production, in 1862 and 1863, when compared with that of former years. The falling off, therefore, in the past season was not due to the want of corn alone, as intimated by the Price Current, when it says: “Were it not for the bad failure of the corn crop last year, conse- quent upon the cold ungenial summer, and the killing frost of July and August, there can be no doubt the pork crop the past season, would have exceeded that of any previous season by half a million of hogs.” On the con- trary, we think that with ordinary good crops of corn, there would have been a falling off. The returns of the correspondents of this department exhibit the fact, that the number in January last was 911,323 less than in 1859, in the loyal States. The number of fatted hogs last fall and winter brought to the packing-houses was not much diminished by the want of corn, as now appears, for these returns of our correspondents indicate that no great number of hogs have been kept over. The Price Current very cor- rectly remarks that ‘farmers, owing to the high price of corn, sold off all the hogs they had which were in a condition fit to be disposed of, and the high prices tempted them to sell even those they intended for home. use, to avery great extent, supposing that they would be able to buy the cured pork cheaper afterward, no doubt.” It is essential to understand the causes of the decrease of last season, and, as seen here, they show that under the most favorable conditions of the corn crop, hogs will be very scarce next season. Should peace return, and the southern demand for live and packed hogs be resumed next year, or the year following, there will be no more profitable stock than hogs. The following are the tables from the Price Current: Indiana. Illinois... Kentucky Wisconsin Missouri.. DRAKE SGt oth 35 odie WR Ge diay Dee aiate 24 SUMMARY OF HOGS PACKED IN eeeesese es ee se sesee eeee sees ee ee eee eee ee ee ee we eT Ow ee eee eee , eeeoeeer nese sees ee ereeesreseereese esse see een eeer ee eseseereer ere eereeenee @vrese eeoeeeeerenee eeererereee ee ee ee eee etae THE WEST. 1862-63. 991,183 297,611 4,084,582 —_—-——_—_— 193,417 1863-’64. 648,836 313,331 394,217 1,273,390 126,019 164,576 310,736 3,291,105 But this decrease does not show the entire decrease in the hog crop of The shipments to the east must be taken into consideration also. the west. The returns of these are yet imperfect. We have not yet got, says the Price Current, the shipments through Canada, nor by the way of Buffalo, but those by the way of Pittsburg and Dunkirk compare as follows from November 1 to February 1, each season : ee re eet e esr eeeeereseseseeese 1862-63. 136,007 171,496 307,503 ese 1863-64. 64,181 34,141 98 322 Here is a falling off of 209,181, and added to the decreased number packed, make the total decrease 997,658. The decrease in the average weight and yield of lard is as follows : States. Average weight per hog. 1862-63. 1863-64. | 1862-63. lbs. lbs. lbs. IG oes ae, sae xe ete ee ie ee 2234 19626 ou In@iang 2). .'.). + '°bsatene iets 209 18233 27 AUTEM OFS 50 5E ae a wtss a pe's Fane oe 2174 1894 28 PSCHLUCKY (6 4 ef sen nb oleh ictye 204 182 31 MISSOUTL ls, ce cee 220 1882 29 GW oR ia ’oe v.cs « SOON ne ae Se = 97, 825, 604 “This is equal to about 124 per cent., which added to the decrease in the number packed in the west, is as follows : Rericent.or. de¢rense. in SW nete ce dpi - a otal ay 8 be. wen t= +; 192 Fer Cent..oF decrease IN) WeISBEsaens.- 5 = 99 tuea > Mss see cy + 123 31,5” If to the decrease in the number packed in the west we add that of the number shipped by Pittsburg and Dunkirk, the entire decrease in number would be about 22,5; per cent. The per-centage decrease of lard is as follows : 18623, pounds...... ate 2a, Ces eee PRA 118, 016, 080 PEGS 4 V pauntien Hse ss 2 a. SO DRE 72, 874, 468 Deeeane Mi weights. 52) ee ie eee os 45, 141, 612 Being a fraction over 38 per cent. The head and gut lard is not included in this estimate. This was about 8 pounds per hog this season, and 12 pounds last. The decrease, then, is as follows : TA DRMIDGY ARON i, fat Mites 2nd paid ale Sealy gnied Waites 2255; In weight, per cent.......... OE eae ee ne 124 doy lar, Der CPN bni,<.4 tenit baadsielbisee oo i wean ecitlt © od Sm yeye seus scay oy Sas It may be proper to add that the above'table of the number packed does not indicate the number raised in a State. By reference to our tables in this report it will be seen that Indiana is the greatest hog-growing State, Illinois next, Ohio third, Kentucky fourth, Iowa fifth, and Missouri sixth, at this time. . In 1859 Indiana was the first, Missouri second, Kentucky third, Illinois fourth, Ohio fifth, and Pennsylvania sizth. ENGLISH IMPORTS OF WHEAT. Their total amount for the last ten years, and the countries from which the prin- cipal supplies were received; capabilities of Russia to successfully compete with the United States. The buoyancy of our own grain markets is so dependent on those of Great Britain, that their condition is always an object of interest to the American farmer. We therefore take the following tables from the London Mark Lane Express, which show the English imports of wheat for the last ten years, and « the countries from which are received the principal amounts. 26 IMPORTS OF WHEAT INTO GREAT BRITAIN. Year. [Total RTE te United| From Prus- |From Russia.) From Egypt.| From the in quarters. States. sia. Canadas. 18545255. 3, 431, 227 417, 607 672, 842 506, 839 302, 905 18, 150 (let eeeaee 2, 667, 702 248, 906 536, IS yite ews eneee 437, 241 14, 570 1856...-.. 4, 072, 833 | 1,279, 150 221, 681 759, 459 534,603 | 111,819 ISS ieecere 3, 437, 957 650, 754 866, 311 706, 375 | ° 204, 236 114, 795 rT ee 4,241,719 594, 644 625, 976 612, 217 464,644 | 100, 821 1859-2 2. 4, 000, 922 36, 906 771, 713 385, 460 377, 199 6, 721 1860232 2— 5, 880,958 | 1,499,385 | 1,149,532 | 1,301, 146 197, 265 183, 422 186s - 6,912,815 | 2,507,744 | 1,027,733 | 1,041, 461 339, 811 549, 525 1862...--- 9, 469,270 | 3,724,770 | 1,450,484 | 1,327,158 759, 036 861, 452 1863 sease = 5, 622,501 | 2,008,708 | 1,017,807 | 1,046, 378 535,290 | 483, 230 8, 340, 202 | 7, 186, 493 | 4, 152, 230 | 2, 444, 505 Total...| 49,737,904 | 12, 968,574 Whilst these tables exhibit our supremacy in supplying the demand of Great Britain for wheat, it may be well to consider the causes which, in the future, may affect that supremacy. The most prominent now is the growth of Russia. Competition from Russia—Although the tables show that Prussia supplies Great Britain with a larger amount of wheat than Russia, yet the Prussian exports are grown chiefly in Russia, in its Polish provinces. These are regarded as the best wheat-producing regions in the world; and they lie in the west of Russia, near to Prussia. Referring to these imports from Russia, the Mark Lane Express says : “Russia has displayed a great tendency to increase; and probably, if the Russian Empire was in a more tranquil and satisfactory state, socially, financially, and politically, the strides made would be more rapid. Let the steam-plough once get to work, and the great plains of Southern Russia must pour an immense quantity of cereals upon the Kuropean markets.” The “great plains” here alluded to are the Russian steppes, or prairies. A German writer, who has travelled through them, thus describes them : ‘‘What a prospect! The sun’s mighty ball had just appeared on the horizon, and the steppe extended, endless and immeasurable, in all directions.” And an English writer says: “The whole of Southern Russia, or, as it is more frequently called, New Russia—as it is the latest acquisition of the great Czaric empire—must have, once on a time, been one huge lake, whose eastern and western shores rose in the Hindukush mountains and the Carpathians. When this mighty mass of water broke its way out, it left behind a mass of slime, formed of decayed organisms, which now forms the celebrated Tchernozon—the inexhaustible black earth, which lies upon a mumular limestone at a depth varying from a few inches to fifteen feet. It is this land which supplies the greater portion of Europe with cereals without any artificial help.” It is here that the steam-plough may be so advantageously introduced, for these vast fertile plains have neither tree, nor bush, nor rock to obstruct it. These plains, however, are subject to greater climatic extremes than our northwest—to more intense droughts in summer, and more terrible snow- storms in winter. ; Heretofore Russia has made but little progress in agriculture, for its agricultural laborers were serfs. Of a population in 1858 of 61,129,480, twenty-two and a half riilions, or nearly thirty-seven per cent., were serfs; and of: these, 20,150,231 were attached to the land, that is, sold and trans- 27 ferred with it. There were but 106,897 proprietors of serfs, so that there were 211 serfs to each one of them. Progress in agriculture might as readily be found among the slaves of the south as among a people thus held in bondage. But about two years ago the present Emperor of Russia abolished serfdom, and gave power to the freed serfs to purchase and hold lands. The progress now making in Russian towns in- the establishment of schools points to the coming changes in agriculture. And receutly he has abolished it in the Polish provinces. On tbe 15th of April every peasant in them was not only freed, but made the owner of all lands, and buildings thereon, which he cultivated, With these recently awakened motives to agricultural improvement, the vast and productive plains of southern Russia and the Polish provinces must commence that progress alluded to by the Mark Lane Express, by the intro- duction of improved common ploughs, harrows, and drills; of the steam plough, the reaper, and the thresher; and by the gradual making of rail- roads, for in these plains there are no obstructions to render them costly. Doubtless it will be many years before this improvement can materially affect our exports of wheat to England, for, as stated in the last report, with regard to cotton, it is not production alone that gives a nation a foreign market, but its own ability to consume what that market may have to offer in payment. So long as the United States are superior as a consumer, it can regulate the conditions of mutual trade. But still Russian consumption, too, will increase with its progress in agriculture; and even as it now is, the tables of English imports of wheat show how great is the amount of wheat Russia, directly and indirectly, sends to Great Britain. Political convulsions may retard Russian progress, and general European wars may continue our supremacy, but an expectation of these should not divert our minds from the development of that market which is our best and most reliable one—the home market. IMPORTS AND EXPORTS. If statistics ever taught a truth that patriotism demands should be heeded, it is those we here present on the imports and exports of the country at New York, since January 1, 1864. IMPORTS OF FOREIGN DRY GOODS AT NEW YORK FOR THREE MONTHS FROM JANUARY 1. Entered for consumption. 1862. 1863. | 1864, Manufactures of wool ........---.-------- $5, 385, 960 #6, 030, 178 $10, 516, 319 Woaee=,22 2 CMON) Le Ce EERE EEE eee 2, 062, 735 2, 226, 489 3, 289, 580 we See oegllke ec Se CES eee 2, 048, 818 2,977,914 6, 319, 628 Cee Pee Eb? EBLE! eo en See eee 1, 568, 058 2, 672, 456 3, 192, 897 pisSoclitatocs Gnympednacs. +22. 0-0-3252 486, 226 963, 641 1, 487, 584 (in): CAO ee on Oe eee meee 11, 551, 797 14, 870, 678 24, 806, 002 28 Withdrawn from warehouse. 1863. 1864, Manufactures, of w00Ws-s ence nen sok Sob eet cde, ce oe pounds .../ 58,516, 683 100, 654, 855 Le Gry Ree lS le es Seana Sea ee Ysa d¢.- 2 4, 856, 693 5, 564, 585 REECE O eee tee ae ea. ae aio: = ae 8, 509, 772 5, 792, 158 Ward O45 02.5 6. 28. oP. eae SSS dos vis 12, 396, 456 51, 063, 332 WiallaWsts-b aa. 225). 5S Se So eee do. 12, 141,570 11, 977,795 The value of exports of domestic produce from New York from January 1 to the 4th of April, in currency, is as follows: 1862, $34,903,292; 1863, $54,137,715; 1864, $42,734,973. The national account sums up thus, for the first three months of 1864: TSMC wets eet oes Ae Pats 3 owes Qc aadees sisliwsibis Sarat) 1/9893, BS4,'606 Bp arine,.8 ad8 one] eves obs 3 wae aaer Srasacene! Less: 42, 734, 973 Balance against the people.............-0005 S161 », us 51, 149, 633 Is it any wonder, then, that to meet the great demand of gold for exportation which such a trade creates, the difference between currency and gold widens every day, despite the efforts of government to lessen it. Here is a table show- ing that difference. Table of the relative prices of gold since the government commenced the sale of gold certificates. Market price. Date. Gov. price. rere Highest. | Lowest. | Closing. Marchy' 29-2 52 PU 1654 1664 165 1654 $99,186 67 WEMECHMC 2 2s a5 oo hs eee 164 1642 1632 164 18, 889 63 LaLa gsl 7s SB eM a aig ee 1634 1652 1632 1654 424, 456 56 EU We = tak he eae c 165 168% 166 1663 439,144 80 ape PSU ey ea 166 1662 166 1662 158, 290 00 Amie Aor cisetl. 2.4). 16 1654 1672 166 1678 296, 840 00 PUI a iG 95 hse ot 1654 1684 1672 168} 354,710 00 fi) ee 1662 1714 168 W7it 385, 058 56 Pais lar ee Se te 165 1714 1694 169% 407,710 00 prvi Me B: : eee 165 1694 1694 169% 417,766 20 Aprile Gis. 6G.466 bz 2 165 1714 1692 | 1714 414,113 87 yy ieee OS eee eee 165 172 1704 172 502,916 00 50 yi et ee Se 165 175 1734 1744 513, 011 03 Dee ee ae ee = 165 1804 1744 179 632,288 01 EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN MARKETS. In order that our farmers may see the’state of the markets, we shall, from time to time, give the prices of the leading agricultural products usually exported. They are not given so much to show the latest prices, as a guide by which the farmer should effect sales, but to familiarize him with those matters which, in times of better foreign demand, he should not overlook. The general condition of all the European markets for grains is a most decided dullness, and the latest accounts represent them as drooping. The Danish war has too remote a probability of becoming a general European war to give the slightest activity to the markets. WHEAT, ' England.—The average price of wheat at 42 places in Great Britain was 40 shillings and L penny per quarter of 480 pounds. Estimating the shilling at 24 cents, this price per American bushel of 60 pounds would be $1 20. But American red and white winter wheat ranged at about $1 32 to $1 42 at London; and at Liverpool, at $1 30 to $1 65. At San Francisco it was $2 25 to $2 40 per bushel, having advanced recently from 30 cents to -45 cents per bushel on account of the severe drought noticed more fully in our article on California. At New York it was ranging from $1 70 to $1 86, currency value, being in gold value, by which it must be compared with English prices, at about $1 13 to $1 23, ascertained by estimating the discount of difference between gold and currency at about one-third. Freight of wheat to Liverpool from New York was from 3 to 6 cents per bushel, and to London 10 cents. Making allowance for the rates of exchange, ~ insurance, drayage, commissions, &c., it will be seen that the exportation of wheat affords but little profit at this time. FLOUR. In London the best article was worth about 3 cents per pound, and Ameri- can flour in barrels ranged from $4 32 to $6; in Liverpool, from $4 80 to $5 28 and $6 24. In New York, from $6 65 to $8 30 per barrel, currency value ; in gold, from $4 43 to $5 53; in San Francisco, $4 50 to $7. Freight to Liverpool, from New York, was 24 cents per barrel, and to Lon- don 36 cents. INDIAN CORN. At Liverpool, corn was selling at from 78 to 89 cents per bushel of 56 pounds. In New York, from $1 28 to $1 30 in currency, equal to 854 and 864 cents in gold. At San Francisco it was $2 25 per bushel. PROVISIONS. In London, new American butter was selling at 21 cents per pound ; lard, in casks, at 112 cents per pound ; pork, per barrel, $21 60 ; beef, per barrel, $23 52 to $26 88. At New York, western and Ohio butter from 28 to 38 cents per pound, and State from 40 to 44 ; cheese, from 16 to 18 cents; lard, 13 to 134 cents; pork, prime, from $19 50 to $21 per barrel, and from $22 50 to $25 25 for mess ; beef, prime, from $7 50 to $9 for country mess, and from $16 to $19 for extra mess. These are currency rates ; gold values would be about one- third less. CALIFORNIA. It is a matter of regret to this Department that as yet no regular corre- spondence has been established with enough of the counties of California, 31 and of other Pacific States and Territories, to justify a constant notice of their agriculture in these reports. Their climate differs so much from that of the Atlantic States, and their agriculture in so many particulars is unlike theirs, that such notice could not be otherwise than interesting to all. From various sources we gather the following agricultural information of California. No rain of any consequence has fallen during the past winter and this spring. The winter rains usually commence falling in the last of November, and the crops are sown chiefly in December and January. Our correspondent in Los Angelos county writes that wheat and barley are not sown there yet, for want of rain, and that a large quantity of stock had per- ished. The Mercantile Gazette of San Francisco, of March 11, says: “Since our last report no rain has fallen in this vicinity, nor elsewhere in the State, so far as we are advised, and apprehensions on account of the drought have assumed a very serious complexion. From all agricultural districts the same complaint reaches us, and in nearly all the prospects of the growing crops are felt to be dubious.” Prices of flour had advanced, in consequence, from $2 to $3 per barrel, and wheat from 30 to 45 cents per bushel. But the crop of last year’s wheat was unusually large, both in store in the cities and on the farms. “ We have good reason,” says the Gazette, “to believe that Oregon still retains a very considerable portion of last year’s wheat crop, of which free sales have re- cently been made at 50 cents per bushel, and at this writing round parcels are offering at Albany, and other interior towns, at 90 cents to $1 per bushel.” The Marysville Express says : “ From all parts of the State there come serious forebodings of evil, grow- ing out of the continued and, we may say, remarkable drought. So far no rain worth mentioning has fallen in the valleys, and but little snow has ac- cumulated in the mountains. The roads are getting dusty, sprinklers are used .in many of the cities, and communication is open across the Sierra Nevada at every point travelled during the summer months, while on the main travelled thoroughfares the stage and other vehicles make excellent time. The valleys and foot-hills, that at this season of the year are usually clad in verdure and floral colors, look brown and parched for the want of rain. Even at points near the seacoast, where the moisture from the ocean has hitherto been considered a protection against drought, the complaints are as loud as elsewhere of a dried up soil and blasted prospects. In the extreme southern counties cattle are dying by thousands for want of suste- nance, many old rancheros having already lost more than half their stock. The grazing portion of the Sacramento valley is almost entirely destitute of grass, and herds of stock are compelled to travel as far as possible into the foot-hills, gathering from the shaded sides of the mountains a scanty, subsist- ence. In Colusa and Tehama counties there are many localities where large herds of cattle travel from fifteen to twenty miles in order to procure water to drink, making regular trips from their pasture grounds to these watering places once or twice a week. Hundreds famish on the way and die on the waterless plain.” This is a sad picture ; but to avoid these misfortunes some winter food should be prepared. The wheat and other straws should be saved, and some hay provided. But copious rains may have fallen—we hope so—for from the following tables it will be seen that the average fall in March is compara- tively great. The following tables of the fall of rain in inches, omitting fractions, for thirteen years, are taken from the observations of Thomas M. Logan, M. D., at Sacramento, and show the average fall in each of the months : 32 164950 oan 36 inches. September ......... 0 inches. T9503 ae ee eee “aphe OTE 35 i ite ales S51 02.2 - bere ee i cua MNOVERIDED .--.'..-- -< 2 4 Do SE pte eyes hos 5 hi December... 22... . oe 1853-04 oe a oe pa SUMUAL Ye 2 21s oe ... .- «Se. - ele 1630 56es > tere = ity ep 11 EGF el Ae ta gt RSS Ola eee eee |b ie hea zo bis bal Milly Mecha say “piaadee 1S oe oe ee Aran os 1 Licih ey eh ablagi res | aha 1858 OOo eee es - TGa PiU! |Site ey A bh a ispean. ee A MERRSE> heer ee Cena) NDAD 0 « Js) see tp LT Reeth eae Ee OK ES 8 g: 0 OA et ene = BL | Las The hope that copious rains had fallen has not been disappointed. The San Fraucisco Mercantile Gazette of March 22, just received, says: ‘Since our report of the 10th instant, the long expected rains have commenced fall- ing, and all serious apprehensions in regard to the supply of breadstuffs for the ensuing twelve months have ceased.” These rains have been general in the State, and of ample supply, as believed. CHICAGO AND THE NORTHWEST. One of the wonders, even in this age, when progress has outstripped the anticipations of the most sanguine, is the growth of Chicago. It is nota representative of manufactures, nor of a foreign commerce, but solely of agriculture and the commerce created by it. Situated at a point of lake navigation which made it the receptacle of an immense and fertile agricul- tural region, seeking its markets in the eastern States and in Europe through Chicago, its growth has kept pace with the progress of that region, and therefore it is the representative of that progress as well as of its own. Its more rapid advancement, however, since 1860, is not an indication of a corresponding development of the agricultural resources of the country, whose trade it has always enjoyed, or of more remote places added to it by new railroad communication, but of that disturbing influence upon commerce caused by the war. The navigation of the Mississippi having been closed in 1861, the products of the upper parts of that river, and beyond it, in Iowa and Missouri, as well as the more southern portions of Illinois, had to seek a new transit to the eastern markets; they therefore centred in Chicago instead of in St. Louis, and other minor places. With this explanation, we republish the following table of shipments of breadstuffs from Chicago for the last twenty-six years, which we take from Hunt's Merchants’ Magazine, and of provisions in the last seven years, com- piled from different sources. How much of successful energy and toil, of wealth and of comfort, and of home happiness in the country life, is embraced in a single glance over these tables! 33d Shipments of flour (reduced to wheat) and grain from Chicago for twenty-six years. Years. Wheat. | Com. Oats. Rye. Barley. Total. | Bushels. Bushels. Bushels. Bushels. | Bushels. Bushels. 1838 <- .!-. Che assem. Seen) S225. ee see Bee a ae 78 [3 CA ¢( UN eee eS oe Seo a el 3, 678 i BOS OB: bk ee. ae ee See | ee es |. ene. = 10, 000 goatee. . 40, GOR | 2 Sekt: A oe | A See 2) oe 40, 000 iC O50, O07 ||P... 38> «4a eee St oe |- pea St lonee Set. 586, 907 g6a5232.... G88; 902 |Ja. cam: = = =e wk 22 | joe ee |2 eee 688, 907 oe 923, AOR | nce an eee Rese | aoe ae eel sa Se a Soe 923, 494 1 oe 16024) C20 2-2 aes - = emer 2~ | aeimecaeeee ca oe ec 1, 024, 620 HAAG. So oe a 13599, O19 oe o. ee, 525 ees Se | Boe eel oe eet 1,599, 819 Neato. ce: 2, 136,994 | 67, 135 ag COe |S aeameten ms wee sercte 2, 243, 201 lice 2, 286, 000 | 566, 460 (65 od ie Oe ee eae 3, 001, 740 iC 2,192,809 | 644,848 26, 849 Slate os 2, 769, 111 Te50. 2) 2-25 1,387,989 | 262, 013 186, 054 Peele \eeece Vee 1, 830, 939 ko) ae ae 799, 380 | 3,221,317 605, 827 ZS os let et Se 4, 446, 291 HES ea toe 941,470 | 2,757,011 | 2,030,317 | 127, 028 17,315 5, 873, 141 Mio <6 eee gee 1,680,998 | 2,780,253 | 1,748,493 | 120,275 82, 162 6, 412, 181 PGaa sat os 2,744,860 | 6,837,899 | 3,239,987 | 148, 421 41,153 | 12, 932, 320 bass Eee ae 7,110,270 | 7,547,678 | 1,888,533 92, 032 20,132 | 10, 633,700 TBGG) JBoe | 9, 419, 365 | 11,129,658 | 1,014,547 19, 051 590 | 21,583, 221 1653-6 10, 783,292 | 6,814,615 316, 778 D7 903") Se. se sees 18, 032, 678 184602562. 10,909,243 | 7,493,212 | 1,498,134 | 127,008 7,569 | 20, 035, 166 os ae ee 10,759, 359 | 4,217,654 | 1,174,177 | 478,162 | 131,449 | 16,753,795 it: a oe 16, 054, 379 | 13,743,172 | 1,039,779 | 129,156 | 290,211 | 31, 256,697 TSG). nw ce se 22, 913, 830 | 24,186,382 | 1,665,384 | 422,492 | 185,293 49, 363,380 i: 22, 902, 765 | 29,451,610 | 3,112,666 | 871,796 | 532,195 | 56,477,111, 18bBS Ls). 214. 17, 925, 336 | 24,444,147 | 7,574,994 | 835,133 | 668,735 | 50,548,345 Pork and cattle trade of Chicago. Years. Hogs re- | Hogsship-|Hogs pack-) Cattle re- |Cattleship-| Cattle ceived. ped. ed. ceived. ped. packed. i oa 540,486 | 192,013 99,262 | 140,534 42, 638 45,503 Lo eee ee 271,204 | 110,246 | 179,684} 111,694 | 37,584 51, 606 [SDE eee eee oes 392,860 | 227,164 151,339 | 177,101 | 97,474 34, 623 lc Sees ae 675, 902 | 289,094 | 271,805 | 204,579 | 124, 146 53, 754 2 re 1,348,890 | 491,135 | 505,691 | 209,655 | 112,745 59, 687 Lo 7 eee 1,532,504 | 678,288 | 854,216 | 306,592 | 139,302; *167,290 | * Packed and city use. The year 1863, in the table of pork and cattle trade, has been taken from the Chicago Journal of Commerce, which reported the numbers for the year only. As stated in the Cincinnati Price Current, the number of hogs packed at Chi- cago in the season of 1862-—’63 was 970,264, and of 1863—’64 was 904,657. 3P 34 Table showing the condition of stock, &c., on the 1st of April, 1864. CLOVER. HOGS. | SI} SsoloB jo JULLOUTB IOBIOAV ‘YOIV]L UL SPO tA 0) JO WONIpUOD odvIOAY ‘outids WAOTD Ul UWMOS 11 11 1% 10 11 8 11 10 10 11 124 | Lom ll ‘TOIB], UL SDOY JO U0YLPU0I OSBIOAY 11 11 10 14 SHEEP. “oI UL doays Jo w0272pw0IISB.LVAY 12 10 134 11 10 9F 11 10 10. 10 10 10% 10 10 12 CATTLE. MAPLE SUGAR AND MOLASSES. ‘POARJY UL 9[9v9 YNOJS JO WOYLPUOI AGVIDAY 11 11 1035 Ik 11 10 10 ‘POIBT Ul 9yyWwo Tur -uayns JO LA(UINU IoBIOAY “WOSBAS STITT} opBUL Sossvjout oydvur Jo suoT -[Vs JO JoquINU osBIOAY "MOSRAS SIT} OpBUI BSNS e[dvur Jo Juno osvIDAV 114 | 7 | 11 10 12} 12 4 114 124 10 12 14 114 12 10 “83 10 74 13 STATES. Maine .... New Hampshire- . AVietiEn ONL ciel eae eter Massachusetts. -- Rhode Island.. -- Connecticut - .- Newavorksso-- 5 - New Jersey --- Pennsylvania - -- Maryland -..---- 104 Kentucky- -..-- 1 12 Michigan - 11} 13 10 13 10 10 Indiana. - - Illinois -. Missouri Wisconsin .....- Vowaresesssco Minnesota .-..-- 10 10 13 15 West Virginia -.. Nebraska Ter’y .. 35 Table showing the condition of bees and general features of the weather, during February and March, 1864. STATES. Rhode Island Connecticut New York New:Jersey, 2. <.--<.<>. Pennsylvania . ......-- Marylandy2 525 2 225: 2 Kentucky725 <2: 2sss st QO) e BAe cor beacon eene Michigan Oe DOOR ae Rrrthenn te enn 5 noi one MUNOIS fs ss Sos 552k Sets MUSSONNL 5... of \so5 005 iWasconsin = 2/2.) 2252" Kansas West Virginia Nebraska Territory BEES. WEATHER. 2 | 2 February. March. os Shai | Hie) eS eee eee te 2% | 10 |26| 6| 5| 6| 1|23| 6 7 | ealeanry! ag BoP Bat! 3 | ep alt pitiyg Iba lala | 3 at | wir|22|5| 6] 1| 2/25] 7] 4] 0} 0 Qt Gianigdon 5 lat a lend | 1 | 10 | 3 | 7 | 1 | 3 WA aah holies to FO {Sadi {22 2] betes] ues aioe bi peresce toatatinals 0 11 7| 0| 3| 2 | Ge | 1 a 1} 9} | 71/34/11) 9] 7/63/35] 6|26) 8 1 10% 424 (AO da Siliecds| OU SL AAs al KiB | 2 Q4 8 | 71 41 | 8li4| 6/52] a5! 5 | 27 | 25 21 s jolo}7| 4! olui 19 113] 0 Ts be Maa ele “10 7 OY TY Rg Pa | 2 Qh 6 | a8 | 48 | 35 | 20 | 8] 68 | 64 | 15 41 | 11 3n6 Saige 19] oF) Oi 6S0e2F- 26} S.besohees 4 7 |69/43/35/15/ 2/54/56] 0/29] 6 4 7 |75| 32/50] 7| 2| 43) 64) 26/32] 9 34 6h | 22) 4 25 4|-1]14|20/17| 6| 3 4 8 | 31 17 | 5 2]}.9/24)23| 6] 9] 2 34 8 | 76/28/28] 7 | 5| 51] 39/16/9261] 10 2 io |13|] 5/23] 1] 0] 9/1] 8l10| 6 2 9) (26) 2a a Oro 10} Bl 8) 4 3 7 Sheet ab i.sl.21 8-4 Qh 10 aero ry re 5+) 3) 8 [ee Fe | aaa) SS SS ee eee eee eee | 741. (327. 292. 1106. | 51. 541. 439. |164. (263. |107. | | 36 REMARKS ON THE FOREGOING TABLES, The last circular contained various questions relative to fruits, grains, and stock. Some of these, it was known, could not be answered definitely; but as statements were made which represented the fruit crop of the west as destroyed, and its wheat crop much injured, it was proper to ascertain, at the earliest moment, what grounds there were for these statements. Some of these questions had necessarily to be renewed in subsequent circulars, in order to ascertain the condition of the growing crops at more subsequent periods of their growth; but the backwardness of the spring has made it impossible to answer several inquiries as definitely as was desired. For these causes, the next circular will be much like the last one as to the sub- jects of its inquiries, and on this account it is not necessary to publish a portion of the table, made from the answers to the last circular, especially as to fruits and grain crops. But the condition of these on the Ist of April, when the returns were sent to the department, will be stated generally. 1. Fruits—lIn the eastern States, Maryland, and in most sections-of the middle States, the fruit buds are not seriously affected. Indeed, in some of them they are in a better condition than is usual at this time of the year. They promise an excellent crop. But in the west and northwest, the injury both to the trees and fruit buds is undoubtedly great, as much so as ever before experienced. The extreme rigor of the winter there, in its most ex- traordinary changes, has been noticed heretofore, and will be seen more fully in the instructive tables furnished by the Smithsonian Institution, in the meteorological part of this report. The apple buds have been injured; those of the peach killed, and many of the trees too, and pear and cherry trees seriously affected, It is not necessary, however, to particularize lo- calities, that the extent of their injuries may be noticed, for fuller and more Contam returns will be given in the next bi-monthly report. Grain crops—The crops sown last fall are promising in the eastern ane for the winter has been favorable to them. But in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and in all the western States, except Wisconsin and Minnesota, where spriug wheat is chiefly sown, the condition on the first of April was unfavorable. General apprehension "existed that the severe weather in Feb- ruary and March, when the ground was bare of snow in large districts, had injured it seriously; but where there was snow it was doing well. We think there is an overestimate of the injury, for the cold, although severe, was steady, calculated to turn the blades brown, but not to destroy the root. In this belief we have the more confidence from a few of the later returns. One of these says that wheat thought to be killed was looking better. The dry cool weather of March was unfavorable to restoring its appearance, but the snows and rains of the latter part of the month and of April will do much to revive it, if in the condition we hope. But it is a winter that will test the value of dri/l sowing over broadcast, and of early over late putting in. To these matters we hope our correspondents will give special attention. Rye, barley, and clover.--These have not suffered as much as wheat, but their condition on the first of April was not as favorable as usual. The amount of clover seed sown this spring is a full average. 3. Cattle —A reference to the table will show that there is a marked de- crease in the number of fattening cattle at this season of the year. This was to have been expected from the scarcity of food in the west, the high price of it in the east,,and of the decreased number of cattle from the govern- ment demand. The returns indicate a decrease of nearly three-tenths, or thirty per cent., in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan; of two and a half tenths, or twenty-five per cent., in New York, Iowa, and Illinois; and 37 of two-tenths, or twenty per cent., in Missouri and Wisconsin. A decrease of this amount must be felt in the markets even where the consumption of beef has been lessened by its advanced price. One of the results must be an increased demand for mutton. The condition of stock cattle is much below the usual average at this season of the year; and this, with the lateness of the spring, will delay the appearance of the grass-fatted cattle in the markets. 4. Sheep.—The high price of wool, and the greater comparative value of this stock, have induced a livelier interest in it on the part of the farmer; and, as the table shows, it is in a good condition—above-an average. This secures the usual number of pounds of wool per head, and the per cent. in- crease of lambs that has obtained since 1861, when the demand for wool gave rise to unusual care. 5. Hogs.—The condition of these-in the eastern States is fair; but in the middle and western States, especially in the largest hog-producing, it is by no means favorable. Want of corn is the cause; but of the inducements to better attention, enough has been already said elsewhere in this report. 6. Bees—The introduction of Langstroth’s and other improved hives, and a better knowledge of the bee itself, have had a beneficial influence on bee culture. But the wet and cool spring of last year, and the untimely frosts of the autumn, by destroying the buckwheat, sent the bees into winter but little prepared to endure the severity of the cold storms that prevailed through it. The first column shows the loss in hives, in tenths, directly stated, 2} mean- ing two and a half tenths, or twenty-five per cent.; the second column their condition indirectly shown, 8 meaning two-tenths, or twenty per cent. below the usual average condition in the spring. These losses and this unfavor- able condition must be discouraging; but the energy and zeal so character- istic of the American farmer will not suffer a neglect of this interesting and useful stock. 1. Maple sugar and molasses.—Although the season was not closed when the returns were sent in, yet the table sustains the declarations of our cor- respondents that greater preparations had been made for this season’s sugar- making than for any previous one. So important is this product at this time, that we renew the questions in the next circular, that the whole of the season, especially in the most northern States, may be fully reported. 8. Weather—The general features of the weather in February and March will be seen from the number of weeks reported in the table. The favorable, cold, and dry predominate largely over the ‘wet and snow. Whilst this was advantageous to the ground in mellowing and rendering it fit for early ploughing, yet just when the plough commenced running the rain and snows came, which should have fallen earlier, and have delayed the operations of the farm. This is always unlucky to the farmer, as it piles together the hard labors of the spring; at this time it is unfortunate, because of the scarcity of labor. It is, however, favorable to wheat and other fall-sown crops, which suffered from the general cold and dryness of February and March. For the details of the weather during these months, we invite attention to the admirable meteorological report from the Smithsonian Institution. Oo S METEOROLOGICAL REPORT. FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. The meteorological condition of the northern hemisphere at the end of December, 1863, and the beginning of January, 1864, was one of the most remarkable to be found on record. In most cases in which a cold polar current is flowing southward and reducing the temperature, it is confined to a com- paratively narrow breadth, and at the same time warm equatorial currents are flowing northward over contiguous spaces, and thus restoring the gene- ral equilibrium of temperature and of pressure by opposite and parallel streams. But at the time above mentioned, from the facts thus far collected, it would appear that an unbroken sheet of cold air, extending from Eastern Europe, on the one side, to at least the Sandwich Islands on the other, was . flowing southward, and everywhere in this wide-extended space was simul- taneously reducing the temperature to a degree much below its normal monthly mean. This phenomenon well deserves a special investigation. The data should be collected by which to determine the limits and character of the polar current as well as the condition of the weather at the time in all other accessible parts of the world. Fortunately, by means of the organized systems of meteorology which have been established in almost every country, this data can be obtained in the course of a few months. In continuation of the notices of the severe cold and extensive snow- storm in the end of December and beginning of January, mentioned in the last report, extracts are given below from registers at many stations, showing the prevalence and extent of the storm. Following these extracts is a table containing the days on which snow and rain fell during the last week in December and first week in January; another table showing on what days in December and January the thermometer was at zero, or lower, and the number of days in both those months on which it was as low or lower than the freezing point ; also another table giving the temperature, and the direction and force of the wind, at the hours of observation on the first day of January and at 7 a. m. of the second, which at nearly all the stations embraced the lowest temperature. The deepest snow was east of the Mississippi river and north of the Ohio, and the severest cold was in the same region and further west; but the depression of temperature and the atmospheric disturbance extended over the whole country. At Mirador, in Mexico, near Vera Cruz, the mean temperature of the first day of January was nearly five degrees lower than on any other day in the month, except the nineteenth, which was the same as the first; and at St. John, New Brunswick, New Year’s Day “was singularly strange, even for a winter day in St. John.” The record from Bermuda for the first week in January has not been received. WEATHER AT THE END OF 1863 AND BEGINNING OF 1864. Saint John’s, Newfoundland.—January 1, fine, cold; light wind. 2d, gale all day. 3d, very fine, but cold; light wind. Saint John, New Brunswick.—An inch and a half of snow fell on the 28th of December, three-tenths of an inch on the 29th, an inch and a half on the 39 ist of January, and an inch and nine-tenths on the 5th. The first day of January was singularly strange, even for a winter day, in St. John, the changes being extreme, sudden, and unusual. Early morning had a fresh northeast wind, and was cold. About 9 a. m. the wind veered to the south- east, and the barometer began to fall rapidly and the thermometer to rise. In the forenoon there was a light fall of soft snow, and the wind increased to a heavy gale. In the afternoon the wind changed to rain, which con- tinued to fall, in heavy, pelting showers, to dusk; and about 5 p. m. there were three or four vivid flashes of lightning to the eastward, followed by as many loud peals of thunder. Shortly after this the rain began to fall afresh and with much greater force, and continued to near midnight; when the wind suddenly shifted to the northwest, increased in violence, and raged with tremendous fury all night and the whole of the next day. Temperature on the 2d of January, 6 a.m., 18°; 2 p.m., 10°; 10 p.m., 5°. On the 3d, Gal mm. 49:2 p. a 15°s "10 prim rs. Michipicoton, Canada West—Light snow on the 29th, 30th, and 31st of December. Calm in the morning of the 31st; gentle breeze from the east at 2 p.m., and at 9 p. m. strong wind from the same quarter. West Waterville, Maine.—Snow in the night of December 31, and rain on the Ist of January. Cornishville, Maine-—January 1, snow and rain from 1 a. m. toll p. m. Lisbon, Maine —January 1, snow and rain from 2 a. m. to 5 a. m., and rain from 6 a. m. to 4 p. m. Williamsburg, Maine-—January 1, snow from 4 a.m. to 11] a. m., and rain from 11 a. m. to 8 p. m. Steuben, Maine.—January 1, quite a rain to-day; raised the river consider- ably. January 2, almost a hurricane from the northwest at night. North Littleton, New Hampshire—January 1, rain and snow to a slight extent. Littleton, New Hampshire—January 1, rain and snow from 3. p. m. to 8 p.m. \ Stratford, New Hampshire—January 1, rain and snow from noon to 6.20 p. mh. Brandon, Vermont.—January 1, high wind all last night and this forenoon from southeast; changed to west a little before 2 p. m.; slight rain be- fore daylight to 2 p. m. January 2, sharp cold wind from southwest, rather uncommon; began to grow cold from 2 p. m. Craftsbury, Vermont.—January 1, half an inch of rain fell to-day. Topsfield, Massachusetts —January 1, rain began last night and continued until half past 10 this morning. Sandwich, Massachusetts—December 31, it began to snow about 10 p. m., and when the year closed it was snowing violently, but it soon changed to rain and continued until 104 a. m. January 1. Providence, Rhode Island.—December 31, overcast through the day; began to snow at 9 p. m., and continued until midnight; four inches fell, then rain. New York city—December 31, snow began at 4.25 p.m. and continued until 7.45, when it changed to rain. Skaneateles, New York—January 1, commenced with a hurricane, which continued all day and night; temperature at 7 a. m., 41°, at 9 p. m., 1°. Oneida, New York.—January 1, snow began last night and continued until 9 p. m. to-day, falling to the depth of half inch. Jamestown, New York.—December 31, rain, from 10 a m. to 6 p. m., half- inch. January 1, snow, from 1 a. m. to 12 m., four inches. South Hartford, New York.—January 1; the month commenced with a fine drizzling rain which continued until 24 p. m.; thermometer indicating 42°, with a gentle breeze from the SSSW. At that hour the wind veered fairly to 40 the southwest, blowing a gale, and the mercury falling rapidly. At 7 a.m. of the 2d the wind still blowing a gale from the southwest, the temperature had fallen to zero, being a change of 42° in seventeen hours. Theresa, New York.—December 31, dark clouds in the east and south horizon; at 1 p. m. light northeast breeze all day. January 1, stormy; eight-hundredths of an inch of rain fell. Fort Ann, New York.—No rain or snow from the 29th of December until the 5th January. Rochester, New York.—December 31, clouds look stormy; snow at 1% p. -m.;some hail until eve; high wind from southwest until midnight, and some snow. January 1, an extremely unpleasant day; a strong westerly gale prevailing all last night and to-day, with a rapidly decreasing temperature, the mercury having fallen 84° between 7 a. m. and 11.50 p. m.; commenced snowing at 3 p. m. Haddonfield, New Jersey—January 1, drizzle at 8 a. m. of short continu- ance;7 a. m, clouds, with scud to northeast. Farmers ploughing sod readily to-day; no frost in the ground; 9 p. m. clear. January 2, in the morning cirro-stratus forming and extending in long lines southwest and northeast through the zenith. At 12 _m. numerous bands of smaller slender rolls of cirri extended across the main long broad cirrus parallel to each other at short intervals, very curious, warp and woof-like, with the main cloud. At 2 p. m. these straight parallel cirri-strati had been all deflected in the middle, and bent in beautiful curl-like curves towards the northeast. Clear at 7 a. m, and 9 p.m wind southwest. Ice formed last night thick enough to bear a man. Newark, New Jersey—A fall of an inch and a quarter of snow in the after- noon of December 31, turning to rain, and continuing till after midnight. Progress, New Jersey—December 31, heavy white frost; 11.35 a. m. snow from the north, melting as it fell; at 830 minutes p.m. light rain; from 7 p.m. to 8 p. m. gale from the east, rain heavier than before; at 9 p. m. rain-gauge indicated a fall of thirty-four hundredths of an inch, and storm increasing in violence; rain ceased in the forenoon of January 1. Passaic Valley, (two miles southwest of Paterson,) New Jersey —December 31, cloudy all day; rain at 3 p. m., wind brisk. About a quarter of an inch of snow fell before it began to rain. Pittsburg, Pennsylvania—December 31, cloudy; from 7.15 a. m. strong gale and heavy rain; from 8 p. m. violent gale. Nazareth, Pennsylvania.—December 31, snow from 12 m. to 7 p. m., when it began to rain. January 1, this morning the snow has entirely disap- peared. Fleming, Pennsylvania.—December 31, rain from 8 a. m. to 11 p. m. Connellsville, Pennsylvania.—January 1, rain from midnight to 3 a. m. this morning. Silver Spring, Pennsylvania—December 31, snow from 10 a. m. till night, one inch. Tioga, Pennsylvania.—December 31, a little snow and rain. January 1, morning warm and pleasant; afternoon very cold; evening violent gale, and thermometer eight degrees below zero; a change of fifty degrees since Ta. m. : Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.—December 31, snow at 97 a. m. Cannonsburg, Pennsylvania.—December 31, wind southeast all day; violent wind from the southwest during the night. Oil City, Pennsylvania——December 31, rain and snow 10 a. m.; misty and rainy through the day; very high winds on the high lands. January J, snow from 8 a. m. through the day interrupted. Byberry, Pennsylvania—Commenced to rain at 11 a. m., ended in night; 41 v one and a half inch fell. January 1, rainy in the morning, blew up cold in the afternoon. Kingston, Ohio—December 31, about 10 o’clock p. m. a heavy wind began to blow, and the weather began to turn cold. Urbana, Ohio.—December 31, a sudden and extreme change during the night. At 9 p.m. the thermometer 34°; the barometer was at its lowest point, and began to show the change upwards, and at the same hour the rain (which had been falling since 9 a.m.) changed to snow. During the night the wind blew a gale from the west At 7 o’clock a. m., January 1, the thermometer was down to 11 below zero, and the barometer had gone up from 28.12 to 28.83. Cleveland, Ohio.—December 30, clear. December 31, overcast. New Lisbon, Ohio—December 30, beautiful day. December 31, rainy from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hillsborough, Ohio.—December 31, rain a. m. and p. m.; sleet and snow at night, with very high wind. Eaton, Ohio.—December 31, rained all day, and about 74 p.m. a furious snow-storm set in, with the most sudden and remarkable change of tempe- rature ever witnessed in this country. At 7 p.m. the mercury stood at 45°. It was not noticed at 9 o’clock, but it must have been down nearly to zero. At 7a.m., January 1, it stood —16°, being a change of 61°; and Iam satisfied it was almost, if not quite, as cold at midnight as in the morning. Bowling Green, Ohio.—December 31 was warm; slightly misty from 11 a. m., and the rain did not fairly commence until in the evening, although drops of water were perceptible most of the afternoon. At 9 p. m.every appearance indicated a rainy night. At about 104 p.m. the rain changed to snow, and fell about one inch in depth. At 7 a. m., January 1, the thermometer was — 1°; at 8ha.m., —12.5°; at2p.m., —10°; at 9 p. m., —7.3°, _ making it the coldest day in the past thirty years. At 7 a. m., January 2, it stood +-15°, being the lowest point reached. From this time it grew warmer, and on the night of the 4th we had about three and a half inches of snow; the 5th clear and pleasant. Bir College Hill, Ohio.—December 31, rain from 9 a. m. to 8 p. m. Welshfield, Ohio—-January was ushered in by a violent north wind, which continued in unabated fury, varying to west and southwest till the evening of the second day. The temperature fell from 40°, December 31, at 10 p. m., to —14°, January 2, 4 a.m.; 54° degrees in thirty hours. The people being wholly unprepared for so sudden and so great a fall of tempe- rature, much damage was done. Crops stored up in cellars were injured, and some animals perished. Rain from 8 a. m., December 31, to 4 a. m., January 1. Ypsilanti, Michigan —December 31, the snow-storm of this morning turned to rain at about 2 p. m., and continued until near 12 p. m., when the wind, which had been from northeast all day, changed to southwest with a heavy gale, and blew tremendously the rest of the night. Monroe, Michigan—December 31, rain from 12 m. this day till an hour after midnight. New Castle, Indiana—December 31, slow and drizzling rain commenced at 8 a. m. and continued till 54 p m., when sleet and snow began to fall, which soon turned into a violent snow-storm, and continued all night with very violent wind from the west, northwest, and southwest, the wind being very fitful. On Friday morning, January 1, at 5 a. m., the thermometer stood at 19 degrees below zero, being a fall of fifty-eight degrees from 2 p. m. of December 31, or in fifteen hours. _Spiceland, Indiana—December 30, pleasant winter weather. December 31, rain commenced about 5 a. m., with the wind from the east, and con- 42 tinued nearly all the time till 54 p.m., at which time the wind shifted to westerly, and snow commenced falling. After night wind from northwest and very heavy. Snow too much drifted to ascertain the depth with cer- tainty; it is thought to be about four inches. Rockville, Indiana.—December 31, 634 a. m., drizzling rain; 7.15, sleeting; 7.30, snowing, flakes large and fleecy; continued till 114 p.m. January 1, at T a. m., two very bright mock suns in the east and south; also two mock suns at sunset. South Bend, Indiana—Seven inches of snow on the 3lst of December. Temperature at 9 p.m., 18°; fell thirty-eight degrees by 7 a. m: next morn- ing, January 1. Winnebago, Illinois—December 30, sky cloudless till about 4 p. m., when a low bank of clouds was observed along the southwestern horizon, which overspread the sky during the evening. December 31, a severe snow-storm set in soon after midnight and continued through the day; wind, N. NW., 4 to 6. The snow ceased soon after nightfall. The wind continued blowing a gale through the night, with heavy drift and increasing cold. The day following (January 1) was one of the most severe on record in this latitude. Tiskilwa, Illinois —December 31, snow all day, with high wind from the northwest. Ottawa, Illinois—January 1, weather intensely cold; one man in this city froze to death but a short distance from his own house; also a man and his wife, and their span of horses, within two miles of this station. Snow, of the 30th and 3lst December and to-day one foot in depth. It is badly drifted, and the cars have stopped running. Galesburg, Tilinois.—Very cold high wind night of December 31; snow in motion; cattle, horses, and hogs suffered greatly, and many froze. The roads were blocked up, and no mail was received from Chicago for a week. Such a storm and such cold are seldom experienced here. Sandwich, [llinois—One of the most terrible snow-storms ever witnessed here, accompanied with severe cold, visited us at the close of the old year and the beginning of the new. It began the last day of December to storm moderately from the north; at 3 a. m., January 1, it began to increase in violence, and continued until it became impossible for man or beast to with- stand its violence; at 7 a.m., January 1, the mercury marked —26°, and snow falling rapidly; railroads became blocked, and the Chicago, Burling- ton and Quincy road was so obstructed that for one week no mail express passed this (Sandwich) station. Many cattle perished in the corn-fields; stock in transportation on the cars perished by hundreds, and thousands of fowls froze upon their perches. The depth of snow falling here was about two anda half feet. The extreme cold continued about eight days. Peaches are destroyed, that is, the fruit germs, and in many instances the trees are ruined. The fruit germs upon nearly all early varieties are also destroyed. Karly Richmond cherries also, and probably plums. Peaches are said to be destroyed more than a hundred miles south of Memphis. Pekin, Iilinois—December 31. I was up several times last night; the wind increased in force; the snow came faster each time I looked out; 4 p. m., the wind is from northwest; it is so severe that I cannot at times walk against it without using all my strength. I do not remember ever ex- periencing so severe a snow-storm; it continued about the same to mid- night. After 8 p.m. the wind was from the west. Upper Alton, [llinois.—On the afternoon of December 30, about 2 o’clock, it began to sleet, and in the evening a glaze of ice covered everything. On the morning of the 31st the ground was covered with snow and drifting. Augusta, Illinois.—December 31. From 9 o’clock last night to sunrise this morning, snow fell to the depth of about seven or eight inches, and it con- 45 tinued to snow, more or less, nearly all day; the wind blew very hard, and the snow drifted so much that it was very difficult to tell the average depth; it was a very severe storm; I remember but one equal to it since I have resided in Augusta, from 1833 to the present time. Waverly, Illinois—A severe snow-storm began at 10 p.m. on the 30th December, and continued over the 31st, the iad blowing almost a gale some of the time from the northwest, with the thermometer almost at ZeYO; about ten or twelve inches of snow fell, and it lays piled up in every con- ceivable shape. The thermometer —24° this morning, (January 1.) The storm must have obstructed railroads and killed much stock for farmers. Canton, Missouri.—Snow from 92? p. m., December 30, to 44 p. m., Decem- ber 31, five inches. January 1, clear all day ; parhelia at sunrise and sun- _ set. Snow again from 31} p.m. to 94 p.m., January 2, and from 4 p. m., January 3, to 9 p. m., January 4—two and a half inches. Harrisonville, Missourt—No snow after the 27th of December till the 2d of January ; on the 2d three inches fell from 7 a.m. to8 p.m. No high wind is recorded. Athens, Missouri.—This month of January is the coldest weather that has been experienced here for a number of years. From the 23d of December to the 23d of January the ground has been covered with snow to the depth of seventeen inches on a level, and drifted to the height of the fences. Many roads became impassable, the general depth of the drifts being six feet. We have had as deep snows before, but not so cold, nor drifted so badly. The timber was loaded down with snow, and much of it broken, especially the pin oak and black jack, which had the leaves on. Great numbers of cattle, sheep, hogs, and fowl have perished, and many persons have been frozen to death. ‘Twelve inches of snow fell on the 28th of December ; none on the 29th or 30th ; one inch on the 31st; one inch on the Ist of January; an inch and a half on the 2d ; none on the 3d ; half an inch on the 4th. Manhattan, Kansas — December 25th, rain, turning to snow, continued till the 27th, making three inches of snow ; no snow or rain again till the 4th of January, when three more inches fell, and none afterwards till the 28th. The strongest wind recorded is 4 northwest on 30th and 31st of December. Lawrenee, Kansas.—Rain on the 25th and 26th of December, and six inches of snow on the 27th. A very little snow, also, on the 2d and 4th of January. No rain or snow again till the 28th, when there was a violent thunder-storm. Fort Riley, Kansas.—Rain on the 24th and 25th December, and two inches of snow on the 26th and 27th. No snow or rain after this till the last day of January. High wind from the northwest on the 30th of December, and strong gale on the 3lst. Fontenelle, Nebraska.—December 31 is the coldest and most disagreeable day experienced in this Territory by the oldest settlers. Ground frozen eight inches deep. Two inches of snow on the 26th and 27th December. Richland, Nebraska.—December 31. High wind from the northwest the most of last night, and a gale all this day. | December, 1863. January, 1864. Place. | 2 | 26 | 27/28 |29|30|31)1/2)/3)/4)/5/6)2 NEW BRUNSWICK. ORR ET 2 eee lee eee me 23 dh Seale ooh. AINE Ve bce tas fe ooo) - | ee CANADA WEST. Michipicoton ....--.-. Se.) st ache Sel cece ee Son eetawe [ace -|-s-efee eo |=- >. te- == MAINE. | SiGUbENISLs oe eee ee LS pap PS ESI fat pen (SHE 4 Sa aes Se] bel Les TS seale0: PERE Yieeoc te tas SS E95), SN] I Beal SE Ie ie ime Fh | BE Ls tall aegis Gardinense: 224425 Sg fe a nen eed Sen cok eed eg eee ee eel rey ie ee 3 West Waterville...--.- SP cl nts Se Patel + ae tin enh 4 ASs rus eee Pees: i Williamsburg -... ...- bs iee gat Seto) Seda 25) Sao Ebel ewe Ae trae hee bee Eishonwece 226 sane Soe Seer drokad Ire reeiG Pal Mise Be iisial fal ee Se s.2.-.| 22 eS Sire sae eee eee eos eee 2 Sc) SeN. Wah OLA ks : atm TR TR TA th Ta TA VERMONT. Brandom.* sosees jsee- 525 ase- Seal es Wane n OUT Seem ser ee) ell eae SH Se Crafishburyeoss oe ees ee alee oat cess Ss. Burlington, 23 sss. s<:<)/-2 oul. oapee se aoe Aer sl ae ie E25 S Be S8| eee IGANG res oto este eee DSSS eh | pees te alert eet et| = 2s HR RTD tM tM Tp ‘ § mama! New Bediord’s 2.95.5 42 cle ose seve. eo. =| Saleen: L BEE (roel so eye Rremdoniec: oe. (soe 2 ol eee oe ale ee 3 R.S.|- Bae eae S. Haas ASET USO A Re ae pee Se Jo2)) (Soe eeeaee = 8 Bary | tats: ce FS ae ele Williamstowat, 2-5-2.) 2 c|e5-- use| Sa aeeeaioe se onset) Ue. |eoealae sees ates B32 Baldwansvallet £2.22) ts |% 22 sian Biche oss ae aee S295 | ea es oe ee Sia Hess Degpaeld 2259 25982828 28 | Se. (Sada ceases ----| R, |.---|----]---=] 8 |-.--|---- Sasdwaeh)t os se 222 b5- fer eee Sol eal heal edie 55.) Sie Rea|=- 5 = Ace jes R L 4 WeRHGLie ats als eee poke. Ad Bo ail (Se alee Saleot hue RHODE ISLAND. Providence...-.-.---- Pe ape BETS | CHARS |i de tT te Ree eles ta aed NEW YORK. ' New York..--.-..-.-- Peel 2 RB. | Halse. eee | Be lce22| 8.18. |.--.1 8: 48 Days on which snow or rain fell, §c.—Continued. * No register for December. eo December, 1863. January, 1864. Place. POUeoOMeet Nee e629 lkoO) rok dl NeOP 3 ea) See aee NEW YORK—Cont’d. OSWerOsn seme eds co [oe 2 Si eRe PR. ES. SIGS Oa RS: SS ee Auboim a eareeeee meee oh ee pe 1e7eG| | enone eal S.gleRA lessees eee Sigless |e Gonvereuneer sseieeeaisen ee Vike Del lsden te cece Ut ete alana Sofa eee eee Predoniatine-tecosss 1 Soa) (RL Ray Bat I Pe gem et ea i eS SBr tse. (i tsh JAMeSiOWMeee He -te oe = xs gS MV eve || 7] Beco ee ee Re heals lease Sean ests lice mee Fish qanding ~~ (0) 2 ieee SP Rs lessee | alk kordt alee |= aera Peat | eee Sen|2eeoioeee OUinpON IA cee eens aa SE ee Steed | hole ies) Ss aa |feneceta| RLU sya Uei| ecm eee | Se ees eee ee OcHEsterme -eossc shee JAR IG eee Sima asos isha ish Miser Seesiiisteliis lors. ijesce Se HOatOlesges mmc rxhs- aoe alate! eee 125 ee MS aps Several 8. | (SoSiissn eee Monieann es bic ce PhS a CS Fe eA PS ne Hee | oe Re home Me Peet, — South Hartford -...--- % SHBG esa ais shoe aie PA he Ji ain|| Ssaltgecelleeee SOMME Ten boner sess serie eee Se ht Seema hears ate ewe || eae el ana eae) aces | pnecal cet cll ae eee IDReresac oss eos ee Lae ee SS AG. ccc tee RS.) << 8: . |<.24 {See ee INGul pH Nees ooeeaesae wo Sty 71 eee ai eM vege | PR PR : S...] Siideecsileees WalsSonsc.2 i eee eel hes Sa PRaalen. ale acelin i = cc] See llae gal eeee Garrisonsssee eee tee Seal ese hye area ace | Ss, | Seen Oneida eesee eesscere Pp SG AEE. =1-20ee Sia Salocee | So Silzeeeleeee NEW JERSEY. | Passaic Valley.-.---.. -- as 7" 42) R. 2 Re S| eaee!| Ss oh wee Ee ee Propressinesee- => a= pets SR HER A ee lee 1 Ree ALR Ss. |S. Baise Mount Holly -.--.-.-- Sis Pam |e] Be | Re Re less |oee=\| 8-0), S1eet| seen ase Newark secacincccece . alle Ean cs | eae Seer 252|(S: (S34 See lse Haddontield seas ene PRR a NS SUED, Sa tae Pes aie bes Selielets soe |) sh Burlinetoneeecssse= a) ted Da lien Py es te ) Reale eahs 2 S.)S: |esse eee PENNSYLVANIA. Oil City. 628 Ee. oa es Epp ec eS Hie. = 21 eal aes ae eee Nee 8...) Seles Nazanethssedec. sececee eee mie. & BealoRenee. (Socal SuRAee aalSa) alice SH) Se Ss\a5e Tioga ..---- --------- shew) os leas ISIE ees tome ert All eer S,uleceuaerer Piemme esos fe. ta bot | Sac] adie eee ames Sus: S. Philadelphia -... -...- Bl ate les) St Be i aE etip rey ee So.) 2223) GR Bees Cannonsburg..-..---- SII Poss TEs 19 Boe pM aE as oe ae 8.0118. (Saal Sees eae Hartisbure: 3235) 2e2 a) aa ey Pel ee ae =) 2 S...| Spuceaay nee Pittsburg Ss seca ee me Re Raw: as TRA mcicel aecrc'|s seis lacie eee eee odes ’ Silver Sprime: <2... ORS Rs 570) PRR RI |i ie ees S. | Seg eae ee @onnelsville<= 22-2202: ee eS en || 2 | a ees ||. | reat | eee les Si) Ra eee: Byberry .-----.------ ‘5 RSS... |. ae a) eG iia S.. |S. loach DELAWARE. Wilmington* -... ...- a Pees le Behe | eee se oeh Re |e ee cloces| Sa Se ease MARYLAND. Sykesvalles 324.) 6-2 Pri iee] Oourg| (Oe) 2h | Mena R. | R. -| Seu ses Saesess Chestertown..---.-... AR RE AR ee Renee - |S.) Sl ee eee Bladensburg *.--. ---- ate ofl arate cee | oe a = -| 8: |-cesieeee 8. DISTRICT COLUMBIA. Waskiupion. 20.0.0. |22.\s.-- R. Ree 2, ee S.. li cemieene Ss. Tt % 49 Days on which snow or rain fell, §c.—Continued. December, 1863. January, 1864. Place. | 27 | 28 29 | 30 | 31 | SOUTH CAROLINA. enmiOll a. =>). Sia sece 2 9 5 R. | FLORIDA. USGI? WS RS Sacer |e lb ee R. KENTUCKY. MUOUISVINLG o.. 2. a8 ees ee Bey RR. | R. Galesburg . -.....----.- Rap. -l'R. (RSet Ge Se Oe, EEeeH eed Seelt set. Sees * No register for December. t No register for January. 4p 50 Days on which snow or rain fell, &c.—Continued. Place. ILLINOIS—Cont’d. ‘Peoria eceeaecer eset in Winnebago ..-....-.. Anousta ee 2s. fe. 2 : Sandwiches per 2.6 =. Manchester .... ...--- WISCONSIN. Manitowoc .... ...--- ove Milwaukee....-.-...- 1 Dg iBalai pee ae ee ae Weyauwegat .... ---- : Madison bt encecsckc os Green Bay* ....------ ‘Oaks; xs) ce eee aes as IWIMPAITASS® 6 25-22. WP Coat das aes oor en OG) Cl a Se eee Manchester. 2.2% 3. .22' #22 . WISCONSIN. i, Oe en eee iti wail KEG 25. nc tic te ee Lgl? 2 een ee a Weyauwega...---.--..... LN oTGti, De ee ae a corel BIO PEIIONS Jase ye te sinele ete oe Ges Bay oveiete a es ea eee Se es ofS Se Obits yoo Se ee MISSOURI. SEP ARTINOMVELIO c= fs 3 oom nn (SPIRO ao So iy OS hes seat a ss SF. December, 1863. January, 1864. * Stations of lake survey under direction of Colonel Graham. 10, 11, 18. a First eight days omitted. Sy Sa Daysofthemonthon| £2 |Daysofthemonthon| 2 $ which the thermom-| §(° which the thermom-} 3 3 eter was at zeroor| % 5 eter was at zeroor| % § lower. SQ lower. ao As As {glee Gee 23 | 1,2. 4,5,6,7,8,9, 11- 24 ee. ae 23 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, 8,9, 27 10, 11. i9' Spe Si tee 26 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11 27 5] eee Lae 19) OE Pie, 4,.0,6,9,9;-~<<- 22 sacs ae sss 22 | 1,2,3,4,5, 6, 7,8, 9, 24 10, 11. 1s ste 93 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, | 25 : 10, 1. Cs SRE a1’) 129 5 6.7.8.9, Teas 24 Ne ee 26 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 29 LOTTE. G7 19S 5 eee a 22 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9) 11 - 23 S| eee Cc 92 | 1,2°3.4,5,6,7,8,9, 23 10, 11. Seer ee oa ib 2, 6, 6,:7,6; 9 Bie 24 A =~ eee ead 22 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9-- 26 rae. gee: 95 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11 27 = EE eS ae 25 | 1,2, 3, 4,5,6,7,8,9, 11. 30 | Se aae 90 «bles. 2 ce. 245 sheer = Se eee (a). | 1,2, 3,4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 29 10, 11 5, 14, 15, 18, 19, 31- - Bie Weis ocr Ses Sou awh ate 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7,8, 9, 29 10, 11. safes Oe ia 3 3 29 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9-- 30 t, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 30 10, il. ee ee 26 | 1,2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8,9, 27 10, 11. 14,19, 3); Cease 25 -- ae | 1,4,5,6.0,8, 92 auee 25 16,19, 30,3055 24 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, 8,9, Q7 LOSI: Pree © oe eee 19° |p Tf2) 5.6, Gye BL 2 23 12,5, 68,9, EL. 1253 23 sas doy Guaetaae AN a Ay to 26 19,19, 30; Si... 30 | 1,2,3, 4,5, 6,7, 8,9, 31 10, $8)19' 31... ee. 27 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11 28 16,19, S12 = oar « = 23 | 1,2,3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 25 10, 11,18, 15, 18, 19, 30, 31. _-- - ot | £52,3, 4, 5,6,7,8, 9, 31 10, 11. 15, 18, 19, 30, 31... 98 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, 8,9, 31 56 Duration of cold in December, 1863, and January, 1864—Continued. December, 1863. January, 1864. Ba Ties Place. Daysofthemonthon| ¢2 | Daysofthemonthon| 2 E which the thermom-| |= & which the thermom-} £9 eter was at zeroor| % § eter was at zero or| % & lower. SQ lower. oe Alor) 7 69 10wA—Continued. Muscatine, (Walton) ------ LOAD, Silepres acts aoe 23 | 1,2,3, 4,5, 6,7, 8, 9, 28; 10, 11, 18, 19. Muscatine, (Foster) -.----- Hes) Bla ee eee 20) al 2s oy Aa oGrTaouoe 30 » Los MO WAWGIGy? seceded ae a <2 STAN SO Mest toys tere 23 | 1,2, 3, 4, 5; 6,7, 8, 9, 28 10, 11,18, Mort Madison. =:=. 2.22224: 19, SUS. eraser 2 ee ae i 1.2, 3; 4,5,6,7,8,9, ie 25 MDM MO NG soar = sci ees = LO SONU Sees. 2 =. Ab, i lite2,1d, 4,5) \Onoaor 31 10, 11, 18, 19. Monuntebleasant.....-252-- 18/19) Slee ee.) a2 20 | 1,/2,.3,-4,.5,/6, 7,8, 9 26. 10, BV ALCLIOO Neri. 2) asia set = ee oo ee ea a) Seow oleae beeen es isd) 45.0, On toy os 31 10, 11, 18, 19. MINNESOTA. " Di banienese ston 25 Cold, 18ST Oo OONS0 ol 310) 0) (els ead: io abs faytoly)- 30: 10, 11, 13, 15, 18. IBIOVOS GION te <'<8 oS = 3 iy eects 15518 19730 ;30- 2 =~ = BO al 1123, 4. ONO Tonos mae 30 10, 15. MRAMETACK Seis. 22 ee sece L5H AE WO TSO le 29 2; 37455, 63.7, 8; 9) a 29: 10; 13; 15. KANSAS. Wawtence 22 seceeek she sk 1A AGI Seeere 3 see By |heilh she Wa 7iGiseace oe 26. Hiantitiley. 2c: :.22eiesecs TRS) ae er OP aie 24 | 1,4,5,6,7,8,9,10.-. 24 Manhattan’: Ji: 252522 222 19, SU, ol nee eee 267 2 AS 6.7.5.0 LO ade 24 NEBRASKA TERRITORY. Wontenello 21,2 2220252-3 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, SU 4 2 hibit i ee ee ols Bellevue; secs sche sceieeeee LB IO SS eee ec oe QP 12, 35/4, 0, Onl oUe 27 mukhorn(City.. 222. <.. 13; 14, 18, 19, 30, S00 29 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10- 27 COLORADO TERRITORY. Montgomery ......--.---- 16;26; 29; 30; St. 2... MPa ens SOS ts aos ss2s cee 3k IDAHO TERRITORY. Hort Waramie-.2.. 2... 22. 1A OTe SONS. Ss cece Bl |) Up RR BRE Bia (onzigteh, 4): 24. 3 ; 10, 17, 30. OREGON PART ITI eet a's alein's Seles t oe INOnG Sits eee DONA DOs. 232 — eRe 3k CALIFORNIA. Sacramento n= s.s25-2 4. NONO2 Sec Ree ease SM ele cata sco winnie ln eee a Observations not complete. 57 Duration of cold in December, 1863, and January, 1864—Continued. December, 1863. ° | January, 1864. ~ a7 ~ ? Sx S 33 Place. Daysofthemonthon| £2 |Daysofthemonthon|) #2 she me hs Pe which thethermom- | $5 which the thermom-| 8 eter was at zero or S| eter was at zero or eS lower. sh | lower. SQ AS ase MEXICO. oe a er Nones..\2 see aes Nome S1NONG So 5552) 5.2/2.5 None - OT: ae eee None s. - = eas = | INGHE 2 MONG <= 225 222-35. None -. | | NEW GRANADA. | | ISpinyyall 42 Seen gt oe None = 5. eee eae None‘ =F |) None =. 5 -)2% <2 2 35 2 | None .. . | WASHINGTON TERRITORY. | / | Weta Bay* .-.- 2604-22 INONES. 5 ~ <5. teaee == 4 | NOG 2-5 se. eae | * 10 > * Neeah Bay, December, maximum, 52°; minimum, 30°; mean, 41. 7°. TEMPERATURE AND WIND ON THE FIRST DAY OF JANUARY, 1864. The following table gives the temperature at 7 a. m., 2 p. m., and 9 p. m. of the first day of January ; also, at 7 a.m. on the second, and the direc- tion and force of the wind at the same hours. The letters indicating the direction show the point of the compass from which the wind blew. The force of the wind is given by estimation by nearly all the observers, very few having any instrument for measuring it, and the figures indicating the force are-according to the following scale, which is printed on all the Smithsonian Meteorological registers : 1 signifies a very light breeze, blowing at the rate of 2 miles an hour. 2 signifies a gentle breeze, " 4 = 3 signifies a fresh breeze, 4 re 12 - 4 signifies a strong wind, ‘ e 25 z 5 signifies a high wind, if 35 rf 6 signifies a gale,’ FS ch 45 * T signifies a strong gale, " cS 60 rs 8 signifies a violent gale, 15 9 signifies a hurricane, ig 90 hs 10 signifies a most violent hurricane, “ he 100 a The fall of temperature is distinctly marked on the sea-coast of Florida and South Carolina. At St. John, New Brunswick, the temperature continued to fall on the 2d and till the morning of the 3d. The readings of the thermometer on the 2d were, 6 a. m., 18°; 2 p.m., 10°; 10 p. m., 5°; 3d, 6 a.m. 4°. The observations are made at 6 a. m. instead of i, and 10. p- m. instead of 9. At St. John’s, Newfoundland, the temperature was 12° at T a.m. of the 3d. 58 Weather on New Year’s Day, 1864. Temperature. Direction and force of wind. Place. 7a, m./2 p.m.|9 p. m./7a.m.*; 7 a.m. | 2p.m.} 9p.m. | 7 a,m.* NEWFOUNDLAND. ° ° ° oy | Dit JOnn sewer eck oi 20 OOM eps aii 4 ee odode ules ke, Lr NEW BRUNSWICK. ho 22 | 36 | 44] 18 |INW.4../SE.5.../SW. 6..|W.6-...- MAINE. | West Waterville........ 31 42 38 6 |B 2... 18. 2... |S Ws Seeleweemee Woailliamasbure .....-.- 2. 22 36 40 2 |NE 2 --|E. Se oxo Ns, le Nee [LHS 0) cypher 35 40 37 By WSIS oe SIR: <2 Ey ae eg Womiushiville.-.--..--.-- 32 35 30 | —2 |SE. 1...|NW. 1.-|NW. 4_-|Nepeoeee Pemiyeneece eset tee ho 3p 42 45 8 ISE. 6.../SE. 6...|SW. 5..|NW. 6 BLEU DEER es) shim o mo coke 33 44 42 9 |SE. 5.../SE. 4...ISH. -..2|NIW; 4e- NEW HAMPSHIRE. Claremont-%---.../....-. 36 38 22 0 |SE. 1...|SE. 2...|NW. 4../W. 2 .- Iie 5S Sees 36 40 29 OM Sie oes Se NW.. 222|-22 eee Northaittleton 0522s. 2 32 35 144 |—9 |S. 4....\8. 1 NW. 3../SW. 3- PSETAOLO See ee. 2 Ns occ 29 38 98 | —2 |E. 54..../E. 4 NW. 44.|SW. 34 VERMONT. HS TeUI ane rer: = sie! s dete ok 40 40 16 OPS eoeee | Viet W.3 SWitoeee ioMen une =. s<.- 9st 28 28 34 31 SB aS) cise econo SW. 6..|W. 2 CWratiE DUTY = = 1-2 ~ sen 35 34 9 | —4 |S. 3....|SW. 2..|NW. 4..|W. 4 .- Bune LON.-- .--........ 16, 30} 29) 32} 39] 27) 10} 9) 0} -6 10) 2 -3| 11) 6 13) 30) 23 Sandwich .......-...... 163} 26} 26) 28) 38)... 8 8 2 -2 18, 7 24 20) 7 18 32) 20 Myenetetiiee..fo ote es 14) 24) 26] 20] 31] 18] 3) 5] oO} -3) 10) 5) -1) 16 7 8 32 26 RHODE ISLAND. EU WICONCE: 1 ste oe lace cla lc cfe meee Bs «alo co cl cetelwotclocscl-ceclewac|S¢cc[ess pee scene aman CONNECTICUT. Lint ee ae 12} 274 23] 27) 31) 18} 1) 3% -3} -6 9 3} -3) 113] 5) 10 264) 22k New Haven 16] 32} 31; 29} 36) 21} 7 12) 4) -2 13) 12; 1} 15; 11) 12 28 26 NEW YORK. New York, 175 Second ts SEGLEIT | et Ea SR TE a a) ee Pa i em Ge ce HR a Se eae ee bel eee . New York, Institution Deaf and Dumb ...--. 25| 39] 353) 333 374} 23) 11) 11} 8 8 2)| 174 8.8) 2217.6) 1635.834.6 Onweror-. so. 2 82. eee -8} 22) 20) 23) 22) 10) -3) -2) 4) -4 13 4 3} 13 9} 22) 34| 26 Aca 5a. 35. 12) 24) 20) 22) 26 100.8 0} 60} 6} 10) 10) +6 14 10) 18 34 28 Gotverneur 34... -. 5... -10} 13) 16; 9) 24] -2) -19) -4) -10) -27) 6 -5)-16) 15) 9 16 27) 26 Peredonine. = sages eas 20] 36 36) 2218.3) 5) -33} O} 1) -1#- 71.2; -2| 12) 13)18.7) 333 28 Seneca Wallgtoos esos ce 12| 33} 30} 28) 20] 12 0} OF OF O 10) 4) 2 24 24 22 34 32 Jamestown ........--..- 12} 40) 30) 18) 15) Oj -14) -2) -12 -13, -5) -§) -13 9 4, 10) 39) 22 Fishkill Landing. -...... 17} 30} 29) 29) 32) 19 8 9) 5 4 18 12) 4 16) 13) 15) 34) 26 Searrisonill <5 520452 as ee HAST) alo cia. | ee OF Seed Ij 14] 10; 3) 15) 7 10, 29) 2 Glinton 2 anascae Ca cloask iaclicss «|= mG oh etal aed MICHIGAN PMTMER User scne sc sige' csp la taple cout veice ecisels capleaei slates tale sansle ae E reple stale 4a eee.- [ole | ses] sauces eee BRAT RUNES Sie od as om assis Tp) Fr 4h 3 ROMEO ojos 214 <\n acne e < ble -5 4 6 4 PIONEOO using scccp ass 4; 12} 8 10 POR TIAGS <:2 24 -locahaictet © AN BO Gl 4S INDIANA. New! Albany - ..-.------ 43) 10) 15} 9 3} 17) Il} 3 DESEO) pees Se ee CS 40} -2) O| O -7| 9 OO}. -6 BpiGhlang oj. 5 cepts 2 = cist 40; ~l} 4} O 4, 10) 5) -4 South Bend.) 222. 2.5: 27; 2 -ll 4 -10;} 5) -2| -4 BROGIAVILEr sete = oeietrasties [Sees dmc caaicleiett slo ag ales s@cfcied elgeg sao PO Wee bee Ol eo Pine a | at New Harmony ....-.--. 44 7 14) 12 6} 21) 15} 6 New: Castle.....-......- 40; OF 8 O =5|) 10; 4) 4 Bloomingdale........... 38} -44 8 -2 —4; 10; O} -2 ILLINOIS. Waverly 2; 4 Ottawa, -7| -2 Tiskilwa 6) 6 Upper Alton ee Berle PROS Seah er werent 4 3 Galesburg oR) oes TRG heehee ee ee ee 14] 13 NVINNeDALO =) <<. 2nj0200s = he PANICIIB tN sin taie a eansiscl= i> -1) ll) 5} 5 CR EEUEERS AC) OS eee es BAe Rd eR el berg eT LI Ss 2) 9 (ee Ape WH aR ee Manchester. ...-...-.... SOT Si 5G WISCONSIN, Manitowoc .......------ -12) 8] O| -6 Milvwatikeel. <5 32525. PUTTS | inal {lige I lentes | OMe ech: sas65 sets -8} 20.5) 4 GRONOV Es one auf scot -9} Oo] 4) 10 1 GEC TSG) 1 eR ee -12) -1| -6 0 OE eS Be ees -16} 4) -4) 10 Green Bay... .. 6.2 cose. -19) -3) -7| -1 Embarrass..........---- —7; 8 -2 O MISSOURI, DOP VING Sooo. 5 ckisce =< 2} 16} 10) 8 (SI 0h CR Re a a -2) 15) -2} 6 Harrisonville ....-...... =10} 26) 20) 12 POUR sof tole sins oem te Safe ls cfs ics |ecad a] atsis & | suet: [eis asl vetw 0 | pater | a crete orerersl le eke Darvin terpenes a MeENeOA 5 S080 6: hy Ge -3 8 10) 18 IOWA, JUSV CI Be a Se a an a (ee eee eee ae el tee ies ed Penrod leet Towa Pallg: 0125.0 5.i564 -—6} 32) 6 9 16 4 «84 4706 6 lH 8 Pleasant Plain.......... 6} -8} OO}; O}-12) 2 -2) -2: ll} OF 8 MU DIME Patan CHORLEN ise oie cf eic s Vela orclc ua <|acs melee cel eepete ao -taered eaenleeas SE de A ee Muscatine, (Walton) .... 3) -9) -2) -3} -11) -2) -3) O|] 8 -1) 6 Independence......-.-.- -3} -11| -4| -17| -19} -1| -6) -6 mi 4, 6 Hlponises Gakuen tok Ue -8} -12} 0} -11) -17/ 0} -4) -7} 10) -2) 10 Jows: City 22 2. 322505. 2 3} -13) -5) -8) -15} 4) -3) -3) 22) oF 5) Fort Madison ........... 28} -6} 5) 2 -9) -2) O| -l] 12) 7 7 Dubuquetes yo 8 ie 5) -14] -5) -6) -12) -4) -6) -6) 5 oO] 5 Mount Pleasant-........); 8} -8} 2} O;-10) 2 -4 -2) 10) OF G6 QOnawe cess sacdeeene Oo} -5} 68} )«€©OF -8}) U6} SO) 4 «210)—Ss Gs 200 MINNESOTA, BY; Paukecsac: tes eeeae 17] -13} -19} -9) -13 =a: SiOle tale Le Worerty City teeetama reteset: sc. | sin <\|c\ > <\uierate ets] ha al aatel eee | ceca a|cliae sleWio =| eee ea MAMAraAcie: Wo cee eee ree ge old oe 5 lnvakerc de eee ip See lePne a sl aieje|(. ctor Medioiel| ane alle ntvial'> » =i MGW WAIL! seialeisiw'-'al death -13} -16; -4| -15 —4 -l| “17 76 Cold in the middle of February, 1864—Continued. Feb. 15. Feb. 16. Mortciiley.s2.42. sence 2 CEREL ESS ICH Sh eh pa ER | be a PE DS S| SN RN Dl Uae! LER) fas) aM Pe Pte ts oy RRIASHE ee etcn oe. Zone aches oe ae. eoanence, Bl] TQ Sees sees ee eee a Soren 1) ee jee NEBRASKA TERRITORY. Fontenelle . .. ORE ee eat see Bellevue ...... g 36; 26) 57 Elkhorn (City ........... 34] 28) 57 COLORADO TERRITORY. Montgomery......... ae IDAHO TERRITORY. Mort GAramie.-........- mepinyall”. -2- =... --+- 6 77. 5:79. 6/77. 5|77. 2:80. 2) '78\77. 5,80. 4,77. 9176. 9.80.3} 7877.6) 80) 7877.8)79. 7/743 BERMUDA. Centre Signal Station ...|.... *63) £59)....] *61) 158)....] *61) T59]....| *62] t58/....| *61] +59|.-..| *60) 157 WEST INDIES. Sombrero Island........ 76. 9/77. Bik 8175.2} 7874. 5/74. 9:77. ie 3/75. 2\77, 2:74, ee Gide 3/75. 4 eb 774.6 ee a ir a al RAS * Noon, t Daily mean. AURORA. February 1.—Odanah, Wisconsin.—Aurora at T p.m. Corona; dark cloud below. - February 1.—Manitowoc, Wisconsin.—Aurora in the evening, very slight. February 1.—Algona, Iowa.—Aurora from 9 to p.m., with arch, no streamers. February 2.—Manitowoc, Wisconsin.—Aurora in the evening, very slight. February 4—New Albany, Indiana.—Aurora in the north until 11 p. m., not very brilliant, uniformly diffused light, defined by an arch above, reach- ing within 15° or 20° of the north star. E February 8.—Steuben, Maine.— Gk Wa Yh te tshe Soe) eee oo | €i9k Té 'T BLL PE LL 6'L 8°LL Lé PLL 8% | GFL 66 «=| &'6L ee | eas LET Leh 9°E LCL 8'T LOL sic) 6°GL 6% 9 TL €@ | GL 8°38 | T ‘94 PEG T 94 6'E T'Sh oT V PL 0's 6 CL 6° i 25 LG «| O'9OL 8G | Leh £L'% 9 6L 9'€ G*LL £G G'RL 8°P ‘8h Lise’ || “OGL OLS | Ge (Se Ne etsy? en lips Le 9°LL Sal = Si6z 6°9 L 64 Ae ae Jetset 6T | 8 82 Bee ie Sie 6G 'F 6 °€8 €°¢ 8 °6L Gh | 6'8L 9°9 T‘08 6° PLL B'S 9°18 GF 6 08 LET 6°LL 0'F PLL 9'T [9h 0°S C8 B'S hbk GnG |) 6k Lb 0'6L bo 'T 194 €'¢ FOL GG CPL 06 CLL ‘i a ee OFS) i, 68k Cie Ones 00 °F BOL L% 0'8L Sha) ae ental P08 Ci Fh Te a a ie so oo oe eee 6G '€ 6 CL ce G ‘hh Bac || Té T 9k 9°E GOL L% LOL 8°¢ | «POL £36 0°EL O% | OL On || PE b PL 19 0°EL ill) Keay Coes |erooe 86 G "EL 0'F LL c's 9'F 6°TL Lt 0 GL GiGi i eued Bak i beck PPT Teh GF POL 0G G's G ‘69 89 4°69 Lee will red BG BTL ane | oe b's 8 ‘OL [ets 67 8°69 Ge | 6°69 clmtié ly Lele Eth je tel eF 1 0 OL eh 6 8 ‘OL 6'e GOL Weg a G69 Loe )| Ok OG) PASane Seo") pele GEG 0 69 LL ‘L 6°69 GF L 69 Oe 6'P 8°19 0°¢ | L0L Ls 6'Th Gi” |) 9569 08 °T 4°69 LL eh G69 bE 9°69 G'é I? G49 mie, Saat CoG |eniaile: Nig I ehh 60 'T £89 GB '9 4°69 6°E G"L9 cc) 9°9 L°S9 Tree] Ute) bb | &'69 9% 6°49 Ul “Taq “Ul “IT “uy "89 UT uy 26«| “ear ‘uy =| “wo, “Ul “SIT ‘uy =| «aod i] | Sal B is iS B ie iz iB iB iS a eee Faeroe iB iB fo} fe) oO @ oo o 2 @ c c o ie (9°) oO oO ® a: Se ee B | & Boilie 5 ig a a ea cde etl ed 1 oe: a z | 3 “ ¢ Be F Z S z mike: e ¢ Bol a | 5 2 5 LE Fle aoe ee 3 Pc letg F 5 ‘savod ‘POST ‘STRIIAY| “COST ‘SOBvioAW | OA OZ “AW | “6GRT ‘SodvLOAY | “gcgT ‘KOSUIOAY | “LEgT ‘Sesv1OAyY | “GCRT ‘godRIoAV | ‘CCRT ‘sosuloAy Co | NAMDDO MOOG OOH cr Srila rikt QR mi Osa Class a nip nits ogee eRe aio es eee BIULOJIVA ep oe apace “77> SRsUBy > ALOPLAIAT, VYSBAGAN pints Piclela esse Sein sTate TIMOSSTI BMT BOSOUUIPT UISMOOSE AA. des eae Dak Se gee ee SIOUNTL > BUVIpUy Se ee ee) eo. UBSIWON srelayajes Steals istRiae see = a ees “= ONO - Ayn} ue y oaxSouua , TG) = SS R= Se Shere Ie SI Se vuryoaRny qnog BS * 2 ne SOR RIS ere BIGUIN{OD Jo posi, Hee cers Sie oa Ge icin Soak > UAT OIE BimeapAsuua gy Soho eal CLES oleae Ran pessoa ee Adsl fl MONT seis ine we ae Seca as ieaiaiele Ylok AMON ESS) #'S oe ieee ateige rere ssinke, Se == qynomoouno0g Sigisiei isin: sieAareieo usin iman iciearye'e'= PURIST epoyyy Sse oie cies eh asahe mre miata nn ~ S}josnyoRssvyy lay isine’s: Bis ails aeotneles a mierere= «SA TOTON OI srege (vi ioiutegsre ausielsicin icin, aUYSAwUByE, AON Bia aileron otucte sts Gmerein Pes OUTETT | ‘Seovrd Jo zaquinu “Ay ‘SOMO}Lay, PUB sajzT1g “IPDUL ALIN SUOYDALISGO AY} YRYN Ud aIDIG Yova U2 saavjd fo saqunu aSvioan ayy yn ‘hjaaiy9a]j09 “pawuvu ps.lof s.tvah aa ayy Lof puv ‘pauve wnah yooa ur hyne LO ypwort ayy of (syquag pun sayour ue) urns fo yo puv aungn.aduay aFVsLaaw ayy FULNOYs a9, 21 DROUGHT AND FIRES IN JULY. Subjoined are a few notices of the extensive drought which prevailed in June and continued through July ; also of the “smoky” or “hazy” atmosphere which attracted so much attention, and the cause of which is apparent when the accounts are brought together. Waterville, Maine—July 17.—Very smoky, fires doing much damage in Aroostook county, distant one hundred miles southeast, burning buildings, fences, woodland, and destroying grain and grass fields. July 24, quite smoky, so much so as nearly to obscure the sun’s rays in the morning and evening. Fires rage in almost every direction; one eight miles, at South Belgrade, in a peat bog. July 30, yet smoky as ever The air has scarcely been clear of the scent and vapor of smoke during the last ten days; fires continue to rage as bad as ever. The later crops are failing for want of rain. Lisbon, Maine —July 23.—Fires raging in many places in the woods. Near Bath a barn with twenty tons of hay wasdestroyed. Bogin Durham burning ; drought severe ; corn rolling up in many places. 31st. The smoke has been so dense much of the time since the 13th as to obscure the sun some days entirely, and I think there have been but three days that I could not look at the sun directly without glasses. Bluchill, Maine —¥ rom the 23d to the close of the month the heavens were so smoky that the kind of cloudiness could not be noted. Numerous fires are raging in the State. The oldest inhabitants all concur in saying that in no previous July has there been so little rain and fog. Gardiner, Maine—The most remarkable feature of the month has been the continued and increased severity of the drought. There has beena remarkable absence of dew, and the small amount of rain appears by the following com- parison: Average moisture for July for twenty-five previous years-......-.-- 3.369 Minimunr during the same period............-..-- a ERIE 1.472 Amount for July, 1864.... ......--- ECE Cee ck SORE ee 0. 588 Average for June and July together, for twenty-five previous years.. 6.751 minim curd the same pertud!- 32 2... 2 peu ewe = 3. 264 Pannen: June and Wily, [604.4.. sees... | 3 oo a ee emer 1.488 The amount for July, and also for June and July combined, is less than half ' the lowest amount recorded in any previous year for twenty-five years. Very destructive and extensive fires have occurred in consequence, and are still raging. Claremont, New Hampshire-—Unparalleled drought during this month, which did not cease till some days into August. Chelburne, New Hampshire—July 23.—F¥ires in all directions; evening very smoky. 24th. Smoke more dense than yesterday. 30th. Smoke settled into the valleys this evening. Lunenburg, Vermont.—July 23, 24—For many years we have not had two days so smoky. Extensive fires are burning in the woods around us, and the extreme drought is favorable for their spreading very rapidly. Worcester, Massachusetts —July 24.—Smoky all day. Westfield, Massachusetts —TVhe most remarkable phenomena of this month are the heat and dryness. ‘The thermometer has not risen higher than during the same month in previous years, but the heat has been more constant. In July, 1864, the thermometer was 80° or upwards 17 times; in 1563, 8 times; in 1862, 10 times. Springfield, Massachusetts—In 52 days, June 3 to July 24, inclusive, there 22 fell at this place but 77 hundredths of aninch of rain. On the 25ththe drought was broken by 65 hundredths of an inch; since then no rain has fallen, and the drought continues up to this, August 1. For some days previous to the 25th the atmosphere was of a very hazy and smoky appearance. So severe a drought has not prevailed here for the last seventeen years, and perhaps not for some years previously. Pomfret, Connecticut—July has been very dry ; the carth more parched, and streams and springs lower than at any period since 1852; yet we had more rain from April 1 to July 11 than we had last year, but the air has been dry and the per-centage of vapor much less. Jamestown, New York—July 31.—This month has been the warmest, and brought the severest drought known here for many years. Palermo, New York—July 17.—Smoky atmosphere, vegetation suffers dreadfully for rain; 21st, very smoky, drought continues; 27th, smoky. After a remarkably wet spring, we have had the driest summer within the memory of the oldest inhabitant in this region. Palmyra, New York.—July 31.—Everything is suffering much from the drought. A great amount of haze since the 21st, which some attribute to the burning of wheat-fields, grass and wood, as it has been so dry that they have taken fire accidentally. Nichols, New York.—July 31.—Susquehanna river and all small streams lower than ever seen before. Progress, New Jersey—July 19 to 30.—Haze constant, and at times very dense, so as to prevent observation on motion and forms of clouds, save on the 25th, frequently like thick smoke ; sun shining dimly through it. Haddonfield, New Jersey —July 21— Ia feemat lee “WOHSUOS aL NSE UNE “AVH Gaas-xvTa fg jor | t6 401 Se eae (ec 9 |e 8 #g e138 L | 46 5 no ae ee es OL #9 Hz | tz #2 ig jig | $¢ 4g a0 ke i ke 1-49 #9 |#9 8 th 9 |#9 | tz 16 Ph Ge ne IL ei = ae eke Or L l€8 | #8 #2 Gia | oes ake $h #h fig -| 8 | $11 8 le 6 #8 44-6 8 #6 fo OL 8 <10 eae 9 eet ces on|aS €8 |f01 | 8 6 RE WAEL | e72 6 fg ie | #8 38 fg ite | 22 $l Ete be > Sigs) S| 2% 2o|¢S| ze | 48 ejae| Fl} we BlSc] E | Se B43 | Se, | ‘SHO.LV.LOd |*LVGHM Ona #2 | £01 Goh oh BO. ptot th #8 | fe +9 Wh el a] a +11 $L | £6 8| OL fo \ ap (9t4 | Sto i 716 e OL L ig 9 8 Bol GE alee Oale “ee Bi POL 2 | tae 46 ne aa col ms e 6 f9 ik rh |G 9 1g Se Te | eee lee oe 6 . #8 8 | 0 | fe] ¢ 6 | 1&1 8 eT ea aD 6| et 4 t6 8 | srr | tz Or 6 | $6L | 28 8 Se Ble #2 onl —_ Elaa| €|e4 “ee | S18 oS ies ae Bee f | 28 |20| £6 mel aes a el are wm rh SB mp a8 gas] 8) es EF) 8e | B| ge DN eae on ama “OOOVAOL “NUOO ae ere | 6 6 +9 ts G #2 iB $@1 | £9 201 L GL Me £6 8 Fale 4 £6 of fg 49 +L gL OL) 12 £6 8 421 8 46 £9 Le 28101 #9 $g | “tz 48 8 Gib tes | etEr £9 TOL 8 #8 fg OL 8 6 8 460-295 eter 8 TI 28 IL BP IL eee OL #9 18) the ak 2 rag! 8 6 oe eee a 6 6 h 6 ie 56 L +6 48 Or b 48 8 EL #9 9 #9 #9 ion _ AS Dee ee lee Flss| 8188 s|e8|.e| 2 Bq | BE | em | £6 ee) ae] 32132 Lh oe a t= Scie S| elas fea eis os] eS, Sa | sates B 8 B | 28 uli ot es eg bes *S.LVO “AGTUVEA “sosnRo Tl wo ures oy Amnfay "e9RT WIM poredutos ‘do1d Jo Junowe osvIoAy “TAD ic | 9 #9 J Relea $9 OT Bp Or 9 | #9 Ae | See iL S01 t It GL OL #9 | +42 $9 iE 8} #8 $L 6 Tee ao fg | Se 8 | Ste 6 ral epee liao tL | 6 gl TT £4 \- 6 yal aes 9 Ele 2184 | ES S| ee e| BE 2 ei 22 Ul 1 3)|| cis o_o Baer o| Ea, E| &e 2) “oS “LVGHA “) TULBIT A 480 \\ A Jay, BYSBIqaN rc ato SBSUBIT 7" * BIOSOUULPT FESR SO NENO | 7777 TISTOOSTE AA. “77> > TIMOSSIPL 25 a2 SOOM sigs BUBIPUT UROL CEs: WiK6) ---- AYONIUO Sie OIBMBIOT Se ricls purl Ainyy - eruevatAsuue gd ---£asIoe MON SAAS IO X MON “> -gnoyoouN0D SeRUS Epo r et “s}josnyoRssvy asset JOU A. -omysdue yy *N Baeircis > OUIRI “SA.LV.LS "spuapuodsastoa Jo susnjat ay, wolf paprducoa ‘syjuaz ur pajnis ‘FORT fo sdosa ay2 02 saiinlur pup fo szunowup ay? Sumoys ajQv I, 27 a lo T See olla oes EKG a catiltaes = = LUEy MATES GSR OA Sen Seg eee Sees e aes September 1, 1864 | 1, 004, 311 15, 054, 624 699, 595. NOW MONIGRUE Hons naan ness eaten cette cece ee cee ee eee ee Pm! |eesece ss a= Seale ee bade lana prs Ste oe wlonitaee ao cereceeciee s,s September 1, 1864 H 77, 375 500, 765 583 WEHIMINOLG se - oe soe Ae cea cess ss eeas alee oe|s-see- = OOlcnesnose 24, 287 60, 239 17, 256 40,805) 202. Ob ee ee «es 76,306 This shows that notwithstanding the effects of the terrible war in which we are engaged, and the efforts made by our enemies abroad, there has been an enormous increase in the rush of the people of the Old World to a land that promises universal liberty. 38 METEOROLOGY, FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. AUGUST. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- jixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) for August, 1864, at the following places, as given by the observers named. The daily observations were made at 7 o'clock a.m. and 2 and 9 p.m. Place. NEW HAMPSHIRE. Stratford Shelburne Barnstead Claremont VERMONT. Lunenburg Craftsbury... ---.-=-- Burlington Middlebury MASSACHUSETTS. Sandwich Topsfield Newbury New Bedford Worcester Baldwinsville Amherst Westfield Springfield Richmond County. Penobscot Kennebec ......- Androscoggin .- -- wate eee eee sesso} Belknap Sullivan Chittenden Addison Observer’s name. Wm. D. Dana J. D. Parker Edwin Pitman B. F. Wilbur Asa P. Moore Branch Brown F. Odell S. O. Mead Arthur Chase......- Hiram A. Cutting. -. Jas. A. Paddock .. -- Rev. McK. Petty -.--- H. A. Sheldon N. Barrows, M. D -.- A. M. Merriam Jno. H. Caldwell ...- Samuel Rodman..-.- Jno. G. Metcalf Prof. E. S. Snell Rey. E. Davis Prof. A. Hopking.... Chas. H. Pitman ----| Rev. E. Dewhurst. --| ” Date. 4 31 6,8,21,31 30, 31 30 20 31 3, 31 Date. | Max. —— ° 14 80 14 82 1 90 | 1 93 10 89 1 96 ait ero | 1 90 15 88 1 96 1 97 13 90 | 1 100 if 89 i 7 1 94 | 1 90 iL 96 1 98 9,10,14{ 84 1 91 1 93 1 93 a! 98 1 95 1 102 1 98 lee O68 Min. Mean. NowntODo w Rain. 39 Table showing range of thermometer, &c., for August—Continued. Rain. Observer's name, Max.| Date. | Min. | Mean. CONNECTICUT. In. PPMNSENG Urea ail oan Wandham 2. 22. Rey. D. Hunt ..----. 3.45 Wowumbige..oo--c-~- Folland 222.4225 Win. H.Yeomans.-./°' 2} 96) “314 56) .745areeeee Middletown ........} Middlesex ......-. Prof. John Johnston 2.92 Colebrook ..........] Litchfield... ...: Charlotte Rockwell-|* 2} 95{ £311.55] YO;3}eeeee2 NEW YORK. Moriches ....... ag) Otol 23s stteee Mrs. & Miss Smith - - 3. 04 ATPYIO\ 252 0c2c202--1| WVabhington:<. <= Geo. M. Hunt. ...... 6. 69 South Hartford’: = .2(7~3-do)----./.2- 5-5 G. M. Ingalsbe ...-.-- 7. 68 WIR ESE esos. cen-l) Dutchess 2252022 Wm. H. Denning. -. 9. 56 GAIrBOngS..5-24 0...) Putnam .225.025 Thomas B. Arden... 8. 24 Throg’s Neck .......] Westchester -..-- F. M. Rogers-.-.--..-. ie Deaf & Dumb Inst-..} New York .. .... Prof. O. W. Morris - . 96 ]3, 21, 31 67 5.19 St. Xavier’s College-|-...do--...-...-- Rey. Jno. M. Aubier. 95 31 62 1. 66 Bistboshes. 2 ho. 28 ings 2252-2508 BT Macks 225-5. 95 30 61 2. 82 Troy. 2. 52-.5-=s4----|' Rensselaer -.2-<: Juno. W. Heimsireet. 97 31 59 4, 97 Schenectady .-...--. Schenectady -. ..| Harmon V. Swart -- 96 31 OS |) (edie Gouverneur .----... St. Lawrence....}| C. H. Russell - ..~--- 54 2. 65 Clinton ....- Peer Qneida. 5.2 3=5. H. M. Paine, M.D... 101 3l 55 7.56 aut ELENtOMM ©9232] yc = Seas wis, Soa Storrs Barrows! <3. 93] 5, 32).4-/4<) switches eeaner |= ceeds 7.95 Oneida ~.. -: = 2...3.2:|\ Madison =..<- 22. - Dr. 8. Spooner...--- 12. 53 NNT) ie) 1 ie Rene S. O. Gregory...---. 3. 49 Qpwero)=. -- 22 2-5.2.4) Oswero...-- 3.22 Wm. S. Maleolm.... 6. 66 PALERMO= = 2-53-5220) a50-00)..5-55 {4242 Hi. B. Bartlettic-.3-3f oL) Yip Sk} 48) \eorareseeee Baldwinsville: =--...|, Onondaga =. 2-..|, John Bowman...---| $2} 88] 32%) SE) Gaisiiessese RAN CRHOLER Sen steale-00 tana) a W. M. Beauchamp .-. eae AnpurM se. <2 20ea UPR 5. oe gohn-B: Dill). ces lpay WS 94, SINS S66 sages INICHGINS 2.2 39-02 IG Paes oe eter Robert: Howelle:.-2:}) )2| 99} © SLT S00) S70lSr ooo Palmyra ....-......| Wayne... : aes Stephen Hyde-.----| UL} SL} 30,31] 52 | “seo es ane yat 4-74-20 Ontariors— ses Rey. W. D. Wilson... 7.14 Rochester .....-..=..|' Monroe)... 4... M. M. Mathews, M.D 5. 49 19 1215 e Seas ee tere) ERC (0 ee eee rs ee Prof. C. Dewey-.--- 5. 49 Walon) o 22 ~ 5-35..\|) NIAPATA - .- 357 B.S. Holmes,D.D.S.| 9,10} 97| 31] S383] 73.0]--.--- SETA Oe oo 5 & (sto: a= cre 16 ae oe ee A 88 Ws ee c 7.57 Jamestown ........-}| Chautauqua -.... 9.50 Newark 22% 1.54... BASOK (2 2ae.~<.cjo 4 W. A. Whitehead -.. 92 31 58 3. 21 Burlington .........} Burlington ....-. John C. Deacon..-.. 94 |29, 30,31); 60 2.75 Zen en mee EO Ce Thomas J. Beans...- 95} 30,31 61 3. 03 Mount Holly .......}-..- Pe Bee es M. J. Rhees, M. D -. 92 |29, 30,31; 60 Haddonfield ........| Camden ......... J. S. Lippincott -.-... 91 31 58 Greenwich .........| Cumberland ..... Clarkson Sheppard. . 88 31 55 PENNSYLVANIA. Nazareth. ($2. -).5-:.- Northampton ....| L.E.Ricksecker...| 11] 98} 31f/ S59] 76.21]..--.. Philadelphia........ Philadelphia .. ..} Pf. J. A. Kirkpatrick 1.54 Germantowil )- 22222 |ase2de 22. 2.2.5 2. Thos.Meehan.......} 11] 100} 31] 06 |.--.----}------ Fallsington......... Ebenezer Hance.... 1.70 Moorland... < .-.5-- Montgomery .. ..| Anna Spencer .....-. 2,98 40 Table showing range of thermometer, &c., for August—Continucd. Place. PENNSYLVANIA-C’'d. Silver Spring-...._. Lancaster .. .. .. Berwick s)..5.225. Columbia ....... Harrisburg ......._. Dauphin .......- Wiora se ase ok Tope eset o£. Mlentnm = obo 2.22 @enter=-.- -....- Pennsville.......... Clearfield ... ...- Blairsville. .% <5. Indiana ~.....-..- Connellsville . ...._. Wayetie ......... Cannonsburg ....... Washington -.--- DELAWARE. Wilmington ........ New Castle.....-. MARYLAND, Annapolis .......... Anne Arundel - .. St. Mary’s city...._. St. Mary’s......- Sykesville........_. Carroll .......... DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington ......_. Washington ..... SOUTH CAROLINA, Hilton Head........ Beaufort... 2... KENTUCKY. Louisville -......... Jefferson ..... .. OHIO. Saybrook .......... Ashtabula .. .. .- Austinburg .. ....../___. do faa sk East Fairfield .. .._. Columbiana ..-... Wew Disbon........|.... Teo ane See eee Welshfield.... ..... Geaugate-.--.5 Milnersville -._..... Guernsey -...... Cleveland .......... Cuyahoga ....... VG Gee Sea Wrayne2:. = ---5s- Gallipolis. <..-). 2. Gallia [APRs Kelley’s Island... ... MIG 25s sek oe Nonwalicc cn. -b..- EEE OT oo 2 oso einipston!-:.--)-.--- BOSS 6542-2 3's cdc Portsmouth .... ..-. ISCIOLO ot - -s.- 26-4 Wrbana soe... Champaign...... Hillsborough... .-...- Highland..-..... Ripley 2.95: 22 eee SHOW +. See = 4 / Bethel 2.25) 525 ee Clermont........ Cincinnati. 2.3 -e. = Hamilton........ Wolleze\FAN. 5:72. Paes ts fo) BES ees Doe jez. -% Sees Gls a a See Observer’s name. H. G. Bruckhart ._.. John Eggert......_. John Heisely, M.D. KE. T. Bentley -...... Samuel Brugger... Elisha Fenton ...... W.R. Boyers ....... John Taylor........ Rev. Wm.Smith,D.D Dr. Urban D. Hedges Wm. R. Goodman. -. Rey. J. Stephenson. - Miss H. M. Baer ..-. Smithsonian Insi’n-- Lieut. C. R. Suter... Mrs. L. Young..... é James B. Fraser.... E. D. Winchester - .. S. B. McMillan..._.- J. F. Benner ........ B. F. Abell, A. M.... Rey. D. Thompson. . Mr.& Mrs.G.A.Hyde Martin Winger.-.-.- A”, POROGETS's 2c 2 emis Geo. C. Huntington Rey.4A. Newton..... Prof. Jno. Haywood. L. Engelbrecht. --.. Prof. M. G. Williams J. McD. Mathews --. Dr. G. Bambach .... Geo. W. Crane...... G. W. Harper: .....- Jno. W. Hammitt -.. TE avy ildonegoae Date. | Max. 2,11, 12, 14 1,13} 90 10,11] 95 1,10,11,} 92 12 140 O84 10,12] 90 10] 96 11,12] 989 11] 95 10} 92 9| 102 6,7,10| 95 400 o7 12] 96 Date. 31 21 31 30, 31 30, 31 30, 31 Min. 61 55 Se oy oe get ono Mean. 79. 6 78.8 80. 4 to oO w~ 84.1 ~ ot © 3. 30° 2.77 5.05 3. 00 4.94 3. 66 5. 63 Al Table showing the range of the thermometer, &c., for August—Continued. Place. County. Observer’s name. Date. MICHIGAN. Ypsilanti).---...---. Washtenaw ..-.-. C. 8S. Woodard.-....- Agricultural College | Ingham -....-..-- Prof. R. C. Kedzie - - . Garkak >>... S25 = = Ontonagon ..-..-.. Edwin Ellis .....--- INDIANA. Pennville’.-.: ---.-- aYe- seene tase Miriam Griest -..... 10 Muncie: s2...-.25555 Delaware .....-- Bip Se Biees esse see 15 Spiceland .-.....-.. Henry}: -35..0-< Wm. Dawson....... £ New Castle....-....|---- CU Bo eer sana Thos. B. Redding - -- 9 Wadizom s: -25..-.- =: Jefferson -......- Rey. Sam’! Collins -- 9,15 New Albany....----. lov diene case oe Dr. E. §. Crozier --.. 10 South Bend ....--.. St. Joseph... .-.. Reuben Burroughs..| 9,10 Indianapolis .....--. Marion’... 226.2. Royal Mayhew ..-..- 12 Bloomingdale. .,---. Pan reso ateas aie Wm. H. Hobbs..----- 8 New Harmony... .-. IROBCY, 4- Fa Sos. sore Jno. Chappellsmith - 9 ILLINOIS. BIVARRtON | 26 28 355 ae Cook 24.055 st0<0 Homer W. Scovill .. 12 @hicaror 5-22 ss eelen- Oe ascctaaseee Samuel Brooks ..-.. 11 Oye Ss --—e~ = McHenry <-.--=-.- E. Babcock... -.-....-- 10 Sandwich -.....---. Dekalbiegs..--0 Dr. N. E. Ballou ...-| 9,10 Ottawarlss ts. <2-2c Ga Salle’... 225-2. Mrs, E. H. Merwin .-. 10 Winnebago......-.. Winnebago....-- Jas. W. Tolman....- 10, 11 PASTA see aeons - a BaTeawh oo. <0 a0 Verry Aldrich -...-. 14 Way alobisc |: osc: 52]. 5- dotaaae 24-6 E. S. Phelps, jr------ § IRGOnIa ote. ty sae s4= PGOUAW a seas. Frederick Brendel -. Pekintes eset. 2% Tazewell<. 2-5: J. Ht, Ribleté at.525 2. 8 Monroe,City .-...---. Monroée. 2224-2: Miss F. E. Whelpley 12 Hoylton)..-..5---.<- Washington ....- J. Ellsworth ........ 9 Waverly ----2.22.<- Morgan 232 4-. < Timothy Dudley..-. Mount Pleasant... .. Menry 5. = sk. Rey. E. L. Briggs. - - 24 Galesburg --...----- Knox’ -2uenan 3552 Pf, Wm. Livingston. 8,10 Wermont’-5-.5---.-- rl tons ems Patterson Hamer -.. 10 Manchester-.-.-..---. Scott. 22% - + 4-82 Dr. J. & Miss Grant-| 15, 24 AMCUBtR ast «ct mas =< Hancock... ..--=2 S. B. Mead, M.D... 24 WISCONSIN. Manitowoc ...--..-- Manitowoc ....-- Jacob Liips...-..-..-- 8, 9, 10 Milwaukee ......-.-. Milwaukee ...-.-- Carl Winkler .....-.. 12,13 10) Sane Soe eee eee v0, Seance eee I, A. Lapham, LL.D 9 Green Bay -------: Brows! 2:.2- 222 Friedrich Deckner -. 8 Goeneya) 2955-22-53 Walworth ......- Wm. H. Whiting --.-/9, 10, 11 Waupacea -.-- 2-2. Waupacea .. .--- He @s Meade = eee 10 Hmbarrass-oc.5222 0: ae0 Gl vianecee eee J. Everett Breed.-..-} 8,11 © Beloit see ees 1Gyd . Brow-s.5cec0 co Charles Roog ....-..- 9,10 Max. 102 100 30, 31 18, 30 21, 22 31 18 22, 29, 30 29 18,19 19 18 21 31 31 21 17,18,19, Q1 29 31 31 20 21 55 58 58 Sm & 52 Mean. | Rain. = In. 73.8} 2.26 70.7 | 0.40 SM (il (eet =P 16.7 oeceee se ee 4.75 73.3} 3.40 73.0] 4.16 78.0 | 10.00 73.4 | 4.87 71.2] 0.94 73.9 | 2.40" Rae Seen te 75/8 he orl 72.5] 0.83 tayo) |e 69.6} 1.32 71.4} 1.08 72.1) 1.85 70.7 | 1.88 72:3} lance 73.8] 1.75 7.2) 1.56 74.6 | 2.46 71.2) dom TE0) 2ols 75.1.) disco 7Ba7) ys 72.4 | 2.22 76.5} 0.59 7.2), 1.8 73.1 | 1.29 68.5] 3.16 Ord 0. 75 69.8 | 0.61 69.6 | 2.36 G96) (ese W358: [eee 72.5 | 3.41 70.9 a ANE 7) 66.2} 2.28 71.3 | 2.00 74.5 | 2.00 42 Table showing the range of the thermometer, &c., for Augusi—Continued. VOUS see niet eee Dubuques-225-2e4-° Dubuque.--..--. Guttenburg..-...... Clayton Sise5 se. Monticello so. .-cee RONCH = oa se% ceies © Independence.....-- Buchanan .....-- Loge 8 Ses ee eee OOse Se Scee eee Towa, City -........- Nohnkon! 22. -)beee Fort Madison ....... NGG eee seer Saisie Waterloo...-2-.-... Black Hawk..... Towa Falls. ........ Hardin. 22. 322 Le] > — > lf Cal — > B. S E: ¢ . ic} 5 o Ee. 5 as ie ie a: ee Re re cl ae i ‘s1n0k ; eAy Oy “AY ‘9GQT ‘SoSvI0AYy ‘GC8L ‘SosuIsAyY | ‘gcgyT ‘sodvaoay | zea, ‘sosvaroay ¢c’9 vbL Sus 9°89 GOL ¥'€9 8'T L°L9 I? es Ves tt O'FL £°G ¢ ‘89 Laie GGL tf PCL 9h POL vt L°08 67% 6 FL L'G 9°OL 8° PTL 6% heOk PG 6°29 0% FLO 0% 6 °L9 coms T ‘99 67% F G9 C3 6 °P9 6°E b'G9 “UT “SIT = = oO oO E 5 3 a oak ee ‘ccal ‘sosevi0Ay mm lor] OMPHNAMODMOAWIAINMODAAIAIOANN’awLRN al ‘soond Jo Jaquinu ‘Ay oo ites Oa BBS Ee cee Ae emetas - AIOPLAIO J, VYSVIQaN Se ~ TINOSST EE = an et Pt bf i ee BLOSOUUT AL i Se TS UISMOOBT AA Pe hk aah SIOWITIT Sees eet - BUvIpUy --* - UBSTYOMAL eer ee e210) WES ISS OC eet a sai oeae er = Ayonqyue yxy >> gossoUoT, “"---BUTTOIRG WING BIqUIN[OF) JO JON4SI ate oe ee ---- puvp Arey ee de “77> OIBAABIOCT ---o°- eraeATAsuueg Iti ot Adsaof MON aia Sie nicl 5 Nice ogni slo's =aierie TT ORRe AsO Becks MESSI Sin'=iesaletetelei-te nT OT OULU ee “pussy opogryt - S]JOSNLGOVESBI Ses JUOULLO A. earysdue yy AMON visislereeizi stoletei=i- Bo HIO RO “77> OUIRIT ‘SOLO}LLIO, PUB sayv1g ‘APDUL ILIN SUOYIDALISQO AY}? YILYM Ur aIDI) YOva UL saoDjd Jo Laquinu aFv1aav ay) yn ‘hyaarjsay09 ‘paunu ys.uf suvah aay ay} Lof pun ‘pauny wwah yooa uw ysnsny fo yyuou ay sof (syjuoz puv sayour ur) uve fo vf pun ainyosadwuag aSniaav ay? Sumoys 9PL 44 AUGUST, 1864. THE DROUGHT. We append a few notices in continuation of those previously given on the prevalence and extent of the drought. Santa Barbara, California—*The absence of almost any rain during the past winter has made this part of the State almost a desert. I do not think more than an inch and a half of rain has fallen since last spring. The cattle have nearly all died, and the face of the country is as barren as the streets of a city. More rain fell last month than in all the rest of the season together ; while, in ordinary years, May has little rain. Instead of rain storms, which usually come from the southeast, Wwe had, during the months of February, March, and April, a succession of northwesterly winds, blowing with great violence from about 10 a. m. till 8 or 10 p. m., which is also a strange phenom- enon here.”’— W. TV. Hays, M. D., June 1, 1864. Sacramento, California.—With the exception of the season of 1850~’51, the past, which ends with the present August, has been characterized by a drought as disastrous as it is remarkable. Never have the streams and springs been so completely dried up before, or the water in the Sacramento river been observed at so low a point. Fortunately, just as navigation had become difficult in the extreme, a heavy rain, unprecedented as to the extent of territory over which it spread as well as its duration and quantity, came most opportanely to swell the shallow streams. Owing to the immense quantities of rain that fell north of the American river, the Sacramento rose some fifteen inches. Fort Madison, Jowa.— August, a very dry month; pastures bare, and wells low and failing. Waverly, Illinois, August 31.—August'has been remarkable for its extreme drought. The wells and streams are very low, water for stock very scarce, and many families on short allowance for family use. The pastures are parched and dry. The corn crop has been injured to some extent by drought, but a much better crop than last year. Pomfret, Connecticut, August 31.—The drought is greater here than has been known for many years. Wells are getting dry that are not wont to fail; grass for the cattle fails. Mendon, Massachusetts, August 31.—Water in well but once as low as now in the last thirty-cight years. Windsor, Nova Scotia — September 14.—The drought has not extended to these regions. There was a good deal of rain about seed-time, then a drought till the middle of hay-time, when there were heavy falls of rain, and the weather has been upon the whole wet ever since. Private letters from England (Suffolk) received a fortnight since, informed me that the drought there had been exces- he the ponds being drier than ever remembered to have been. before.—J. D. verett. ld AURORA. August 24, 1864.—On the night of the 24th of August a beautiful arch of light, extending from horizon to horizon through or near the zenith, was observed over a wide extent of country. The following notices, taken from the registers, describe it as seen by observers from Maine to Minnesota : Cornish, Maine—August 24.—A faint aurora in the evening. Steuben, Maine—August 24.—Aurora at 9 p.m.; a faint white arch half- way up north star. Mendon, Massachusetts —August 24.—Aurora in a single jet from NW. to the zenith; very beautiful at 10 p.m. Worcester, Massachusetts —August 24—At 11 p- m. the sky was spanned 45 ~ from east to west with a bright, well-defined belt of greyish white, extending from horizon to horizon, and passing a little south of the zenith. There was no appearance of aurora in the northern horizon, but the phenomenon was un- doubtedly auroral in its character. Skaneateles, New York.—August 24—A singular aurora appeared from 9 to 11 p. m., in the form of a single belt, dividing the hemisphere into two equal parts. The eastern portion of the bow moved slowly southward. Buffalo, New York.—August 24—An uncommon auroral phennomenon was visible here August 24, at about 10 o’clock p. m. It consisted of a luminous bow extending from fifteen to twenty degrees above the horizon north of the star Arcturus, passing a little north of Corona through Lyra and Cygnus, and easterly as far as Andromeda. At its lowest extremity, which appeared to be its commencement, it was very luminous and much more dense than the tail of acomet. It made its appearance almost suddenly and my first impression was that it was one of those wanderers paying us an unexpected visit. I soon dis- covered that it varied in intensity, and overhead slight scintillations were visi- ble. At the extremity above named it was only a degree or two in width, but as it extended upwards to Lyra and Cygnus it was fifteen to twenty degrees wide and continued about the same to its furthest extremity, where it became very thin and rare. ‘The wind was blowing gently from the south, but the whole of this arch moved in an opposite direction. There was but very little auroral light in the northern horizon, no clouds to be seen, but summer-lightning all around. During the twenty minutes that I viewed this phenomenon there were several small meteors visible. To-day (25th) at noon, we had a tempest, after which much wind from the southwest— Henry Mills. Wilson, New Yorl:—August 24.—Aurora made a fine display to-night, commencing at 9.45 o’clock, by showing a beam of white light in the W.NW. from the horizon to 45° high; also faint diffused light in the north. At 10 o’clock the beam had extended completely over the heavens from W.NW. to E.SE. by E., forming a brilliant bow or band of light from horizon to horizon, with a slight inclination to the south. At each end the bow seemed to touch the horizon by a fine point, (a little the more distinct at the westerly end,) and gradually expanded to the zenith, where it was about one degree in width. There was hardly any change except that it gradually grew fainter till 11 o’clock, when there was only a trace to be seen. Rochester, New York—August 24.—Splendid auroral arch spanned the heavens at 104 p. m., south of zenith, from S. of E. to N. of W. when in zenith, and was a bright white band or arch of fine shining fibres; disappeared at east first, then higher up, till at 11 it was gone. All over the north was the glow of the brightest and most magnificent white canopy of light I ever saw.—( Dewey.) Rochester, New York.—August 24.—Shortly before 10 p.m. discovered a beautiful luminous arch of auroral light, two degrees in width, extending en- tirely over from NW. to SE. When first seen it was one continuous stream of light, but subsequently broke into several parts, which soon became united again to complete the arch. At times these portions would reunite by a general movement eastward, but at others by the spaces betweert them becoming reillu- minated, thereby restoring the whole line. 'The eastern third remained more intact. At 10.30 the western half only remained, and that much narrower. At 11 p. m. all had disappeared. During the whole evening there have been frequent flashes of lightning at the north, though very few clouds were visible, the northern sky having more the appearance of moderate aurora borealis. At the centre the band was about two degrees in width, tapering nearly to a point at each extremity.—( Mathews.) Palmyra, New York.—August 24.—Ten minutes after 10 p.m., discovered an aurora, consisting of a perfect arch, extending from the horizon at NW. to the horizon at the SE., of a uniform white color, retaining the same apparent 46 position for twenty or twenty-five minutes, when it disappeared. There were dark clouds in the north, also lightning in that direction; could not discover any aurora in any other part of the sky. The part of the sky where it appeared was clear. There was no wind at the time. Canonsburg, Pennsylvania —August 24.—Aurora. East Fairfield, Ohio—August 24—A well-defined auroral arch, of near fifteen degrees elevation at 8 p. m., which entirely disappeared before 9. Saw no streamers. Austinburg, Ohio.— August 24—Aurora appeared at 8 p.m., black cloud un- derneath ; disappeared at 94. Winnebago, Illinois— August 24.—Aurora through the evexing; faint light in the north. Embarrass, Wisconsin—August 24.—Singular aurora at 10% p. m., con- tinuing half an hour; it was in the form of a bow, extending entirely across from east to west, nearly overhead, and very bright. At the same time there was a slight bank of aurora to the north. Green Bay, Wisconsin —August 24—Aurora, a narrow steadily shining belt, of pure white, extended across the heavens, a little north of the zenith from the east to the west horizon; it remained thus less than an hour, and gradually vanished. Manitowoc, Wrsconsin—August 24.—Aurora at the north from 9 to 10 p.m. Dubuque, Iowa —August 24.—Aurora from. LO p.m. to 4 a.m. next morning; quite brilliant after midnight. Mankato, Minnesota— August 24.—Auroa at 8.30 p. m.; commenced as a faint spot of light in the northwest. First arch formed at 9 p. m., the upper portion just below the pole star; arch very distinct, but no cloud below. Beams moved constantly along the arch for twenty minutes, moving from east to west. At 9.40 a second arch formed below the first, more brilliant, and with dark cloud below. The first arch disappeared entirely at 10 o’clock, and reappeared in a few moments more brilliant than before. At 10.15 beams from the lower arch appeared. New Ulm, Minnesota—August 24.—Aurora at 8.30 p. m. STORM OF AUGUST 26, 1864. Below are a few notices of the weather at some of the western stations at the time of the hurricane, which was so severe in the southeastern part of Indiana. Urbana, Ohio—August 26.—Thunder from 53 a. m. to 9 a. m.; very heavy at 74.a.m. A peculiar morning. There was a very heavy fog early, and it did not disappear till after the very hard rain at 74.a.m. There was thunder again from 5 p.m. to 7 p. m.; a violent gale blew from the west from 5? to 64 p.m. No damage was done by the wind in this immediate neighborhood. Lightning off south at 8 p. m. East Fairfield, Ohio—August 26.—A storm of wind from the NW. com- menced at 6 p.m., succeeded by rain and much thunder and lightning until 8 p.m. Saybrook, Ohio—August 26—Heavy dew in the morning. At 5 p. m. heavy thunder storm from W.SW. West Milton, Miami County, Ohio—August 26—The storm gathered in the north between 4 and 5 p.m. 'The heavens became very black, and there was one constant roll of thunder. ‘The storm moved south, passing overhead. The rain fell in torrents, accompanied with hail for perhaps ten minutes. ‘The hail was confined to a very narrow strip of country, or it would have done great damage. Now and then a hail-stone fell of great size and peculiar structure; one of the largest which I measured was seven inches in its greatest circum- ference; the shape was the usual nucleus of hard ice, surrounded by concentric layers, but flat, and on the outer rim covered with jagged points of ice, looking 47 like large flattened chestnut-burrs. A man in the neighborhood said he weighed one of these monsters in a spring scale, and it weighed nearly a pound.—(G. W. Harper, of Cincinnati.) Austinburg, Ohio—August 26—Thunder shower at 5.15 p. m., with high wind. Lightning north and east at 9 p. m. Cleveland, Ohio—August 26.—Overcast most of the day. Furious wind and heavy rain after 44 p. m.; three-quarters of an inch of rain fell in ten min- utes. Kingston, Ohio—August 26.—The rain this morning came up with thunder and lightning. This evening, at 65 o’clock, the thunder and lightning were severe. At 9 o’clock p. m., there is still lightning, but it is not raining. New Lisbon, Ohio—August 26.—Storm of rain, wind, thunder, and light- ning, from 6 a. m. to 1 p. m. Kelley’s Island, Ohio —August 26.—Very violent shower from 3.30 p.m. to 4.15 p.m. Wind very strong from NW. For afew moments hailstones, size of hazelnuts, and some still larger, fell in large quantity, doing considerable damage to grapes. An inch and two-hundredths of water fell in three-fourths of an hour. Newcastle, Indiana—Very heavy rain and thunder storm from 44 to 5 a.m. during which time it rained an inch and six-tenths. Showers at noon and 53, p-m. Incessant lightning in 8. and SE. all the evening, quite distant and low down. New Albany, Indiana.— August 26.—A severe rain-storm occurred to-day. At 6 a.m. the wind was SW., with dark clouds to the westward, with heavy thunder. At 74 or 7} a. m. it commenced raining, the water coming down in a perfect .deluge—the wind rapidly changing from the SW. to W., then NW., and finally to NE. About one inch of rain fell within an hour and a half. About noon, the wind having changed back to the SW., another storm came up, in which nearly another inch of rain fell. Soon after sunset another cloud came up, but the amount of rain did not exceed fifteen-hundredths of an inch. So great a quantity of rain has not fallen in one day in this vicinity for several years. At 9 p.m. the sky was clear, with the exception of a low bank of clouds to the southward, constantly illuminated by a blaze of sheet-lightning; wind NW. Indianapolis, Indiana.—August 26.—About 34 p. m., dark clouds in NW. from this point were rising, with lightning and heavy thunder; supposed 15 to 20 miles distant. These bore round N. and NE.; the main dark clouds, rising about 45° above the horizon, were darker, and moved with greater velocity than usual thunder-storms. About 4 p. m., or a little earlier, the main force of this cloud had passed over, and in its track northward, clouds broken and agitated, without special direction, had taken its place, rising higher than the storm- cloud. About this time, 4 p. m., a succeeding thunder-storm of ordinary mag nitude, rising in NW., was advancing towards this place, and at the same time clouds rising in southwest were coming up and passing overhead with great velocity toward the NE. The clouds seemed to threaten a storm for some time, but settled in a brisk shower, without wind, at 44 to 42 p. m. Lawrenceburg, Dearborn county, Indiana.—Seventy-five miles southeast of Indianapolis, about a quarter before six o’clock in the afternoon of August 26, the train on the Indianapolis railroad, which left Cincinnati at 4.20 p. m. for Chicago, was blown from the track at a point near Wirtnell’s bridge, fifteen miles below Lawrenceburg, by one of the most terrific tornadoes that has ever visited that section of the country. As the train approached the bridge, the atmosphere seemed filled with branches of trees and missiles of various kinds, which the ‘wind had taken up in its path; and the engineer, thinking the bridge unsafe, increased the speed of the engine, so as to reach the protection of the hills beyond. He was too late; for the hurricane, resistless in its energy and 48 overwhelming in its power, lifted the entire train into the air, and hurled the rear portion of it over a steep bank; the baggage car, which was very heavily laden, being whirled diagonally across the track; and the rear of the first pas- senger car, still uncoupled, being suspended over the precipice at the side of the track. The train was heavily loaded with passengers, from thirty to forty of whom were injured. With the violent blasts of wind came also torrents of rain.— Newspaper. Spiceland, Indiana.—August 26.—Began to rain and thunder about 34 a. m.; hard thunder and heavy rain at a quarter before 6; rained some in the after- noon; appearance of storm in SW. about 3 to 4 Madison, Indiana.—August 26.—Two inches of rain fell from 5 a. m. to 12 m. Dubuque, Iowa.— August 26.—The wind blew in a gale nearly all day from the NW.; most violent about 11 a. m., with a very dark blue sky, and occa- sionally a white scudding cloud of small size. The barometer gradually fell, and reached its lowest point at about 5 p. m., after which it began to rise. The hygrometer showed a very dry state of the atmosphere all day. FROST. Tioga, Pennsylvania. August 30, 31—A very little frost on the hills. Rensselaer, Indiana —August 31.—Light frost in the morning; the first of the season; did no injury to anything. Pennville, Indiana.—August 27.—Very light frost in places, doing very little, if any, damage. Frost here every month this year, and also last year. Oshtemo, Michigan —August 30.—Frost this morning, and hurt the crops in low places. 31st, frost again this morning. Green Bay, Wisconsin — August 30.—Temperature last night almost to the freezing point. Mean temperature to-day, 54.7°, the lowest of the month. Embarrass, Wisconsin.— August 30.—At 5 a. m., thermometer 37°; on the 31st, at the same hour, 38°. The same day on which which this frost occurred was, at some stations further west, the warmest day of the month. Fort Laramie, Idaho.— August 31—This was the warmest day of the month. The temperature at 2 p.m. was 100°; at 9 p. m., 84°; the mean of the day, 86° ; all which were the highest during the month; wind from the southwest. Manhattan, Kansas —August 31.—The temperature at 2 p. m. (98°) was higher than on any day except the first, when it was 99°. Fort Riley, Kansas — August 31.—Wind very hot and strong from 12 m until 4 p.m. Temperature above 100° until 5§ p.m. At 2 p. m., 107°; mean of the day, 99.66°. The warmest day of the month. 49 SEPTEMBER. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- Jjixed,) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths,) jor September, 1864, at the following places, as given by the observer's name. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m. and 2 and 9 p.m. Place. County. Observer’s name. Date. MAINE, Steuben --.-.--.-.-.. Washington ..... J. Ds Parkerc.-o=-7 28 West Waterville..... Kennebec ------- Bok, Wilour-o----- 1 Posbans.23.-205-. Androscoggin. -..| Asa P. Moore-..---- £o Cornish .-....-...-.- | Work suse-=-5-t2 IBFOMGE = 25 gen ..--2- Monticello . .-..-..- QOUES erase eemscee Independence. .-....- Buchanan ....... DOeseaat-cveciae |e CSB Ss aopeege Towa City .-.-.--=.- Johnson ......---. Fort Madison ..-..... 1 Dhaene aa aoS eee Waterloo: ..---2-..: Black Hawk..--. Iowa Falls.......... Hardin ---3-- 222" PAL OOM Ear seme ic Sais Kossuth ........- MISSOURI. Allenton <). <2 se2 St; Tiouiss.s.-c< (Wanton. =-0-..22052 Gewis)-o2c.bsee DEG) a ee Buchanan. .....- KANSAS. Manhattan ......... RiUGy cere ceene Wort Rileyee <=. = - DAVIS cts. ceseeee NEBRASKA TER. Elkhorn City -.-.--- Washington ..... Bellevue. .........-. SBLPYc\ss-2--5-%,- UTAH TERRITORY. Great Salt Lake City | Great Salt Lake - I | Observer’s name. W.'H: Adams).c2- 22 |2se22- <1 e-]- teeter alten ae OcE- Riblettes--eee- J. Bllsworth -..-..-- Timothy Dudley. ... Prof. Wm. Livingston S. B. Mead, M. D.--. Jacob Liups-..--.=.- I. A. Lapham, LL.D. Friedrich Deckner -. William H. Whiting- Levens Eddy -..----.- Edward E. Breed. .- . 18 Ay Oh WAZEG lap oor GCG, Wieland ==. --.- Rey. A. B. Paterson - Charles Roos........ Dr. P. J. Farnsworth Asa Horr, M.D..... Philip Dorweiler- -. . Chauncey Mead..--. A. C. Wheaton.....- D. S. Deering..--.--- Theo. S. Parvin, A.M. Daniel McCready - - - De SPCOd mo oraelen aes = A. Fendler -..---... George P. Ray P. B. Sibley .--.-.-- H. L. Denison -...-.-.- H. A. Sturges..-...-- Miss. A. M. J. Bowen Rey. Wm. Hamilton. Date. 10 Max. 107 103 104 104 106 99 99 87 Date, 24, 28, 29 24, 28, 29, 30 17, 29 28 Min. 36 Mean. 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G'Ph Fee ee ce ee ea ea TOT LT SoS sls Sie “ilies. or | eae | | ae L°69 ARS P'6Y tae L°69 P'T GOL Poa T’¢9 BZ BEL & ne ep ee, eee a ee ey 98° (cl?) Fs Mail se tcl ocd FO Ug PPL Les 24 0°9 0O'GL PT G'GL L’% 9°GL Ove G'8L ¢ tee gee uae eo ae raat Lg Fo NG hae patos | 146% 0°99 60 °€ £°€9 0'& 8°L9 B'S &°L9 6% ¢ ‘99 9'T “Se OL PLO 6% TOL I Tor esicecc cess = "> BICUMTOP TO TOIATCT. €€'€ 1 a 8 Ten || Alam |= 218 12) Lt ¢ ‘99 ¥'8 > 99 9°E 1 ‘G9 P'T £°99 6G 4°99 0°8 BLO Gh lise “=== pup AaB IAL 08 ‘8 f+ |2 RN feat ld mk Nel at | mt ly * 4 6°89 8'P a es Bene danke 8°TL c% BOS le eae te ee ee See ar GS BD I ee. ee ee oe ¥G ‘8 6°19 Go 'G ot) Gc’ P 'b9 0°L fea 1 23) LAT PPO P'S 1 ‘9 G'P L°99 OG. [rset sree sess ode TAT ARO: GP's 9&9 08 T 009 G’é € ‘$9 a4 c'T 9 9 Mite, €°¢9 8G 1 °¢9 6% Pb 'S9 P *==* KO8L0[" MONT 986 & 09 18% 69S oo 8°6 GP L'g GPS 8G 619 L's 6°19 6'1 GI 8L "7" " YOK MON 96 'E 9 6S Té% Tg oS 9°19 0'r 6h p19 0'¢ G‘19 lp P69 G0 b'eO v “- =" gnorpoouuory ouemieoge | - PL EL 8°LG 67% ¢ ‘19 L'é Ls 69 £% > 09 LS G GO £'0 6°19 I ce a ke oe aa eee Ce 10'§ 9 "8S BEE G ‘8S Cie. Comes) O'P 8's T‘19 6% 8°09 8'P P19 0'T L'19 OL open eens sissos oa(@s RAT ORT OSE Rh pes | Bes | se | G'9G | LE BLS | bP 8'f 06S | 8°T 8'L¢ | OF f'e¢ | Sp TGGialll Vo oe|t sc seer aece ae torres ss" gUOUIa A 98°¢ G'9G PEG 6°PS Te 69S GP 0°S Tas (se L‘8S 6h T ‘09 £°0 G'6G ¥ Sane Page Sane acs °° * OTN Cce Benne G6 'D L“$G 89 °€ 6G 6G 9°L¢ Ov G’¢ B'8G 9'T 8'LG c'é 88S 8°T ¥ "9G 9 oe ak eee ee «aie ea “Uy Sa “Uy BIT “UT “BIT “UT “UT “BHT “uy “ST “Ul DOT “Ul “SIT ie & eS 5 5 5 Biel Bol eee F a ae 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 B 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 i s | # ¢ | # e | 3 F g. | ¢ eo | a ce z E ie z. g E. iS E. E 5 E. iS E é E. e B. : : > M Bo 5 a) . > 3 > e ts @ *HOIMO}LLI0T, PUB soFB}g —— -| & *savok 2 "PORT ‘HODBIOAY] ‘gORT ‘soduAOAW | OAY Joy “AW | ‘EGRT ‘KoTuAOAW "gceT ‘soduaoay | ‘oat ‘soBvaoay | ‘dogt ‘sodus0ay | ‘ccgy ‘soSuioaAy 8 mR “IPVUl ALIN SUOLIDALISGO AY) YYN Ud aIDIG) Yova Wr soaMjd yO saquinu aSvsaav ayy yn Shipaarpayos ‘paunu yssof savali aa ay2 “of pun ‘pounu vali yona ur saquaydag Jo yyuou. ay) Lof (syjuay puv sayour ur) urs fo yof pun aingvosoduag aS vs02v OY) TULNOYS 3]9DL, 5£ SEPTEMBER, 1864. ° FRostT. Wolfville, Nova Scotta.—September 8.—First appearance of frost on low land. Steuben, Maine—September 6.—Hard frost this morning. 8th, very heavy frost this morning ; ground looked almost as if very white with snow till 6 a. m. 18th, a severe frost ; ground almost as white as if covered with snow ; water froze an eighth of an inch thick. Cornishville, Maine.—September 26.—Slight frost, first of the season, no injury done. West Waterville, Maine.—September 7.—Slight frost in low places near the river. 18th, slight frost, not enough to kill vines, beans, or potatoes, cut off vegetation in other locations in this vicinity. 22d, slight frost. Shelburne, N. H.—September 26.—A few flakes of snow falling at 8.30 a.m. 27th, heavy frost, ground said to be frozen in some places. Barnstead, N. H—September 7, 27.—Light frost. Claremont, N. H.—September 17, 18.—Slight frost ; no damage done except in particularly exposed places. Stratford, N. H.—September 18.—F ost this morning. Craftsbury, Vermont.—September 22.—A slight frost this morning, the first of the season ; sufficient to kill pumpkin and cucumber vines, but having no effeet on late planted potatoes, which are as green as in July.’ Middlebury, Vermont.——No frost in September; very unusual. Lunenburg, Vermont—September 7.—A very slight frost on boards, &c., this morning, nothing injured by it. 18th, a slight frost on the hills, hard on low lands; but everything so ripe that no harm was done. Westfield, Mass—No frost during the month that has done any damage, ex- cept in some very cold spots, where it here and there nipped the ends of the leaves of a squash vine. Worcester, Mass.—September 8.—Frost this morning. Columbia, Mass——September 8, 9.—F rost in the morning. Newbury, Mass.—September 8.—Quite a frost; only a few vine leaves were killed here; but a few miles distant some cornfields were whitened. Colebrook, Conn.—September 8.—Slight frost. Palmyra, N. Y—September 30.—No frost yet. Clinton, N. Y.—September 7.—First frost, very slight; only in the valley. 17th, rather a severe frost this morning, but not sufficient to injure vegetation. Rochester, N. Y—September 17.—Slight frost ; killed cucumbers out of the city ; little damage. Gouverneur, N. Y.—September 17, 27.—Slight frost. Nichols, N. ¥—September 16.—Frost on boards and fences. South Trenton, N. Y.—September 20.—Very light frost this morning ; 25th, frost barely visible; clipped pumpkin vines lightly. 30th, light frost. South Hartford, N. Y—No frost sufiicient to injure vegetation during the month ; on the morning a slight frost was noticed in very exposed localities. We usually have frost about the 20th of September. Palermo, N. Y.—September 17.—A slight frost this. morning ; not enough to kill tender vegetation. Theresa, N. Y—September 17.—Light frost. 26th, a hard frost, though no white frost seen till after sunrise. Progress, N. J—September 30.—No frost yet. Haddonfield, N. J—No frost occurred during the month; on the morning of the 20th the mercury sank to 44°, and on the 26th to 42°. 55 Fleming, Penn.—September 1.—A light frost this morning, no damage done; 20th, frost this morning, not much damage done to vegetables. Grampian Hills, Penn.—September 1.—Light frost ; no damage done. Hillsborough, Ohto.—September 25.—It is said there was some frost. Urbana, Ohio—September 13.—Frost; could perceive no damage to the most tender plant, although boards were white with the frost. 19th, white frost ; no injury to vegetation. Kingston, Ohio.—September 13.—F rost this morning on fences, &e. Bethel, Ohio —September 25.—Very light frost just perceptible. New Lisbon, Ohio—September 1.—Light frost ; no damage. Pontiac, Michigan—September 13.—Frost, injuring corn, vines, potatoes, and tobacco on low lands. 25th, frost on low lands. Newcastle, Indiana.—September 19.—Light frost, the first since June; no injury. 24th, pretty heavy frost. Spiceland, Indiana.—September 25.—Considerable frost. Indianapolis, Indiana.—September 19 and 25.—Slight frost on these mornings but not sufficient to do any damage worth naming. ‘These were the first frosts of the season. Rensselaer, Indiana.—September 19.—Heavy white frost in the morning which nipped vines, beans, tomatoes, &c., and the blades of corn and sorghum, but did no material injury except to buckwheat. 25th and 30th, white frost in the morning. Hoylton, Illinois —September 19.—Light frost last night. Wyanet, lilinois—September 19.—Heavy frost this morning; 24th, 25th little frost on low lands. Haze Dell, Illinois.—The first frosts of the season were on the 19th and 25th; but neither time sufficient to kill the most tender plant, except in very exposed situations. Waverley, Illinois —September 19.—F rst frost of the season, but not enough to do any injury. Ottawa, Ilinois.—September 18.—Slight frost, the first of the season. Elmoré Illinois —September 19.—Frost this morning, killed the tomato, cucumber and potato vines; injured the blades of the corn. Wennebago, Illinois—September 19.—Frost this morning. Allenton, Missourt.—September 19.—F rost, barely obserable on my premises, but injuring tobacco plants, cucumber and watermelon vines in a neighbor’s adjacent field. 25th, white frost in a neighboring tobacco ficld. Easton, Missouri.—September 18.—First frost of the season. Canton, Missouri—September 19.—First frost; ice formed ; thermometer 31° at 5.30 a. m.; vines, corn, sorghum, &c., killed on low ground ; no damage done on the uplands. 24th, light frost ; Waupacca, Wisconsin—September 19.—Slight frost, first of the season; thermometer at 4. a.m. 38°. 25th, heavy frost. Embarrass, Wisconsin —September 19 —Very hard frost this morning; killed late squashes, &c. 20th, light frost. 24th, hard frost this morning. 25th, very hard frost. . Green Bay, Wisconsin —September 19.—First frost. 25th, frost this morning ; ice an eighth of an inch thick. Milwaukie, Wisconsin —September 19—Frost this morning. Delavan, Wisconsin—September 19.—First frost; thermometer at 6.30 a.m. 34° Manitowoc, Wisconsin —September 19.—Frost in some places back from the lake shore. 24th, cucumbers, beans, potatoes, and leaves of grape vines frozen. Beaver Bay, Minnesota—September 24, 25 —First frost ; partly killed the leaves of cucumbers, tomatoes, and potatoes. 28th, frost. New Ulm, Minnesota —Sepiember 19.—First frost; damaged some garden 56 vegetables m the bottoms. 28th, in the morning found water in a pail frozen over with ice an eighth of an inch thick; thermometer 32° at 7 a. m. St. Paul, Minnesota —September 19.—First frost, high grounds generally escaping. Fort Madison, lowa.—September 19, 24.—First frosts ; vegetation unhurt. Ind pendence, lowa—September 8.—Light frost, but it did no damage. 19th, frost killed the vines and the leaves on some of the trees, so that they com- menced to fall, but did no damage to the sugar cane.—( Deering.) Independence, Iowa.—September 19.—Very severe frost ; ice a quarter of an inch thick at 7 a.m. 24th, heavy frost this morning.—( Wheaton. Iowa Falls, Towa—Thermometer 32° at sunrise on the 19th, 20th, 24th, 27th, and 28th. Monticello, Iowa —September 19.—First frost; it came too late to do any damage to crops, except perhaps some late pieces of sugar cane. Waterloo, lowqg.—September 19.—Heavy frost; vegetation effectually checked. 20th, 22d, some frost. Lyons, Iowa.—September 19.—White frost covering the ground, but doing little injury. 24th, frost, not very severe; the frosts were light, and did no injury, because all things are out of the way of frost. Guttenberg, Iowa.—September 19, 20.— White frost on both these mornings. 24th, thermometer 40° at sunrise; no white frost. 28th, thermometer at sunrise 37°, a slight frost; ice formed less than a tenth of an inch thick on water in a tub. Algeria, Iowa—September 18.—Heavy frost. 24th, ice a quarter of an inch thick. - Iowa City, Iowa.—September 19.—First. frost ; it was confined to low places, and did little or no damage. Dubuque, Iowa.—September 18, 19.—Light frost on both these mornings. Onawa, Iowa—September 18.—First frost of the season, very light. 24th, first hard frost; no further frost during the month. Fort Riley, Kansas—September 28—Rain with large flakes of snow for about cight minutes, commencing at 8 a. m. Richland, Nebraska —September 18.—A little white frost in ravines ; heavy white frost in Papillon and Bell creek and vicinities. 24th, heavy white frost BI-MONTHLY REPORT THE AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT FOR NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER, 1864. WASHING TE: GOVERNMENT PRINTING -OFFICE. 1864. ’ ‘ . A ' Teas ee ; { { ‘A euch BI-MONTHLY REPORT, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, December, 1864. This bi-monthly report is the last of this year. If I may be permitted to compare the reports of this year with those of the last year, by the many and warm approvals they have received, I cannot but believe that they exhibit a marked improvement. Those of the past year were the first issued by the de- partment, and, as in all other new enterprises, much had to be learned of the best way to render them useful. With the aid of future experience, it is ex- pected that the reports of the coming year will be not less marked by improve- ment. Hereafter they will be published monthly. This change is called for by many persons upon whose judgments the Commissioner can confidently rely. Experience has shown that, from the very nature of the information imparted by these reports, being either chiefly statistical or based on statistics, they must be prepared within a few days before their publication, and hence there has not been realized that leisure in their preparation which it was thought would be found in the bi-monthly. In making this change it may not be neces- sary to issue circulars every month to correspondents, but only as frequently as the information regarding the crops may render necessary. The leading article of this report is designed to show the climatic conditions of our country, which may be regarded as the very basis of American agriculture. It will be seen from it how superior is the quality of some of our leading agricul- tural productions, bidding defiance, by reason of it, to all competition. The cause of that superiority should be known to all—to the merchant and legis- lator, as well as to the farmer. Systems of agriculture must be controlled chiefly by climate. It will be seen that Oregon and California have essentially different climates, the influence of which is so marked in their crops of the present year. The climate of the Atlantic States is as different from both these as they are from each other. Products, such as the potato and the smaller cereals, which require a short season to best grow them, do better in the Oregon climate than in any other, whilst those demanding a longer season and greater heat, such as Indian corn, cotton, wool, and the sweet potato, are best adapted to the Atlantic climate. Products such as the grape and the cheaper wools do best in climates like that of California, where both heat and dryness are com- bined, and where cost of production is low. The knowledge of our climates, + and the causes making them, is essential to success. How much loss could have been avoided in California, if it had been known that protracted drought is incident to its climate, and how much can hereafter be avoided in western ‘Texas, Kansas, and California, from a recollection of what these States have already suffered. Whilst the cattle of California have perished by thousands, its sheep have not, and hence all the States just named will find their climate best adapted to wool-growing ; and in this adaptation to the growth of every variety of wool our nation has the ability to become the greatest wool-manufacturing country of the earth. As the progress of this manufacture, now rapid, determines the kind of wool needed, the farmer can adapt his operations to this demand, thus secur- ing to both the farmer and manufacturer stability in supply and demand. For the purpose of hastening this stability, I am now in correspondence with all of our woollen manufacturers, and the results of this correspondence will appear in these reports. But, independent of these local interests in understanding the nature of our American climates, all persons being so absolutely dependent on heat and moist- ure should have some knowledge of the means established by the Creator for the diffusion of heat and the distribution of moisture. By the aid of the plates in this article, the attentive reader can acquire a general idea of these means. Details have been avoided as much as possible, that our farmers might be rather enticed to, than repelled from, a further knowledge in meteorology. Another important article is that on the production of field seeds. The best skill of the farm has long been devoted to perfecting breeding animals, and its success exhibits the great good that is accomplished by a strict observance of the aws governing reproduction. The nature of these laws assures us that not less progress would be made by a like skill devoted to the production of field seeds. To preserve them from a deteriorating crossing, and a still more deteriorating want of proper cultivation, would seem to be so obvious a duty of the farmer, that ‘the wonder is how such inattention to the improvement of field seeds is so pre- valent. Greater attention has been given to the production of garden seeds, and to flowering plants, and their great variety and excellence clearly point to a like success in field seeds. The French decimal system of weights and measures has so much com- mended itself to Great Britain, that it will probably be the received system of that country. Congress has adopted the decimal system of value in its coinage to guard the country against the evils of a mixture of foreign coins with our own. How much more important is it to have a uniform system of weights and measures, when every State is now exercising the power of establishing a system of its own. The article on this subject in this report is timely, and explains the gen- eral character of the French system. The comparison presented by the article on the agricultural statisties of Ohio for 1863, between the mode of estimating the annual amount of our crops, adopted by this department, and that of taking them by township assessors, will commend to a still more favorable consideration the plan of this department: D The rapidity of its returns, its general correctness, and its small cost, cannot but meet with every favor. All local agencies to take a census of the crops, as by township assessors, are seen to be so slow in their operations that the farmers’ crops are not only marketed, but consumed, before the amount of the crop can be made known, thus losing the chief purpose of taking such annual census, which is to make it known before they have passed from the farmer’s hands. The article shows the greater reliability of the returns of this department. How far local agents could be forced to a more correct return by the enforcement of penalties upon them, and upon the persons refusing to give a statement of their products, is yet to be seen. In this connection I again urge upon Congress to place at my disposal two thousand copies of that part of the census report which relates to agriculture, for distribution among the regular correspondents of the department. In no better hands could it be placed, and in none so deserving. Their valuable and gratuitous services have demanded from me, in every report, the most favorable: recognition. Congress will see the importance of this recommendation, when it is remembered that the abridged census report does not give county returns, but that the volume now being published does. The statistical tables, although not as important as in the last bi-monthly re- port, cannot but receive an attentive examination. | ISAAC NEWTON, Commussioner. AMERICAN COTTON, WOOL, AND TOBACCO. The agricultural products, mentioned in the heading of this article, have been ereatly affected by the rebellion. The first and third, before this war, were the chief of our exports. The second, heretofore, never attained to that magnitude which its utility deserved, but the rebellion has placed it in a position to as- sume its just rank in our agricultural productions. As an article of export, in its raw state, it cannot be expected to rank with cotton or tobacco, but exported as cloth and other manufacture, it will ultimately hold a no less important place than cotton. It it proposed in this article to examine, first, the extent and nature of the opposition which these products will meet from the present efforts of other na- tions to supply the world, on account of the disturbing influences of the rebel- lion; and, second, to point out the causes which will destroy this opposition as soon as peace and industry once more resume their place in the United States. 1. The extent and nature of the foreign productions of cotton, wool, and to- bacco —The extent of the increase of foreign cotton can be seen only through its -imports into Great Britain—the chief consumer of cotton in the world. ‘The fol- lowing table exhibits these imports during the first nine months of 1863 and 1864, and the countries from whence imported : From— 1863. 1864. i Si eee 2 POUMOS A. 2a: 4,627,728 13,086,416 Bahamas and Bermuda......-..-... 1 a ene eS aa 16,945,264 28,397,488 1 CST CR ees CS oes ee eens poe Case aeaes oe 8,996,960 19,132,624 lpm, 5s ooo ML oS Sena eh eet AEE GOee eee ate: 19,014,912 28,640,976 UME 22) 0 San ee ee 7 ene ce ee 7,280,224 16,878,960 Weiss ts = a nsie ym Sep s eine ae bk dG! ae ore 2 se 72,195,200 99,056,496 Brisntiast Indies-...5..2....~- Oe, aus nee 242,497,024 300,175,680 (Clhitna).. = Sas Seees Goce = Soper dote feces: 23,392,992 63,989,184 OencOONiIeSs S325... ec ae ce dies sAaoee 16,157,792 26,841,808 MOG pee Sanaa Oe eee iy. 275 ase 411,108,096 596,199,632 This exhibits an increase of 45 per cent. The imports from the second and third countries are chiefly of the cotton of the United States, and the nations that have most increased their production are Brazil, Egypt, British East In- dies, and China. The above table shows the imports into Great Britain for nine months only. To approximate to the annual production of the cotton of these nations, let us add one-fourth more for the remaining three months, which would raise the im- ports to Great Britain to 745,249,540 pounds. Let us add to this one-fourth more for imports of other nations, and the entire cotton crop of the world, an- tagonistical to American cotton, would be about 931,561,925 pounds. From this, however, should be deducted about 90,000,000 of pounds, which is probably the amount of cotton of the growth of the United States in the above table and estimates. ‘This would leave about 841,561,925 pounds of foreign cotton versus American cotton. According to the census returns of 1860 the cotton crop of the United States was then 2,079,230,800 pounds, or 1,237,668,875 pounds greater than the ex- ports of all the cotton countries in 1864. The reader will see in these figures how very little of the usual cotton crop of the United States is yet supplied by other countries. The nature of this opposition may be regarded in three aspects: the quality of this foreign cotton, the skill of the labor producing it, and the ability of that it labor to maintain its rivalry as a consumer of what England and other nations buying cotton may have to give in exchange for it. A few words only on these points will be given. The quality of foreign cotton is inferior to that of the United States. For this cause it never can supersede ours, nor can it be made of equal quality by improvement in its cultivation or change of its varieties. From this general re- mark the cotton of Egypt may be excepted, but to what extent cannot yet be determined. Why foreign cotton cannot be grown of equal quality with our own will be shown under the second general division of this article. The London Times concedes that it cannot, and its political hostility to our Union seems to be based on visions of an alliance, offensive and defensive, with the cotton confederacy of the south, thus rendering it dependent on Great Britain, and giving to the latter the control of its cotton production. Of the skill of the foreign labor engaged in growing foreign cotton nothing more need be said than that it is far behind that of our own country in intelli- gence, experience, and machinery. Egypt is now importing its implements from Great Britain and the United States. The great disturbance in the monetary affairs of England and France, forcing, in the first of these nations, the bank-rate of interest to nine per cent., attests the drain of money on these nations for cotton. The labor of the cotton-pro- ducing nations will receive not much else but gold and silver; for its civilized wants of houses, of clothifig, of food, of social comforts, and educational advan- tages are of the lowest order. As consumers of manufactures. it is almost infi- nitely below American labor. Between such a people and English manufac- turers there can be no mutual exchange of their respective industry. With all its accumulated wealth, Great Britain cannot sustain an import of its textile material by payment in specie. Referring to this drain of money, the London Economist, in August last, after showing the heavy increase of the purchase of cotton in 1864, says: “Phe rude and new countries likely to demand bullion are Brazil, Egypt, and India. How much may be in bullion, and how much in goods, we do not know, but experience shows that a new trade with semi-barbarous nations always absorbs gold and silver. The precious metals are not only their legal standard of value, but their practical notions of riches. Unless each native in Egypt, or even in India, have yearly an increased hoard of them, he hardly fancies he is getting richer. In such countries, too, the trade in coin is rapidly superseding trade in barter; a great step in commercial civilization for them, but one which makes it necessary for them to draw gold and silver from us.” The same paper of December 3 says: ‘Many people are surprised at the revival of the export of gold to Alexandria, and of silver to India. But the real ground of surprise is that the revival has not taken place earlier,’ &e. ‘An idea,” it says, ‘prevails in some quarters that our exports to the east have grown to such a magnitude as to counterbalance the largely increased im- ports of cotton. But the figures of the Board of Trade tables do not counte- nance such an idea.” It then gives the exports and imports as follows: EXPORTS. 1862. 1863. 1864. To, Mey phe. ost)... $9, 196, 260 $14, 838, 540 $23, 390, 415 Tuigitie see atic. 06, 754, 185 65, 109, 745 71, 725, 695 iit ein 7, 971,495 8, 859, 365 11, 542, 610 72, 911, 940 88, 807, 650 106, 658, 720 8 IMPORTS. 1862. 1863, From Egypt..-.-..-.. $43, 584, 075 $59, 228, 105 india... ~ og + SCOP ORULO 131, 859, 990 CMa a. See eee 42,079, 525 45, 817, 640 171, 142,615 72,911, 940 Balance of trade ————— 236, 905, 735 88, 807, 650 148, 098, 085 1864. $73, 963, 175 169, 359, 855 41, 179, 930 284, 502, 960 106, 658, 720 177, 844, 240 against Great Britain, 98, 230, 675 Great Britain must buy her cotton from consuming mations. On this point we may here repeat the opinions expressed nearly a year ago in the bi-monthly report for January and February: “ But there is another reason why the United States must become the cotton- producer for the world. Commerce is the interchange of the surplus products of different countries. No extensive or lasting trade can be kept up on any other condition. The United States is the greatest consuming nation in the world, because the condition of its masses is superior to that of any other na- tion. At present, regardless of the struggle in which we are engaged, it is un- wisely too much so. ‘The excess of importations proves this, and the articles imported in excess are not those essential to life, but its dearest luxuries. And if with every patriotic motive to economy we thus recklessly consume, how will it be, and how has it been, in times of peace and high prosperity ? “In exchange for cotton, the United States takes freely of the surplus pro ducts of those who buy from us. The nations now supplying Great Britain with cotton do not thus consume, and, as a consequence, it has to purchase it by the exportation of gold. This is the cause that now creates the high rates of interest in France and Great Britain, and the drain of our own gold. The East Indies, Egypt, Brazil, and China are not consumers after our fashion. Nor could they become such merely by possessing the cotton trade, but must advance to our position in civilization, for itis the wants and luxuries of civiliza- tion that make consumers.”’ After these remarks on cotton, it will be unnecessary to dwell on the foreign. competition our tobacco and wool have to meet from those of other countries. In the January and February number of this report it was shown that, in the scarcity of American tobacco, the English and other markets had resorted to the “various cheap growths” of the continent as substitutes, and that these would drive out the American tobacco, unless sold at the lowest rates for which it could be grown here. ‘The quality, then, of these foreign growths is inferior to our own, but there seems to be less difference between them than between American and foreign cotton. The production of wool has not yet assumed so great a magnitude as to make the United States a wool-exporting nation. When it was growing about. sizty million pounds annually, it was consuming an equal amount of foreign wools in the form of foreign manufactured woollen cloths and yarns. Much of these foreign wools is inferior to that grown in the Atlantic States, and the question of the extent these cheaper wools should be admitted into the country is eliciting much investigation. ‘The financial condition of the country is now such that these foreign woollen cloths and yarns cannot so readily compete with our own manufactures, because of the duties that must be laid upon them. Hence it is confidently believed, that there are the most encouraging incentives to a largely increased wool product. Our sheep have increased, in the past three years, from about fifteen to thirty millions, yielding about one hundred 9 million pounds of wool. At this time there is manufactured here about one hundred and fifty million pounds annually, so that our domestic wools may be greatly further increased. Here is a great field now open before the farmer to increase his flocks, and to produce such qualities of wool, by proper breeding, as the manufacturers most need. What their wants are will be shown, from. time to time, in these reports. This increase may go on until our own manufacturers shall not only supply home consumption, but export to foreign countries. American enterprise should successfully compete with that of Great Britian. 'The exports of woollens of England during the first nine months of 1864 are as follows: To United States. Woollen and worsted yarn............ vounds 25, 022, 061 Woollen ‘cloths, Scen, f2a oJ 2 ee yards 24, 044, 717 5, 094, 641 J) 002 | ee OS Ss Peet Gea aes) LR oe ee 6; 652, 377 leery at PLO iy Acre Aa Aten) ee fe Silane, 475 Blanketing and ‘baraess, Jie. 2)))s. Oa a: ff f, 2135037 Carpets, BCs +, ate here Snes We cee oe ake Je 4,889, 86S 1, 507, 594 (Coiireies p Ole. cic. casts siaeete et number 748, 762 193, 236 NGTSEGE Beas 2 ae eke ees ad SOI K.G yards 155,848,452 44, 730, 084 The tables do not show how much of woollen yarns, flannels, and blankets were exported to the United States, but they exhibit the fact that there is opened for American enterprise a large field for competition, and in proportion as it is occupied by our manufacturers will be the increased production of American wool. .'There should, then, be harmony and co-operation between the producers of wool and its consumers. ; During the same nine months Great Britain imported wools to the amount, of 148,140,746 pounds, of which it received from British Possessions in South Africa....... 10, 997, 061 lbs. $3,757; 620 Pineda Males ned aces 6 kepada ee #0) 548; 339." 1,911, 005 en SUT iS ADRiaR aoe Lig te 1 Ae eat pe ee 84, 919, 645 “ 34, 814, 035 Hanse Towns and other parts of Europe... 26, 473,020 “« 7, 638, 460: 132, 938, 065 48, 121, 120 The average value of all is 365 cents per pound, and of the lowest, from the Indies, 18 cents per pound, gold value. From this table is seen the extent of the wool importations of Great Britian, and that the average prices are not so low but that the American wool-grower can compete with them. The low-priced India wool finds a rival in California wools, the price of which was, on November 1, for California fall clip 135 to 16 cents per pound at San Francisco. Of the more valuable kinds there is no country so well adapted to their production as the Atlantic States, for the same cause that gives superiority to our cotton and tobacco is favorable to wool also. ‘That: cause we now proceed at some length to point out. : 2. The cause of the superiority of American cotton, tobacco, and wool.—This will be found in the climate. All of our readers know that the climate of the Atlantic States differs much from that of the Pacific. The one has rain during the whole year, the other during the winter months only. ‘The crops of the one receive showers during their entire growth; those of the other during their winter growth only. The wool of the one is sheared annually; of the othez twice, that the growth of the winter may be separated from the short, dry, brittle growth made during the dry season. ‘The San Francisco papers quote spring wool at 20 to 23 cents per pound, and fall wool at from 13 to 18 cents. per pound. The climates of South Africa, the East Indies, Australia, and Brazil have their wet and dry seasons, and Egypt is nearly rainless. Here we 10 see that in their climate the Atlantic States are different from all these. A medium atmosphere, both in its heat and moisture, is the most favorable for the production of cotton, tobacco, and wool. And such is that of the Atlantic States. What is the cause of the difference in the climates of these States and that of California and the countries just named? The answer is interesting to all, but more particularly to those who wish to see clearly the future of our cotton, tobacco, and wool production. The answer requires some consideration of the machinery used in nature to distribute moisture, and we now place it before our readers in such way, that, aided by plates, we hope to convey to them clear perceptions of its character. Let us suppose the sun to be directly above the equator, as it is on the 22d days of March and September. There is then this condition of the atmosphere over the world. Nearly under the sun is a belt of calm air, about five hundred miles in width, extending around the earth. On each side of it is a belt of dry air, also encircling the earth; the one north of the equator is about fourteen hundred miles wide, and that south of it from sixteen hundred to two thousand miles in width. The air in the first of these blows steadily and gently from the northeast towards the equator, and the air in the second from the southeast to the equator. North and south of the belts of dry winds, and extending to the poles, there prevail variable winds and showers. The belt immediately under the sun gives heavy rains, and is called the Belt of Calms, or the Rainy Belt. We shall refer to it by the latter name. The dry belts on either side of it are known as the Trade Winds. It was these which wafted Columbus to the American continent. The atmosphere beyond these and extending to the poles is called the Variable or Extra-tropical belts. This machinery moves with the sun, and when it has reached its furthest northern point, the tropie of Cancer, at about 234 cegrees of north latitude, and on the 21st day of June, the rainy belt is nearly at that point, and the northern limit of the trade-winds is at the 39th degree of latitude—that is, the latitude of Washington, Cincinnati, Alton, and Independence, and within three degrees of the northern boundary line of California. The following climatic map exhibits the geographical position of these respective belts on the 21st day of June. ti ™ ul HM i i na | ve is Ts TAIT Wet WS WRI VIALE Hen 4| f ili! Wer | \\ge iw ==AENEt =EH= == a === = RIC # 9 NAR | NW es fs a atmospherical machinery fo ae ha when ee its further ce oe i, the tropic ie a 1 245 deg Ss atitude, it i n the following map, th bath ng t the orther nd southern summer. YALNIM NI These maps are taken from Butler’s Philosophy of the Weather, one of the most practical books on meteorology, and one that should be studied by every farmer desiring to learn the character of that atmosphere which rules the pro- ductiveness of the earth. The arrows in the trade-winds indicate the direction of the wind in them. Having stated thus briefly the machinery used for the distribution of moisture, we proceed to show its action. The vast heat of the sun when it is directly overhead causes the atmosphere beneath it to be intensely heated, and by this heat it is vastly expanded; be- coming lighter by this expansion, it ascends upward, causing a vacuum, which is filled by the cooler air on each side of this heated and ascending atmosphere. This movement creates other vacuums, which as they are filled causes a general movement of the air from the poles to the equator. This moving of the atmos- phere from cooler to more heated surfaces causes it to take up and retain vast 13 quantities of evaporated moisture, and the electrical condition of the air both aids its motion and its capacity to retain this moisture. T'wo opinions are advanced as to the course taken by the ascending atmos- here. One maintains that the air passing over the northern hemisphere returns directly back to the north, the other that the meeting columns from the north and south pass through each other in strata, best represented by passing the fingers of one hand through the other. ‘The latter opinion we regard as correct; and if so, then the vast evaporations of the southern hemisphere, which is chiefly water, supply the northern hemisphere, which is principally land, with the rain that falls upon it. _ This upper ascending current is called the Upper or Counter trade-winds. In passing through each other these strata produce a calm, which also may be repre- sented by passing the fingers of one hand throvgh the other, the space between the palms of the hand representing this calm, which is the rainy belt first de- scribed. The calm produces condensation, and hence the great amount of rain which falls from this belt. This counter or upper trade in passing to the north goes into a cooler atmos- phere, and having lost a portion of its heat, it becomes heavier and its moisture more condensed. At the fifteenth degree of latitude, beyond the rainy belt, it begins to descend to the earth, producing the showers of the extra-tropical belt. The cause of no rain falling in the trade-wind belts is here seen. These winds cannot part with what moisture they have, because they are continually expand- ing from their increasing heat as they near the equator, and the moisture of the counter trade-wind is not condensed until it arrives at the northern limit of the trade-wind. To change water into vapor or steam requires nine hundred and seventy degrees of latent heat. This is an enormous quantity, and we see the wonderful provision nature has created for the purpose of absorbing the great heat of the equator. When it has become latent in changing water into vapor, it is insensi- ble to the touch or to any test by the thermometer. When the vapor is carried into higher and more northern places, it parts with this latent heat by being condensed into water. The heat thus liberated warms the surrounding atmos- phere, and thus other portions of the vapor are kept from condensing until it passes further north into colder air. Here a portion of it is condensed into rain. Again latent heat is given out to warm this part of the atmosphere. Thus por- tions of the vapor absorbed at the equator are carried to the poles, and the enor- mous heat of the equator taken up and distributed to the very poles. No law of nature is more beneficent or more wonderful than that of latent heat when thus performing its office as the chief agent in the distribution of moisture. Thus are the showers of the extra-tropical belt formed. It is these showers that sus- tain the rivers, and “all the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full,” for its evaporations equal the water poured into it by the rivers. ‘Note the place whence the rivers come ; hither they return again.” When the upper or counter trade has thus passed from the equator to the poles, it has lost all of the moisture and heat it acquired at the equator. It de- scends at every place over the extra-tropical region, and passing along the sur- face of the earth, forms the northwest wind—that cool, dry, and absorbing wind that constitutes the dry winds of the trade-wind belt. If the earth did not revolve upon its axis, the upper or counter trade would pass from the equator directly north, and when it had descended to the earth, it would return to the equator by a direct south course. But the diurnal revolu- tion of the earth turns the upper or counter trade in an eastern direction, causing it to become the southwest wind in the extra-tropical regions, and the returning or trade wind to blow from the northeast. If we follow this machinery in its passage from the tropic of Capricorn to that of Cancer and back, it will be seen that the central or rainy belt furnishes 14 the tropical countries with the heavy rains that fall over them. Our readers are most familiar with them as the rains of Central America. ‘hey fall as this machinery is carried northward with the sun, and as it returns to the south. Hence, except at its extreme northern and southern limits, this rainy belt an- nually passes twice over the same country. As the sun recedes south from the tropic of Cancer the extra tropical-region becomes larger, for it moves south with the sun. When the latter has reached the tropic of Capricorn, the line between the trade-wind belt and the extra-tropical is about the thirty-second degree of latitude. ‘The rainy belt, when it has reached its furthest northern point, ex- tends only to the twenty-ecighth degree. Hence no rain ever falls between the twenty-eighth and thirty-second degrees of latitude. These portions of the world, both of north and south latitude, are always dry. The Peruvian guano islands lie in one of them, and hence the vast accumulations of this rich manure, for a few rains would soon cause its decay. This rainless belt of land commences its eastern limit at the western settle- ments of Texas, thence passes through the northern half of Chihuahua, Sonora, and Lower California. Mr. Bartlett says of it: ‘ Here shrubs and trees disap- pear, except the thorny chapparal of the deserts ; the watercourses all cease, nor does any stream intervene until the Rio Grande is reached. ‘This great desert region extends over a district embracing sixteen degrees of longitude, or about a thousand miles, and is wholly unfit for agriculture. It is a desolate, barren waste, which can never be rendered useful for man or beast, save for a public highway.” Turning to the first plate, it will be seen that on the eastern part of North America and of Asia, the rainy belt and the extra-tropical region are united. The light-colored belt of the northern trade-wind is in these places darkened, indicating that showers cover them whilst all other parts under the trade-winds are dry. Why is this? The answer, as given by Mr. Butler, is, that the mountains of Central America being higher than the rainy belt, are, by the rota- tion of the earth eastward, as well as by their greater heizht, forced against the rainy belt which moves westward, thus acting as adam against it. ‘There re- sults an accumulation of this aerial belt; and as the mountains run from the south- east to the northwest, the accumulated belt flows towards the northwest, until, mingling with the upper or counter trade, it follows its course, curving round to the northeast. This overflow extends northwards as the sun advances in the same direction. The following map shows the portion of the Atlantic States covered by it about the first of February, reaching nearly as far north as the mouth of the Ohio river. 15 In April it has extended westward, and its northern line passes near St. Louis, and, running in a northeast direction, touches Lake Eric. The following map exhibits its position and extent: This overflowing rainy belt finds its usual greatest western extension in July through the middle portions of Texas, Kansasand Nebraska Territory, curving east over a part of Lake Superior and the Canadas. Here, then, we find the source of the summer showers which so beneficially aid our agricultural products, especially cotton and tobacco. It makes the United States the great corn-pro- ducing country of the world, and gives a moisture and a fresh growth of grass which so beneficially affects the growth and quality of wools. Were it not for this overflow of the rainy belt, the dry trade-winds would cover all of the United States south of the 39th degree of latitude, and thus it would become, as in California and New Mexico, impossible to grow these products, except where they could be irrigated. And having no mountains high enough for their tops to be covered with snow in summer, such irrigation could not be had. The in- fluence which the mountains of Central America exert upon the climate of Great Britain, by turning the Gulf Stream to its shores, has been a theme of much re- mark in literary discourses, and we see in this exposition of the cause of our great agricultural superiority their beneficent influence upon our climate. Truly, indeed, was the world made by an All-wise Architect! The attentive reader will have perceived that the northern half of the Ameri- can continent has jive distinct climates. The last map exhibits them by the dotted lines and figures. The first extends from the equator to the middle of Lower California. It is strictly tropical, being watered wholly by the rainy belt. The second is-a nar- row strip, about four degrees in width, and in length from the western settle- ments of Texas to the Pacific ocean. It is the rainless country, as above de- seribed. The third reaches from about the 32d degree of latitude to the 39th degree, and extends east and west from the middle of Kansas to the Pacific ocean. It is that portion that is alternately covered by the dry trade-wind and the extra-tropical region of showers, and variable winds. The fourth lies north of the 39th degree of latitude and extends from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans. It is always covered by the extra-tropical showers. The fifth is that part of the Atlantic States east of the middle of Kansas, under the overflowing rainy belt. A sixth climate might be added—that which lies on the ocean about three hundred miles from the Atlantic coast, made by the Gulf Stream. We have thus, at some length, placed before our readers the different climates of our country, and we are certain that in this exposition of the cause which 16 must ever make the agriculture of the Atlantic States the greatest in the world, placing its leading products beyond the reach of rivalry, our farmers will give us their cordial approbation, which so often they have bestowed on these re- orts. 7 But in this peculiar climate of the Atlantic States they will see also the cause of our successful production of Indian corn, a crop which for 1863, in the loyal States alone, was worth $278,089,609, and which in 1864, in amount, was 530,581,403 bushels. Elsewhere it must be raised by irrigation, for in all other — countries having sufficient. heat, a dry and wet season prevail. And whilst ad- miring this climatic blessing, what American but feels still more inflexibly de- termined that a country so blessed shall never be paralyzed by disunited and warring governments ? A THE PRODUCTION OF FIELD SEEDS. The Department of Agriculture is constantly distributing seeds, and under the action of the Patent Office in past years large numbers have been sent to every portion of the country. But how very few of these have proved a valuable addition. The causes of this failure should be investigated, for they are obvious to all who have given the subject an examination. It is the object of this ar- ticle to make such investigation, and to prescribe a mode of producing seeds which will not only sustain those common to our country from deterioration, but render useful the new ones distributed by this Department. 1. The causes of deterioration —Climate, soil, and cultivat‘on are the chief agencies in the production of vegetation. The first, regarded as tropical, tem- perate, and arctic have given plants and forms of vegetation peculiar to them- selves. ‘The sugar cane belongs to the tropics, and the potato to the temperate climates ; the one flourishes best in the warmest portions of the tropics, the other in the cooler parts of the temperate regions. Advancing from the first locality northwards, the sugar cane gradually deteriorates, and from the second locality southwards, the potato is governed by the same law. At certain points these plants cease to be remunerating crops, and at certain other points they will not grow—no acclimation will cause them to do so. When a plant can barely be made a profitable crop, the seed from it so rapidly degenerates that the crop from it is worthless; but seed brought from a latitude which best suits the plant will there produce a paying crop. These laws of climate cannot be changed. Soil has similar laws. The sweet potato is grown best in a sandy, dry soil, with a long growing season. The Irish potato delights in a loamy soil, and a short growing season. ‘T’o a certain extent, plants can be grown in soils not naturally adapted to them, by the ameliorating influences of cultivation. From this brief statement we see that climate and soil have their conditions, and that cultivation can modify, but not overcome them. Again, cultivation, especially when given with a strict observance to those laws of vegetable production that govern the improvement of each plant, can ad- vance the plant much beyond its condition, as seen in its natural state and natural climate and soil. ‘The potato is one of the best known instances of the wonderful power of cultivation upon the natural state of a plant. Here, then, we have three agencies constantly operating on our farm plants, and as these are observed or disregarded will be their advance or deterioration. For instance, the wheats of Great Britain have a long season in which to grow and mature, and a temperature of climate that is mild and regular compared with that of the United States. Its climate is regularly moist, whilst ours is on the extremes of dry and wet. These differences unfit the wheats brought from Great Britain for our climate, unless by cultivation the maturity of the plants is hastened. Last year the Department distributed one of the best English 17 spring wheats, but it would not mature here on account of the shortness of our wheat season. The Chili wheat, when sown here in the fall, cannot endure the freezing of our winter any better than our oats. Now, however excellent such wheats are in the latitudes best adapted to them, yet when brought to a different latitude they must first be acclimated by such cultivation as will, as nearly as possible, make up for the differences of climate. Thus the English spring wheat should have been early sown in a sheltered bed, sufficiently manured to hasten its maturity. The Chili wheat must be protected from severe freezing, or first sown in a southern State, and gradually extended north. But then, the general law is, that when at last it is acclimated, it has lost its superiority, and is no better than the common wheats of the country. But then, again, there are foreign wheats grown in climates more like our own than the English and Chilian wheats mentioned, as the Mediterranean, and such may become valuable to our farmers. From these remarks it will be seen that a knowledge of the character of the seed is necessary, and that thought and care are essential in its reproduction here. The general complaint of the running out of our wheats points to the fact that our native seeds are so reproduced as to cause their degeneracy instead _ of their improvement. This can be done in one way only—by a disregard of some or of all of the laws referred to. The customary manner of procuring seed wheat, and of all other of the small cereals, is to take it from the general crop, and clean it as best can be done by a wind-mill. Such seed contains the best grains grown, many that are imperfect, and the seeds of diseases, as of smut. Such imperfections, joined to ordinary or inferior culture, must result in depreciation. Every stock-grower would admit such result among his stock, if no better plan of selecting his breeding animals was adopted. He, on the contrary, carefully chooses the male and female parents, weighing their perfections and faults, and so adapting one parent to the other, that a like fault in both shall not exist. These animals, from their first of life, have been well fed, cleaned, and housed. Everything essential to their full and complete development has been observed. The laws of descent_have been carefully studied. Now the laws governing vegetable propagation are the same as those of animal descent. But the one is almost universally overlooked, whilst the other is admitted and observed. If there is any exception, it is in Indian corn. /This has been improved, both in quality and variety, attributable to the fact that, whether a farmer selects his seed corn from the crib, or goes into the field in autumn and chooses the earliest and most perfectly ripened ears, he selects the best, and rejects all of inferior quality. Now a selection of the best is still more important in the small cereals, because from its crowded growth there are many more partially grown grains. But even the best grown, from this crowded state and other causes, presently to be men- tioned, are no better than the seed from which they sprung. Hence there is no advance. There are, then, two things to be done—to select the best, and improve that by cultivation. Every one has heard of the celebrated barrel wheat, grown by a thinking farmer. It acquired so extensive a reputation that his crop was sold for seed alone. Ultimately this variety was found to be produced by selection only. The earlier ripened and larger grains were separated from the rest by gently striking the sheaf across the open head of a barrel. Their weight and earlier maturity loosened them sooner from the enveloping chaff. As these better grains were separated from the inferior, the result was a greater amount of good grains and fewer inferior. It was but an instance of the result of the law that “like begets like ”—that law whose observance has produced the Durham, the Vir- ginia racer, the South Down and Spanish Merino, and the Magee hog. Let us but regard its influence as all-powerful in the production of our cereals by a like 2A 18 care in the production of their seeds, and instead of their running out, there will be a running up. 2. How seeds may be improved—Having seen that deterioration arises from want of selection and defective cultivation, we proceed to point to a method by which these evils may be obviated. Cultivation and selection may go together, and, therefore, will be considered together. The law of progress in vegetable life being the same as in animal life, the first step towards improvement is such selection of varieties as is best suited to each person’s soil, and to that climate in which he resides. The second step is to prepare the soil to grow a good plant, just as the breeder of stock prepares shel- ter and food for his breeding animals and their offspring in winter and rich pas- tures in summer. The ¢hird one is good cultivation, for by it only can the food of the soil be given to the growing plant. How, then, shall these seeds be so grown in compliance with these essential requisites ? Instead of depending on the general crop for seed, as is now done in wheat, rye, barley, oats, and buckwheat, every farmer should grow his seed separately. The best of his soil should be selected, and made rich with green or barnyard manure, as most required. If it is too cold, or if the seed requires to be has- tened in its ripening, it should be warmed and enriched by barnyard manure, If it should be deepened, then clover on which plaster has been sown should be turned under deeply. If the seed about to be sown has been grown in a climate where the season is longer, the time of sowing should be very early, and that it may be thoroughly cultivated, it should be sown in wide drills. If the sced has been sown in the fall, as the winter varieties are, then the plants should be well hoed in the spring, and as often as is necessary to keep them free of weeds and the soil well pulverized. So much for the mode of growing seed. The selection may best be made in this way. When the plants have headed, the crop should be cleaned of cheat, cockle, smut, &c., by cutting out the plants and shoots producing them. All weak stools or sprouts should be cut out also, for these cannot produce perfect grains, but take from the nourishment due to the stronger ones. What would thus be grown would be so perfect as to need no further selection. The threshing should be done separately from other grain, and by the flail. There is no more reason why our wheats should deteriorate than our Indian .corn. Yet the one degenerates whilst the other improves. There can be but one cause for this, and that we bave pointed out—im proper growing of the seed. It is in the ability of évery farmer to correct the evil. But evils, like misfor- tunes, crowd together, for with these, too, like begets like. The loss by freez- ing zn and out, noticed in our last report, is aggravated by the weakness of many of the plants, occasioned by the defective seed sown. Every farmer has observed the weakness of the plants of Indian corn, when the seed was small, or has been prematurely taken away by moles or birds. In these cases he could readily see it, but in the smaller cereals he cannot from their crowded condition. But our judgment informs us of the multiplied losses from sowing imperfectly grown seed, and it as clearly points out the necessity of correcting the evil. We have but to overcome a single habit—that of taking our seeds from the general crop. This habit has been of long standing, and has become a second nature. But from the progress now making in our agriculture, we hopefully anticipate its eradication. Since the above was written we have received a communication from Mr. Haden, of Fayette county, Kentucky, on the subject of smut in wheat. This communication will be given hereafter, when a notice is made of this disease. It led us to read of the disease called “bunt” in England, where greater exam- ination has been given to it than here, and the conclusion of the article on it in the Cyclopedia of Agriculture thus recommends the plan above given by Pro- 19 : fessor Henslow, in his report on the diseases of wheat, to the Royal Agricultural Society. “From a variety of considerations, it has always appeared strange to me that practical agriculturists are accustomed to pay so little attention to the raising of pure seed crops. ‘There may be a reason which I do not properly appreeiate, that would render it inexpedient to cultivate a seed crop; but I should have thought it was always worth while for every farmer to set aside some portion of ground to be more carefully tended than the rest, for the purpose of securing good and clean seed. Among other reasons for such a practice, he would then be able to weed his crop from every plant infected with bunt cr smut, before the fungi ripened.” WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. During the last session of Congress a standing committee was appointed on weights and measures, and by that act the country was assured that Congress would soon exercise its constitutional authority over this subject. Heretofore we have pointed out the utter perplexity that exists here to determine what the English quarter is, and the endless confusion that exists in that nation from every county and commercial city having its own weights and measures. Before us are some letters from correspondents asking the aid of this Depart- ment to correct the evil they experience of buying agricultural products in a | State having its own standard in weights and measures, and having to sell them in another State having a different standard. We can aid in this important matter but in one way—by asking Congress to arrest, at the earliest moment, the evil that conflicting State legislation, on this subject, is bringing on the country, and which will increase, until here, as in Great Britain, its very mag- nitude will serve to perpetuate it. Mr. R. E. Johnson, of Baltimore, has recently published an interesting article on the question of adopting the French decimal standard. We cannot better serve our correspondents than by its republication, and, in so doing, we add some remarks of our own, suggested by his article. The zames given to the weights and measures by the French may appear objectionable to many, because it will be thought they are so unlike the names already given to them. But it must be remembered that the object is to have an tnternational system of weights, measures, and values, so that when the price of a commodity is stated in a foreign country, it is known here, because of this uniform system among all commercial nations. We cannot, therefore, expect that our own common names shall be retained. And the French have very wisely adopted names that are not in themselves French, but are derived from the Greek and Latin languages—that common storehouse of names to new things. We have thousands of words, now familiar, drawn’ from this source. Thus the word petroleum is derived from the Greek words, petra, a rock, and elaion, oil, meaning rock oil. So anthracite is from the Greek anthrakitis stone coal. A little familiarity with the names given by the French, in their system of weights and measures, will make them as much domesticated as our word dime, which comes from the Latin decimus, the tenth. . A particular notice of these names, as given by the French, will not be use- less. There are four measures—of length, of capacity, of weight, and of surface. There must be a wait or starting-point for each of these, and this unit must be increased or diminished according to some established number. In our coins we | have made this number ten. The dime is the tenth of a dollar. Hence it is called the decimal system. The French have adopted this in their system of weights and measures, as we certainly should, that i tmay be uniform with our ) 20 coinage. This tenth is natural to our numerals, from one to ten being the hasis and these numerals are common to the world. In the French system, the wnzt, in measures of length, is called meter, from the Greek word metron, ameasure. Thus we have our gas-meters, or measurers of the gas which passes from the main pipes to the burners. So we see that the word is already American. This unit is to be decimally increased or decreased. The names showing the zncrease, the French system derives from the Greek, and those showing the decrease, from the Latin. vn-fold this meter is called decameter, from the Greek word deka, ten, and metron, measure, as above stated. he hundred-fold is called hectometer, from the Greek word hekaton, a hundred. The thousand-fold is called kilometer, from the Greek word kzlion, a thousand. The tenth decrease of this unit, or meter, is named decimeter, from the Latin word decem, ten. The hundredth decrease is called centimeter, from the Latin word centum, a hundred, as our words per centum, that is, by the hundred. The thousandth decrease is named millimeter, from the Latin word mille, a thousand. The unit of the measure of capacity is called by the French liter, from the Greek word litra, a pound, ‘The ten, hundred, and thousand fold cnerease is named as above—decaliter, hectoliter, and kiloliter. The decrease, in Vike manner, is called deciliter, centiliter, mi/lileter. The wait of the measure of weight is called gram, from the Greek word gram- ma, a small Grecian weight. ‘Then, as above, we have decagram, hectogram, and kilogram. Also decigram, centigram, and milligram. The unit of the measure of surface is called are, from the Latin area, a broad piece of level land. Then, again, as above, we have decare, hectare, and kiliare ; also deciare, centiare, and milliare. The meter is 39,33, inches; the /iter, 12 pints; the gram 15,43, troy grains; and the are, 1,076 teet. . We commend this system to the proper committee in Congress, with the hope that it will not permit the present session to pass by without making such re- port as may be the basis of action for the next Congress. The following is the article of Mr. Johnson: THE DECIMAL SYSTEM OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. Great Britain and the United States can secure to the world a universal deci- mal system of weights and measures of extreme simplic‘ty. Great Britain has taken the first step by legalizing the French system of weights and measures, and this country should aid to the uttermost of her ability in conferring this great boon upon humanity. The subject was introduced in Congress at the last session, but no definite action was taken, and if the attention of public men is not persistently directed to the project, it will be neglected, and even the noble spirits in England who have worked so: steadfastly in this cause may be- come disheartened at their slow progress; for the mere legalization of the sys- tem will be futile, unless succeeded by more efficient legislation. The legaliz- ing of the system by us would encourage its advocates in England, and aid them in procuring eflicient legislation. 1t is hoped, however, that our govern- ment will not rest satisfied with doing so little.. As much ignorance prevails upon this subject, a slight sketch of the system may not be out of place. The unit of the system is the meter, which is the forty millionth part of the meridian of the earth, and is equal to about 39% inches. From this are derived all the weights and measures, and also the external rela- tions of the coins. Quantities above unity have been named by prefixing Greek numbers, quantities below unity by Latinnumbers. The tenfold quantity is indi- eated by deka, the hundred-fold by 4e&to, and the thousand-fold by kzlo, tenth part by deci, the hundredth by centi, and the thousandth by mii. ‘The unit 21 of superficial measure is 10 meters long by 10 meters wide, or, in other words, is a square decimeter, and is called.are. The hectare (100 ares) is equal to about 24 acres. The measure of capacity is the Jiter, which is the cube of the decimeter, or tenth of a meter. The unit of weight is the gram, which is the weight of the volume of water contained in the cube of a centimeter when the water is at its greatest density. The long names of the French system constitute an objection which can be easily avoided. They can be abbreviated so that the units wil be of one sylla- ble, and the derivatives of two, and yet bearing sufficient resemblance to the French terms to be easily identified. Meter, liter, and are should be met, lit, and ar. Deka, hekto, and kilo should be dek, hek, and kil. Dect, centi, and milli should be des, cen, and mii. Then hektemeter (100 meters) would be hekmet, centimeter (;4, of a meter) would be cenmet. Hectoliter, (100 liters) would be heklit, and deciliter (zy of a liter) would be declit. So desirable do I deem this nomenclature, partly for convenience, but chiefly to impress it upon the public mind, that it will be used throughout the rest of this article. Mr. Fellowes, of Wolverhampton, England, has proposed a nomenclature which would secure short names, but these names would be different in each language, and would be entirely different from the French names. It is very desirable to have the names in all languages so nearly alike, that they can be recognized without hesitation, and the abbreviated nomenclature is the only one which will secure this consideration, together with short names. As the metric system is entirely decimal, no red-ction is required, and there is substantially but one measure of length, the mez, one of the area, the a7, one of capacity or cubic measure, the Jet, and one of weight, the gram. Itis not ne- cessary to point out the irregularities and inconveniences of our present system. How many of the readers ofthis article can recite our tables of weights and measures without making several mistakes? How many can tell without cal- eulating how many feet are in a mile, or how many cubic inches in a gallon? It requires but little study to understand the meaning of the terms met, a7, lit, and gram ; and but little mental exertion to remember that dek, heh, kil, des, cen, and mil indicate respectively 10, 100, 1,000, 75 335 a0'oo- When these simple facts are learned the metric system is, for all practical purposes, mastered. The reader must not suppose that it is necessary to use all these terms. We can call 40 dollars either 4 eagles, 400 dimes, or 40,000 mills, but we seldom use these terms. In France dekar and desar are seldom or never used, although as correct as hektar and centar. For all ordinary purposes the following terms would probably be found sufficient: the met, cenmet, and kilmet, (about 5; of a tmile,) the ar and hektar, the lit (about 1? pint,) and A2llet (about 20 gal- lons,) the gram (nearly 16 grains troy,) and ki/gram (about 23 lbs. troy.) Some of the advocates of the metric system have been perplexed by objee- tions urged by advocates of what is loosely called the binary system, but prop- erly called the sexdecimal system. A sexdecimal system of notation would be preferable to the decimal system; but with the latter system exclusively in use throughout the civilized world, it is useless to talk of establishing another, and the adoption of a sexdecimal system of weights and measures, with the present system of notation, would not avoid the necessity of reduction, as the metric system does; besides, it would be commencing anew instead of completing what France has begun. Since 1840 even the names of the old weights and measures have been interdicted in France. Two anomalies exist in France, which it is hoped will not be introduced into other countries. Apothecarjes’ weight swerves from the system, and steve is sometimes used instead of Aillet. As stere and killet are each precisely equal to a cubic met, the use of the former term mars the simplicity of the ystem. 22 The metric system is used not only in France and her colonies, but several other European nations have adopted it. It is legally established throughout Italy, with the exception of Rome and Venice. ‘Two errors have been com- mitted in Europe, which it is hoped will be rectified and never repeated. In one instance a decimal system has been adopted, founded upon the metric sys- tem, but not identical with it, and in some instances the names have been, and perhaps still are, entirely unlike the French names. It cannot be too firmly impresse:] upon the public mind that, in order to reap the full benefit of a uni- versal decimal system, there should be, in effect, but one measure of length, one of area, one of capacity, and but one weight, and that the corresponding names in all languages should be nearly alike. How can this system be made universal? Every nation should make it the government standard. The gram should be the postal weight throughout the world. Legislation should make the metric weights and measures much cheaper than the old ones. Special privileges should be granted to those using the metric system exclusively. It should be made a subject of world-wide concern, and nations should officially inform others of their respective progress in intro- ducing the system. Other nations and States should follow the example of _ Connecticut, and introduce the system into their schools. Let the steps taken be energetic and efficient, for while men buy and sell by different systems, in- convenience will be experienced; but when the old system is abolished, the inconvenience will cease. In conclusion, I appeal to the reader not to content himself with a simple assent to the spirit of this article, but to use his influence, be it much or little, towards the success of this cause. Unfortunately, as it appeals neither to the selfishness, the passions, nor the prejudices of men, it can exert no ‘“ lobby in- fluence,” but must depend for success exclusively upon the enlightenment of the public and the wisdom of our legislators. Let no man be discouraged should the progress of the cause be slow. It may require time and persever- ance to overcome the force of habit, and the indifference and prejudice of the narrow-minded ; but with untiring exertion on the part of its friends, the pro- ject will eventually succeed ; and, although its present advocates may not live to see the fruition of their hopes, tl.ey can enjoy the consciousness of aiding in conferring upon the world a blessing, the importance of which will be fully ap- preciated and acknowledged only when the work is completed. R. E. JOHNSON. BALTIMORE, December, 1864. AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS. Ohio Statistics for 1863. From time to time we have made known the details of the plan by which this Department estimated the amount of the crops and farm stock. It is simple, and does not go into the details of each farmer’s annual production, for if it did, it would fail in its very purpose, which is, to estimate the crops before they pass from the hands of the producer. After giving this plan a year’s trial, and for years having examined the returns of those States which took them by their township assessors, the declaration was made in one of the reports of the De- partment that greater reliance was to be given to the estimates of the Depart- ment than to most of the returns of the States. The State of Ohio had, however, given longer and better attention to its State statistics, and to them a greater confidence was given than to those of other States. The annual report of its able Commissioner of Statistics was one of the 23 richest statistical feasts set before the country, for it exhibited the varying and progressive industry of one of the greatest and most advancing States of the Union. We have had placed before us the returns from Ohio, of its cereal crops for 1862, just one year and two months after our estimates of them had been pub- lished. We regard these returns as unreliable, and for the purpose of contrast- ing the general correctness of the estimates of this Department with them, we have prepared the following tables, showing the returns of Ohio for 1862 and 1863, and the estimates of this department for 1863: Ohio statistics for 1862 and 1863. 1862. 1863. 1863. Ohio returns. Ohio returns. Dep’t estimates. WYNEAL so, -.~ «<0 bushels.. 29,883, 651 20, 168, 595 28, 742, 963 [oe ee eee fi Panera 823, 092 , 304, 443 863, 232 1 ee i Lace Lab 1, 304, 884 1, 399, 086 Buckwheat ...... doen Ivs200 4 202, 457 827, 364 ef ae Pres ee Oia et Oo. OL ae. o4, 079, 817 57, 433, 802 LL). Ee a do. LL, 633,008 11, 154, 845 12, 024, 028 Tobacco..7..-.pounds .. *25, 000, 000 36, 918, 793 28, 081, 869 FOUDLOES |~.-,.-.<.-5 bushels.. | 5, 128, 756 4, 343, 053 4, 103, 005 TEN e a ainjan) sate [061 NRE LF fs iG 1 FS 1, 074, 848 1, 347000 20 UOTE ae ohn, number. . Tee 24o 662, 591 589, 242 LB a BO a a5 1, 824, 774 1, 369, 593 1, 554, 543 71 a IG Se a 14, 470 14, 238 8, 376 "i YS ea a Dy cs 2, 765, 900 1,099, 312 2,320, 664 7 aa ae "i ee 4, 448, 227 0, 368, 745 4,779, 662 Yield per acre. 1862. 1863. 1863. Ohio returns. Ohio returns. Dep’t estimates Wau tke iiroue eu Hn. bushels.. 144 114 13 Wpetlat alee yee eedane dois.280) 122 93 14 iapley sss. Ge SL Ase do.... 204 18 22 Pamitwheaby phot Whore eile Se down! Fe 74 11 tment Eira uae Was WR. dow sony 29 28 24 MEE F988 227256 Ea J do..-. 204 20 - 24 PRPC OLS Sig's a5 WAL pounds Ji)". 751 757 eeees i, sia) SW bushels... 634 544 72 Pee HS ce ee. tons. 323% 14 1 1 Total acres. 1862. 1863. 1863. Ohio returns. Ohio returns. Dep’t estimates. WeEChti esa. 5 acres... 2,090, 047 L791, sug An2LU, oat Fey Gee cae rearais ao) = oo GO st. 67, 440 32, 280 61, 659 ATI oe nna 2 Gs 3. 59, 128 72, 856 63, 594 Buckwheat :...... Gos cs 3 23, 508 vs a par £5} 75, 215 CRE eke okt Bien a= Sod toe Oot £, OLY, 805 2, 393, 075 pene, cape twee ee 574, 047 568, 522 501, 001 MPeORCO ca.0 ce acts ciety Beep 49, 168 37, 096 POUiae Aes «ean oe GO...5 81, 060 79, 103 56, 984 a ge IE GGc--4:: 1,00, Log Te tO1; O09 1, 347, 710 * Estimate of the Commissioners of Statistics. 24 The first thing that will strike the attentive examiner of these tables is the great difference in the Olio returns between the years 1862 and 1863. In wheat it is 9,715,056 bushels, and in rye, 518,649 bushels. Here is a loss of one-third in wheat, and over 62 per cent. in rye. What extraordinary casualties caused them? In this Department inquiries of the condition of the crops were made from May to September, every month; and,if any such had fallen upon the crops of 1863, the correspondents of fifty-two counties in Ohio would have had some knowledge of them. Of their returns, but three counties returned a very low yield of the wheat crop, and but seven moderately low; whilst twelve were returned above the crop of 1862. ‘The average injury to the wheat crop was 14 tenths. The returns by them of the rye crop exhibit a still more favorable condition. In the buckwheat crop, it will be seen that the estimates of this Department are much greater than either of the years showing the returns of Ohio. Which is right? In 1859 the Ohio returns show that there were 149,645 acres of buckwheat in cultivation, yielding 2,222,083 bushels; but this large amount was occasioned by the freezing of wheat in June, and a largely increased acreage in buckwheat - was the consequence. But in 1860 the number of acres im buckwheat was 66,827, and the yield 763,930 bushels. How is it possible for so great a falling off as the returns for 1862 and 1863 exhibit? ‘The severe drought in the eastern part of the State in 1862 may account for a small portion of it; but a difference so very great must find other and more general cause. In tobacco there is an increase as remarkable as the decrease of the products just referred to. Until 1863 the Ohio returns did not embrace this product; but Mr. Mansfield, the commissioner of statistics, estimated the amount at 25,000,000 pounds in 1862. Yet the returns show a product in 1863 of 36,918,793 pounds. The estimates of this Department may have been too low, for want of a proper basis to determine the true value of the returns of its cor- respondents, and it was a year of remarkable changes in tobaceo cultivation. But still we believe that it is nearer the correct amount than the Ohio returns. The number of acres in tobacco is reported to be 49,168; whilst that in buck- wheat is but 26,735, and in rye only 32,280. Such statistics, it seems to us, are very extraordinary. In farm stock there is not the same difference, although apparently there is considerable. The estimates of the Department show the number in January 1864, whilst the returns of the Ohio assessors show perhaps the number in the spring following. During the winter many cattle had been sold for beef, and a large number of shoats and pigs had been lost for want of food to properly winter them and the sows. But sheep had been well taken care of and had yielded their ordinary increase. As to mules, it is probable the Ohio returns are more correct than the estimates of the Department, for the number as shown in the census returns of 1860, being but 6,917 for asses and mules, was doubtless too low, but it-had to be accepted as the basis of the estimates of this Department. This comparison but gives us more confidence in the plan adopted by the De- partment for estimating the annual agricultural productions. Regarding its rapid action and its very small cost, with its general approximation to correctness, it may justly be regarded as worthy public confidence, and of that encouragement of a regular corps of correspondents, which has often been asked of Congress in these reports. On the other hand, the comparison will also serve to exhibit the unreliability of State returns made by assessors, who feel no interest in the statisties they gather, because they have not learned to appreciate their value, as have the cor- respondents of this Department, nor are they compelled to properly discharge their official trusts, by penalties upon them, for neglect, or for failing to retura those who refuse to give in the true amount of their annual productions. 25 CALIFORNIA. Tn the last bi-monthly report we exhibited the agricultural losses in California from the drought of last winter. Our correspondent in San Luis Obispo county, one of the southern counties, thus refers to these losses in his county: « The extreme drought of the past year has caused quite a famine in the south- ern part of this State—a thing heretofore unknown in California. In fact, meet- ings and fairs were held in San Francisco for the relief of the people of Santa Barbara county, and were it not for recent mineral discoveries in this county which give employment to the people, who otherwise would be suffering, our condition would be no better. The causes of this destitution are failure of the crops and loss of stock. The number of cattle in this county October 1, 1863, was estimated at 76,850 head, of which four-fifths have since died from starva- tion, and unless we have early and warm rains very few will live over winter. “This great loss of cattle will have the effect of compelling rancheros to sell their vast ranches, or at least portions of them (for it is a very usual thing to be the owner of from one to thirty leagues of land in this State, exclusively used for stock,) and having changed hands, it will be reasonable to suppose that the agricultural pursuits will receive an impetus. Our land is unexcelled for rich- ness and productiveness, climate unequalled, and being situated immediately on the coast, we have all facilities for exportation to a good market.” This great loss of cattle, if it should result in the breaking up of these large estates, would bea blessing instead of a misfortune. In referring to this depend- ence on. pastures for sustaining the stock, it was urged eighteen months ago by this Department that all the straw of the wheat crop should be saved, with what hay could be made from the wild oats, to sustain the large stock. ‘The experi- ence of western Texas and Kansas, where the eastern limit of the California dry climate is found, suggested this recommendation of saving the straw. Uncer- tain and long-continued droughts is incident to the dry trade-wind regions, and the farmer should be prepared for them. But this cannot be done until the cul- tivation of the cereals bears some proportion to the stock pastured, and this can only be by a greater labor. Such labor must be found in the owner of the soil, and to induce such ownership these great estates must be broken up. Speaking of the coming crop for 1865, our intelligent correspondent from Santa Clara county says: «Owing to the searcity and high price of wheat and barley, Ido not think two-thirds the number of acres will be sown the coming winter that were under cultivation in the winter of 1862, and probably not as many acres as were sown last winter, so that with a favorable season the grain crop of 1865 must in all probability be small compared with former crops in good seasons. ‘Most of our farmers, owing to the failure of crops the past season, and the disastrous results of the unprecedented drought the past summer, have but little means to farm with the coming winter. 'I'wo-thirds of them cannot command capital sufficient to purchase the requisite amount of seed to sow more than half the number of acres usually cultivated by them. There are others (but few, however) who will sow all their lands, and others, having the means, will be induced to put in larger tracts of new land, should we have early rains, believing the price of gram next summer will rule high.” On the same subject, our correspondent from Stanislaus county remarks: “Jn this county and section not one-twentieth of a crop was harvested last season, and this season just opened not more than one-third of the ground will be seeded, because the farmers are too poor to purchase seed. One-third of the eattle have perished from want of feed. Sheep and hogs are the only stock doing well. Of the former there are about 100,000 head in the county, produ- cing an average of two and a-half pounds of wool each per annum; their annual 26 increase is between 80 and 90 percent. Of the latter, (hogs,) about fifteen thou sand are fed on mast in the county and in the foot-hills of the adjoining counties- No rain has fallen to date, (November 12,) and another dry season is antici pated by many.” Telegraph accounts of the 30th of November represent that abundant rains were then falling, and on the 14th December heavy floods were apprehended. In Tulare county the wheat and barley crops were less than one-half the eus- tomary yield, and but one-half the number of fattening cattle. Fattening hogs were an average. Corn is largely increased by extending irrigation. “ No rain yet, adds our correspondent, and all the cattle are driven to the swamps and mountains. A warm early fall rain will save thousands, but if late and cold, our stock will be fearfully thinned.” , In San Diego and Merced counties the wheat, barley, corn, and potato crops were better—about three-fourths of an average crop. In counties where the soil is loose, early sowing has commenced, if we judge aright from the following, in the San Francisco Mercantile Gazette of November 2. It says: “We learn from good authority that the farmers in Yolo and Solano counties, who were so unfortunate as not to raise any crops of cereals the past season, have taken time by the forelock, and have been harrowing up their ploughed grounds, which are now like an ash heap, and have already sown thousands of acres of barley and wheat. The whole farming country in the vicinity of Cache creek and Vacaville is already planted in grain.” ; The deficiency in the crop of this season is supplied by importation. The paper quoted from says it is advised that 7,000 barrels of flour have already been shipped to California from New York; that several cargoes of flour and wheat from Chili are looked for, and that Oregon will not be unmindful of the high prices in California. OREGON. Our returns of the crops in this State are principally from its northern coun ties. ‘They are a full average in some products, and above it in others. Here is the reverse in all those products, cereal and stock, in which the season has been so injurious in California. The cause will be seen from the leading article in this report—the difference in climate. California lies in the dry trade wind belt, but Oregon in the extra-tropical region, where showers fall both summer and winter. ‘There are occasional droughts in it, as in the Atlantic States, but “a such prolonged and destructive ones as occasionally occur in the trade wind elts. Compare the crops of California and of Oregon, and the nature of these climates will be seen. The loss of crops and stock in the one has been set forth under the preceding head of this article; the abundance of the other will be seen in the following extracts from our correspondent in Columbia county, Oregon : “The average crop of wheat per acre in this county is 30 to 35 bushels; rye per acre, 40 bushels; barley, 40 bushels; oats, 40 bushels ; corn, 35 to 40 bushels ; the nights are too cold for corn to do well. Tobacco does well. In 1863 was the commencement of itsexport. I cannot state certainly the amount per acre, but those with whom I have conversed say that 1,600 pounds would be a fair average. Potatoes, 300 to 400 bushels per acre; hay, 3 to 4 tons per acre.” Europe is situated in this extra-tropical climate, and hence there, as in Ore- gon, there is not a sufficient degree of heat to grow Indian corn profitably. 27 UTAH. The returns from this Territory are not as full as usual—the Indian depre- dations having, we suppose, rendered the mail more irregular. But they pre- sent the agriculture of Utah in the same favorable aspect as heretofore presented in these reports. The wheat crop has largely increased; so has the hay crop— keeping pace with the increase of cattle. Hogs, in some of the counties, have decreased. Sorghum, flax, tobacco, &c., are cultivated to a considerable extent, showing that Utah means to depend on its own agricultural resources. Not a single crop referred to inthe circulars but seems to be cultivated. COLORADO. Our correspondent at Denver writes, that on the 2d of October there were a few snow-flakes on the plains, a heavy storm in the mountains, and that in the night of that day they had the first killing frost. Fall pastures there, as here, are unusually good; but peas and beans were injured by floods, and hay, fod- der, turnips, and, in places, wheat, had been injured by the grasshoppers. “They were.so numerous,” remarks the correspondent, “in Gilpin county, as to eat everything green. The prospects for a large crop of roots and grass were uncommonly fine, but the grasshoppers came in such immense numbers that they appeared like snow-flakes in a heavy storm.” But our returns from Colorado are yet too limited to give a general statement of its agricultural con- dition. 28 or or 6 It f. 8 £21 IL 8 | tar CP Se eee Pe sreeme) gy Egos [-eosteenre si Kgay, Byseiqon o "01 8 OL 6 | tT vl ¢ VI 81 cr +42) or } 6} SE i 2] ST f GF IL fOT] OL fF ~ BrULsITA qsom aS OL PATO: = | EOF | 46 | gO | yikes eae 8| 6 £| 9 OS Sieeee | | ses Meo nslino== == @ | fete ee Tr 6 | % ee 7 | oe re ee ee ols | Sel aoe fee SjOSOUUT AL $2 II & anor #8 or $6 | &01 Stor | el Or arora een cl re Ore te ae a BAOT ¥L For 6 ae #28 el 3 | 6 Ok 6 oc] 08 “eee Eee ete 9 tester PA Rope TISWODST MA 8 9 8 | $s #8 cE re ere 77 cc 4 ies “6 tr | 79) @ | $9122 |-9 le [oe ors tmoseyg Te 6 8 | &IT fe | Tae 8 | és L\G6~-| fet 6 eS |= 2S) 80 ere BoC focaiee = aimee “STOUT 9 #9 8 | £II tL | 6 16 OL @ | eel - | tk] 8 v| P 9|/ 9 Be OL. 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Mee tlek fore beeen RAE SG TER Ac ee eee So ee oes OL |i] Cae ieee cia Sad (Fe SF) nea orrgsduae yy May “8, WSS Cs Se ealee apo alicamanl ae AP [es Le clon ane Sool shee eres ae OL OL £6 Gin ler 1S. = ee Cura gee | Sls) Se Bas | ede eral, eo eee | Ser ters | coer e| 3s aA |g g el Ne 4 =| w3o a 5 OO =I Soo 4 a | . § S S Re eA a a ey ae aS Bor | & 2 s. S| 4 APES) | ByS] ee} BSS : Ge o o 2° 42 a? 408 eo 402 rs) =o 8 a eats As a2 8 ee =r) aS! ae) EES — = - : e = moe e oh ee 6 ee He LOQULALO AT L94019O z Dac 2 Qs a | Sac “SILV.LS Req Pirie.) 2 Bec pee Pao eer ee eer gs ce Bee eee © | SYOOAA JO Ioqunyy & BB & BE S Bs “UGH LVI ‘ACTUVA UDLNIM!) “AAU UPLNIM “LVGHA UALNIA ‘PORT ‘wguaaoyy puv 10goq0Q 4of ‘Loyjnen ey) pun ‘sdo.wo unos yf ay) fo umOWD puv UoLpUOD BY) SuamoYys 94QD,,, 30) COMMENTS ON THE FOREGOING TABLE. Tn the last bi-monthly report the principal crops were given; those embraced in the preceding tables are of minor magnitude, although important, nevertheless. As no estimates have heretofore been made of their amount in bushels and pounds, it is now too late to attempt it, but must be deferred until another census is taken. The reader will remember that 10 represents the crop of the year referred to in the several questions, and that all figures above of below that number are so many tenths, as the figure is above or below 10. Thus, in the crop of peas, Maine is 8, which represents two-tenths, or twenty per cent. below the crop of last year. In Wisconsin it is 104, meaning a ha/f of a tenth above the crop of 1863. We will notice the principal of the crops named in the table: Peas and beans.—The principal pea producing States are Georgia, Mississippi, and North and South Carolina; and those which grow most beans are the northern States—Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, New York, Pennsyl- vania, Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois. But the census returns do not separate these crops, aud hence what part of the returns for each State is peas and what beans cannot be determined. In Maine the crop of beans is 14 tenth below the crop of last year; in New York, 13 tenth below; in Pennsylvania and Michigan, one-tenth below; in Illi- nois, 274, tenths above; and in New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Ohio, the satne as last year’s crop. Altogether, the crop is considerably less than last ear’s. ; Hops.—In 1860 the great hop-growing State was New York, which then produced nine and a half millions of pounds out of the eleven millions raised in the United States. But since then hop culture has been much increased in other States. The crop in New York of 1864 is 14 tenths below that of last year, and it is much inferior, being greatly injured by insects. Vermont is next to New York, and in it there is but half the crop of last year. In New Hampshire it is three-tenths, or 30 per cent. below. Butter and cheese-—TVhe fall pastures were unusually excellent, and, as a con- sequence we find the fall production of butter and cheese very favorable. We notice only four of the chief butter and cheese producing States. In New York, butter is a half of a tenth, or five per cent., above the amount made last year; in Pennsylvania it is 14 tenth above. In both of these States cheese is the same as last year. In Ohio, butter is two-tenths above, and cheese one-tenth above ; in Illinois, butter is 14 tenths, and cheese two-tenths below last year’s production. Sorghum.—The crop of sorghum molasses is greater than the crop of 1862, the best heretofore produced. In the western States this year’s crop was con- siderably injured, both in amount and quality, by the frost of October 9, but the crop is a satisfactory one. How far it will make sugar yet remains to be seen. But as the production of sugar requires a perfectly matured cane, no general progress in the making of sugar from the sorghum need be looked for this year. That most excellent paper, the Cincinnati Sorgo Journal, thus speaks of the unfavorable nature of the season in the spring and summer, and the effects of the frosts of autumn: “Tn almost all sections of the country the spring was unpropitious, and many were, on that account, deterred from planting; others planted, and finding the seed fail to come in due time, replanted with corn. Others replanted cane seed, many as late as the Ist of June, and were obliged to watch the apparently inef- fectual struggle of the feeble plants against one of the most protracted and pinching droughts ever experienced in the country. But on the last of July ‘ 31 and in the month-of August the rains came, and throughout the entire cane- growing belt from the great Salt Lake valley to the shores of the Atlantic, the aspect of the crop was changed; the hopes of the planter were revived, and all ventured to calculate upon a small return for their labor, provided frost did not occur until late in September. From the 1st of August until the night of the 1sth of September the weather was most favorable, and many fields of cane matured, though the largest portion of the crop was even then two or three _ weeks behind, some being only in the flower. At this time the first frost of the season occurred, visiting, so far as we have learned, the whole region of country north of the central line of the States of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, extending somewhat below the line in the latter State, and not reaching quite down to it in Ohio. This was, however, only a frost, not a freeze, and, as is well known to experienced cultivators, not a great disaster. ‘The development of the cane was, of course, arrested where the blades were entirely killed, but this was not generally the case; and even where the verdure was wholly blighted, the partly matuxe cane seems to have gone on in a process of ripening or perfecting itself, not, perhaps, in a strict sense by the filling out of seed and a regular develop- ment of saccharine matter, but by a modification of the crude vegetable elements, the evaporation of water, and a general improvement in the taste of the cane. We noticed that cane which was in the flower when the frost of the 18th oe- curred began to acquire from day to day the taste of ripe cane, losing, in a great measure, the grassy or vegetable taste which belongs to that stage, eyen when there was no perceptible development of the seed head. In cases where the blades were not all killed we think the seeds continued to fill out as usual. We have tried to believe that the perfecting of the panicle was precipitated, or in some degree hastened, by the visttatzon upon the blades, but careful observation from day to day does not enable us to say that this was the ease. “On the night of Saturday, October 8,a heavy frost, amounting to a freeze, occurred. The thermometer in some of the cane regions fell to 28°, in others as low as 26°. Ice formed an eighth of an inch thick, and stalks of standing cane were literally frozen. This was the end of the growing, and every careful husbandman, particularly all who read the Sorgo Journal, immediately put their hands into the field and cut down and sheltered the frosted cane with as little delay as possible. Those who did so had the satisfaction of finding their cane, even when worked,several weeks afterward, in good order, while those who neglected or delayed this work for a week or two, or three, were obliged to pay the penalty in an unsatisfactory return for their labors.” Clorer-seed—Both our returns and the market prices of this product show how short the crop is. In Pennsylvania it is 23 tenths below the crop of last year; in New York, 34 tenths below, and in Ohio, 23 tenths below. These are the principal clover-seed producing States, and any material change in prices need not be looked for. The fall-sown crops—However great the loss of farm labor has been, especially in the western States, the table shows that the usual amounts of wheat, rye, and barley have been sown. The weather has been unusually favorable for putting these crops in, and hence the labor of the country has had a longer time to operate in. It has been equally as favorable for the growth of these crops, and should they escape freezing out, the spring will open with the promise of an undiminished yield of these important staples. 32 EXPORTS AND PRICES OF PRODUCE. '[ From the Journals of Commerce ot-New York and Chicago.] Table of the exports from New York of the leading agricultural products, from January 1, 1864, to December 21, compared. with those of the same time ™ 1863, and their prices at New York and Chicago on the 21st of December, 1864. 1864. | 1863. 1864, December 21. From Jan. 1 | From Jan. 1 | Prices at New York. | Prices at Chicago. to Dee. 21. to Dec. 21]. Wheat flour -- barrels 1, 899, 983 2, 472, 287 | $9 55 to $12 00 Rye Hour -2--=- do « 2, 840 5,441 | 9 003 9 45 Corn meal. .- - - -- do- .- 103, 446 138, 470 Wheat ..---- bushels | 12, 165,343 | 15, 098, 012 $1 52 to $1/87 (Conte eas es do.2 = 841, 297 7, 530, 931 91 to 105 eae do 588 ANG, COO Naciae n= seine ia 120. to 1 32 Barley= 2. ./=5-€ do 150 52, 439 140 to 155 @ais 22" 2 . do 41,775 126, 481 65 to 66 WBOAS be etait = c= do 184, 433 105, 609 Cotton: +-2—---.- bales 26, 744 13, 877 2 oe do 39, 257 19, 916 1 00: to) (Tee Paps"... -<---- do 22, 073 24, 419 33 to 55 Leaf tobacco. -.hhds. Leaf tobacco ..pkgs. Manuf’d do-. pounds 89, 639 57, 545 69,774 46, 948 4,948,476 | 3,412,748 Petroleum .-- gallons | "21,278, 439 |..----------- Pork weer. barrels 129, 421 189, 080 35 00 to 40 00 joo ae ie dol uk 36, 061 40, 508 16 00 to 20 00 eel see ter tierces 49, 290 58, 885 Cut meats >..pounds | 93,573, 155 | 181,584, 756 164 to 18} tier. sec. do...{ 14,151,375 | 22,324,757 30 to 44 Cheese .------- do...| 49,490,831 } 39,818, 485 18 to 25 Wardhs.s. 2 222 do-.. 53, 070, 467 | 120, 316, 151 22 to 23 ees _..| 31,938,576 | 42,441, 949 WESTERN PORK TRADE. The indications are that there will be an increase in the number of hogs slaughtered at Cincinnati and Chicago over that of last season. Still the pre- vailing impression is that there will be a large decrease in the whole number packed. The Price Current of Cincinnati says: “There is no doubt now that the number to be packed here this season will far exceed that of last season, though, at one time, we thought it would not reach it by one hundred thousand, owing to the loss of Kentucky hogs which was then anticipated ; indeed, it is not im- probable that it may reach 450,000 head. The want of funds, or of courage, which will cause a falling off at the smaller places, will necessarily increase the business at the larger places, and it is this which is causing such large receipts at this point now, for there are no exertions being made by packers to bring hogs to this market.” The packers of Chicago evince a very different spirit, and where energy is put forth it will be rewarded ; where it is wanting, trade will decline. Referring to the large increase in the receipt of hogs at Chicago, Henry: Mil- ward & Co’s. Provision Circular remarks : «The increase in the receipt of hogs for the week might cause a well-merited 33 alarm in the minds of our provision merchants, were it not that they are well aware of the untiring exertions being made to keep our market well supplied. To do so is absolutely necessary. We have now in operation some thirty, first- class packing-houses, with twenty-five others of minor dimensions. ‘he ex- penses they incur, if idle or only running on half work, are very great, so there is every incitement for the packers to endeavor to induce as large shipment of hogs as possible to our market. The eastern shippers are also largely inter- ested in our receipts, and just at present are active competitors with us in our purchases. “For the foregoing reasons the emissaries of the packers, shippers, and drovers are now scouring the country in all directions with a view to keeping us liberally supplied with hogs. There is not a section of country in Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missourt, or Kansas, tributary to any railroad leading to Chicago, that our buyers are not actively traversing at present. We are not much aston- ished at the large receipts for the past week, and we expect them to continue for ' a short time longer, but the more our supplies are increased the greater will be the falling off at the smaller packing points.” The market price had advanced a half cent per pound under these large re- ceipts, and on the 21st of December the prices at Chicago were— fe ted Preriey rE RL is eed late aio SR a a $12 25 to $12 75 Demin cu weoae).|21 ee ee 28 Be OO ee ee 11°50: to. . 12 68 OTS SA. RII Sa On a A a, 2 a J LO} 78. tor dike Years. Number. Years. Number. Years. Number. ee 85,000 | 1844....--. 240,000 || 1855....--. 355, 786 1684... .2 2... 123, 000 | 1845....... 196,000 || 1856....... 405, 396 1 aia : 162,000 | 1846....... 205,000 || 1857.22... 344, 512 Bap) 425. 000) |) 18475. oh. 250,000 |} 1858....... 446, 677 “oe 103,000 | 1848....... 475,000 || 1859_...... 382, 826 ie 182,000 | 1849....... 417,000 || 1860_...--. 434, 499 (3, alia 190,000 | 1850....... 393, 000 |} 1861......- 433, 799 i a 95,000 | 1851....--- 334,000 || 1862....... A474, 467 7 160,000 | 1852....-.. 352, 000 || 1863....... 608, 457 fees... 920,000 | 1853....... 361,000 || 1864....... 370, 623 G645. 51002. 250,000 | 1854....... 421, 000 . GERMAN STATISTICS. Prussian wool—The following account of the’ sale of wool in the principal wool markets of Prussia is interesting, chiefly because of the change in the quality of the wool it exhibits: In 1863 the amount of wool sold in these markets was 29,631,504 pounds, of which 6,217,568 pounds were ordinary wool, 16,130,464 pounds middling, 6.706,224 pounds fine, and 689,248 pounds extra fine. The quality, as to fine- ness, was every year diminishing, and the Silesian wools, well known for their fineness and their short and even growth, were losing their superiority. The reason assigned for this change is the great progress made in France and the Zollverein of the combing wool industry. There is a like progress of this in- dustry in the United States, hut how far peace will modify it cannot now be foreseen. 3A o4 Beet sugar in the Zollverein.—Twenty years ago 560,000,000 pounds of beet- root were made into sugar; now there are 4,032,000,000 pounds, or nearly cight times as much; then, 2,016 pounds were required to make 112 pounds of sugar; now, 1,344 pounds only to make the same amount. There is a duty of nine millions of dollars levied on this sugar; yet, it is said, the profit from the cultivation of this root is great. Austrian tobacco —The annual amount of tobacco grown in Austria is stated to be 125,440,000 pounds. PRICES OF PRODUCE IN GREAT BRITAIN. The following table exhibits the prices of breadstuffs om the 1st of December ¥ jor the years stated therewn. per quarter pee eto (0) METHOROLOGY, 35 FROM THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. Place. County. — MAINE, Stemben ne -cence. Washington ..... WeSecccc-csc cece. Penobscot ......- West Waterville....| Kennebec -.....- @ardiver’ 22. <2-=0s:-. Sant pmceheRane Rishon Jett sis. 5 kes Androscoggin . .. Cornishville ...,.... Works mace css (Cheyne) eo ae ee Brod! Oe Pee ee NEW HAMPSHIRE. Stratford ------.....| Coosi.-5:....-... Shelburne ..........]. AIAG Capa one Pa SRE Barnstead ....-..... Belknaps.---..5. Claremont .........- Sullivan...-..... DO rhe mS taiea a's pias COB ae a ainiainayetets VERMONT. Lunenburg......... BsseXioussesenans Craftsbury.-........ Orleans'...5- ...: Burlington. ....<... Chittenden -..... Middlebury. ........ Addison ........-. MASSACHUSETTS, Saendwichye2 2.0.20 . Barnstable ...... West Dennis: . Jo se0/ 22. ley SUSE MO WDUR yes 2/2. Soe SHOX sab 55 a\asis Toppfield.u\:.. -pues |S LO ereak arctelsme ei New Bedford -.-..... Bristol uis5.5 2.3 State L. Hogpital....| Worcester....... Mendon peters sartataiet)| setae GOR ic) e's Baldwiusville.......].... Gowan sacs. .': Amherst << |. . 2/0/0505 Hampshire ...... Springfield ......... Hampden........ Wresthelds. oh. ase oe. Re Gey he ye ape ee Richmond, -o soos ea oe Berkshire ....... Williams College ...|.... CG tee waka icin OCTOBER, 1864. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, (with dates pre- fixed, ) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) or October, 1864, at the following places, as given by the observers named. The daily observations were made at 7 o'clock a.m. and 2.and 9 p.m. Observer's name. J.D. Parker Edwin Pitman. . --.~ B. Pa Wilbur. se- coos Rey. F. Gardiner. ... Asa P. Moore......- G. W. Guptill Silas West Branch Brown.....- F. Odell Chas. H. Pitman .... Arthur Chase....... Ss ONMead osyecesa. Hiram A. Cutting... Jas. A. Paddock .. .. Rey. McK. Petty .... H. A. Sheldon N. Barrows, M.D... Eugene Tappan .... Jno. H. Caldwell.... A. M. Merriam Rev. E. Dewhurst... Prof. E. 8. Snell..... J. Weatherhead... .-. Rey. E. Davis....... Wm. Bacon......... Prof. A. Hopking.... Date. i a a a ee i a. Pr ar as Bee | Waa ~ AAG A wa Max. |! Date. ° 65 27 64 RT 66 | 27,30 66 27 63 27 66 10 60 10 66} ~ 30 69 12 74 |9, 10, 31 68 30 66} 12,30 vi) 31 63] 29, 30 64 30 66 30 68 30 ~ 69 10 69 30 pil 22 68 10 7 | 10,12 69 10 62 10 69 22 73 10 72 18 70 12 63 12 Min. Mean. | Rain ° In. 3188) |) 5280 44.5 | 3.95 44.5 | 2.60 46.0 | 2.76 44.8 | 2.90 45.4} 3.95 40.9 | 3.80 41.0 | 4.09 45:50 yoee 48.1] 3.95 46.0} 5.95 a es 48.1 | 6.13 40.1| 4,44 42.5 | 4.67 47.6 | 3.92 49.2] 2.28 51.0 | 1.94 46, Sy leone. 3 46.8 | 3.79 48.4 | 2.39 50.5 | 4.29 AT. 5) ssc asa 4,20 46.4 | 2.94 47 I S207 46.9 | 3.43 45 ules 45.6| 3 36 Table showing the range of thermometer, §c., for October—Continued. Place. County. Observer's name. RHODE ISLAND. Providence .....-.-. Providence ...... Prof. A. Caswell ---- CONNECTICUT. IPOmMELOb wos s oer - Windham .....-- Rev. D. Hunt ..-...- Columbia ..-.--...- Molland) 325324. Wm. H. Yeomans... Middietown -.--..... Middlesex ...--.-- Prof. John Johnston Colebrook ...-----.- Litchfield... ...- Charlotte Rockwell. NEW YORK. IMDrIONOS - |... 20 <1. « -.0% fShebigell Are yee Mrs. & Miss Smith -. itt 4 /wit eee Soe Washington ...-.. P. A. McMore....... South Hartford ...-..|---- lo See a oe G. M. Ingalsbe ...-..- Msp ssc anlee = Dutchess .....---. Wn. H. Denning. -- Garrisons...-------- Putnam’: ~ 6. < <1. Thomas B. Arden. -. Throg’s Neck....-.- Westchester ..-..-. F. M. Rogers.-.----- Deaf & Dumb Inat..| New York .. ..-- Prof. O. W. Morris . - St. Xavier’s College.|....do.--......-- Rey. Jno. M. Aubier. Mintbusht =22.-.-\<< se: MEN GS 2 == eheneie ei Eli T. Mack... ....-.- Schenectady....-.--- Schenectady -. ..| Harmon VY. Swart .- Gouverneur .......- St. Lawrence....| C. H. Russell ...---- South Trenton .. ... Oneida: se s52-- Storrs Barrows -.--.. Oneida jo secicicfeie = Madison ......... Dr. S. Spooner. .-.-- AMeresa-- ----—=)--- = Jefferson ..... ..| S.O. Gregory..--.-- PalernmOs=s= =~ ssaei- 5 Oswego ..... ---- BB. Bartletth.s-n== OswerOe ees - mee =| =o OMeinnas Songer Wm. 8. Malcolm.... SkKaneateles -.-.-... Onondaga .. -.-.- W. M. Beauchamp -- Baldwinsville.......|---- GES core John Bowman....-- ATIDOXNIES == -aieschin= Cayuga --...2--- John B.Dill) 22S ooo. INICHOIB Sas == > SBSUBY Ser 9 ‘TS 09 6 ‘TS 6'E 6 8P ile nee oe : -+- AIOPLLIO. 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AS 5 5 5 E 3 2 F > oS g *SOMOJLNOT, PUB §9}07g Pe 2 “6C8L ‘SoSvaoay | ‘RG8T ‘sedeIoAV | “LegT ‘sofuroAy | ‘gcRT ‘Sesuaioay | ‘cogy ‘sodui0Ay @ 2m LYM UL ARDIG) YODA U2 saapjd fo saquinu asplaan ay? yn ‘hjaarjaaqj09 ‘pawunu suf savak aay ayy . 4 . wv . . Lof pun ‘pauvu tvah yova ur ‘aunge fo yuo ay) Lof (syjua, pun sayour ur) uve fo of pun aanzosaducay aS vLaaw ayy Sucmoys 9/9], ‘F981 ‘NATOLOO Al FROST, SNOW, AND ICE. Cornish, Maine.—October 10.—Ground frozen an inch this morning. Steuben, Maine —October 10.—Ground frozen hard this morning. 22d, white frost. 26th, very white frost. 27th, very white frost, ground frozen hard. Ice in a pail of water did not melt through the day. 30th, white frost. West Waterville. Maine.—October 10.—First general frost to kill potato tops last night. 12th, ice formed last night as thick as window-glass; this is the first ice. 27th, profuse white frost last night. Lisbon, Maine——October 1.—Quite severe frost. 9th, 10th, and 11th, heavy frost. 27th, ice an eighth of an inch thick. 30th, ice this morning a quarter of an inch thick. Cornishville, Maine—October 10.—Heavy frost last night and ground frozen. Lee, Maine-——October 9.—First snow of the season at 10 a. m.; melted as it fell. 28th, snowed in the night one inch. Barnstead, New Hampshire—October 10.—Ice in the morning half an inch thick; ground frozen an inch. Stratford, New Hampshire—October 9.—Ground white with snow this morn- ing. 10th, Mountains white with snow to-day, and the same every day to the end of the month. Shelburne, New Hampshire—October 1—Frost this morning. 9th, snow squalls on the mountains. 10th, ice a sixteenth of an inch thick on puddles. 14th, tops of mountains covered with snow, having an elevation of two thousand feet. 24th, strawberries in blossom, in some places nearly as much so as they are in June. 27th, frost. 30th, ground frozen in the road, half an inch. C aremont, New Hampshire.—October 9.—Snow squall between 10 and 11 a.m. 10th, the first frost destructive to vegetation; ice three-sixteenths of an inch thick. 12th, a hard frost and freeze, finished what the 10th had left alive. 'This season has been remarkable for the late date of the first killing frost. This is the third year in which vegetables have been substantially untouched by frost till about the middle of October. Lunenburg, Vermont.—October 10.—This morning ice was formed about a quarter of an inch thick, and ploughed land frozen a little. 31st, the first hard frost of the season; ground frozen quite hard. Previous to this the autumn has beenremarkable. The linden trees in my yard have leaved out fully the second time, and many leaves came out on an elm. My woodbine has leaved out, and grown two or three inches since first shedding its leaves; many strawberries are in blossom, and some blossoms are on an apple tree. The season had previously been very dry, and though there were no severe frosts, and but little freezing, yet leaves were pretty generally off, and then the warm rain gave everything new life and a great tendency to grow. Craftsbury, Vermont.—October 1.—This morning occurred the first frost in this loeality this season that has touched the top leaves of late planted potatoes. October 9, this morning the ground is white with the first snow; it disappeared before night. October 30, water frozen this morning an eighth of an inch in thickness, the first ice of the season. West Dennis, Massachusetts —October 10.—First frost, ice formed where a little water had been left in troughs. Sandwich, Massachusetts—Jctober 10.—Heavy white frost this morning. 30th and 31st, white frost. Mendon, Massachusetts—October 10 —Ice formed in still water. Baldwmsville, Massachusetts—October 13.—Sleet and snow. 20th, ground frozen quite hard this morning. Worcester, Massachusetts —October 10, 12, and 22.—Frost. 42 Topsfield. Massachusetts.—October 10 and 11.—Slight frost. 12th, heavy frost. 19th and 20th, light frost. 22d, heavy frost. New Bedford, Massachuselts—October 28.—Leaves of most deciduous trees falling very fast. 31st, most trees stripped of foliage. Middletown, Connecticut—October 10.—White frost, the first of any account for the season. Colebrook, Connecticut——October 10.—Severe frost, ground slightly frozen. 29th, slight fall of snow in the afternoon. Wilson, New York.—October 8.—Light freeze last night, the first of the season. 15th, light white frost last night. 26th, heavy white frost; did not freeze very hard. 31st, there has not yet been sufficient frost to kill anything except the tenderest leaves and plants. Many trees aud vine leaves are still green. Skaneateles, New York.—October 8.—Snow at 9 p. m. from the north. October 9, snow fell four inches deep last night; snowing at intervals all day. It was reported that frost and ice occurred on lew lands, cannot on inquiry learn that it was so. 15th, first white frost I have seen this season, very slight. 22d and 26th, white frost. October 31 has been unusually wet and disagreeable; grass, this, the 31st, is growing and looks like in June and July. Many apple trees have not lost a leaf apparently, but are as green as midsummer. Grape vines until to-day were as luxuriant as months ago. Flatbush, New York.—October 10.—Frost last night. New York, New York.—October 10.—First frost, killing cucumber, squash, and beans, but not tomatoes. Rochester, New York.—October 9.—Snow last night and this morning, half an inch deep, but melted before noon. Frost on the 14th, hard frost on the 15th. South Trenton, New York.—October 1.—Frost this morning, deing no damage except on some very low ground. 9th, first snow covering the ground, soon melted. 11th, ice an eighth of an inch thick in pail full of water. 13th, 14th, and 15th, white frost. Palmyra, N. Y.—October 9.—Roofs of houses and boards white with snow this morning; snowed some during the day. 11th, hard frost last night. The first of the season. 15th, 18th, 20th, 26th, frost. Moriches, N. Y—October 10.—The first real frost of the autumn; a very slight frost had been noticed one morning in September, but so slight that it was not recorded. ‘ Theresa, N. Y—October 1—A hard frost. 9th, snow at 7 p. m., mostly melted as it fell. 10th, water freezes in dishes standing out. 26th, hard frost, ground frozen for the first time. 30th, a thick white frost. Jamestown, N. Y.—October 8.—First snow. It fell to the depth of four inches, and would have been considerably deeper had it not melted fast. 10th, heavy frost. 22d, snowed this night, but melted as it fell. A slight snow on the evening of the 31st. : Oneida, N. Y—October 12.—First frost this morning. 22d, first general rost. . Throg’s Neck, N. Y—October 10, 18.—Heavy white frost. 22d, light white frost. South Hartford, N. Y—October 12.—First frost. The mercury at 6 a. m. indicated 30°. It was sufficient to kill all tender vegetation. This is much later in the season than is usual for frost. Palermo, N. Y.—October 9.—Snow covered the ground this morning to the depth of half an inch; cold and spits of snow through the day. 22d, a slight frost this morning. 26th, first black frost; killed vegetation where it was not under the shade of trees and buildings. Nichols, N. Y.—October 10.—First killing frost. I never knew autumn to advance so far before without a hard frost. 43 Baldwinsville, N. Y.—October 8.—Snow at night. ; Progress, N. J—October 10 —First frost, very heavy. 18th, heavy frost. Burlington N. J—October 10.—White frost, like a snow; the first frost of the season. Mount Holly, N. J—October 10.—Heavy frost this morning, the first of the season. All thetender plants were cut down. Ice was observed in the ditches in the country. Greenwich, N. J—October 11—Heavy frost, and skim ice observed in water in shallow vessels exposed during the night. 15th, heavy frost. Haddonfield, N. J.—October 10—A heavy frost. 18th, frost. Newark, N. J—On the morning of the 10th the unusual phenomenon was recorded of the first frost and first ice occurring together. On the 18th, 19th, 26th and, perhaps, one or two other mornings, “there were white frosts, but on no other oceasion did the mercury fall to the freezing point. Horsham, Penn— October 10.—A severe fipst this mor ning, killing all tender vegetation, and unusually severe for the first. Heavy y frosts followed every morning for a week or more. Piuladelphia, Penn. —October 9.—Night, first hoar frost observed. 10th, early morning, ice formed on the surface ‘of still water in the suburbs. Fallsington, Penn —October 9—A light frost. 10th, heavy frost and iee. 18th, heavy white frost. Grampion Hills, Penn —October 8—At 1.30 p. m., rain and snow for twenty minutes. In evening frost and ice. 10th, 21st, heavy frost. Harrisburg Penn —October 26.—W hite frost. Berwick, Penn.—October 10.—First frost. Byberry, Penn.—October 9.—Slight frost on low grounds. 10th, very heavy frost, ice an eighth of an inch thick ; ; sorghum killed. Frost also on the 11th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 20th, and 26th. Tioga, Penn.—October 9.—A very little snow. 10th, hard frost last night, the first this season. Ice formed half an inch and the ground froze quite hard. Blairsville, Pean.—October 8—Fine snow fell, commencing at 3 o’clock p. m. Five inches of snow on the Sth, three inches on the 9th, said. four inches on the 12th. Fleming, Penn—October 9—The Alleghany mountains are white with snow this morning. Snow flying during the day. 10th, heavy frost this morn- ing; killed all the unripe vevetables. Germantown, Penn:-—October 10.—Ice this morning an eighth of an inch thick, the only time during the month. North Whitehall, Penn Frost on the 10th, 11th, 18th, 25th. Connellsville, Penn—October 9.—Ice this morning. 10th, ground frozen. Nazareth, Penn —October 10.—First frost of the season this morning; vege- tables frozen. 18th, second frost, quite severe. Silver Spring, Penn.—October 10.—First frost; killed vegetables. Canonsburg, Penn.—October 8.—Sleet and snow squall at 5 p. m. Wilmington, Delaware—October 10—The first frost and ice. Sykesville, Maryland.—October 10.—Heavy frost ; thin ice in the vailey. Natchez, Mississippi—October 10.—F rost this morning, the first of the sea- son. 11th, light frost. Austinburg, Ohio.—October 8.—Some hail and snow flakes to-day. 10th, ice on water this morning, first freeze this autumn. 14th, slight frost. 15th, hard frost. New Lisbon, Ohio—Snow on the 8th and 9th, frost on the 10th, 14th, 15th, 18:h to 22d; ice on the 18th and 21st. Cleveland, Ohio—October 8.—Rain, hail, and snow at times allday. 14th, slight frost last night. 44 Kingston, Ohio—October 8.—Flurries of snow. 10th, 11th, 13th, slight frost. 14th, heavy frost. 22d, snow squall for a few minutes at 7 a. m. Kelley's Island.—October 8.—A few flakes of snow at two or three different times, mixed with rain. 9th, a thin skim of ice on the head of a barrel stand- ing on end and exposed to a strong current of wind; cucunber vines not wilted, and blossoms as fresh as at any time during the season. Reports from the in- terior of the island say there was a decided frost in some localities from a quar- ter to a half a mile from the lake. 21st, slight traces of hoar frost. 22d, ground white with snow, thawing as it falls. 25th, hoar frost. Urbana, Ohio.— October §—Very light dash of snow at 8$ a. m. and at 5 and 6 p.m. 9th, ice; all tender vegetation destroyed. Fillsboro’, Ohio—October 9.—Heavy frost. 21st, snow at night. Cineinnatt, Ohio. —Frost on the 14th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 29th, 31st. Portsmouth, Ohio—October 8.—Frozen rain and snow this p. m. 23d, snowed quite heavy last night. Westerville, Ohio. pelea 14.—Ice this mor ning, the first noticed this sea- son. 22d, the ground white with snow this morning. Bethel, Giie-aieioWen 9.—Black frost; first bat injure. 13th, 19th, 25th, 29th, 30th, 31st, heavy white frost. Also, some frost on the 16th and 17th. Saybrook, Ohio—O tober 9.—At 6 a. m. sufficient sleet to give a whitish appearance to boards, fences, &c.; very little on the ground. (Snow said to be a foot deep this morning at Pierpont, about fifteen miles southeast of this place; considerable damage done to fruit trees, &e.) 10th, very light frost on low ground, no damage done. Frost on the 14th, 15th, 17th, 21st, 25th, 26th. Ice on the 15th and 25th. Milnersville, Ohio —October 9.—First frost. 10th, heavier frost. Welshfield, Ohio.—October 8.—The first snow storm of the season; snow fell to the depth of about four inches, but soon melted away. On the morning of the 14th occurred the first frost, but it did little or no harm. Dahlias con- tinued in bloom till the 25th; on the morning of that day the frost was suffi- ciently severe to destroy them. Smithville, Ohio—October 8.—The first snow storm of the season commenced at S§ a. m.and ended at 8 p.m. ‘The snow melted as soon as it reached the earth. 10th, first frost this season that affected vegetation of any account. Gallipolis, Ohio—October 9.—First killing frost this morning. Wooster, Ohio.—October 8— To-day the first snow fell. It commenced about 10 a. m., and continued occasionally through the day; it melted as fast as it fell. October 10.—This morning occurred the first frost to do any damage to vegetables. Lebanon, Ohio.— October 9—First killing frost. Norwalk, Ohio—October 9.—First Gua 22d, first snow. Pontiac, ee eh 8.—F ine snow from ileus to 9 a. m.; balls at lla.m.and4 p.m. 9th, thermometer 26° at 6 a. m.; ice a quarter of an inch thick; ground frozen half an inch; apples not injured. 11th, 13th, 14th, 17th, 20th, 21st, and 25th, frost. Oshtemo, Michigan. —October 9.—11th, 13th, 23d, and 25th, frost. Garlick, Michigan. —Snow and rain from October 6th, 9 p. m., to October 7th, 9 p.m. Newcastle, Indiana.—October 8.—Small flakes of snow occasionally all day. 9th, 12th, and 14th, heavy frost. 21st and 22d, snow nearly an inch and a half, New Albany.—October 7 and 8.—White frost. Spiceland, Indiana.—October 8.—A few small snow flakes about 15 p.m. 21st, a little fine snow falling in the afternoon; fast and heavy at night; half an inch deep at 9 p. m., and doubtless considerable melted as it fell. 22d, snow three inches and seven-tenths deep this morning; about all melted off by night. Rensselaer, Indiana.—October 9 and 11.—Very heavy frost, with ice; on the 9th the ice was a quarter of an inch thick. 45 Elmira, Illinots—October 8.—Ground frozen a little, for the first time this season. 20th, first snow, ground quite white. Riley, Illinois —October 9.—Thermometer 25° at daylight; ground frozen. 12th, heavy frost. 13th, frost. 17th, ground frozen, and some ice formed in the creek. 21st, rain and snow from 2 to 9 p. m.; snow melted as it fell. Floylton, Iilinois.—October 9.—Hard frost. Waverley, Illinois —October 21.—First appearance of snow, a light fall. Ottawa. Illinois —October 8, 9, and 11.—Frost. 13th, hard frost. 18th, hard frost; ground (where saturated with moisture) frozen a quarter of inch. 19th, frost. Wyanet, Illinows—Y¥rost on the 11th, and frequently afterwards. Ice on the 9tb, 13th, and 18th. 'Three-quarters of an inch of snow on the 21st. Tiskilwa, Illinois —October 9.—Hard white frost; ice formed a quarter of an inch thick. Manchester, Ilinois—October 10.—Hard frost this morning. 15th, hoar frost this morning. Winnebago, I/linois—October 8.—F rost. 9th, severe frost, first of sufficient severity to kill tomatoes, beans, &c. Pekin, illinois—October 9.—First heavy frost; one hundred and seventy- one days since the last heavy frost. Intervals of slight frosts one hundred and thirty days. Peoria, Ilnois.—Latest frost in spring, April 20th; first frost in autumn, October 9th. Augusia, Illinois —October 9.—First frost to kill tender vines. 13th, light frost. 20th, first snow; fell about a quarter of an inch. Wyanet, Illinois —October 1.—Heavy frost, with ice, on the Ist, and on several subsequent days. On the 5th, ground frozen a quarter of an inch. On the 11th a little round snow scattered over the ground. Canton, Missourt—October 9.—Hard frost. 10th, light frost. Harrisonville, Missouri.—Light frost every morning from the 6th to the 12th. 16th, most of the tender vines killed. 20th, threatening snow in the afternoon; a little light sleet about 6 p.m. 22d, a sharp frost this morning; ice on still water about the thickness of writing paper. Embarrass, Wisconsin.—October 1.—Hard frost on the Ist day of October, and very often through the month. No snow recorded. Bloomfield, Wisconsin —October 9.—First ice formed ; tomato vines entirely destroyed. No snow mentioned. Green Bay, Wisconsin.—No snow mentioned. Milwaukee, Wisconsin—October 8 and 9.—Ice in the morning. 11th, heavy frost. No snow mentioned. Beloit, Wisconsin.—No snow recorded. Delavan, Wisconsin.—October 21.—Slight snow, with rain, from 11.15 a. m. to 12 m. Manitowoc, Wiscornsin—No snow recorded. New Ulm, Minnesota—October 8—Ice, the first this autumn; in some places from an eighth to a quarter of an inch thick; melted about 9 a. m. St. Paul, Minnesota —October 17.—A little snow from 5 to 7 a. m. Lyons, Iowa.— October 5.—Hard frost this morning, enough to kill vines and tomatoes. 8th, frost. An inch and a half of snow fell on the 20th and 21st. Spring Grove, Iowa.—October 13.—A very white frost and freeze last night. 20th, rain and snow. Algona, Iowa.—October 19.—Snowed one inch this night. Independence, Iowa.—October 20.—Snowed half an inch. Monticello, Iowa.—October 20.—First and only snow this month. It was very wet as it fell, between the showers of rain. 46 Independence, Towa-—October 8.—Heavy frost. 11th and 12th, frost. 13th, heavy frost. 20th, commenced snowing at 4 p. m.; changed to rain at 8 p.m. Guttenburg, Iowa —F¥ vost from the 8th to the 13th, except on the 11th. Ice on-the 18th a third of an inch thick. Muscatine, Iowa.—October 8 —Light frost. 9th, frost last night enough to kill tomato vines, for the first time this autumn. Ice formed a quarter of an inch thick. 21st, a little snow, the first this season. Dubuque, Lowa.—October 8,.—Frost this morning. 9th, ice quarter of an inch thick. Towa City, Iowd—October 9.—Hard frost, and first ice, a fourth of an inch thick. 21st, first snow, an inch deep. Fort Riley, Kansas—October 8.—First frost of the season.—20th, first snow, not measurable. Manhattan, Kansas.—October 6.—Frost on the low lands. 8th, frost. 20th, light snow, eight hundredths of an inch. Bellevue, Nebraska—October 20.—Snow from 1 a.m. to 9 p.m. It melted fast, but covered the ground to the depth of about three inches. If it had not melted it would have measured six or eight inches, perhaps ten. Richland, Nebraska —October 8—Heavy white frost and ice, ground slightly frozen. 9th, a little white frost. 15th, ice. 16th, a little white frost and ice. 20th, snow from before day till in the night; one inch of snow on the ground at 7 a.m, melting through the day. 22d, heavy white frost, ground stiffened. 24th, 28th, 29th, 30th, white frost. Great Salt Lake City, Utah—October 31—The autumn has been dry, with very little frost or snow, and the temperature more even than usual. 47 NOVEMBER 6, 1864. Table showing the highest and lowest range of the thermometer, with dates pre- fixed, ) the mean temperature, and amount of rain, (in inches and tenths, ) jor November, 1864, at the following places, as given by the observers named. Daily observations were made at the hours of 7 a.m. and 2 and 9 p. m. Place. County. Observer's name. Date. | Max.} Date. | Min. | Mean. | Rain. MAINE. ° fe) ° In. Steubon ==. °....-c-. Washington. ..... | J. D. Parker, .....:- 9,10} 54 24) 18) 37.2] 6.20 De ee ee Penobscot ......- Edwin Pitman....-- 10 58] 17,24] 16 36. 2 | 4. 65 West Waterville. ...| Kennebec. -.....- B. F. Wilbur..-.--- 10 S8) - 17; 18) 35.8) 4.85 q | Gardiner ...-........... ey |e Rey. F. Gardiner... lo} 61 17) 1%| 37.84 °5.77 PABGOD) 7 ano cae. Androscoggin. ...| Asa P. Moore.....'.- lo} 60 17| 13) 36.8] 7.09 Cornish. ............ a) ae Eanes Silas West..-...-..- 10} 58 17} 14] 33.6} 5.70 Cornishville,........|.... dOsacn eects G. W. Guptill......- 10] 6 24] 18) 36.2) 6.36 NEW HAMPSHIRE. Btrattondic. 3. = Serein.0- Of). See ed .....| Branch Brown...... 10 60 24 12 32.0 15 Soe Shelburne .......... Sullivan........- Fletcher Odell. .-.-.. 10 60 3 16 SD. Osa osos Claremont..........|--.. MOu see ces oe Stephen O. Mead... 9 65 17 15 = ral le VERMONT. Tonenbore: 2.022.) Hssex .....0....8 Hiram A. Cutting... 10 55 | 18, 24 7s 33.9 | 3. 70 Craftsbury ......... Orleans........-- Jas. A. Paddock.... 9| 58 24| 16| 320] 4.05 Middlebury......... Addison ......... H. A, Sheldon...... 12| 65 24| 19} 389] 292 MASSACHUSETTS. Sandwich...... -----| Barnstable....-... N. Barrows, M.D... 30 68 24 22 42.6 | 4.31 MONSHEl: on nee nice VE So ey Bate A. M. Merriam ..... 9 66} 15,17 24 43.0} 3.83 WewbITy-.- 025. -.05 Se Lee Se Jno. H. Caldwell-..| 9,10 65 24 Bi ee ere] Re New Bedford ....... BPSiOl ccm - 5 cccma Samuel Rodman.... 30 69 2Q4 24 42.5 |} 4.06 State Lunatic Hosp’l) Worcester ....-.- We Rice nae sean 9 62 17) 18 PS AT eee Mandon .-..2....2<. RRA (cee eee, Jno. G. Metcalf ..-... 10 63 17 19 a LTA my ere Baldwinsville....... OnE SE eee Oe Rey. FE. Dewhurst. - 30 59 | 17,24 13 33.7; 4.92 INT) Hampshire ...... Prof. E. 8. Snell.-.. 9 61 17 11 38.0] 6.20 Springfield ......... Hampden ..-..... J. Weatherhead..... 30 68} 15,17 10 38.3) 5.16 Westfield: 7 ......- Bere dG been aa tetas Rey. E. Davis...... 7; 65 17 15 38.4] 5.23 Williams’ College...) Berkshire........ Prof. A. Hopkins... 10 64 17 12 37.0} 4.17 Richmond! 242.22 fo... Gersaccacscsss Wm. Bacon......... 9 68 16 14 37.1 |...,2- CONNECTICUT, Pomfreti.ci.2. nose sc Windham, ....... Rev. D. Hunt......- 29 60 24 20 39.3] 5.47 Columbian. ...che:. Wollands. om. < sai Wm. H. Yeomans .. 30 72.4) 1224.1" 20 Fc ee Middletown ........ Middlesex, .....-.- Prof. John Johnston. 30 68 17 18 41.3; 4.13 | lebrook 5.2. .cce-< Litchfield.......-. Chailotte Rockwell. 9 61 | 15,17 12 BY Ae eee | Moriches..:.. .-.- Ske. Wits) bic) |: Mr. & Miss N. Smith. 30 72) 15,24) 23 46.0 | 6.46 South Hartford..... Washington. ..... G. M. Ingalsbe.-..--. 9 68 15, 17 10 39.4] 5.10 Bishkillyys).. <2... Dutchess ........ Wm. H. Denning...| 9,10 63 24 | 2 41.7 | 3.76 Garrison's'sc ces beee Putnam..........| Thos. B. Arden..... 10| | 65 24 | 20 39.8} 4.41 White Plaing,.....-: West Chester....| Oliver BR. Willis.....1 $0] 67 a4 | 204 42,9 [lio 48 Table showing the range of the thermometer, &c., for November—Continued. Place. NEW YORK—Cont'd. Throg’s Neck......- Deaf and Dumb Inst. St. Xavier's College. Blatbush. 23 ---. 2205. Noewbury----- 3. ---- Schenectady. .-....- Gouverneur,........ South Trenton....-- JC} Ye} (a Palmyra... 2s2t2-<0- Geneva.a-=-=5525,-< Roehelter:<...: 2’... WWYAIROMD ee 2s. <5cccei 3 BVO ote ote med New Brunswick..... Burlington. -.......- E-TORNCES= a es ac cms Mount Holly.....--. |- Haddonfield .......- Greenwich........-- PENNSYLVANIA. Fallsington ...-..... Philadelphia. --...--. Germantown. ...-.-- Moorland.........-- Mavareth . <2... 204. North Whitehall. ... West Chester....... POUSUUIE PE eb cijcinta = = = - Pennsville.......-.. Blairsville --.-...... Connellsville --...-- Canonsburg.....---- DELAWARE. County. Observer's name. Date. West Chester....) F. M. Rogers ....... 30 New York..-..... Prof. O. W. Morris. . 30 seeedONses mesa: Rey. John M. Aubier 30 BD OAS ip cto esc sey WSU) Minek «5-0-7 30 Orange «..-.--<-= Jas. H. Gardiner. . -. 10 Schenectady...-. Harmon Y. Swart. -- St. Lawrence...-| Cyrus H. Russell ..-. 9 Oneida -=---.---- Storrs Barrows ..--..|-------- Jefferson......-.. S. O. Gregory --..--.- 9 Oswego. 2.s2-- 5.2 Wm. S. Malcolm.... 9 So Asap st oe Se E. B. Bartlett. .....- 9 Onondaga. ....--- W. M. Beauchamp... 9 Bedi eases ap John Bowman...... 9 Cayuga.2..- i... John B. Dill. .....-.: 9 MNOpAa.cecas Frederick Brendel. . -| 29] 74 22 11 |) 40; sase2 1 SNS 35556 ooee cee Tazewell .---..-.) J. H. Riblett.-...--.| 29 TAN) 22 12 | 39. 1| 4.34 Hoyletons- =. s.----=- Washington. -- --- | J. Elsworth. --..-.- | 8, 29 74 | 22 10) “42nneeeeeee Waverley.........-- Morgan.........- | Timothy Dudley...) 29/ 73) 22] 1 | 40.2! 6.40 Highland.-.....----- | Madison..-...--- | Ad. F. Bandelier. .- ; Dsus ol 2. oingl Sees ees |.2----+-[ee-2-- Galesburg. -...-.----- Kn Oxig=5 5S yeeinin Pf. Win. Livingston J 19 67 2) a 34,4} 2.90 Manchester... --.---- SteChsase s2sscaor Dr. J. &Miss Grant.} 29 | 73 | 22 8 | 40. 3. 67 Augusta......-.---- faneotkee esse =r 3 | S. B. Mead, M. D- a 29 70 22 | 6 38. 3. 88 | | | WISCONSIN. | | Manitowoc. ...-.--.. Manitowoe...-.-- | Jacob Milpsessee-=.s 28} 59 23 3 Spa eau Milwaukee. ...-...-- Milwaukee....--- I. A. Lapham, LL. D! 20 60 | 93 3) 32.1) 2/61 DO gett ce nooen Fe Le CLO are eee ; Carl Winkler. ....-.- | 29 6] | 23 5 3o- 9 3. 27 Green Bay.-.-----.. IS tONViOee eee ee | Friedrich Deckner. --| 28} 952 23 | — 3 32.4 | 3.47 Genévaleun ers | Walworth ......- | Wm. H. Whiting... 99) 58.1 22.931) cig gaye ee Delavan cs sap TEC OS Rema coos . -| Leveus Edy -.----- 29 | 58 | 22 6 33.3 | 1.74 WiEUpPacea)c =. ss.s= == Waupacea .....- Pebi@. Mend eee ai 29, 30 50 23 i} Bp AC ea sn Se Embarrass--.-...-.- aw setGOcns Sep ssekes | Edward E. Breed... | 29 | 49 | 23 | — 2 30.0 |} 4.16 HB Gl Gitar jot - = eis =i Rockwaerecs eee Henty.D; Porter. -.- 29 60 | 22 5 33.4 | 4.00 Baraboo. ..-...-..-- Sauk tf cecb 2. 3 24) Me Cleat ee ae ce 27 68 22 4 HE |e oe New Holstein. ..----. Calumet 25. -= Js Haches=-s--. ~~ 28 62 23: | — 1 32.3 | 2.30 | | } MINNESOTA \ | | | | Beaver Bay .-...--- | etice’ 2.3 hae | ©. Wieland......... peer a7 | . 22 0) 30-8) 082 TRA eves ere se |= bm ole care chine cee Samuel Wilder. .---. 3 50 | 22 | —10 26.9) 0.60 Ney Wilmateeens=---] IBTOW DM: «<5 4- eae Charles Roos..--.--- | 28 57 | 22) —5 32.1) 1.56 Minneapolis-.--.---. Hennepin. ......- Wim. Cheney e-=- 28 53 | 22 4— 2) 29.9 )...--. | 1 IOWA. | | | VOUS 22- cates Glare... 2. ..-:-| Py Farnsworth, M.D} 28 62 | 22 8 35.6} 2.80 Museatine: <2 v--=-—- Muscatine.......- J. 2. Wealtoniecso-e- | 28 64 22 5 | 134; We ieoe Dubuque: ...2-.----- Dubuque s..- -!: } Asa Horr, M. D...-- { 29 57 | 22 44 S450 (east 51 Table showing the range of the thermometer for November, §c.—Continued. Place. , tow a—Continued. Guttenburg Monticello Independence Towa Cuwy. «2-2 56-5= Fort Madison Waterloo Towa. Pall. <<. .- MISSOURI. St. Louis J AU GHG) i eee KANSAS, Agricultural College Fort Riley. --..-.--- NEBRASKA TER, MONTANA TER. Fort Laramie UTAH TERRITORY. | Great Salt Lake City. | County. | Observer's namé. | i) | @layton ......... Philip Dorweiler. - -| 7 IGHEN yc'a- 5.225 4 Chauncey Mead... -| Buchanan ....-.. D. S. Deering... --- Se BOO <2: ann oon A. C. Wheaton... -.. SHORMSOM <7 se '<:- = T. S. Parvin, A. M. ILGGs ee eee ecese Daniel McCready. . Black Hawk...-. WY. Steedie oro 13 Ciyebr Weep eros N. Townsend..---- ounuthni<>..-s-=—- Dr.F.& Miss McCoy) } St. Wiowiv.-.24-- George Engleman.. Sha OTe sy A. Bendler=--- =... IDS whee sseseee George P. Ray-.--. Wass sass Jobn ‘Christian... -. Buchanan. ....-- PBs Sibleyes--- == Johnson.....---- | W. Beckwith -..-.- Douglas. /.....< | A. No Puller... == LOO aaaee cones H. L. Denison...-... TD \ at emeeoocs James H, Pine..--. | | Washington. .... Miss A. M. J. Bowen| Sa eee. | Rey. Wm. Hamilton’ | Soret) ae | Lt. Col. Wm. Collins) | | | Great Salt ears W. W. Phelps.. a \ 64 58 69 68 Date. BEB B Min. | Mean. | fe} ° “| oy 0 | 28. 4 —4| 325 a 0| 35.8 4| 37.4 a> Seite @\, 5aico —6| 29.6 14| 44.1 11| 42.6 6| 380 4| 38.4 2| 36.0 ei ates. 1 | “sake 10| 36.6 10| 39. Vales 34.3 1| 369 25 | 40.2 Rain. 1a) 52 OMT 0°08 £0 € Sis 6S '€ o°LE egg O'lP re 6 SE eg 'é l 0€ "9 1 cL’ 8 PP 08 'F 6 EP CP's 6°LP aS 9 GP 98 PF 6 °6E (id 0°OF CL‘? p'6 GEE 6°FE 8L°E GSE 08 °¢ G9E Fa E i be I 5 2 a Big ‘POSL'SOSUAOAY | "EQQT ‘SoSuroay Seu HinIN Mindoro te “aIed UBdTT ‘dura} uBsayy jee ee ee Se |) SM 6% £°8 roa Pe L's bE aG OF erie TR L@ 0°8 rane Tae 0'F Te 8 66 GP G0 Cu |) calle 8h oh C3 18 L% 84 1% Be iat o'G £% ol o's L% 6% 6°3 te £0 ght |, 60 oe | L6G ac 6S 6% 9'F 9°E 1°¢ | root aS oO fa) 2 > 6B =] p ic} a ee "sf G LOFSOSRAI AY eke) € 0°6 PO o £G 8 FS £0 GG £ 9¢ Gos GT 9°0 0 Bil Lee B'S 6 °F 9 TS IS LS IF. G GP 0G Lg & ge | L0€ G‘é Gee 0% €'T 8 9° G'SG iol £ SB 6% 6% on oo G66 Leg L&é 6G 8's 8 LG 0"e 9°6 Ons oP GE 8 8G 6 8E 0 6 OF 8° L's iF 6% Lie T€ GPE cP 6'€ 6° Ls [9 0s 1 ‘0b 0% 9% 6° BaGe le Gicr ey cep Ly 6% 9 LG ORS 09 £ PP 9G Bra | Si GG 8 'Fo ee G LG OT Coals £1 £ GP GG 0 bP LT hts yf Sal 6 GP £% 6'EP is UE Ne b%G QUAD | tar eels Loy cG Bee. Th abe 6'T L'6& GG GOP Lg oe ah ce rT € GP 0F 2 OP 6% RES | SOY coms G'8E bG 6 RE 97% case |) ts | Ov L ‘OP iat L‘0¥ 7G bG & $b € GP 0% p68 66 9G £ LG 9 OF 0°§ G'8& GE 6% 6 GG RSS) fare eaten Le 0's I 0% G ‘Le 9% Gre LY TG | 408 | €'€ TLE T€ I G& = = =] = = | & = FS S | 8 fs B 5 Sy : Beh ce cept Ue olmB sales 5 rs S Fe o Fy a = S B 5 5 = B “6CQT ‘SOSRIOAYW | "QCQl ‘BoSuIoAy | *LegT ‘sesuioay | ‘o¢gl ‘sodusoaAy 6G LLP es L ‘98 PT T€& 1% L-9€ 8 8 lr L'é GOP G'S 8 68 6G poh ONG SW Pals Lv 9 GS PT 6 6S aL €°8P G'T COP BaGCREeS G "hp 0'e € bP LG L OP 0° 8 68 (Sate) 9 GP 8'E 0 GP £'P C6E iy ale 9 “PE L°g b9F OF | TLE | = | oO oO 9 i B is] 2 | 8 5 B : is “CCRT ‘SasuIoAy SUOUVALESYO IY) YOLYN UL 37D) YaDA sipak ay, fo yava sof ‘saquaaon fo OR ba | ROO GO Ses “so0R[d JO “ON 038, AV ~* BILOFT RD Siearalnic go) tciciniet = Se)ei/si576)= a RS UOT) Do Gingeie can er AT OREO a RECON, >> LINOSSIPL saoter BAMOT sleisinte BIOSOUUIPL DOOD UISMOOST AA GG ETON Siafe-Serisue eats Eiri ecrci ici SIOUIIT fo) Sa XG a(S Siler a (Steins: Sascha Sis? =) (o/s aes BUBIPUL past Sages are spevelslelelelace sche sree = UB SITQOIL Seace oe eceer ot ray BORO ASE OD SISO SOGOG IONS ay auitedss ¢ efile iairie =.0iie aie iain arias oo. OaRROU OO, |; Siw a eiejaye SERS S DRS SE SA hoag(onicto) tupuaXeys| open ssvecasisisiasieiais BICUIN[OH Jo IASI esis Sie sigwicisioicipinininciexc==/siloise SU Aus AL BCS CODA OOF 0302 BML TACT “77> BINBATASTOay Sielsiemse se (o)Si= ---- £9sto~ AON BIg SIC YOK MON --* -gnoqoouuoy Be SOCO SD CBGS. IIS SRG Cm puvysy epoyry ae S}JOSNORSSLJL >>> QuOULIa A eee eee eee O TT AC OLB ANON, SODISOOAS. 25 HOD6 ASO eanReae === QUIN] ‘SOMLOJLIIOT, PUB $9jUVg ‘IPDU ALIN ur saavjd fo Laquine a8D1IAV ay) YN shypaarjzoayjoo paunu yssuf sivahk aaf ayy 40f puv ‘paune yyuou ay) sof (syzuay pun, sayour ur) uve jo pol puv aunposaduap aSDLIAD AY, FULNOYS A1QVT, ‘p9Sl “TAANAAON 53 There were two periods of decided elevation of temperature in November, one on the 9th or 10th, and the other on the last, or next to the last, day of the month; and at some of the stations, especially in Indiana and Illinois, the maximum at the end of the month was higher than had occurred since Septem- ber. Both these elevations of temperature were sudden, being preceded and followed by low degrees of cold. During the rise in the early part of the month the highest temperature was reached at seven o’clock in the morning, at a number of stations, among them, Cornish, Maine ; Worcester, Mass. ; Fishkill, New York; Springdale, (near Louisville,) Kentucky ; Eaton, Ohio; Pontiac, Michigan ; Newcastle, New Harmony, Indianapolis, and Vevay, Indiana. At some other stations, as Williamstown, Mass.; Gouverneur and Skaneateles, New York ; Harrisburg and Berwick, Pennsylvania ; Rensselaer, Indiana, the highest temperature occurred at 9 p. m. The following table shows the fall of temperature in the twenty-four hours immediately succeeding the warm morning in the early part of the month. The first two columns give the reading of the thermometer at 7 a. m. of one day, the next two columns the thermometer at 7 a. m. of the next day, and the last column the difference of the two preceding, or the fall of temperature in twenty- four hours. Only those stations are given where the fall was twenty degrees or more at 7 a. m., except Hilton Head, South Carolina, which, though less than twenty degrees, is inserted on account of its being the only station in that part of the country from which a register has been received. The fall of fourteen degrees at this place serves to show that the cause which produced the rise and fall of temperature in the western, middle and New England States, operated also on.the southern Atlantic coast. West of Indiana, the stations where the fall was twenty degrees or more, were as follows : Hoylton, Illinois, 34° from 7 a. m. of the 9th to 7 a. m. of the 10th. Peoria, do. 21° from 2 p. m. of the Sth to 2 p. m. of the 9th. Manchester, do. 24° from 2 p. m. of the Sth to 2 p. m. of the 9th. Pekin, do. 20° from 2 p. m. of the 8th to 2 p. m. of the 9th. Waverley; do. 27° from 2 p. m. of the 8th to 2 p. m. of the 9th. St. Louis, Missouri, 32° from 2 p. m. of the Sth to 2 p. m. of the 9th. Allentown, do. 40° from 2 p. m. of the 8th to 2 p. m. of the 9th. D Monticello, Iowa, 20° from 2 p. m. of the 7th to 2 p.m. of the Sth. Spring Grove, do. 20° from 9 p. m. of the 7th to 9 p. m. of the 8th. Bellevue, Nebraska, 22° from 2 p. m. of the 6th to 2 p. m. of the 7th. 54 Table showing the fall of temperature in the twenty-four hours immediately succecding the warm morning in the early part of the month. Station. @ormiskyillesMaime a: Les 2c Slee es oe eheetecities = Misbornp Maine Siete i's Sle oils eee arate ete erase bee, MG OE ae ee ieee ee en eee (Gandimer Mai = sc. c soccer. se encieostaas eaciae sae Wormmehns Miaimes se 3220'S 25.24. BE hs Bae ie sete sie ee ee Sinatione New Lam pSOIne=. =) .|, GEA) tie ae 24 10" | (662) ti) 39 27 10 | 66 | 11 | 38 28 qordueed pie J kee | 26 10) 65 4 ai) | eas 26 TO 65 | 11 iaae 22 0 | G4 -) 11 ao 24 jo] 64. |) 11 a 27 10 | 66 | 11 | 46 20 10.) 065. |) 1 RSs 29 10") 66 |. 11 40 26 io 166 | Tes 28 HO) “65 | dao eo 26 10 | 66 |: 1 | 40 26 HO) | G40 gt ae eas 21 to: | 65 | ah es 27 16°". 66 4) lds 3 ae 29 10: | GB dd. hwee 14 oy | 75s. (a0. dienes 37 O° | 70° SiedO! al ieee 30 9 | 6 | 10 | 38 a 55 Table—Continued. | 7) la. 2 seems 7 a.m. | Ei | oc - | | ge Station g | 22 | = # (23 | = 2 | os pie Soe spt rie ,e |e ba |e pe pease One! : ee > oo 2k os eee 9 64 10 44 20 MoE ODIO aes I or 5, cco oe aa eee ae ee S, 67 10 39 28 PRRIREETIP) TCO) ONIC < = SMe io cae 6 Sia wis ie 9 61 10 | 40 21 New. Mishon® Oliia sewers - oS ss oes eee | 9 62 10 | 40 22 Wrastonvulles Ohio meseenon oo. ccc ssc. co soaen oS Lee | 9 | 64 10 | 37 27 WeleenEny Oilers. —< S228 wf. tibia sf eoe | 9 | 65 10, |) 41 24 pT a er ee ey Sere |) Sie), @65 10 41 24 JS ealaie. Guar 2. Sa a ee ee are ae Se | 9 | 66 10 4j 25 GouicmnawCuulips ) Ohio:..-'...5-5.-.2-.5-5<2--2- to 68 10 44 24 Canemmate (Harper, )'Ohio 2222. 22222. -22-5 222.402: reg 67 10 39 28 SAikpcer. Obi 322 ee ene ee eee | 9 65 10 37 8 Sra. Dupes 2s. DS a See 55 en 9 66 10 36 30 EUG ADE 2835 ee nee pee 66 10 S08 27 SLY SRE Leet DAD pee, 2 ee a | 9 64 10 40 | 24 AAU rehS] Pep aT ee (LS DS Slee Se ao 64 10 38 | 26 Siitiariilis. US = Se ee ee me ae fm | 66 10 40 | 26 Crys rHpbalie OHIO. cr 2s cn roinn wcls ocie dole ae aa AS Vedost 66 10 38 | 28 NGOS SUNN: a er eae 9 68 10 44 | 24 MS rREee sir yen 8 Aso. Os och ane oe ees ace 9 62 10 B70 | 25 MinercmblesOmoseeeore. 5.242). 2055 2 2222 eo Hide! 61 10 36 25 OSE TS oe ee fare 62 10 33 29 (OUTS NE ee a a are Be a 60 10 34 | 26 I Gyan Ged OOS. ee eae eae hie 66 10 35 31 omstinriien y vemtiitn 296... 2-2 2S loess lil ee. a) 72 10 36 36 Rep eG Perineal 2 2. a) 66 10 33 33 eee nd eine teypines 5 See Se ee le ¥8 5 al eekO 30 25 Indianapolis, (Mayhew, ) Indiana ...---......---.----. hota 67% 31.410 34 33 Indianapolis, (Butterfield,) Indiana-..--...-.--..----- os O97 LG 32 37 ewig Undiania yess oe see ee wo ee roe ‘mk 68 10 42 26 eetispe laer. bn inna ee pe eee es Se PR ee i. 49 50 10 98 | 22 TORNADO AT CHESTER, ILLINOIS. Below are given a few notes of the weather from Nebraska to Ohio, at the time represented in the preceding table. Further east, all the way to Maine, there was rain, with intermissions from the 7th or Sth to the 10th of the month. At Steuben, Maine, there was a thunder shower on the night of the 9ih. ‘The metecrological correspondent of the Boston Traveller, under date of November 5, says: “The low maximum of the thermometer during the last four weeks has been unprecedented here within forty years; it was so low that the temper- ature of 60° yesterday afternoon was the warmest since October 11, when it was 604°.” On the 9th November the thermometer rose to 67°, which was the highest since the 7th of October. It will be observed that in the region of the Mississippi river a severe storm prevailed, which was very destructive at Ches- ter and Randolph, Illinois, on the Mississippi river, about eighty miles below St. Louis, Missouri. Bellevue, Nebraska—Snow from 4 p.m. of the 7th to 2 p. m. of the 9th, twelve inches. Richland, Nebraska.—Snow from 3 p. m. of the 7th to noon of the 9th, four inches. 565 Laurence, Kansas —November 8.—A rain, accompanied by sleet, falling nearly all day. ‘The rain freezes almost as soon as it touches the ground. Harrisonville, MMissourt.--November 9.—Commenced snowing or sleeting about 7 a. m., and much timber has been broken down by it. Allentown, Missourt.—November 8.—Thunder and lightning from 34 to 4 mie St Louis, Missouri —November 8.—Two thunder storms; the most violent was from midnight of the Sth to 2 a. m. on the 9th. Guttenberg, lowa—On the 6th, 7th, and 8th cold rains fell which formed a crust on trees and fences. On the 9th, at noon, the rain changed to snow, and fell to the depth of about four inches, but the wind carried it away from exposed places, and piled it up behind fences and ravines to about two or three feet deep. Algona, Iowa.—November 9.—A snow storm from the NW. this forenoon, quite violent. Water'o0, Iowa—November 8.—Snow, rain, and freezing, storm from NW. 10th, snowed a little; trees all beut or broken to the ground. Monticello, Iowa—The snow of the 9th and 10th caught a large amount of corn in the fields in this part of this state. 15th—The snow of the 9th and 10th still continues with us, preventing the harvesting of corn up to this date. Towa Falls, Jowa.—November 9.—Heéavy snow storm. It is not quite so cold as last winter, but the snow is flying so thick as to prevent seeing more than a few rods. ‘The wind .blows a strong gale, and is piling the snow in heavy and large drifts. Towa City, Iowa.—November 9.—At 11 a. m., after a rain of two days, the barometer fell, and snow, with violent wind, set in from the NW. During the storm the wind veered so as to “ box the compass,” from the E., SE., 8., SW., W., to NW. Beaver Bay, Minnesota—November 9.—North wind blew a hurricane at 10 p. m. Manitowoc, Wisconsin—November 9 —At 4 p. m. the wind blew with a force of six from NE., and, five minutes later, blew with the same velocity from the SW.; barometer very low. : Beloit, Wisconsin —November 9.—The lowest observation of the barometer ever made at this station was this afternoon. The wind changed with great rapidity from NE. to §., and then as quickly to NW. Between 12 and 6 p. m. the winds were exceedingly high. ' Delavan, Wisconsin—November 9.—The fall of the barometer was mostly from ll a.m.tol p.m. The wind changed from NE. at 1.15 p. m. and blew a strong gale, first from the S. and afterwards from the W. Riley, Illinois —November 9.—Rain all night and this forenoon. At 12 m. the wind changed from NE. to SE. The mercury rose six degrees in half an- hour, then fell sixteen degrees in the next hour and a half, during which time the wind went around to the SW., blowing a gale all the time, prostrating fences and blowing the tops from stacks badly. About 43 p. m. snow fell for half an hour—the first of the season. Hoylton, Illinois —November 9.—It commenced raining last night at 6 p. m., and there was a perfect gale through the night, with an abundance of rain and. — several thunder storms, mostly from the south; one came from the west. At 38 a.m. of the 9th a tornado passed through one mile south of this place, doing considerable damage. ‘Che starting point, as near as I can learn, was at or near the town of Chester, on the Mississippi. It destroyed one half of che town and killed twenty or more of the inhabitants.” It took a northeast direction, passing a mile south of us. It had been raining for several hours, with a strong south wind. A few minutes before three in the night the wind shifted almost instantly into the west, blowing hard, though quite steady, with torrents of 57 rain, and very dark. It lasted about ten minutes, when it shifted again into the south, (this was one mile from the track of the tornado.) We had had two or three thunder-showers in the fore part of the night, and it continued to rain till morning, when we began to hear of the destruction it had made. We had no rain for some time before, except a light shower the day before. The tornado struck the end of a house through the middle. It then took uy a granary, with one hundred bushels of wheat and one hundred and fifty bushels of oats, without spilling it, carried it several rods, and.then scattered it to the four winds. It next came to a poor widow’s house, which it took from the ground and whirled it to atoms, carrying some of the timbers forty rods or more. About a mile from the widow’s it tore up an orchard by the roots, and struck another house, which it appeared to smash to atoms on its foundation, as though a great weight had fallen upon it. Some light things were carried a distance of four or five miles, in a NE. direction, where it hit the agricultural college and moved it several feet. From here we heard but little from it, until it reached Indiana. ‘The width of the track was about five rods.— J. Ellsworth. Chester, Illinois —A terrible tornado passed over the town of Chester about 2 o’clock on the morning of the 9th November, resulting in great loss of life and property. Some twelve or fourteen houses were blown down and com- pletely demolished, burying the sleeping inmates in the ruins. The storm seems to have come from the southwest, and passed only over the southern portion of the town — Newspaper. Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois—The 8th of November, election day, was very warm. ‘Thermometer, at sunrise, 62 degrees, rising to near 80 degrees. Towards sunset heavy, lowering clouds, in masses gathered, and at 1 o’clock a.m. of the 9th one of the most dreadful tornadoes that ever visited this section of country swept over the county from southwest to northeast, levelling every- thing that came in its way, trees, barns, houses, churches, killing and wounding a considerable number of persons. It first, in this county, struck the steam ferry- boat on the Mississippi river, at Chester, blowing all but the hull, boilers and engine right up the bluff; then over the county, in the direction named, about a third to half a mile in width, destroying and levelling everything in its course. By the time it reached the central railroad its force seemed to be spent.— Wil- liam Addison. : Winnebago, Illinois November 9.—At 4} p. m. the barometer, corrected, stood at 28.090, the lowest observation on record at this point, being two-tenths of an inch lower than on the 28th December, 1863, and nearly an inch lower than its normal height at this point. Waverly, Illinois —November 8.—A thunder storm set in at 5 p. m., and continued with slight intermission through the night. There was not much thunder, lightning, or wind, but an unusual amount of rain fell, measuring full four inches. . Tiskilwa, Illinois—November 8.—Thunder and lightning between 6 and 7 o'clock this evening in the south and southeast; lightning diffuse. ; Ottawa, Illinois—November 8.—Rain, accompanied by diffuse lightning, and distant thunder. Ottawa, I/linois—November 9.—This day witnessed the severest blow we remember ever having experienced in Ottawa. A storm had been raging from the east until this morning, when the wind veered round to the southeast, and and for four or five hours blew so strongly that a number of chimneys were thrown down and other damage done.— Newspaper. Spiceland, Indiana—November 8.—Three inches of rain fell to-day. 9th—Nearly an inch of rain fell between midnight and day, and nearly an inch about noon. Instruments nearly stationary between 2 and 6 p.m. From 6 to 9 p. m. the barometer rese 22-hundredths of an inch, and the thermometer fell 13 degrees. 5A 58 Indianapolis, Indiana.—November 8.—Rain, with thunder and lightning, northwestward from about midnight till morning, and lightning south and southwest about 7 to 9 p.m. of same day, and rain at night. The rain con- inued till 125 p. m. of the 9th, on which day the heaviest rain fell. Newcastle, Indiana.—November 8.—Rain commenced at 3 p. m. and con- tinued nearly all day; lightning diffuse, faint, distant from 64 to 9 p.m. 9th— Rained most of last night; heavy showers; thunder and lightning towards day. From 11 a. m. to 114 a. m. the barometer fell a tenth of an inch; from noon to 1 p. m a heavy and severe gale, and rain from southwest. Kingston, Ohio—November 9.—A very stormy day. More than half the rain which has fallen during the storm beginning on the 6th, and just ended, fell to-day. Portsmouth, Ohio—November 9.—Violent winds this p. m.; some damage to shipping. Westerville, Ohio.—November 9.—There has been a high southwest wind all day, accompanied with rain. Welshfirld, Ohio—NVigh winds through the nights of the 9th and 10th, followed by snow on the 11th. Natchez, Mississippt—November 8.—Morning overcast; 12.30 rain; over- east all the evening; wind very strong from the south all day. 9th.—Morning overcast and rainy: wind suddenly changed from the south to the southwest; very high from that point; noon overcast and wind light. SNOW STORMS. An extensive snow storm prevailed about the middle of the month. At Cornish, Maine, 8 inches fell; at Lunenburg, Vt., 5 inches; Williamstown, Mass., 16 inches; Colebrook, Conn., 6 inches; Palermo, N. Y., 6 inches; New- ark, N. J.. 4 inch; Fleming, Penn., 1 inch; Cleveland, Ohio, 2 inches; Lan- sing, Mich., 34 inches; Rensselaer, Ind., 24 inches; Riley, Ill., 4 inches; Waupacca, Wis., 6 inches; Minneapolis, Minn., 44; Dubuque, Iowa, 1 inch. The stations given are those where the largest amounts are recorded in each State. At many stations, especially at the west, very little snow fell, and at some only rain, and at some neither snow nor rain. Later in the month another general fall of snow and rain is recorded, but less than during the pre- ceeding storm. From an official report of Col. Chirington, commanding dis- trict of Colorado, published in the newspapers, heavy snows scem to have fallen in that region. Under date of November 29, in Cheyenne county, South Bend, Big Sandy. he says: “In the last ten days my command has marched three hundred miles—one hundred of which the snow was two feet deep.” Albuquerque, New Mexico—November 8.—No mail was received from the States last week, doubtless owing to the obstruction of the road by snow, which is reported to be from a foot and a half to two feet deep east of Santa Fé ‘mountains.— New Mexico Press, Albuquerque, November 8, 1864. Albuquerque, New Mexico.—November 15.—Yesterday morning people here- about woke up to find the streets very slippery with mud, and the rain falling steadily, though not in torrents, as usual on such occasions. Last ‘Tuesday afternoon, (November 8,) snow flakes fell pretty lively for about twenty minutes, and would have made good sleighing had it not been for contrary causes. However good snow may be in its place, the Sandia mountains have had too much of it for speedy travel. Mr. Subert says the snow was so deep that his wagons were four days coming from Chilili to this place. Further to the north- east the fall of snow must have been very heavy. ‘The travel on the road above -and below this place is difficult on account of the mud—New Mexico Press, November 15, 1864. 59 Albuquerque.—November 22.—A mail has gotten through from Kansas City at last. The cause of detention was deep snow.— New Mesxico Press, November 22, 1864. METEORS. Circulars, together with a map of the stars prepared by a committee of the Connecticut academy of arts and sciences, were distributed among the observers for the purpose of obtaining a full record of such meteors as might be observed on the night of the 13th of November, the period of their anticipated annual appearance in large numbers, But the general cloudiness of the night prevented any extensive observations, and when the sky was partially clear nothing unusual was reported. AURORA. On the night of the 19th November an aurora was reported by many ob- servers from New England to west of the Mississippi. MY « sane one Par wine’ | PL Walle ene hak wht wi eons unath ay ahs A ad cevigggeerelt by out : ib Joe Shay 4 : ; 1 - ' ad ae : v ABR we Licey ae P wy) ; a ¢ / ( - bs ‘9 ore E «di i ind! Hance Ne f fr ee ny af, fined’ to | 4 ie te ’ wba nal, ud REAL bs. r) ' ee | Ag ay ye’ i fing Tt wither tw) tal ae. He at Be) . , Has j 7 ala _ joy 4 ab iy FhaE as + Be aly loa it} fr fot ‘ y MP 10 fay Paden) ae | hibaly \ a od © 5 os 4 ips “7a i vu y ai fe asshilanut. vale ie 7 Ly : dao othe ba ' | TR | bookie pet bile vai herd, yale) me ‘ Ye ave eee ‘ Maar ail foxtccnh ate veerna. on celtic. MEN y 3 ¢)\4 aalped bh ' ) F yw *: ‘a 1 : i) wl i — . , / x i : * = Ki > / | ee F 1 3 " ; haa 1 ; " A, df ' i, rs a: he i a * hs F. i “ae i ’ al MAN 4 ~ Bae Cs i” 7) mes | "ty hae aie \ Tia Pte : Pn ‘i =) itn ¢ ; ey: f *. ee OG f 9 . cs e hy . ou ) MONTHLY REPORT THE AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT J. IN Ut A EY 1865. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. | | rie ote , Na | uh) ee ‘ vd , a pry b> ¥ i ¥! Lea i ' Nt ek 4 “ee ‘ — i ae 7 dy peyieete +, yet # ae 1"; , 5 (} baste Ve H me Pa ae fa eps ton Pave eb iat Bilt Tl: i ‘ vie bs ey yu a MONTHLY REPORT. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, January, 1865. The present report is the first of the year, and since the return to its monthly issue. In making this change, it becomes necessary to say something of the times of its publication. The return day of the circulars, by which information of the condition of the crops, stock, &c., is communicated, is the 1st day of the month, but it is usually the 18th or 20th before all of them are received. It requires from fifteen to twenty days to have the reports printed, folded, stitched, and trimmed. This time cannot be shortened until the war is over. A monthly report cannot, there- fore, be published, with this delay, each month, for the circulars. It often, too, requires a week or more to prepare the tables that are based on the circulars. This time will be required to make up the tables from the general one published in this report relative to the yield per acre of the different crops, and their prices. Hence, often the subject-matter of one report must be extended to the subse- quent one, and by not delaying for the returns of circulars in the preparation of the latter, it may be so far hastened as to allow the publication of the two reports within the two months. The time of the publication of the one will be at the end of the month, as this one for January, and of the succeeding one as for February, about the 20th of that month. The present report may be regarded as indicating the general character of the monthly reports for the present year. The leading article will be strictly an agricultural one, and on that subject, the immediate notice of which circum- stances render necessary, so that the farmer, at the present season, may immedi- ately apply the information communicated in the practical operations of the farm. - Subjects so considered will not have that completeness found in the essays of the annual report, and, therefore, will not preclude their consideration in the annual volume. Besides the leading article, there will be shorter ones on topies more general, but still connected witl the interests of agriculture. There will also be the usual statistical matter, but fuller and more methodically presented than heretofore. The meteorological reports from the Smithsonian Institution will be continued. The principal article in the present report is on the cultivation of the hop plant, a subject that has attracted much attention on account of the high price hops have commanded during the fall and winter. The statistical information in this article will be interesting to the hop-grower, and to those about to engage in its cultivation there is other information of interest. a The education of the industrial classes is at present engaging much attention on account of the establishment of the industrial colleges provided for by the donation of Congress, now being considered by the several State legislatures. The views of one so well known as Governor Andrew, of Massachusetts, on the education of the industrial classes, which will be found in the second article, will be interesting to all. The third article will receive the attention of all wool-growers, for the success of Mr. Potter, as stated in his letter, and the inducements to the increase of sheep husbandry in the prospective markets, will encourage every farmer. The statistical matter is fuller than usual, as the close of the year enabled the full returns to be given of much of the commerce of 1864. In thus referring to these reports, it will not be out of place to acknowledge my thanks for the many kind notices that have been made of them. ‘Their influence is constantly becoming more general, for the reports of the erops and farm stock are seen to be reliable. The time has passed when the plan adopted by this department for estimating their amounts might be regarded as an experi- ment only. It has been tested, and however disturbing to agricultural produc- tion have been the circumstances of war and the vicissitudes of the seasons, yet the plan, thus tested, has been successful even much beyond the anticipa- tions of the most sanguine. This success both the producer and purchaser see, aud from both have I received the commendations referred to. It would be but an unkind return and an affected indifference on my part not to acknowledge my gratification at this expression of approbation. ‘This department had no model by which it could be directed when established, but it was created upon the mere belief that it would promote the greatest interest of the nation—that of agriculture ; but the measures by which it could advance these interests were never designated. Under such circumstances, to receive this general approval cannot but be gratifying to me, and the terms in which this commendation has been conveyed to me call for this notice of the kind wishes expressed. And not less universal has been the approbation given to the annual report for 1863, recently distributed. It is regarded as even superior to the report for 1862, and not a single exception has been taken to any opinion or statement given in it. The care demanded in the selection of contributors, and the knowledge, both agricultural and critical, necessary to render such a volume complefe, cannot be understood save by those who from experience know how much of both is essential to success. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. i) THE HOP PLANT. Inducements to its cultivation ; the soil and manures best adapted to its growth; its enemies and diseases; its cultivation ; its picking, drying, and packing. The heavy taxes on alcoholic liquors point to an increased home production of malt liquors. The present high price of hops is creating inquiry on the sub- ject of hop production. No crop is subject to s0 many casualties, and none, to avoid or mitigate them, demands as high cultivation. Under such cireum- stances, and especially in the absence of any article on the cultivation of the hop for several years in the Annual Report of this Department, it becomes neces- sary to consider it now in the Monthly Report. In so doing, will be noticed the inducements to its cultivation ; the soil and manures best adapted to its growth; its diseases and enemies; its cultivation ; its picking, curing, and packing. 1. Inducements to its cultivation—The uncertain nature of this crop has led to a greater fluctuation in prices than of any other farm product. The following table of the annual range of prices since 1850 will show this : Years. Prices. | Years. | Prices. | Years. Prices. iG ae 22 to 60 cents.|} 1855 ..-.-.-. | 4 to 10 cents. | 1860 -..---. 6 to 32 cents. Meo e 202. 17 to47 ‘* | 1856. ..---. lento 2 ee BG ies eee: 13 to 23 “s |e ee 17 to40 “ 1Gayis ses. | A to 10))<° 1662) 22 3528s See eke eee (1.52 ee eee 22 to 46 ‘ || 1858 .----..) Stols Ths, eee 15 to 30 ‘“* 9854. 2.22 Sitar Sey Ahr 119859). oso 2 | 6 to 25‘ 1864) = oa;2352 20 to 52 * These are the New York prices, as given in the Finance Report of the Treas- sury Department for 1863. They show more the differences in price of dif- ferent months than of the different qualities of the hop. No other product is so fluctuating. This is attributable to three causes chiefly—the irregular an- nual produetion, the irregular foreign demand, and the speculation which these irregularities occasion. The irregularity of the annual production can be seen in the table of this product for New England, prepared for the State Agricul- tural Society of New Hampshire by W. P. Riddle, and published in the Patent Office Report for 1853. The fluctuations in the amount of the crop from one year to the next range from 25 to 100 per cent. Mr. Rouse, of Oneida county, New York, referring to this difference, says : “Very much will depend on the season; this year, for instance, has proved to be very unfavorable, the yield being only about one-third of a full crop. One hop-grower of my acquaintance has obtained but 12,000 pounds from grounds which last year produced 32,000; and another has only 4,000, where last year he obtained 16,000. The universal complaint is that the crop has been very light. Taking one season with another, the range of different fields is froia 400 to 2,000 pounds to the acre. Instances have indeed occurred occasionally in which the latter quantity has been exceeded, and in one instance an average of near 2,800 pounds was obtained. One thousand pounds per acre may be con- sidered a fair crop; but the general average would, no doubt, fall below that, and would probably be about one pound per hill, or 888 pounds to an acre.” Such an irregular production necessarily creates speculation, especially so in this crop, as hops cannot be held over for more than a year without much deterioration in their quality.* = This deterioration is occasioned by the volatile nature of the aroma of the hop. The most compact packing will not retain it, and hence it wouid be well to institute experi- ments of the cost and effectiveness of baling with strong hemp-cloth, gummed with In- dian-iubber. 6. The irregularity of the foreign demand is as great, and occasioned by the fact that the hop in England and the continent is even more uncertain than it is here. y The following table shows the number of acres, in hops, in the years named, and the pounds produced. Those years only are given which exhibit the greatest extremes, but even where the annual production is more regular, it is nevertheless very irregular. Year. Acres. | Yield per acre. Year. Acres. Yield per acre. IBN get 3 2- sede 38, 218 586 pounds.) 1823 .----..---- 41,458 | 124 pounds. PROS 2224 ee 388,436 | 1,465 * (itchy De Ae ee = Se 43, 419 (Olas as TSO ye: ek cteie 38, 357 B60) ue Teoh aerese. ete es ; 46,718 120) seuss Tage a, eet 38,265] 368 * 1606 ee ae ’ 50,471 | 1,237 * Welht t 3 35, 401 7 eI Thshe3 eae 3 Ad ae aul 52, 305 OLY ss Pelee Soe ee 38, 700 LAL es Theol (0) ey pers eras ao 44, 058 ATT STES JS ee a 43 776) |eL, 0878. 164i. ese 45,769 697 * From 1841 to 1850 the yield was more regular, being about 896 pounds per acre. . A.crop so extreme in its annual product necessarily caused an irregular de- mand on the part of Great Britain for foreign hops. Its imports are seen in the ollowing table. Import of hops by Great Britain. Years. Pounds. Years. Pounds. Years. Pounds. 1] | BSS ae eae 725, 648 Nhs ott ys id OOD AL NOOO eee see 7,718, 816 ISS Lee a oe 51,744 \ 856.22 oe ee 1,790,544 || 1861 ...--.-. 16, 707, 712 » ESSOP SEL: SE Rife! ||| dish yl Se se 54- 2, 095, 632 || 1862-2... --. 14, 984, 592 ICG) Se eae AV De Mell Welle) Soeooe- 14560005) 1863222 eeee 16, 495, 472 HCY. Wes Se IB Pes tlO) | Pilseees s SSS 248, 640 | SGA os sense 7, 628, 768 * For ten months only. The exports of the United States show a like irregularity. They are as follows : Exports of hops by the United States. Years. Pounds. Years. Pounds. Years. Pounds. [S35 Uyak ei 17S. a5 ou Sab eee a A021 816860 5-2 --- 273, 257 {c= Ce 110, 360 || 1856 ....--- 1, 048,515 || 1861 .....-. 8, 835, 837 tee) Bey (leh | iehv/ Sasees- 924.538 | 1862" .........| een aioe i feasts... 945,647 || 1858 .....-- 458, 889 || 1863* ....-- 4,415,400 - jhe bt eee 260) C2601) 1ea9 = =e cbf fG i553) ||| listo he a es 5, 081, 800 * Estimated at 200 pounds per bale, the returns being in bales. Here is a great fluctuation, and in 1861 a most extraordinary export. ‘The entire crop of the United States, as returned by the census, was as follows: 1840, 1,238,502 pounds ; 1850, 3,497,029 pounds, and in 1860, 11,010,012 pounds. ‘There must have been a most wonderful increase in 1860 and in 1861 of our hop crop, or else we exported in 1861 nearly the entire amount produced.* * The estimated crop fur 1862 is 16,000,000 pounds, and for 1863 and 1864, 13,000,000 pounds each year. 7 These striking irregularities of production and export fully account for the extreme range of prices. ‘They inculcate this lesson to the hop-grower, that he must expect markets at one time most encouraging, and at another most de- pressing. But the question is, Does the average price of several years justify the increased cultivation of this crop? In Great Britain the average yield is probably about 750 pounds per acre. Mr. Rouse places it in this country at 888 pounds. He estimates the entire - cost of production at about 10 cents a pound, including the picking. This would be about $88 80 per acre. This cost will be larger or smaller accord- ing to the natural fertility of the soil, the cheapness of poles, and the price of labor. But if this estimate is an average one generally, then the hop can be grown for 15 cents per pound in ordinary times and at the usual prices of labor. 2d. The soil and manures best adapted to its growth-——These can best be determined by the nature of the plant and its analysis. The roots of the hop penetrate deeply and widely, and are liable to suffer from drought. In a climate of extremes, like ours, this drought must be guarded against, and this can best be done by having a large portion of vegetable matter in the soil, which is a non- conductor of heat, and attracts and retains moisture. It should be broken up deeply, and always kept thoroughly pulverized. It should be deep, that the lower roots may sustain the moisture of the plant in drought, and it should be well pulverized, for in such a condition of the soil air cannot dry it deeply, because it does not crack and admit large amounts of heat, and the subsoil moisture rises higher between fine particles of loose soil. This plant is a great exhauster, both by reason of the thorough summer cultivation demanded, and by what it abstracts from the soil. Analysis shows this; and the following is an English analysis of the hop. ANALYSIS OF THE HOP. OF WHEAT AND WHEAT STRAW. - : Hops. | Leaves.| Bine. | Wheat. | Straw. Percentage of ash calculated on dry substance 9.00 | 21.94 (ies! | Soecteece||ecne veo Composition of the ashes. See cere ia ses Sah ki he es ah eat Se 19.16 | 22.35 9. 99 1, 27 65. 38 Chlonie. of sodiumy....-s--. 544. J2s2h-\- 28 0.74 3, 12 Pecans seasons cece Cnleride,o1 potassium... 5 2-6. --'4. - 8. 96 2. 29.1 0) LB BOE |: poate pall eens ee ee Ree. San ake ae toe ariel | cies «os mel otwts Seu) e a= Aces 9. 05 0.16 LETS). Sige Cl mea SR se Oke coe ie 31.70 | 13.13} 17.60 | 23.72 13. 44 eines fetes asset Aci d2ER Cs: seperated 9.59 | 30.78} 23. 91 2. 81 6.70 JURE EEC SE BO Se tee Sees ee 4. 80 4,84 3.77 | 13.03 3. 82 1A AO GAN 1) 2 a ee ae 0. 68 0.19 URS NESE oe S| aaa PPR HINGACINer ates boos ne. ee ne ee 5. 10 1.89 2.33 0. 24 5. 82 DROsphoric agiieeses Je. 2225 Pe 130 9.33 | 11.69 | 49.81 3. 07 Crebanie acids) sees ss soe obs sy. 1.92 | 12.04 | 11.92 Datel Ln, ok 99.98: |. 99.96: ganas In this table the analysis of wheat is given also as a comparison, because it is conceded that good wheat lands may be made good hop lands. Silica in larger quantities is taken from the soil by the hop, where the straw of both crops is returned to it. Both have nearly the same amount of potash and soda; but the hop has much more lime and sulphuric acid, and much less magnesia and phosphoric acid. The aggregate pounds per acre do not differ materially in 8 these crops, estimating the number of pounds of hops at 900 per acre, and of wheat at 15 bushels, equal to 900 pounds. The chief difference is in silica, lime, and sulphuric acid. Hence it follows that gypsum, or plaster of Paris, would be a beneficial manure for hop grounds, because it is sulphate of lime. It is composed of lime 32.56, sulphuric acid 46.51, water 20.93. Its best mode of application would be on clover after it has commenced its spring growth, for in this way it would add much to the vegeta- ble matter of the soil, as well as to its lime and sulphur. The crop of clover should, of course, be turned under. In Great Britain it is usual to trench the ground with the spade; here it is an unnecessary expense. “ Very deep trenching for hops,” says Morton’s Cy- clopedia of Agriculture, a Scotch work, “ even when the top soil is not buried deeply, is by no means advisable, provided there be no pan-table or incrustation below.” Eighteen inches is usually a sufficient depth. It may be stated as one reason for not burying the surface mould very deeply, that, although the main roots of the hop penetrate to a great depth, yet that the smaller rootlets, with their spongioles, run only just below the surface, and the manuring ingredients are continually washing downwards. We have also pretty good grounds for believing that rich soil buried deeply becomes inert.” If the soil requires manuring and deepening, this should first be done by the gypsum-dressed clover turned under to the depth of ten inches. When broken up to plant the hop roots, it should be subsoiled an additional depth of eight inches. Trenching with the spade is a useless waste of labor where the plough can be used, and hops should not be planted where it cannot; for, as the hop demands a loose, deep soil, it would soon be washed away on hill-sides. Barn-yard manure should always be applied during the cultivation of the crop, and even before, if the soil is not rich. In Great Britain alluvial soils are regarded as excellent; and clay soils, especially if tenacious, should be thor- oughly drained, for a plant so deeply rooted as the hop should not have its lower roots imbedded in standing water. The situation of the hop-field should be free from heavy winds, as they blow down the poles, but it should be well aired and sunny. The reason of this will be seen when speaking of the disease of mould. 3d. Enemies and Diseases—We have seen how uncertain the hop crop is. This is chiefly owing to its enemies and diseases. In England these are numer- ous; but here it will not be necessary to notice but one of each—the aphis, or louse, and the mould. They will be noticed at some length, however. 1. The Aphis——The correspondents of this department, in speaking of the injuries received by the hop crop of 1864, describe these insects, so common to many plants, and speak of them as /ice. The following description of them is given by Mr. Harris: “The winged plant-lice provide for a succession of their race by stocking the plants with eggs in the autumn. These are hatched in the spring, and the young lice immediately begin to pump up the sap from the tender leaves and shoots, increase rapidly in size, and in a short time come to maturity. In this state it is found that the brood, without a single exception, consists wholly of females, which are wingless, but are in a condition immediately to continue their kind. Their young, however, are not hatched from eggs, but are produced alive, and each female may be the mother of fifteen or twenty young lice in the course of a single day. The plant-lice of this second generation are also wing- less females, which grow up and have their young in due time; and thus brood after brood is produced, even to the seventh generation or more, without the appearance or intermixture, throughout the whole season, of a single male. This extraordinary propagation ends in the autumn with a birth of a brood of males, which in due time acquire wings, and pair; eggs are then laid by the 9 females, and with the death of these winged individuals, which soon follows, the race becomes extinct for the season.” The eggs are not destroyed by cold or wet; and drought is favorable for the multiplication of those lice born in the summer, and wet unfavorable. Hence their rapid increase in droughts. The effects of the attack of these lice on the hop-vines is thus described in Morton’s Cyclopedia of Agriculture : | “When the first attack of these upon the hops is severe, and early in the season, the growth of the plant is commonly stopped in the course of three or four weeks. If the attack be late—that is, about midsummer, or afterward— the bine has then attained so much strength that it struggles on against the blight to its disadvantage, and the result is a total failure of the crop at last; for the leaves fall off, and the fruit-branches being already formed, there is no chance of recovery. At this time and in this condition the stench from the hop plantation is most offensive. In an early blight, however, we have many in- stances recorded of extraordinary recoveries; for these insects are remarkably susceptible of atmospherical and electrical changes, and on a sudden alteration of the weather we have known them perish by myriads in a night. The con- dition of a plant is never hopeless, however severe the attack may be, pro- vided there is time for it to put forth its lateral or fructifying branches.” The progress and termination of the attack by the lice, when severe, is thus described in the same work. “Their multiplication is so rapid that the leaves become so thickly covered as searcely to allow a pin to be thrust between them. They quickly abstract the juices of the bine, so that the leaves assume a sickly brown hue, and curl up, and the bine itself ceases to grow, and falls from the pole, the lice continuing till they perish for want of food; and thus, without the intervention of a favor- able change, the crop is destroyed, and the grower may often consider himself fortunate if the plant recover a due amount of vitality to produce a crop in the following year. ‘When atmospherical change occurs, the lice die off by thousands in a day. As they die they turn a brown color. The first indication of a favorable change is the clustering of the lice to the extremities of the bines and branches. This fact is well worthy of notice, since, to all but close and accurate observers of the hop plant, the outward appearance is the reverse of a favorable change; for the small leaves and heads of the bines are densely covered with lice. But while the lice are thus gathering in countless myriads at the extremities, ap- parently threatening the utter destruction of the plant, the large leaves at the bottom of the bine and the leaves of the branches next the stem are becoming clean. At this clustering period the lice evidently cease to suck the jnices of the plant ; for the attentive observer will perceive the bine resuming its erect position, and recommencing its upward growth, though still covered with lice. At this crisis they usually disappear altogether in the course of a week or ten days, and then the plants should be liberally rewarded, if not lavishly stimu- lated with manure, there being no danger of over-manuring under such circum- stances. “The best manure to be employed in these cases is guano, at the rate of 450 to 900 pounds per acre. The ground should be continually stirred, but this stimulus should not be given until it is certain the lice are disappearing.” Injurious insects are much lessened in number by natural enemies. That which is most destructive of these lice is the lady-bug, or, as called in England, the lady-bird. Of these the work just quoted from says: “They, in the first instance, destroy multitudes of lice, a single one killing eight or ten in as many minutes; and where the lice are not too numerous, the lady-birds will clean the hop plantations. But, generally, the lice have time to deposit some of their young on the under side of the leaves before their enemies attack them, especially if the weather be clouded, when the lady-birds are slug- 10 gish and inactive. The lice are seldom devoured at this time, but the lady-birds lay their eggs also on the under side of the leaves, usually in clusters of about twenty each. ‘I’hese eggs adhere to the leaves, are yellow in color, and of a long, oval shape; they are soon hatched, and the progeny which creeps forth is the ‘black nigger’ or ‘serpent,’ as they are called in the districts. They are ferocious-looking creatures, greatly resembling in shape, though not in size, the lizards of the olden time. As soon as they are hatched they commence the work of destruction upon the lice, which are their peculiar food, as the lice are of their parents, the lady-birds; and if the lice are not extremely numerous, they often succeed in clearing the plant of the vermin, otherwise they devour them until they are literally gorged with food, and then, attaching themselves to the leaves of the hop, after remaining dormant in the larva state, they cast off their outer cuticle, and are transformed into the perfect lady birds, when they again pursue their good work of destroying the enemies of the hop—consuming about thirty lice daily.’’ We have described the depredations of the lice, and the good work of the lady-bugs, at some length, that the hop-grower might see the necessity of two things—/rst, having the ground in the highest condition as to richness and til- lage, that the plant may be enabled to over come the attack of the lice; and, second, that he might see the necessity of preserving the lady-bug, one of the most use- ful of the beneficial insects. The lice could be destroyed by syringing the vines with whale-oil-soapsuds, but this remedy is too tedious for hop cultivation. 2. The mould.—TVhere are various diseases to which common parlance has given this name, but the one now described is the most fatal tothe hop. These diseases, like the lice, are parasitic, that is, both exist upon the juices of the hop plant, which, being deprived of them, are blighted. Hence the term d/ight does not designate the cause, but the reset of the attack of the disease or insect. Morton’s Cyclopedia of Agriculture thus speaks of the disease now under con- sideration : “The mould is a disease rather than a blight. We believe it to be a para- sitical vegetable fungus, usually generated in wet seasons and in damp situations. It is of all diseases the most dreaded by the hop-grower, inasmuch as there is no known remedy for it, and as it steadily progresses in its attack, with moreor less rapidity, according to the character of the season, till the crop is gathered. It often originates from the negligence and inattention of the cultivator, and thus prevention is better than cure. It is intimately allied to, if it be not precisely the same, as the white mildew which we see in hawthorn hedges, and on rose- bushes, especially if the latter grow in shady situations. When the mould ap- pears to any considerable extent upon the hops so early as the end of June or beginning of July, however luxuriant the vine may then appear, there is no hope of a crop worth picking. Dampness and a want of a free circulation of air and light seem to be the predisposing cause of mould, and thus we often see it emanate from wild hops, which are carelessly allowed to grow in neighboring hedges. As soon as this violent disease appears, it spreads in every direction with astonishing rapidity, diminishing in intensity as the distance increases from the centre of mischief. It is first noticeable upon the upper side of the leaf as a white speck, not larger than a small pins head, the spot increasing in size till it attains the diameter of about one-eighth of an inch; below this white spot, on the wnder side of the leaf, there is a corresponding indentation, which renders this incipient indication of mould unmistakable. Fromthe spots on the surface of the leaf the seeds of this parasitical fungus, as we imagine it to be, are blown in all directions, and the minutest particle of this white dust when it settles on another leaf in afew days becomes a minute speck of mould. Each new spot then propagates the disease, and thus we perceive this vegetable pestilence ad- vances with fearful rapidity of geometrical progression, and if the season be 11 damp, acre after acre falls a victim to the attack, which often originates from sheer inattention.” Mould spreads fastest in warm, damp weather. It commences near the ground, and therefore great attention ought to be paid to the frequent pulling off of the suckers, as they sprout through the hill in the summer months. Every spotted leaf should be destroyed. And here we now see the necessity of making such selection of the site of the hop plantation as will secure a free access of air and ' sunlight, for dryness is a check to this disease. 4. Cultivation—Supposing the ground to have been properly prepared for setting out the plants, and that they have been grown one season from the slip, the first step is to determine the number of plants to the acre. The width of the hills, in Great Britain, varies according to the varieties of the hop—the stronger growing ones requiring more room. From six to eight feet square is the customary distances, and in the United States seven feet is the usual distance. The following table shows the number of plants required for the distances named. f TPE er 2 able epltede ea Reanim eee (meat ean at aie agi hr thi 1, 236 plants. OIC CUNO SING NCR eae as ees sties aka itches ta os oh ee cue TOGO PE cigs Bie hah cag ines gail tg aja aa ae eee 888 « SERINE SET FS ee NR ee SRS ieee ae yee eens yo ea ee te at A Rah a ls a Pela Ae th eee OS 695 « By having a white rag or other conspicuous object on the chain or measuring cord at the distances desired to form the hills, the places to set the stakes will be more readily indicated. 'These stakes should be of sufficient height to correct the range by. Male and female plants —The sexes of the hop plant are not united in the same plant, but some are male and others female. Since the sexual relation of the strawberry plants have been so thoroughly discussed in the United States, the importance of having some male plants in the hop grounds will be generally admitted. The male flower grows in a loose panicle, whilst the female flower is compact, like the cone of the pine tree. Hop seeds produce plants, but as they are like fruit seeds, producing varieties of quite different qualities, the hop plants should be multiplied by slips from a well-known and approved variety. Although most of American farmers have some knowledge of the importance of having enough male among the female plants to fertilize them, yet this im- portance is so peculiar in the hop that some special reference to it is necessary. At the base of each scale or leaf of the female blossom of the hop there is a flower, in which is the germ of the seed. As this seed matures the scales grow larger, and are covered with resinous aromatic balls, called dupuline. ‘These are the fine yellow powder of the hop, and contain that bitter principle which ren- - ders the hop so valuable in preserving and flavoring malt liquors. This bitter principle is stronger or more delicately flavored in some varieties of the hop than . in others, and in proportion as the seed is fully developed. This female blossom is vitalized by the pollen of the male plant. ‘Though the pollen,” says an Eng- lish writer, “from its extreme lightness, can be wafted to a considerable distance and some seeds in each cone may be so fertilized, yet it would be well to rear a number of the male plants among the others, or along the hedges of the hop gardens, to insure the fertilization of all the seeds. A bushel of hops collected from plants of the fourth year, raised from seed, weighed 36 pounds, there being male plants near; a second instance, where the plants were raised from cuttings, weighed 35 pounds; while a bushel, grown in a garden where the male plants were always eradicated, weighed only 22 pounds. Besides the greater quantity of hops thus obtained, the aroma is much greater (the /upuline, on which the aroma depends, is considered by Blanché to be the unappropriated pollen dust which has alighted on the scales of the females) and the strength of the bitter much greater.” 12 On this point, M. Rouse says: “It is necessary that a small number of the male plants should be interspersed among the others, in order to give that energy and vitality to the seed which is essential to the perfection of the crop. If due eare is taken in this particular, a seed will be found at the bottom of each petal of the blossom possessed of a most pungent aromatic flavor. Attention to this particular is, indeed, necessary to insure flavor and character to the product of the plant, giving it that fine aromatic bitter which is most desirable, and which it will not otherwise be possessed of; the petal, or leaf of the blossom containing comparatively but little of the astringent quality of the hop. This consideration is one which I apprehend is too frequently overlooked by the inexperienced cultivator, who sometimes rejects the male plants as barren to the great injury of his crop.’”” He recommends one male plant to fifty female. In selecting the varieties of the hop to plant, two things are regarded in Great Britain——the flavor and the time of maturing. The strong growers are usually the largest bearers, but have not that delicacy of aroma that is found in smaller and less prolific varieties. In large plantations where the picking season should be long, such varieties are selected as will give different times of maturity. The number and length of the poles—Yach hill should have two poles. In England, the number is determined by the kind of hop. 'The Farnham Canter- bury white bines and the goldings are strong growers, and require large poles— from 14 to 20 feet long. ‘The grape varieties are smaller, and need poles not exceeding 10 to 14 feet in length. The Cyclopedia of Agriculture, as to the number of poles in Great Britian to the hill, says: ‘“ When there are about 1,200 hills on an acre, and the poles all 18 feet long and upwards, we should recommend ¢wo to each hill, with 16 feet poles, every ¢hird hill to have three ; with 14 feet, alternately ¢wo and three poles; with 12 feet poles, three to each hill.” But in this country, where ground is not so valuable as in England, a lesser number should be used, that more air and snnlight may be allowed, to lessen the evil of mould, and give greater vigor to the plant when held back by the aphis. The poles should be sharpened with a regular taper, and holes for them made by a heavy crow-bar; and when two are in a hill they should be about a foot apart, the tops inclining somewhat apart, to give more room to each top, and prevent the branches from intertwining. The strongest poles should be selected for the outside, especially for that part of the plantation most exposed to heavy winds. In the spring the number of bines to each pole is selected. These should not be more than two; but it is best when the wire-worm is apprehended to reserve two more against their depredations, and until danger of them is past. The bine should be fastened to the poles, as their growth advances, with woollen yarn; and it is best when unravelled from a stocking, as it is more elastic. Women and children can do this work. As to the cultivation, it may be laid down generally, that what is required by. Indian corn should be given to the hop. When the ground is dry enough in the spring, it should be broken up deeply, and followed, from time to time, by the cultivator. Should there be any weeds about the hills, the hoe should be used to destroy them. Ifthe hills have been manured in the fall, it should be forked in in the spring. Be the character of the season what it may, the soil should be kept loose and free from weeds and grass. On the subject of culti- vation, both as to implements and the number of ploughings, we commend our readers to the article on Indian corn, published in the Patent Office Report for 1861. Picking, drying, and packing —We cannot give better directions on these matters than are contained in the article of Mr. Rouse, in the Patent Office Report for 1853: 13 “The hops. having reached maturity, or nearly so, the operation of picking commences. This, to have the fruit in full perfection, should not be done until it is ripe: at which time the seed will be found to have changed from a bright straw color to a pale brown, and will emit a fragrant smell. With us hops are usually ripe about the 5th of September; but as it is better they should be harvested rather green than be permitted to stand till over-ripe, liable to be injured by the early frosts, and as they cannot all be gathered at once, it is necessary in large fields to commence somewhat earlier—usually about the first of September—in order that the work may be completed in season. The picking is usually done by females. For this purpose girls are frequently engaged several months, and even a whole year, in advance. “The hops are commonly picked in large boxes, containing from twenty-four to forty bushels. These boxes are divided lengthwise by a thin partition, and then subdivided into quarters. They are raised a little from the ground, and have handles at the ends to facilitate their removal from place to place, as may be desirable. One man and four girls are allowed to each box. Lach girl deposits the hops she picks in her own division of the box. An industrious hand can pick twenty bushels in a day without difficulty. It is the business of the man to supply the boxes with poles, which he raises.from the ground as needed, cutting the vines about a foot high; to see that the picking is properly done, to remove the empty poles, clear them of the vines, and stack them in a systematic manner. In picking, the hops should be kept free from stems and leaves, and all blasted or immature ones should be rejected. The boxes should be emptied at least once a day; at all events, no hops should be left in them over night. It is of great consequence that they should be dried as soon as possible after they are picked, as they are quite liable, if left together in any quantity, to heat and spoil in a few hours. They may be most conveniently conveyed from the field to the dry-house in large sacks. “ Drying —The hop-house, or kiln, should be of a size proportionate to the quantity of hops to be cured, so that they may not accumulate on hand. To avoid this, it will generally be necessary to keep the kiln heated both day and night. Itis commonly built of an oblong form, and of two stories, the lower part being occupied by the kiln and the press-room and the upper part by the drying-floor over the kiln, and by a room of about an equal size for storing the dried hops, which will of course be over the press-room. Kilns are sometimes built of bricks or stone, of a circular form, with a round opening in the apex of the roof, surmounted by a movable cowl, or swinging ventilator, to enable the vapor of the drying hops to escape easily. If the building is of wood, the sides of the kiln should be lined with brick-work, or thoroughly lathed and plastered. It is found to be most convenient and economical to heat it with stoves, from two to four of which will be necessary, according to the size of the kiln. The drying-floor should be ten feet from the ground, that there may be no danger of scorching the hops in drying. This floor is formed of slats about one and a half inch in width, and the same distance from each other. These are covered with a strong coarse cloth, of open texture, so as to admit of a free transmission of the heated air from the kiln below. The drying-room should be of comfort- able height for a person to work in it, and the sides should be lathed and plastered, that there may be no irregularity of the heat in different portions of the room during high winds. A good ventilator should be provided in the roof, as described above. Openings should be left in the walls near the bottom of the kiln to admit fresh air from without, the draught to be regulated by means of flues, or sliding doors. The cloth for the drying-floor should be well stretched over the slats and firmly nailed. On this floor the hops are spread to the depth-of six or eight inches. The proper thickness will depend somewhat on the condition of the hops; if they are very full of moisture, they should be 14 laid on quite thin; but if gathered when fully ripe, and in fine weather, a depth of ten inches will be allowed. t “The hops being spread as evenly as possible, the fires are immediately kindled in the kiln, and the temperature regulated to one uniform degree of heat. ‘This, however, may be quite high at first, as there will be at that time but little dan- ger of scorching the hops if the floor is sufficiently high. If the hops are rusty, or discolored from any other cause, it is usual to burn a little sulphur under them, which will bring them to a uniform appearance. This is done as soon as the hops are well warmed through, and feel somewhat moist. Great prejudice formerly existed against the use of sulphur in drying hops; but no objection is now made to it by the brewers, and it is generally thought that the use of it improves the appearance of all hops, and that it also facilitates the drying. “During the drying process the fires should be kept up, and there should be a free supply of fresh air below, sufficient to keep upa regular succession of heated air from the kiln, passing through the hops and out at the ventilator, carrying with it the vapor expelled from the drying hops. This will be found far prefer- able to a still, dead heat. As soon as the upper part of the hops appear to have felt the fire, the lower part may be considered as nearly dry, and will rattle a little. The heap may then be turned. Before this is done the heat should be suffered to abate a little, and increased again after the turning is finished. Iam aware that many do not turn their hops while drying, nor suffer them to be dis- turbed at all until they are ready to be removed from the floor. Still, the better opinion, I think, is in favor of turning as tending to facilitate the drying and render it more perfect by the more effectually exposing every portion of the mass to the action of the heated current of air, than would be the case were they allowed to remain as first deposited on the floor, containing many inequalities in density even when the utmost care is exercised in their distribution. If turned at the right time, and in a careful manner, there need be no injury done to the hops. When sufficiently dried they should be allowed to cool off a little, if time can be afforded, otherwise there will be great danger that they will break in moving, or a portion of them shell off and waste. ‘Ten or twelve hours are required to dry a kiln of hops. Two kilns may be dried in twenty-four hours by keeping the heat up through the night. A twenty-foot kiln will thus dry 400 bushels in a day, as they come from the vines, making about 750 pounds of hops when dry. “ Baling —The hops being dried, the next process is to bale them. 'This should not be done immediately after they are taken from the kiln, but they should be al- lowed to lie a few days in the store-room till they become a little softened, otherwise their extreme brittleness will cause them to be much broken in baling, and the sample be thereby greatly injured. The bales should be of symmetrical and convenient form, and should contain about 200 pounds. ‘They are formed in a box or bin prepared for the purpose, in the press-room, of such shape as will give the desired size and form. Across the bottom and sides of this box the baling cloth is first laid,,and the hops are then let down into it from above, and trodden down as they are dropped in until it is filled. Another cloth is then carried over the top, a follower applied, and the screws of the press turned down upon it until the whole is brought into a compact mass. The box is then taken apart, the cloth neatly secured round the bale, the screws are run up, the bale taken out and the ends cased, when it may be considered finished, aud the same process is repeated in forming another.” 15 GOVERNOR ANDREW, OF MASSACHUSETTS, ON THE EDUCATION OF THE INDUS- TRIAL CLASSES. Of the official notices made by the executives of the different States of the donation by Congress for the establishment of industrial colleges, we admire and approve most that of Governor Andrew, of Massachusetts. It exhibits such genuine sympathy for the industrial classes, such a just perception of the extent of the instruction they should receive, and such correct ideas of the mode by which that instruction may best be given, that we cannot but notice his recommendations, and the sentiments expressed by him as Governor in his messages, and in his recent address to the New England Agricultural Society. In his message of January 9, 1863, the governor thus sketches the character of the college that should be established: «An institution requiring ‘military tactics,’ and ‘such branches of learning as are related to agriculture and the mechanic arts,’ to be taught ‘without ex- cluding other scientific and classical studies,’ must of necessity, to be worthy of Massachusetts, involve large expenditures, and demand an assemblage of men of the highest talents as teachers. For although agriculture was the first art invented, it must be the last to be brought to perfection, since it requires contributions from every branch of natural science, and aid from every other art. We shall not use the grant of Congress wisely if we make of it simply a means of giving farmers’ sons such an education as they could obtain by living on a well-managed farm and attending an ordinary high-school. It must be made the means of a positive increase of human knowledge in the departments bearing on agriculture and manufactures, and the medium of teaching not only farmers, but those who shall become teachers and improvers of the art of farming.” Referring to European schools of a like character as those contemplated in the act of Congress, he says: : “The Central School of Arts and Manufactures, in France, counts forty pro- fessors and teachers. The Conservatory of Arts and Trades has a number not inferior, and has also three subordinate or auxiliary colleges in the provinces. _ The Polytechnic School of Vienna has fifty-eight instructors.” The colleges indicated by the act of Congress are spoken of very often as to be agricultural only. This is not the case; but that body had clearly in view the education of all the industrial classes—the mechanic, the manufacturer, the merchant, and a class almost new to this country because of its vast internal commerce, not yet named, but whom we shall designate as the transporter— those engaged in the carrying trade both on land and the ocean. The educational wants of these have been sought to be provided for by the establishment of commercial colleges, schools of design, institutes of tech- nology, &c., &e. The establishment of so many different institutions has been attended with the usual fate of American colleges: few have had the patronage to sustain them, and still fewer have had the means to properly instruct in the limited branches they professed to teach for want of that museum, apparatus, and library essential to a profitable instruction in the sciences. These difficulties led to a report to the Massachusetts legislature in 1851, 16 by Professor Hitchcock, who had examined the agricultural institutions of Europe, on the educational wants of the industrial classes. Governor Andrew, referring to this report, and to the institution recommended by it, says: “The following pregnant suggestion, looking forward to an institution of wise and liberal breadth, and of true public economy like that which our act of Congress indicates, illustrates the comprehensiveness as well as the careful- ness in observation of this report. ‘By the addition of a single professorship of technology,’ says the report, ‘to such an institution as has been described, and extending the collection of instruments to those of every art, this school might become a school of sciences as well as of commerce and manufactures, and thus afford an education to the son of the mechanic and merchant as well as the farmer.’ ”’ Views of this nature, looking to the wants of ad/ the industrial classes, thus presented, and urged by leading writers whose sympathies were with these classes, led to the passage of the act of Congress. The clear intent of that act is to provide an institution for all—not for separate institutions for each, much less for a simple professorship of agriculture in existing colleges. Governor An- drew, referring to the donation in this act, and to the policy of adding to it by concentrating other resources for the instruction of the industrial classes, says : “The act of Congress does not make provision sufficient for an agricultural school of the highest class in each State. Nor would it be possible now to find, disconnected from our colleges and universities, as many men of high talent, and otherwise competent, as would be required to fill the chairs of one such school. But Massachusetts already has, in the projected Bussey Institution, an agricultural school founded, though not yet in operation, with a large endow- ment, connected also with Harvard College and the Lawrence Scientific School. She can therefore, by securing the grant from Congress, combining with the Institute of Technology and the Zodlogical Museum, and working in harmony with the college, secure also for the agricultural student for whom she thus pro- vides, not only the benefits of the national appropriation, but of the Bussey In- stitution also, and the means and instrumentalities of the Institute of Technology, as well as those accumulated at Cambridge. The benefits to our State, and to our country, and to mankind, which can be obtained by this cooperation are of the highest character, and can be obtained in no other way. The details of the connexion of the Bussey Institution with the Scientific School and the College, . are not yet fully wrought out; but I apprehend that little difficulty would be found in connecting it also with the grant from Congress, if the gentlemen who may be intrusted by the State with the work will approach it with the percep- tion of the absolute necessity for husbanding our materials, both men and money, and concentrating all our efforts upon making an institution worthy of our age and of our people. Its summit must reach the highest level of modern science, and its heads must be those whom men will recognize as capable of planning a great work, and of working out a great plan.” : This recommendation of union, and by it of strength, was made in order to avoid ‘the prevention of all the waste of means, the weakening of all resources, the repetitions of professorships, libraries, apparatus, and other material, conse- quent on scattering instead of concentration.” These recommendations were the result of the lofty conception which Governor Andrew had of the present and the future of the industrial classes. Urging this union of the educational resources of Massachusetts, he says : 17 “Regard a moment your positive wealth. Consult its wonderful growth. Remember that you owe all of it to cultivated, instructed, intelligent industry. You have conquered, by first understanding nature. You have studied her mysteries, guessed her secrets, and thus unlocked her treasures. And doubt not that iu the wonderful future about to dawn upon our country, the part you are to enact of beneficence and glory, under the inspiration of your generous eulture and expanding thought, will transcend all the former achievements of your industry, and will outshine the lustre of your arms.” In his more recent address to the New England Agricultural Society, the Governor thus, more in detail, alludes to that labor, for which he justly elaims so great a future: “The needlewoman, by the domestic hearth, or in the shops where labor associates with capital, aided by the sewing-machines—one of the last, best gifts of mechanical invention to women, if not to men; the weaver, by the side of her earpet-loom, which seems to think as well as to work, and which almost talks; the shoemaker, pegging a boot at a blow; the laborer, who fills his gravel-car by two strokes of a steam-shovel, and upsets it by a turn of his hand; the husband- man, who mows and rakes his hay, and reaps, and threshes, and measures out his golden grain by the agencies of cunning mechanisms, almost without fatigue, are only a few of the thousand illustrations of how the human will and the immor- tal intelligence of the human intellect, bridging over the gulf which lies between the boundaries of matter and mind, are vindicating the divinely-given master- ship of man over all things which God hath made on earth. Nay, more than that; for the things invisible and impalpable, existing as hidden forces in the vast abyss of nature—caloric, and steam, and electricity, and magnetism, and light itself; the mysteries of sciences, so wonderful and august that they seem to tread celestial spheres and to sweep the mind bewildered by the contempla- tion, far off beyond the domain of reason—these, all these, tamed and allured to human uses, are familiar spirits, by whose means a thousand daily miracles are wrought without amazement to the beholder, and with little consciousness of our own haw nearly we are brought to the contemplation of the very thoughts of Deity. Those winged horses, harnessed to the plough, the loom, the travel- ling-car, carrying burdens, crushing ores, hammering granite and iron, or weay- ing delicate tissues for ornament or luxury, or flashing intelligence by invisible magic, are daily augmenting in number and power, though they had long since added mechanical forces to the industrial strength equivalent to many millions of men.” Thus, mind—“ cultivated, instructed, intelligent’? mind—creates vast forces; and, regarding it simply as an agent in the production of positive wealth, insti- tutions of learning, which develop it, are the most economical investments that a State can make. Examine its influence with the highest natural talent—over such men as Watt, Telford, the Stephensons, the Brunels, Fulton, Morse, Ericsson, and others—names immortalized by their connexion with the steam- engine, bridges, the. locomotive, tunnels, canals and railroads, river, lake, and ocean steam-navigation, and iron-ship construction, the telegraph, and the monitor. Watt, who perfected the steam-engine, was early sent to a commercial school, studied Latin and the elements of Greek, and mathematics, most diligently ; and, when he was fifteen years old, had read twice, carefully, Gravesands’s Elements of Natural Philosophy. He was, too, a reader of poetry, of romances, of the publications of the day, and of almost every new book he could procure. “Telford,” says Mr. Timbs, “left his autobiography, with an claborate account 2A 18 of his labors for more than half a century, and other valuable contributions to engineering literature. He taught himsclf Latin, French, Italian, and German. He was the first president of the Institution of Civil Engincers, to whom he bequeathed his scientific books, prints, drawings, &c., and $10,000 to provide annual premiums to be given by the council.” The elder Stephenson, the inventor of the Jocomotive and the founder of the railway, was deficient in early education; but, says Mr.'Timbs, feeling deeply his own want of education, and in order that his son might not suffer from the same cause, he sent him to the best seminaries in the district, making him the instru- ment of his own better education. This he did by requiring his son to read for him at the library at Newcastle, and bring home his weekly acquirements, as well as frequently a scientific book, which father and son studied together. But so much did he appreciate the value of an education that, at his own charge, he erected a mechanics’ institute, and by his own education he raised himself to the presidency of the Institute of Civil Engineers. The elder Brunel received a collegiate education, and gave especial attention to the exact sciences, mathematics, mechanics, and navigation. His son was still more carefully educated, and was a member by fellowship of the leading scientific institutions of Great Britain. Looking, then, to the vast material wealth these and like minds have created, who dares contend that the mission of the industrial classes does not demand the most thorough instruction? Compare the laws of man—the common law and equity, the municipal, the commercial, the international—all together—with the laws of nature; how insignificant are they! If the education of the lawyer should be such as fits him for an understanding of the one, that of the industrial classes should qualify them for an understanding of the other. Let no one mistake great inventions or discoveries as the unpremeditated suggestions of as great genius. ‘The electric telegraph commenced with Franklin: Morse but completed it. So the daguerreotype. The incrustation of surfaces steeped in an acid solution of silver and chlorine was first known in 1777, and in _ 1801 a solution of nitrate of silver. In 1802 images on such surfaces were obtained by the camera obscura; but those images faded away rapidly when exposed to light. Then Niepce, an amateur French chemist, after ten years’ ex- periments, from 1814 to 1824, succeeded in taking permanent images, but he was ten hours in getting them, and then without certainty. Daguerre experimented till poverty alarmed his wife, whilst Arago believed that science was not yet sufficiently advanced for success. In 1839 that success finally crowned this labor of sixty- two years, in which most conspicuously are the names of Scheele, Ritter, Wol- ‘aston, Sir Humphrey Davy, Wedgewood, Niepce, and Daguerre. Continents can be explored only after a Columbus has discovered them. But inventions and discoveries have no limit. The application of natural laws to the purposes of life is bounded only by the infinitude of those laws. And therefore wisely does Governor Andrew thus address the farmers of New England : 19 “ Deepen and widen the toundation of your seminaries and schools of learning. Encourage genius as well as industry. Invite hither, and hold here, the pro- found thinkers, the patient students of nature, those tireless watchers who wait upon the stars, or weigh the dust upon an insect’s wing. Discard and discourage alike the prejudices of ignorance and the conceits of learning. Remember that even to-day there is no man so wise that he understands the law which regulates the relation of any fertilizer to any crop ; that few have observed the mystery of that wonderful influence of the first impregnation of the dam upon the future offspring of whatever sire ; that the origin and contagion of the cattle disease, or pleuro-pneumonia, remain hitherto without adequate scientific exploration; that the practical farmers and men of science, all combined, understand as little the destructive potato rot, which concerns the economy of every farm and every ‘household, as the aborigines who first descried the Mayflower understood of the poems of Homer or the philosophy of Aristotle. Not undervaluing the past achievements of science, remember how infinite the extent and variety of the con- quests which yet remain to her.” How little, indeed, does agriculture yet know ! How little cf the life-giving pollen! ‘et there is nothing in nature that forbids man to attain sueh knowl- edge of its action that, by means of it, he can originate such varieties as his imagination may conceive within the limits of the character of the genus. ‘* Happy the man who doth the causes know Of all that is.” But it is not in their occupation only that the progress of the industrial classes is to be viewed. They have relations to society and to the State. And, alluding to these, the Governor thus speaks to the industrial classes of New England : ! « Obedient to order and practicing industry, as well as loving individual free- dom, the people of New England have acquired at last an instinct which dis- eriminates between license and liberty, between the passions of the hour and the solemn adjudications of law. They possess the traditions of liberty, they inherit ideas of government, they’ bear about in their blood and in their bones the unconscious tendencies of race, which rise almost to the dignity of recollee- tions, and which are more emphatic and more permanent than opinions. By the toil of more than seven generations they have acquired and hold in free tenure their titles and their possessions. The dignity of the freehold, the sacredness of the family, the solemnity of religious obligation, the importance of developing the intellect by education, the rightful authority of government, the rightfulness of property earned or inherited, as flowing from inalienable self-ownership of man _and the rights of human nature, the freedom of worship, the idea of human duty, expanded and enforced by the consciousness of an immortal destiny, are alike deeply imbedded in the traditions and convictions of the immense and controlling najority of our people.” s “Tf there is aught which men deem radicalism, or fear as dangerous specula- tion in our theology or our polities, I call mankind to bear witness that there is no child so humble that he may not be taught in all the learning of the schools, no eitizen so poor that he may not aspire to any of the rewards of merit or honorable exertion, not one so weak as to fall below the equal protection of equal laws, nor one so lofty as to challenge their restraints; no church or bishop able to impose creed or ritual on the unconvinced conscience ;. no peace- ful, pious worship, which is unprotected by the state. Thus liberty stands, and the law supports liberty; popular education lends intelligence to law, and gives order to liberty, while religion, unfettered by human arbitration between the 20 soul of man and the throne of the Infinite, is left free to impress the individual conscience with all the sanction of its supreme behests, and of its celestial teachings.” Not less truthful are these quotations than their eloguence. In them are pictured that political condition which exists nowhere else than among an in- telligent industrial class. Look on this picture and then on the following—the one redolent with intelligence, the other shrouded in the gloom of ignorance ; the one self-governing, the other but the blind tool of despotic ambition. The intelligent correspondent of the New York Evening Post, describing the incidents of General Sherman’s march through Georgia, thus speaks of the people there : “Frequent occasions occur for conversation with the people. In the upper part of the State, not meeting with any but the poorer, more ignorant class, I wished to believe that the rich and refined class had fled further south; but, although I have made diligent search for the intelligent, intellectual aristocracy, I have met only with failure and disappointment. Rich men there are, whose plantations line the roads for miles; men and women who own, or did own, hundreds of slaves, and raised every year their thousand bales of cotton, but their ignorance is only equalled by that twin sister of ignorance, intolerance. I can releceeenae as I never did before, why it was that a few persons, who every year represented the south in Congress, were able to wield that influence asaunit. ‘To be sure the interest of slavery was all-controlling, yet it never would have brought this people to the pitch of civil war, had they received the most common benefits of education. ‘The solemn truth is, that the southern people have never had any conception of the nation as I did. They do not know what it is to be an American.” These pictures teach us a lesson—made solemn by our national calamities: And nowhere is this lesson better enforced than in the following language of Governor Andrew : “Schools, colleges, books, the free press, the culture of the individual every- where, the policy of attracting, encouraging, and developing all the great qual- ities of the head and heart—in a word, the production and diffusion of 7deas— in these shall rest forever the secret of your strength to maintain your true po- sition. I implore you to unite and not divide in your policy. Whenever you ean create a great school, or find a great professor, unite to strengthen the school, and tomake sure of the man. Our system of diffusing knowledge through the local schools, our plan of distributing elementary instruction, are things of which we are sure. But your district schools will themselves go to seed, your knowledge will become bigoted and mean, unless you remember that the encouragement of these higher institutions from which they are fed, and where their teachers are themselves taught, is as needful as the creation of the head of water above the dam is to the spindle’s s point. Your greatness must be found hereafter where it has been found hitherto, in the highest development and cultivation of the faculties of men.’ THE PROFITS OF WOOL-GROWING, AND THE FUTURE WOOL MARKET. We give below a most valuable communication on the profits of wool-grow- ing, and valuable, too, as exhibiting what energy and business attainments car accomplish in agriculture, even when their possessor is wholly unversed in 21 farming. It furnishes an instance among hundreds of others that might be cited of the truth of the opinion advanced in our report of a year ago, that in- dustrial education should aim more to develop the faculties of the mind than narrow it down to knowledge in a mere pursuit, fitting all for whatever occupa- tion our changing American life and energies may invite the individual into. “Here,” as was remarked in that report, “the merchant longs to be released from the distracting cares of commercial pursuits, and the opulent manufacturer from the dangers of changing markets. Both anxiously desire the rest and enjoyment found in the country life.” It shows the truth of the remark of Governor Andrew, of Massachusetts, in his address at Springfield, that «the tendency of young men to seek other than rural employments is partially balanced already by the tendency of their fathers to return to them.” Making all allowances for the favorable time in which the writer has made his experiment, and the additional interest on the purchase-money of so much of the farm as used in his sheep husbandry, which, we think, is not fully repre- sented in the cost of keeping his flock, we still see how inviting to wool-growing is the experience of our correspondent, as shaped by energy and business intelligence. The future of the wool market is most encouraging. That the prices will be affected by the return of peace is very certain, but they will not be, we think, to the extent of the change in the prices of other commodities. The south has continued the war until it has become so much exhausted in labor, money, means of transportation, and to the ruin of so many plantations, that a crop of cotton, strongly competing with the wool product, cannot soon be grown afte the return to peace. Again, the price of wool has never had an advance equal to most other pro- ducts and to the advance in gold. The United States Economist remarks that “there is no article in the catalogue of merchantable commodities that has ad- vanced so little since the commencement of the war as wool,” and this it shows by the following table, the first column of which exhibits the market rates of gold and the second and third columns the currency and gold prices: Month Gold rates. | Currency price} Coin price. oat of wool. AYES 2 la) AE er i res 155 $0 80 $0 51.61 iat etree. aloe a a SL | 157 71 45, 22 | EHC COW. GRO oe ak ee ee rr 162 74 46, 12 2 SiR dee ae ee ome 170 | 76 44,70 1 PVs oko be ons oo a rr ee a 180 80 44,14 GRY Eee ee ecesh elle) Se eee cane 205 89 Se lil ieee po paec Sashes espe 256 97 37.89 Pe SUV EARS er SS SAE, 2 BO ES a 256 1 03 40. 28 EMMICUN SOc oe cone Be See Soot ea eee ete se 230 1 07 46. 52 Ooieven eset eee mee es OAL ae 205 86 41.95 INONGM elastase emcees 8 fe 230 OA 40, 87 Decent porter =. Aaa ee SE LAT 333 98 42. 60 PAV OT AO Osta sy pam eerste wick = /3( Sto ears Bea 2034 87.91 43, 59 22 By this table it will be seen that in January gold was 155; in December 233; a difference of 78 cents, being an increase of 50 per cent. Wool in January was 80 cents in currency, and in December 98 cents, a difference of 18 cents, being an increase of only 224 per cent. In the coin price there is an actual decrease of 9 cents during the year. In January the difference between the currency and coin price was 55 per cent.; in’ December that difference had increased to 140 per cent., occasioned not only by the increased currency price, but by the decreased coin price. The chief cause of this injustice to the American wool-grower is found in the heavy importations of wool in 1864, Whilst the home product was from 80,000,000 to 95,000,000 pounds, the imported wool was 74,963,047 pounds. But this competition will not exist. hereafter, for the tariff duty on wools, under the act of last session of Congress, is rapidly decreasing the amount of these imported wools. This is seen in our imports of wool from Great Britain. In eleven months of 1863 we imported 14,202,122 pounds; in eleven months of 1864, but 4,822,147 pounds. Again, under the misnamed reciprocity treaty with Canada, which ought to have been entitled, A treaty to sacrifice the interests of agriculture for the benefit of commerce and manufactures, wool was admitted free of duty; and so large a quantity of the kind most in demand, the combing wool, came from that quarter, that among eastern manufacturers it is known by the name of Canada wool. Notice has been given that this treaty will be abrogated; and although it cannot be for a twelvemonth after such notice, yet the fact of its certain abrogation at that time will serve to uphold the price during 1865. In view of the fact that these Canadian combing wools will be excluded, as well as from the general fact, shown in our last report, that in Europe as well as in the United States, the coarser wools are now consumed in larger pro- portion than the finer, as also that there is a rapid increase in the consumption of mutton, we urge our wool-growers to a ereater inerease of the Cotswolds and Leicesters, and such crosses of these as yield profitable fleeces and carcasses. Concurring in the wish of the Economist, that it hopes to see the day when every pound of wool consumed by our manufacturers will be grown in America, we commend the following letter to our readers : Spring Brook Farm, Near Kalmazoo, Michigan, January 16, 1865. Dear Sir: Yours of the 6th instant is before me, and having the leisure, I hasten a reply, and in doing so, permit me to do so somewhat in detail. The spring of 1861 found me tired of commercial life, sickened with polities, ad- vanced in years, and quite infirm from sedentary habits; with no practical ex- perience in farming, the use of agricultural implements or the habits of stock. J traversed portions of Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, looking for a farm to retire upon. In October I purchased in this State, and on the first day of November, like the man who purchased an elephant, I found myself the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of land, and “ didn’t know what to do with it” —a fit subject for knowing ones to impose upon. Ihave since learned that the flock I bought with the farm, consisting of 23 wethers, ewes and lambs, were common sheep. The lambs graded up by a grade Spanish buck, shearing ten pounds of washed wool. This was a dock of two hundred and seventy-six, and cost $250 each, or $690. Another flock of eighty, having two French bucks, a few nearly pure French ewes, a few Leices- ters, and about equally divided between ewes, lambs and wethers, I purchased for $150. ‘To this purchase I added two as good Spanish blooded bucks as could be cbtained, for $30, making 358 sheep, costing me $870. Thesée were considered high figures at that time, and the source of some merriment to the’ yeomanry in the vicinity. As if to add to my confusion, about the middle of December my shepherd came to me and said “ the largest flock had the scaé, and that the vender knew the other flock had the foot rot when he sold them to me, and that I should slaughter the flock and keep no sheep for years to come.” Here was a dilemma, and the “book farmer’ would trot back to town again wiser than he came, in the opinion of some. Goaded to desperation by such remarks, and the idea of being so “ wooled,’’ I “off coat’’ for a personal exami- nation. Some of the largest flock had spots on their haunches and shoulders of harsh, dry, and matted wool; the skin under these spots exhibited small pus- tules, and the whole skin yellow in appearance. This seemed the scab indeed, and I treated it as such by withdrawing the diseased ones, and housing them in warm stables and pouring on to the spots from a tea-kettle a strong solution of tobacco as often as it became dry, and until the old wool on the spots sloughed off, a new and healthy growth starting. This occurred within three weeks. No new cases appeared, and I have since determined their disease to be “ pelt rot,”’ contracted from running through the wet autumn of 1861, in high clover. The second flock undoubtedly had a slight touch of the foot rot, contracted from the low lands they had run on the season before. The hoofs of this flock I im- mersed twice a week in pyroligneous acid, diluted one-half, and, suffice it to say, the first day of the next February no lame sheep or skin disease could be found in the flock. By this time, becoming somewhat interested in the welfare of my sheep, and inured to exercise, as the 15th of April approached, I took personal charge during the lambing season, rearing about 70 per cent. of those dropped ; thus ended _all my fears. I could tell “a sheep from a goat,” and went on my way, “thanking God and taking courage.” Now for the general success and three years’ experience. The whole flock was debited with their purchase-money. At the end of the year interest thereon was charged at 10 per cent., charging them the first year $1 50 per head for. board and shearing. The second year, the aecount running two years before balancing, the flock was debited with one year’s interest on the previous year’s board. * As I sold culls, wethers and lambs, and wool, the flocks received eredit, as the following exhibit will more particularly unfold : 1861. November 1. To purchase money for 358 sheep --.---..-.------ $870 00 1862. November, To. purchase money of 1 buck .. +. .--. . -.2-+.s0e= = 20 00 To board and shearing 350 sheep 1 year, at $1 50 em sy OS ae Oe ae ere eee 525 00 To 10 per cent. interest on $870 purchase-money, 1 pee di, ee oe ah 87 00 1863. March. To purchase money for buck-lamb............---- 10 00 November. To board and shearing 423 sheep, at $1 50 each .... 634 00 ‘ To 10 per cent. interest on $1,425, original cost of . Hace and t year's Bosatdemeumees ..-). . j= + ~~ 142 50 Path. cadese. oh ke oo ee eee ol ee BEE 2,228 50 24 Credit. 1861. December. By 8 sheep slaughtered, at $2 50 each -.. $20 00 By-receipts for lost’sheep’s pelts .....-..- 12 00 1862. July. By receipts for 1,526 lbs. of wool, at 50 cts. 763 00 August. By. receipts for’ 2 bycks sold »...---.--.. 20 00 October. By receipts for 50 wethers sold, at $2 50. 125 00 November. By average interest on receipts. ..---..-- 23 50 1863. September. By 20 cull ewes and 50 wethers, at $3 ... 210 00 By 51 wether lambs and 25 cull ewes at =o) Ak a Pee ye mk SE 190 00 October. By 25 cull ewes, at $3, 50 do. at $3 50... 250 00 bVcovwethers, Gijps sees ape ae eee ae 75 00 By 22 wether lambs, at $2 50, 1 buck at $3 58 00 Dy sd lame. pelts. fo eae steed eee a 4 00 By 1 ‘sheep plaughtered )o\h.6- 2205-125 "3 2o November. By 1,726 lbs. of wool, at 75 cents.....--. 1,294 50 By on hand 240 breeding ewes, 69 one shear ewes and 19 one shear wethers, total 328, BS IO eis neta tate wm ata © ete o le meal oie ese 820 00 Sbucksvaluedvan.. SPA. bee 115 00 Deduct expenses as above Net profit $3,983 25 2,288 50 1,694 75 It will be observed in the foregoing statement of two years, that the sheep In ofening the account for 1863 and 1864 I value the ewes, lambs, and wethers at $4 each. which, if added to the profits, as shown in the balance of 1861, 1862, and 1863, exhibits on hand were estimated at $2 50 per head, exclusive of bucks. a net profit of $2,186 75 on an outlay of $870 the two years before. third year’s exhibit is as follows: 1863. November 1. To valuation of 328 sheep at $4 es Morvaluation- Ot is DUCKS ae oes eee ee ee To cash paid for buck John 1864. June. November 50nrf To boarding To eash paid for washing and shearing 1. To 10 per cent. interest $1427 valuation Nov., 1863 337 sheep one year at $2 each ecewr ee eee eee eee ee ee ew Gta! Cost oe eee eee eee Seas Contra credit. 1864. July By 1,478 pounds of wool,at $1...... $1, 478 August By 7 wether lambs to butcher......- 21 August 11. By 19 yearling wethers, at $4......- 76 September 6. By 70 wether lambs, at $3 50....-.. 245 By 12 cull ewe lambs, at $4...-.2-- 48 Sept. 10. iy Aineoll ewes, at $o-le0 es Loam eee 205 October Byiceen tor buck lamb: .32)h.eoeeere 15 Byrecasn aor.an buck, ..2 s/s 15 The 2,316 70 25 November 1. On hand 69 one-shear ewes, 60 ewes of the original flock, 122 ewes twice shorn, 85 ewe lambs, and 3 wethers ditto, 5 buck lambs—in all 344, at ROMER. Curse pees Ss, ssc» ot we $1,376 00 MIRIGE BRL ya oti Bead oleh we x: 2 ae 115 00 ———_ $3, 594 00 Diet OVOGt. Ads Gome a a eeew es rude 2 toes Sted 1, 27% 20 I am now in my fourth year in sheep husbandry, and having disposed of all my wethers but three, and all of the’ ewes which had lambs and which did not shear four and a half pounds, at $5 per head, I have valued the whole flock at what the drafted ewes sold for, viz: five dollars each. 'This increase of one dollar each, added to the profit of last year, makes the net gain of $1,621 30 on an investment one year ago of $1,427.. My present flock, it will be seen, consists of 60 ewes of the original flock, 122 two-shear ewes, and 69 one-shear do., all with lamb, or supposed to be; three lamb wethers, 85 ewe lambs, five buck lambs, and five old bucks. The latter I have estimated at $115, as the year previous, and all of the former at five dollars each, believing them, aside from the change of times, to have doubled in value by careful breeding. So that the account stands on the first day of November, 1864— Dr: SUNG MRET EEC eter a cc tc wre aha hatha = aoe oie ane ote eave eee o eee $115 00 Paper aPONIGED AL go CACY a eis 2 o'= eo a PRE ee stein diner ee > wlaheetaaal> ol 1,720 00 $1,835 00 The first year I fed with clover hay and about one gill of shelled corn to each sheep, commencing to feed corn to the ewes two weeks before copula- tion with the bucks, and continuing it until turned out in the spring. It will be seen that the flock of ewes and wethers sheared a little over four and a half pounds general average that year. Thenext year I fed no corn after January, and the general average of the same flock was but a trifle over four pounds. The last year I fed corn to the breeding ewes as heretofore before copulation, and until the 1st of February, when I commenced with wheat bran, known as coarse middlings, and weighing about forty pounds to the bushel, intending to feed about three-quarters of a pound to each until turn-out. The flock of ewes thus grained and ted with poor clover hay twice a day, salted once a week, in- eluding 19 inferior wethers, once shorn, and since sold for four dollars each, it will be seen by inspection gave a general average of over four and a half pounds of clean washed wool, which sold readily in the barn for one dollar per pound. Last season I reared over 90 per cent. of lambs, and expect to do so this spring. Dropping should commence by the 5th of April, and should be all through with before the ewes are turned out. Lambs do not do well coming after so great a change in diet; and if an ewe loses her lamb, her udder is generally ruined for want of care. One shear-sheep requires better feed than older ones; quite as good as lambs if allowed to breed. { am feeding that kind of ewes hay twice a day, and one pound of wheat middlings each. ‘The older ewes have straw, bean haulm, or corn-stalks twice, and hay once, with three- quarters of a pound of the middlings per day. The lambs have hay three times a day, with a peck of shell-corn mixed with treble the quantity of middlings. I have not lost a sheep since last April, at the lambing season, nor do I expeet to until that season shall arrive again. All the ewes wear in their right ear a 26 ' : copper rivet, numbered on one side, with my initials oa the reverse. ‘These are inserted after the ear has healed from the puncture made with a No. 10 harness punch. When a sheep is being shora, its number is taken, the fleece when off is weighed, and this last year, if a two-year old ewe did not raise a lamb and shear four and a half pounds of washed wool, she was put into the draft flock for sale. At the next shearing I shall raise the standard to five pounds. My sheep are rapidly becoming what are now known as Spanish sheep. The principal buck weighed seventy pounds before shearing, and his fleece weighed twelve pounds of clean free washed wool. Enclosed find a sample of seven months’ growth. I have no confidence in those high-priced, faney-faced, oily bucks, peddled through the country. They are like Peter Pindar’s razors made to sell. My bucks are kept in an enclosure of one acre, with an open shed on three sides, shingled with straw. 'Tois yard has a hay barn in the centre, several straw stacks, and is partitioned off so that no more than fifty sheep feed together. The yard is upon a twenty fect elevation, above an en- during stream, to which the sheep always go for drink after each meal. The stream is strongly impregaated with iron, to which I attribute the general good health of the flock and healthy strong lanbs. ‘The ammonia in snow and magnesia in water is,in my opinion, a fruitful source of goitre or swelled glands in lambs. With clover hay in the barn at six dollars per ton, corn at fifty cents, bran at ten dollars per ton, straw and corn fodder accumulating on a farm to feed therewith, sheep can be kept one year and shorn for $1 50 per head, and give their entire droppings to manure with as profit. The season last past the forage was higher, and it will be seen the flock is charged with $50 for washing and shearing, and $2 each for board. A sheep should receive daily about 3 per cent. of its live weight in good clover hay in winter, or its equivolent. The tables found in your report of 1862, page 273, are unquestionable, and of great value to the practical shepherd. By 3 per cent. of live weight daily, as a standard, it is not difficult to arrive at a just estimate of the cost of wintering, when the price of forage is established. Hoping to hear from you often. T am, yours, C. S. POTTER. Hon. Il. NewrTon, Washington, D.C. THE DEPARTMENT PLAN OF £3STIMATING THE AMOUNT OF CROPS’ TESTED. We have, at different times, made known the plan of estimating the annual products of the country by the Department of Agriculture. It necessarily must be tested, and these trials will be notieed in these reports; for we have now so much confidence in the plan itself, that whatever errors may be found in the results, we believe will be in mistake in details, which may be corrected, and not a radical wrong in the plan itself. We have before us two tests, as severe as the plan could be subjected to, because they refer to the tobacco and hog erops—one vegetable, the other animal, and two of our most changing crops since 1861; the one (tobacco) so vastly increasing in the loyal States, and the other so greatly decreasing. In Rader & Son’s annual tobacco circular for New York there is this state- ment: 27 «The enormous yield of tobacco in 1863, of which we received in this mar ket over 132,000 hogsheads, and therefore must have been fully 175,000 hogsheads, taking in the consumption in the west and stocks still held there, has been a matter of surprise even to the best informed.” We believe the crop cf 1863 is larger than here stated. To the 132,000 hogsheads received at New York, there were inspected in 1864, at Baltimore, 52,873 hogsheads. This alone makes the crop received at New York and Baltimore 184,873 hogsheads. The consumption of that which has been inspected elsewhere, and of that which was consumed without inspection, could not be less than 35,000 hogsheads. If so, then the crop of 1863 may be repre- sented as 219,873 hogsheads, equal to 263,847,600 pounds, estimating the hogshead at 1200 pounds. As reported by this department, the tobacco crop of 1863 was 267,267,920 pounds. The second test of the plan of the department is in its estimated decrease of the number of hogs. In 1863-’64 the number packed and shipped in the west was 3,291,105. The estimated amount, as stated in the bi-monthly report of September and October, for the season of 1864-’65, was 2,340,469, being a decrease of 950,636. The returns, as far as received, show a decrease of 488,047 on 1,750,344 of last year’s packing, being equal to a deficit of 917,656 on the whole number packed last season. So close an approximation would be regarded with favor in ordinary circumstances; but under the remarkable changes which the hog crop has endured from the loss of the corn crop in 1863, it presents an estimate that will command great confidence in the plan adopted here for the estimates of crops. Henry Milward & Co.’s provision circular of Chicago, of January 11, has the following comments on the pork market : “The returns from the various packing points come in but slowly; but they all show more than even the estimated deficiency: and we see no reason to change our original opinion, that the total deficiency will be at least 800,000 head, and may reach, and possibly exceed, 1,000,000, &c., &c., &e.” CINCHONA PLANTS. Onthe 13th of January plants of Cimchona condaminea (Peruvian bark tree) ap- peared at the agricultural garden in basins in which seed had been sown. They came up by hundreds in less than one month from the time of sowing. ‘The seed, however, were in excellent condition when received from their native country, having been gathered when thoroughly ripe in September last, and subjected afterwards to careful treatment. In trials with Cinchona at the Kew gardens in London, some years since, germination took place at the end of three months. The present species of Peruvian bark tree is from the vicinity of Loxa, in Southern Ecuador, and is one of established reputation. It is believed to be well adapted to cultivation in a great part of California, in the mountain regions east of that State where cold is not extreme, in the mountains of the interior of Texas, and in other locations in our country. 28 THE AVERAGE YIELD PER ACRE AND AVERAGE PRICES OF THE CROPS OF 1864. : The following tables show the average yield per acre and the average prices of the leading crops of 1864 for each of the States named. It will be repub- lished in the February report, and tables made from it, exhibiting a comparison with the value of the crops of 1863, the yield per acre, and the average of each crop in. the several States and for the United States. Table showing the average yield per acre and the average prices of the prin- cipal crops of the loyal Atlantic States for 1864. | WHEAT. | RYE. BARLEY DATS. CORN | tes! et = eo i =| tS qd pe a =| = | | Sis ora oe! leery peas Co erat oe C15 vee oC Di aes SD 1 tele a as a a A ra £3 | 28 | 8s | ee) 83) e | ge | Be | se | es ST oe Be ee tee oe oN ee a eaten ae aa = ue ~Pi ws a ue x | pS nf Ae nw STATES. f°) Be | 221 28 So | Be | 2s | BS | Beate me | Se le 1 ee Nog | 2 dng el eee so i888) S50 /88/30/88)/ 382122135 88 ‘= OD ra Wen) ae RS eee aS 32 RB 3 2 S55 PBS Se 23 ay Ms Re 23 Bays re a te = ») Bia i=) —- te) o.c oo S| So | 2 | Sos | So2 | Sos | 4% | Soo | So@ Pileee ey | s@2@laen | se) an | S22] gx] s2] aq | 5B Pico: Veet a eee eT ete ECT er cp sha ities CC an PO | Fa | fo) Fa) sol ral rol ee | em) ee fem) Peg meg | meg ae meg eed te Mameen. S20. Je 106,42 60 | 12 ($2 043) 18 [$1 45] 22 [$1 01! 27 [$2 10 New Hampshire .-..| 121 | 268); 144|!2 04] 18 24 92 | 293} 2 II Vermont... --.2-... 14 | 2573) 1541 88 | ‘ 22 33 87 | 38411 96 Massachusetts. --.--- 16, |) 2.40 1215 1.2 00 12520 2653; 1 04; 314 | 2 04 2 = = r of | Rhode Island .----- LO 2 ON BETO 2500) | 25 33 | 98% 302 | 2 09 | | Connecticut... 4... 16s. \2 Oral PS Pit OL 234 30 | 1 00 | Si) aes | | 7 New York .....---- 13 | 2343 1441/1 703} 192 93 | 94] 294 | 1 68 | New Jersey .-..---- 15 | 233] 133] 1 693) 20 323. | 914] 313 | 1-704 RAN ee toe yee : Pennsylvania ...--- 12 ;240; 144;1 704 18 294 87 | 294 | 1 542 Maryland. .........| 114 | 260] 14 | 164] 263 22 87 | 214 | 1 62 Delaware << s2s2s Ginn ayers sacs soos 5) 147 FE PUSS 9,514 36 4, 800 439: AIStHIGR tee coche SEE ote cee jee aS 66 27, 045 1 Ded Moroccoper {.- «2-2 Se Phe ee 7 cee Oe wee ee 1, 096 356, 133 47, 296. Danish West Indies ..|.......-|.---------+- a eaeee < 135 4, 436 | 512 IETECCC eS = coe e eee | Belg Wal he ee Re ce ey eee 575 230, 75d | 26, 330 Miidleel: 2. 28 1109, 141 | 48, 744,901 |8, 121, 032 |115, 799 | 56, 874, 128 i ' | 9,418, 291 These values are in gold, and represent the foreign cost. EXPORTS OF LEADING ARTICLES OF DOMESTIC PRODUCE FROM Articles. Wheat flour... .-.-- Rye flour Corn-meal Rye barrels. . barrels. . barrels. . Wiest. ..4 22 see bushels. - bushels. - 1862, 1863, AND 1864. 1862. 2,961, 518 8, 397 132, 606 25, 564, 755 1, 104, 549 1863. 2, 527, 338 5, 461 140, 561 15, 424, 889 416, 369 NEW YORK IN 1864, 1, 9158, 593 12, 195, 433 588 33 Gam.2ak.l.....8 bushels... 210, 669 126, 556 42,135 Barleys.... 2... bushels. . 42, 061- 52, 439 150 a ee bushels. . 113, 819 110, 911 186, 154 Li | bushels... 12,020, 848 4, dao, 451 846, 831 i” tS ee barrels. . 171, 302 192, 903 130, 672 MBSR: 2. 401 FS barrels. . 32, 977 41, 632 36, 548 Rees See 3... UE tierces . . 27, 765 62, 868 49, 299 Out mieats........ pounds.. 145, 102, 758 183, 519, 060 93, 800, 258 et i a pounds. . ~a076USr23o 23, 060, 799 14, 174, 861 OS ae pounds. - 39, 200, 439 40, 781, 168 49, 755, 842 (1 an pounds.. 126,651, 091 120, 881, 862 53, 436, 128 WOW 65-2. 2232 pounds.. 43, 866, 920 43, 487, 731 31, 987, 976 Matton <\.... 2 See bales. . 24, 400 13, 945 26, 765 Se bales. . 4, 674 19, 986 40, 325 BS 5 os on ae bales. . 33, 409 25, 409 22,077 Petroleum........ gallons: - di vthendiye ~ + -beb dedi ct 21, 359, 629 EXPORTS OF SPECIE FROM NEW YORK AND SAN FRANCISCO. 1861. 1862. 1863. 1864. From New York...-. $4, 126, 250 $59, 437, 021 $49, 754, 066 $50, 113, 809 Beet P rancisem, ik... A. we we 46,071,920 55,707, 201 Of the above exports from San Francisco there was exported to New York the following: 1861, $34,370,587; 1862, $25,010,116; 1863, $12,207,320: 1864, $12,903,089. EXPORT OF PETROLEUM IN 1863 AND 1864 FROM NEW YORK, AND THE COUN- TRIES AND PLACES TO WHICH SENT. In 1862 the petroleum oil trade was in a depressed condition because of the supply outrunning the home demand. But relief was found in the foreign demand for this new product. To show the extent of this demand, both as to amount and the places and countries from which it comes, the following table is here republished from the New York Shipping and Commercial List: 1864. 1863. PEE DGOL atts Pitre a a ocinw seme mo Sp 134, 755 2,156 /851 Rta’ MG SNL onintc ne REN oe 1, 430, 710 2,06; dol Demet AND 2. aso akeeeeee ns ss 368, 492 414, 943 MS. 2. Pee seer. 6 SS eS 29, 124 71,912 Piamenen, Mnphand 2s «iti omen cee en dels tas 316, 402 623,176 Granemouth; England: .....-.--- ..-<++: See ees. 425, 334 cl oe eee eee ere 3, 310, 263 1, 5a2, 257 bowie emevtand,:. 2... 2-.2- == - = Bnd eee pa tae ee a SS ee et ROO 1S PS 2; a24, O17 1, 774, 890 pO ay on eee cere eee Poe, 1, 982, 075 1, 167, 893 ee ee eee ee a ae: a PeRMRANIG cae ae oo - = [a = fs CS acai LS DERE << = sige 4 as - «= 380) ie o's Sei 79, 581 46, 000 Bee + si os 2. oe Wee oe ee es os 143, 646 SENS a ae RS as 8g oro a Bana ane eee a 4, 149, 821 2,692, 974 IDTEMeNn. - 25) Mae. cn cas Se See 971, 905 903, 004 DIRT EEE,; oa cDRAAPS bc ta heone cok HOE ete 77, 041 436 3A 7 Hambure.::.- -Ba@.8ebe= cn. -8 Rotterdam... 665 286 2 see Gotwenbure: 2. ds: 44tete 2. Jee Cronstadt......t) JR es. ee @adiziand Malaga: .#2¢..-.0...% Tarragona and Alicante......... Pareolotia.. - At Sshcuncck< Rarto’ Rico!? 004. P8GS) SF... 0 xs otal gallamsy he. a. - 2 -- sh- -- see eevee =e ec ee ee ee ee eee eee ececer ee ce ce eee eee ee ee ee eee eee oe ia way ol] (w mmie see et ee eee im, ©, 8) pw ee ene eee ee eee ee - =r ewe eee ee ee a eee ee ee eee eee eee eee sess et ee eee «cece eee cece eee eee tee ee ee ee -e ee eee eee ~- +22 cee ee ee ee eee eee - see ee ee oe ee =e ee eee ee ew aleolsia jareleile) sa --s 2-2 ce cee ee -- +--+ se eee ee 21, 280, 489 1, 186, 080 532, 926 33, 813 400, 376 59, 674 16, 823 25, 500 69, 181 17, 474 7, 983 635, 121 165, 175 4, 000 167,195 3, 398 10, 810 97, 880 149, 676 112, 986 418, 034 20, 260 18002 92, 550 169, 061 6, 072 7, 881 70, 976 28, 902 8, 463 26, 638 16, 020 7, 088 993 28, 583 57, 490 20, 026 19, 547, 604 1, 466, 155 757, 249 59, 439 During the following years there has been exported from other ports as fol- lows: Mromebostone <2. ..2... Se gallons. . From Philadelphia......... gallons. . romebalimorescst. ss. <5. . gallons. . Brom Poriland. - 22... .-..-.. 2 gallons. . 1864. 1,696,307 7,760,148 929,971 70,762 10,457,188 1863. 2,049,431 5,995,738 915,866 342,082 8,703,117 1862. 1,071,100 2,800,978 174,830 120,250 4,167,158 30 The total exports from the United States are— Gallons. Value from average prices. GO ee ois oe ee ae a ae ie 2 a LO; S80:701 wo ares S324 See eee 2 8 See omen 28,250,721 $14,616,928 USUicls sigeencsco.o06. Se RS eeIeD oes 31,745,687 23,686,457 AVERAGE PRICES OF PETROLEUM IN 1864 AT NEW YORK AND PHILADELPHIA. Crude, (per gallon.) Refined, (per gallon.) (a ace ae A eee 31,8, cents. 522 cents. EY os are gs SEE eats te 2 os oe epee Be B0pu, “ 553“ Mere ss 2. = rie we 2h eek Se 2s sk SE RSs es sii) “ Sy Beles. 5 SUE T SERS es oP Batic es 373, “ 64,5, « EY oct ee Me wate het sees teases es 38 ~ 654 : PEED sb eenctesketes ee eee ereee tbe aes kets 444 « 77 os Mara aon See Sa nae had eaeege sae 5255“ 92 Re BP as = hee abt s meee Reese vt 528 F5¢ ya pepmeneR. oo 202 ee oo hate she tees 46,5 « 853 Maier s.. - . SSRs Se As ees SL 402 « 753 ‘ ) SL ee ee ee Oe ae oe Seen, 45,5 “ 86,5 “ oe ES Cee eee eee eee es ay | 525 927, “ Average for 1864.......- posal 41.81 74.61 Average for 1863......-.-------- 28.13 51.74 Exports of flour from Baltimore for the last four years. ‘ o Destination. 1864. 1863. 1862. 1861. Great isritain’ :... 5.52... 5..- abi 20, 509 38, 809 57, 335 74, 632 Hanseclowns 525- See5—. 12, 286 933 15, 872 25,313 British North American cclonies-~.-- 14, 430 33, 412 28, 817 21,598 Sete widlaae _ .5/,5- see ae cane eee i B69C i Sua 1, 962 300 WE Ma EGiegass<.21. Shea. sso tof: 2 98, 969 83, 473 81, 487 87,473 Gitiprivortser = =< « <)2.<)2/sfon'<'s-) 32015 11, 424 (epi | 5, 514 4, 060 Ry oe ei oe 333, 042 326, 450 360, 273 375, 658 Foreign exports of provisions from Baltimore for four years. 1864. 1863. 1862. 1861. eel lGle@s Fo sera se eietmines on ~E 1, 316 300 1, 750 694 gee tharreisy 255 Sop S33 sc. se 1,769 1, 267 3, 174 647 PG HESCES (> seein aes <2." 0. - | opae. o. 3 Se 39 \oaceed ogee Porks: barrels’ -- -|j-as-- ona.ae ec 5, 803 6,173 | 11,716 7, 302 WSCOn, DeOXeh: 2 -occseminke sais as = - = |.c ase 10, 038 (cio 1 eee ol Bacon, pounds: 20-2 dapat 5 22 52 577, 085 742,900 | 1,240, 000 J, 805, 387 hard Wkepa oases ae 41, 800 59, 465 111, 330 51, 133 515) Exports of tobacco from Baltimore. (hhds.) Years. Bremen. | Rotterdam. | Amsterdam. France. All other places. 1864 .... 15, 686 12, 287 4, 940 7,459 4, 660 PROS See 11, 672 8, 135 3.00) 6, 383 14, 576 Webe sce. 15, 172 Ie save 6,318 4,471 16, 929 TRG et 32, 982 Oe 8, 244 oO, e15 16, 924 1860 ...- 24, 700 22,700 5, 244 6, 825 8, 869 A ot5 43) ee 19, 180 Boon 153 8, 311 5, 495 F858" 522 16, 542 18, 059 | 3, 825 16, 935 Tihs brea: JR57F Lee 18, 034 11d | 4, 054 7,438 | 6, 325 185622 20,612 14, 215 | ainda 4,891 8, 301 1859 Be 9, 103 7 LOO 10 7, bed. 1, 444 EXPORTS AND PRICES OF PRODUCE. [Irom the Journals of Commerce of New York and Chicago. ] | ‘Total. 45, 052 44, 137 55, 477 86, 537 68, 334 Table of exports from New York of the leading agricultural products, from January 1 to January 25, 1865, compared with those of the same time in 1864, and their prices at New York and Chicago on the 25th of January. The reader will observe that this table commences with the new year. ereat falling off in the exportation of wheat flour, wheat, peas, petroleum, cut meats, and butter, will arrest attention. and manufactured tobacco, and cheese. The The increased exportation is in leaf ° From Jan. 1 | From Jan. 1 Prices on January 25, 1865. to 25, 1865. to 25, 1864. At New York. At Chicago. Wheat flour ..---- barrels - - 7, 816 127,178 | $9 20 to 11 60 &7 00to 10 00 Riventhour (454). 202 barrels..|------- Soe: 334 | 8 60 to 9 00 6 85to 7 00 Gorn, meal. <.522- barrels. - 10, 078 9, 782 |. 8-80 to - 9) 00 |-<= 22225 Seer Wihteattre ea tons.. 192,660 28,000 220,660 BAG ae 3 asks atte nwe saw fe UEES tons.. 231,308 53,000 284,308 Ly ER ie oie oe aah gg Sam eg gegcae nt tons.. 241,411 184,600 432,411 PE a OSA so ooo a 2 Set hm woe ae tons 241,420 122,399 363,819 eee eerie tons. 296,950 118,331 415,281 0. EE ae Seen een oe tons.. 239,034 192,150 431,184 fete o24. fuy.fee2 - 5G) .5n7.08. tons 244,758 143,634 388,492 NE as dale <2 2.3, 5 Amy aoe tons.. 241,765 39,000 280,765 UE ee ee eee tons 208,292 123,468 378,760 Ni ad aici 3.25 dees ge as tons 192,604 185,148 377.752 CONSUMPTION OF CANE MOLASSES IN THE UNITED STATES. Total. Foreign. i hs a ast gallons.. 32,581,668 28,753,668 lo. 2k 5 eS ee eee gallons.. 37,569,088 26,569,088 cs Ra ia Ma iy al cae a ae gallons.. 62,668,400 25,650,400 ee, ee ee oe, ee ee gallons.. 40,191,556 20,383,556 EE)" a” . |: 924 ie Jno.G. Metcalf, M.D. Ti) 134 Pie A. |: 2406) |S Baldwinsville.......).... Ue: SS Rey. E. Dewhurst -. ef 48 23} —15 | 24.3] 4.48 Amherst..........-- Hampshire ...... | Prof, E. §. Snell... (4 23| 0| 302) 463 Springfield -........ | Hampden. ...... J. Weatherhead .... 1 52 93,| — 5 28.6 | 4.45 ‘Wenthield 23... s.6.. -|o.5% A ee ' Rev. E, Davis ...... a 51 23 | —2 28.0; 4.98 Williams College. ..| Berkshire . ...-.- Prof. A. Hopkins -.. 7 51 | 23; — 6 26.6} 4.18 Richmond ..........|..-. 6 2 252.2; Wm. Bacon ........ 23] 531 231—41 25.61 9.67 42 Table showing the range of the thermometer, §c., for Decem ber—Continued. Place. CONNECTICUT. Newburg Fishkill Garrison’s White Plains Deaf and Dumb Inst. St. Xavier's College -|. Flatbush Schenectady -. ....-.. Gouverneur Clinton Oneida Theresa Oswego IRAIBYMO. waco. Soke oe Palmyra << (FOHOVE, 2- . 5.222 2. Howard .... ..- Philip Tabb ........ 1,3 Sykesville.......... Carroll. 3-25.,.25 Miss H. M. Baer ..-. = i DIST. OF COLUMBIA. Washington ........ Washington .....} Smithsonian Instit’n 1,3 | SOUTH CAROLINA. | Hilton Head .....-.- Beaufort ---.---- Capt. C. R. Suter. .- 3 | MesgwiOre 222... =2-|h =< CO eigenen sca. M. M. Marsh, M. D.. AG KENTUCKY. Louisville .....-.... Jefferson ....-..- Mrs. L. Young..--.- 2] OHIO. Sayorpokiv. ..=22 2. Ashtabula .....- Jas. B. Ryaser2ecc. 2 Qe Wustinhure. 2 2o2e.|5-. - doi22e.n2ee E. D. Winchester . - - 2 East Fairfield ...... Columbiana .....| S. B. McMillan ..... 2 | New Eason... 2 92]: -* . doj=2-seocne J. F. Benner = .-.-.- 2 Steubenville - ..._.. Jefferson ......- Re Maraly, = P2375 27.2 & 22: Welshfield....-..... Geauga.......-- B. F. Abell, A.M --- 2 Milmersville,-...... Guernsey - ....- Rey. D. Thompson. - 2 Cleveland ~.....:-2. Cuyahoga ....-. Mr. and Mrs. G. A. 2 Hyde. Cuyahoga Falls..... Summit......... D. M. Rankin ..-.-.-. 2 Woosteri... 225.22: Wayne . ......-.-| Martin Winger - .... 2 Smithville . — 32-25. 1... (32 ¢ Re ie J. E. My@rit sacsce3 2 Gallipolis ....-.. a Galligan... 2%. A. P. Rodgers .-...- 7 Kelley’s Island. ....- TSPIO =~ Eeas n=, Geo. C. Huntington. 2 | Norwalk . .......--. Huron ee foe of. Rey. A, Newton... 2 | Westerville......... Franklin 3: ..... Pf. H. A. Thompson. 2 | Date, { ° 52 | 15,23 61 12 56 25 58 | 12 55 23 53 12 53 | 9,15 56 25 50 9 55 | 9 40 12 60 | 9 56 9 56 12 60 12 56 Q3 55 | 9,12 57 9,12, 23 15 23 78 12 60 12 55 11 54 11 54 12 60 11 60°}. Sho 60 8 60 23 56 | 8, 9,23 53 11 56 i 54 a 6 | 23 56| 23 58 | 11 5s | 08 Min. 15 Oe or WO DH Ww 12 | Mean. 36. 36. 54. 53. Swarr nN wo cs ~ t Co 3 owonrnrn oo Oo 1 99 Or 2D wm WD 29 Rain. . 18 it Table showing the range of the thermometer, §c., for December—Continued. Place. oHIO—Continued. Kingston Portsmouth.......-. Urbana University. . RADOY; a jpeteie'- nmin. OURO), cr sete See Cincinnati oO es aaa Eee MICHIGAN, Pontiae Monroe State Agric’1 College. Garlick New Harmony....-. ILLINOIS, Chicago PIVARStOnN..cc5c6 Hoyleston......... Waverly Galesburg Manchester AUpORIAE ser dette WISCONSIN, Manitowoe Milwaukee Green Bay County. ROBB joo oes =e Pf. John Haywood... Seioto 3. ee ccm ate L. Engelbrecht ..-.-.. Champaign ...... Pf. M. G. Williams. - IBYOW WM sees = = Si Dr. G. Bambach ..-. Clermont ........ Geo. W. Crane -.... Breblesens. so 2. Miss Ollitippa Larsh. Hamilton..-...-.. John W. Hammitt-.. SRP OD! apa nance Isaiah H. Wilson.... Braet On serie. = mare R. C.. Phillips 2: =. << don: ceept ened George W. Harper.. Oakland.......-. James A. Weeks. ... Monroe = -ensece— Miss F. E. Whelpley - Ingham ss: 20-5 Prof. R. C. Kedzie... Ontonagon ...... Edwin Ellis........ Switzerland ..... Chas. G. Boerner -.. UC aaeee oe Saaee Miriam Griest.. .... Henry 2-222. <5 32 T. B. Redding, A. M. St. Joseph....... Reuben Burroughs. - Manion. = -.505=)- W. W. Butterfield -- one HleRSEMooraaie Re Mayhew... ----- POEBY ie ap mae seen John Chappellsmith. Cooke. ssc2tc. Samuel Brookes .... AB as See A. D. Langworthy. - McHenry . -..---- i, Babeock' si.cssee- DeKalb 2. 225/22. Dr. N. E. Ballon....| DOWitbin Fes icc.c C. 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YPN ‘fijaargaayjoo “pau psf svat aay” So yvf pun a.lnjgosadUlay IGFVLIAD YQ FULNOYS I]QY, 47 There was very little clear weather in December, and at many places it rained or snowed on more than half the days of the month. The two heaviest storms were about the 10th and 21st. They both prevailed from Iowa, or further west, to the Atlantic coast. NOTES OF THE WEATHER. Lisbon, Maine-—December 13.—Sabbati’s stream freezes so as to bear man: - 23d, mail-carrier crosses the Androscoggin with horse. Lee, Maine.—December 10, 11—Wild geese going south. Shelburne, New Hampshire-—December 1.—Farmers ploughing. 9th, con- siderable anchor ice in the river; the first time there has been much. 13th, Androscoggin river closed. 19th, ground frozen to the depth of twelve inches, measured. 23d, saw a man who had not traveled over forty rods, and had his nose frozen. Claremont, New Hampshire—December 27, 28.—Heavy and curious fog covered the earth, followed by rain, under both of which the snow rapidly vanished, leaving the sleighing thin and poor. Lunenburg, Vermont——December 21—We are having a great blow, snow drifting badly, the river and pond closed. 15th, swift water not yet frozen. 31st, roads in bad condition ; bare of snow in spots, and full of holes. Baldwinsville, Massachusetts—December 21.—Wind blew furiously this af- ternoon and evening; snowed all day. Barometer very low, falling nearly an inch from 7 a. m. to 2 p. m. Mendon, Massachusetts—Good sleighing from the 12th to the end of the month ; all the snows came moist, so there were no drifts. Topsfield, Massachusetts—December 31.—The month has been very stormy. There are now seven inches of snow, and the ground is frozen to the depth of three-quarters of an inch. New Bedford, Massachusetts December 23.—River frozen north of the bridge. 27th, ice in the river broken up. 31st, no ice in the river ; very little frost in the ground. : Sandwich, Massachusetts —December 31.—Sandwich pond froze over on the night of the 12th, and still remains frozen. There has been no sleighing this month, the snow in all cases having turned to rain, or melted almost as soon as it had fallen. Middletown, Connecticut.—December 12.—Sleighs moving freely. 18th, Connecticut river closed with ice. Skaneateles, New York.—December 3.—T'ornado from west by south at 3 p- m., lasted not over five minutes; in half an hour another came from the same direction ; appeared to be less than half a mile in breadth. 10th, five inches of very dry snow fell last night. 22d, lake frozen a considerable distance up. 31st, snow fell on eighteen days this month. Moriches, New York.—December 17.—At 9 p. m. the sky was entirely clear, but in a few minutes I was suddenly prevented by clouds from making telescopic observations. It was the most sudden change from an entirely clear sky to an entirely cloudy one that I remember to have ever noticed. South Trenton, New York—December 4——Ground not frozen ; many are ploughing. 12th, ground frozen hard. 29th, ground frozen four inches deep. 31st, snow eleven inches on the level. Nichols, New York—December 23.—Susquehanna river closed with ice. Theresa, New York.—December 8.—The ground froze. 12th, river frozen over. Garrison’s, New York.—December 31—The month has been remarkably wet. Snow has continued to cover the ground since the first fall on the 11th; and the ground being but slightly frozen at that time, the frost has not gone any depth worth naming. The river still continues open at this point. € 48 Progress, New Jersey—December 9, 10.—First snow-storm of the season. 15th, Rancocus river closed by ice; opened on the 19th. Delaware river obstructed by ice on the 15th; a few steam-tugs force their way through. Delaware river frozen over at this place on the night of the 23d; broke up the 26th. Burlington, New Jersey-—December 31.—The ground has not been frozen more than three inches deep, being protected by the snow. The warmth of the 28th and 29th took all the frost out of the ground. It froze moderately on the night of the 29th, and is now covered by a snow of some six inehes in depth. Passaic Valley, New Jer-ey—December 13.—Temperature of a spring near the Passaic river, and which is covered by the river after heavy rains, 49°; temperature of the atmosphere at the same time 18°. Germantown, Pennsylvania.—December 31.—The ground has been covered with snow since the 10th, thus keeping the ground unfrozen, and it is’ now quite free from frost. Byberry, Pennsylvania—December 9.—Ground frozen hard; ice frozen on ponds hard enough to bear. 14th, ice three inches thick. Tioga, Pennsylvania.—December 15.—River frozen over. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—The ground was covered with snow from the night of the 9th of December until the 7th of January, 1865, a period of four weeks—very long for Philadelphia. Fallsington, Pennsylvania.—December 12.—Delaware river closed first time this winter at Trenton, New Jersey. 18th, river broke up. 23d, Delaware closed the second time at Trenton; broke up the 28th. Horsham, Pennsylvania.—Quite a heavy snow fell on the night of Decem- ber 10—about three inches—the first of the season, and unusually late to have had none. Fleming, Pennsylvania.—December 9.—Bald Eagle creek is freezing over for the first time this season. Beaufort, South Carolina.—All the early part of the month excessive dews ; eaves dripping as if from rain; on the 3d, at 9 a. m., window blinds of veran- da, twelve feet under a roof, dripping freely. December 8, thermometer at 2 p- m., in shade, on south veranda, at 88°. 10th, lightning in the west. 27th, lightning northwest from a cloudless sky. 238th, lightning throughout the heavens at 3 and 4 a. m. Hilton Head, South Carolina.—December 12.—Ice an inch and a quarter thick frozen over pail of water in open air. 27th, in evening diffused and dis- tant lightning. 28th, shower in forenoon, accompanied with quite heavy thun- der and lightning. Portsmouth, Ohio —December 12.—Ice coming out of Scioto river in large cakes ; some ice in Ohio river. 19, 20, river rising very fast. 21, snow, sleet, frozen rain and hail; heavy winds; river very rough; some damage to ship- ping ; tow-path covered ; barometer at 7 a. m. lowest since in my possession— four years. 22d, river falling ; steamboats compelled to lay over on account of storm and high water. 26th, ice running out of Scioto river. 31st, Cloudiness prevailed during this month more than any I have on record. Cleveland, Ohio —December 12.—Canal froze over. 13th, river froze over. Urbana, Ovio—December 16.—lIce five inches. 24th, ice six inches. 26th, snow off, covered the ground four days. Cincinnati, Ohio —December 16—Darkest afternoon I ever witnessed. Kelley's Island, Ohio—December 20.—No lights in light-houses; consid- erable ice in lake; navigation has been virtually closed for about a week. Schooner Zouave came from Sandusky on the 10th, and went to Put-in bay, and could not get out, and is now frozen in there. 31st, there has been a greater amount of cloudiness the past month than in any month for five years. 49 Indianapolis, Indiana.—December 8.—Temperature of the air, six feet above the surface of the earth, at 7 a. m., 11°; temperature of water in a well, 49°; temperature of air at the surface of the water, 45°. Depth of well to surface of water, 19 feet 3 inclies ; depth of water, 2 feet— Butterfield. Indianapolis, Indiana— December 2.—Lightning south and southwest from 8to9p.m. Average temperature of December, 1861, 359.57; 1862, 369.71; 1863, 349.53; 1864, 279.70. Amount of rain December, 1861, 1.96 inches; 1862, 5.74 inches; 1863, 3.14 inches; 1864, 3.42 inches.— Mayhew. Penville, Indiana.—December 2.—Thunder-storm at 9 p. m.; vivid lightning at the southwest. Winnebago, Ilinois—December 2.—Lightning in the east and southeast, below the horizon, from 7 to 8 p. m. Clinton, Illinois —December 2.—Bright zigzag lightning in the southeast at 7 p.m. tGit athe: Iiinois.—December 4.—Wild geese flying eastward this morning. Allenton, Missouri—December 2.—Thunder and lightning from 2.25 to 2.35 vin, Athens, Missourt.—December 1.—Heavy clouds hanging in the northwest; quite sharp lightning and heavy thunder for theseason of the year, from morning till noon, 26th, fog from 5 to 10 a. m.; the heaviest fog for some years, and rather uncommon at this season of the year in this country. Harrisonville, Missouri.—December 1.—Distant thunder, and diffuse light- ning south at 6$ p.m., thunder and diffuse lightning SW.; between 8 and 9 p. m.; a very heavy peal of thunder south at 9 p. m., and heavy shower of rain ; heavy peals of thunder overhead at 10 p. m., inabout half an hour moved NW. and died away distant. Manitowoc, Wisconsin—December 7.—Manitowoc river closed again. Milwaukee, Wisconsin.—December 8.—Milwaukee river closed with ice. Muscatine, Iowa.—December 1.—Steamer R. P. Converse passed down the Mississippi river to-day. 9th, Ice stopped running. 12th, A team crossed the river on the ice. 31st, Ice fifteen inches on the channel. From six to twelve inches of frost in the ground. Dubuque, Iowa.—December 8.—Mississippi river closed with ice. Spring Grove, Iowa—December 1.—The ice is all out of Iowa river, and frost out of the ground. Lyons, Iowa.—Lightning at the southeast at 8 p. m.; no cloud in sight. 8th, The Mississippi river frozen over this morning. 9th, Crossing on the ice. Manhattan, Kansas—December 1.—Lightning in the east and south from 4.30 to 5 p. m., and at 9 p. m. Bellevue, Nebraska.—December 2.—The last boat went down the Missouri river. The river was closed for a few days in November, and one boat came up after it opened. New Ulm, Minnesota—December 7.—Minnesota river frozen fast for teams to cross safely. December 31.—All snow disappeared except in shaded places. 4A 50 RAIN. Depth of rain and melted snow collected in the rain gauge kept by the Winni- piseogee Lake Cotton and Woollen Manufacturing Company at the outlet of Lake Winnipiseogee, in the town of Laconia, New Hampshire. Month. 1860. 1861. 1862. 1863. | 1864. Inches. | Inches. | Inches. | Inches. |Inches. POST oc Ree re ee Sao see eee -70 4,97 6. 37 5.24 | 2.83 Wenmnatie cee ce aes aaaeoe hewn vce 32 2= se 3. 62 2.53 3. 97 De Tele dada Marches spe eee ee. 8-2 eee ee: 2 estos = 2. 09 2. 69 4.99 5.60 | 4.01 Appl Met ee ewes ke opeece a2 te ~~ 220

wary RAED aia VY oa ) was, th ‘7 Wi aia 1s ui ; on vidoe o ia) suet ridth dit piu yi a lt: ‘Wea \ i en iy { rrepatr ba eli oa +i Tey i a lca rte ty pieee te rv oil vie’? 7 ey ; fsa ™ rena a hia bw tain “a Ny. » SOF we hd | | ‘ i “Rtin | Diy Mays | ¥ | | Viti | ’ Lwty | | t f ¥ "T \ 7 i) - 4 7 ' | M Lal a i ‘ bs ' , ‘ 3 - Aji tn : tb hat | | ati) ie / ‘ r i za i i jyer ' dn . 7 i | yawns catia | coettbatk aa i + es AA. Du tri “ieent > ihe tise aa Vy +9 a hile fy f ara ar Ly ' ati Pan gitr ¥ : wae i as bgt ful at re lie if artar al SRI on OK Lichen ob) P 4 a | 7 MONTHLY REPORT DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Washington, February, 1865. This report contains various articles, arising out of the correspondence of the department on topics interesting to the farmer, and demanding of him such an effort on his part as will tend to lessen the evils they refer to. The greatly decreased value of much wheat because of the prevalence of smut in many localities, is a loss that can easily be avoided, as will be seen from the letter of Mr. Haden. If the evil is not arrested, it will continue to spread every year, through the mode of threshing so prevalent in the west, where the smut most largely prevails. The letter from se Weeden & Co., of Providence, Rhode Island, will be read by all wool-growers, because it relates to a subject interesting to them. The kind of wool most in demand is directory of the labor of the farmer, and it will always be a leading purpose of these reports to present such facts and opinions as will aid him to look forward to the future demand as present circumstances indicate. It is a purpose, among many others, that has demanded the publication of these reports as a means of constant communication with our vast agricultural community. With a view of rendering every possible aid to agriculture, an agricultural museum has been commenced in this department, so that specimens of every product may be collected and compared. Among these, it is my aim to have every breed of sheep exhibited, and their most useful crosses, that the farmer may be guided to the production of such kinds of wool as he may deem most profitable for him to grow. To render such an exhibition still more useful, it is desirable to have specimens of foreign wools of every kind, just as they are emported, with their value and uses stated, that our farmers may more clearly understand the varieties and qualities of wool necessary to manufacturers. The Commissioner desires such specimens and information from manufacturers, believing they will aid in establishing a more cordial understanding between industrial pursuits so mutually dependent. And here I would remind all correspondents that the department receives free of postage all mail matter proper to be sent to it, not exceeding two pounds in weight. . The letter of Mr. Hoag details an experiment in what may be called trans- forming winter wheat into spring wheat. It is hoped that-it will call forth general experiments next winter, for if his success is found to be general, the practical uses to which it can be applied will, in many seasons, render him a public benefactor. The articles on agricultural education in England, hospital. gardening, and the profits of industry Will be interesting to all, the latter especially, when taken in connection with the statistics of the crops published in this report. The industry of the United States is so vast, and, when considered in its relation to the war, so wonderful in its productive results, that its bearing on the ability of t the nation to meet the debt occasioned by the war will receive the attention, not only of every American, but of all civilized nations. When the tables of the amount and value of the farm stock for the year 1864 shall be published, which it is expected they will be in the report for March, a table of the estimated annual production, for that year, of all the industrial pursuits, will be prepared to follow them. Whilst much of the great aggregate value of the crops is to be set down to the difference between gold and currency values, and considerable to the war demand, yet, nevertheless, the productive capacities of the country are so vast that the shock of such a war, and the weight of so great a debt, cannot impede to any great extent or for any considerable time the accustomed progress of the nation. The value of the leading crops, as estimated by this department, is, for 1862. $706,887,495; for 1863, $955,764,322; for 1864, $1,440,415;435. These values do not embrace the crops of Kentucky, which, for want of sufficient returns in 1863, could not be estimated, but for 1864 will be found in the general tables, but could not be embraced in the comparative statement just made. The advance in value during these three years is 103 per centum, and the chief causes of this great increase are shown to be from the war and the condition of the currency. The advance by the war demand is 30 per centum; by the currency value, 73 per centum. For the universal approbation accorded to the reports of this department I return my acknowledgments. A public journal excepts to the policy of en- couraging the growth of tobacco and hops, for the reason that their use may be regarded as immoral—the one a useless luxury, and the other made so by its use in brewing malt liquors. It is not the province of this department to discuss moral questions. It would involve a discussion and action that would be without limit, for con- sistency would require a condemnation of jime-woolled sheep, because fine clothes are a luxury, and not an absolute want; and of the raising of the silk- worm, for the same reason. It would force the department to ask from Con- gress a prohibitory tax on all sales of corn and other grains to distillers, and of hops and barley to brewers; to demand like duties on foreign liquors; to tax heavily ali luxuries of whatever character. .A moment’s reflection must con- vince all that this department must take a commercial view of all agricultural products, as affording profit or loss in their production. The most virulent poisons are made and grown by nature for useful purposes, but ignorant or reckless application may make them the instruments of death. ‘To this misap- plication must be imputed the moral guilt, not to nature for producing them. Hops and tobacco, ardent spirits and poisons, flounces and silks, have each their proper use, and until this department advocates an immoral use of them it cannot justly be subject to censure. To the ministct and the moralist must be left the consideration of moral questions, and to Czesar must be rendered the things that belong to Cesar. ISAAC NEWTON, Commissioner. THE SMUT, OR BUNT. In many sections of the west the last wheat erop was much injured by the smut. For the purpose of separating it from the wheat, smut machines have been invented, and millers have used these with more or less suceess; but still the market value of smutted wheat is lessened, as well as a loss in the amount of the crop sustained by its presence. It is, therefore, much to be desired that the evil should be eradicated. If farmers could be induced to grow their seed-wheat, as suggested in the article on the production of seeds in the bi-monthly report for November and December, 1864, the smut could be easily avoided; but we must not wholly rely upon what should be done, in a certain particular, as foregoing the neces- sity of other suggestions to effect a similar result. We therefore invite atten- tion to the character of this disease, that a knowledge of it may lead to a more general guarding against it, and in compliance with the desire of several cor- respondents. There are many varieties of smut, for it affects most of the grasses and grain crops, but none injuriously, except the wheat plant. When the crop is matured, it is found, sometimes, that even a third of the heads do not contain wheat grains; but where these should be, the chaff covering of the grain is found to be filled with a very minute dust, nearly black, very fetid, of unpleasant odor, and greasy. In the United States this disease is called smut; in England, bunt. The microscope reveals the fact that this dust is composed of grains, to which the name spores has been given—a common term to designate all seeds that are produced by flower/ess plants. A square surface inch would contain five or six millions of these seeds, each of which can reproduce its kind, but to what ex- tent, and under what conditions, is imperfectly known. It is evident, however, that the conditions are such that but few of these seeds are successful in repro- duction, for otherwise the wheat crops would be destroyed by this disease. It is a parasitic fungus growth—parasitic, because it is sustained by the sap of the wheat plant, and not by its own; and fungus, because it is a soft and morbid excrescent growth, like the mushroom. Much difficulty has been found in making these smut-seeds grow by artificial means, and hence the reason why the true character of the disease is so imper- fectly understood. It differs from all like diseases in this—they, like the rust, live by directly drawing their nuiriment from the sap of the plant they infest, never mingling with it; but the smut seems to change the nature of the sap of the wheat plant, so that, in maturing the grains, smut,.and not wheat, is the product. Before the wheat heads are visible it is found to have the posses- sion of them, and the sap of the plant is of a darker color than that of a healthy plant. But the success in germinating the seeds of the smut has been move marked recently, and the results of the experiments indicate several stages of growth, but whether all are essential to the ultimate production of the seeds as found in 6 the wheat head is not determined. When some smut-seeds are placed in a drop of water on a piece of glass, a kind of stem shoots from them, upon which are produced small clusters of elongated, thread-like spores. ‘These become united by short, transverse shoots, and when thus united, these thread-like spores pro- duce other spores, differing in appearance, being thicker and shorter than these threads. The latter produce another kind of spores. “There are still,” says a writer, “many points in the history of the growth and development through successive generations of the ‘bunt’ spores; but enough is known, on the one hand, to show that this is a true vegetative parasite, and not merely a diseased condition of the tissues of the wheat plant; and on the other, that it is perfectly distinct from all the phases of the other and similar parasitic fungi which affect the wheat crop.” This statement of the various forms and stages of the growth of smut exhibits a reproduction as singular as that of the aphis, or louse, noticed in the article on the hop plant. But it will be seen that abundant moisture is a condition of its growth, and the want of it is, no doubt, a leading cause why these almost in- finite millions of seeds of the smut fail to reproduce themselves, and thus the wheat crop is saved from entire destruction. Are these various stages of the growth and of the production of spores neces- sary to the formation of the seeds or spores, as found in the head of the wheat ? Will the latter only germinate after winter has intervened? Are the perfect or last formed spores produced by a growth within or without the wheat plant ? These questions cannot be answered; but the fact that the sap of the infected wheat plant is much darker than that of the healthy plant, indicates an inward growth, so changing the sap that it produces, through the ovary or germinating part of the wheat, the smut-seed instead of the wheat grain. Has each grain a circulation of sap separate from all others, so that on the same head there are grown wheat and smut? If the growth of the spores of smut take place within the wheat plant, how do the parent spores obtain an entrance into it? It is supposed that the smut- seed are too large to be taken into the root. Do the second or third forms of these spores obtain an entrance? Ifso, how? Do they find their way through the outer covering of the plant, as the husk of the seed, and, living on its sap, perfect their own growth within the covering of the grain? Does their presence there cause a discoloration of the sap 4 These questions cannot yet be answered; but the only practical object effected by the numerous investigations made in England, France, and Germany, is in the certainty that the smut spores are seeds having a vitality, through which the smut perpetuates itsclf, and that, by destroying this vitality, the wheat plant can be protected from the smut. This can best be done by soaking the wheat-seed in a solution of bluestone, or oil of vitriol, which is sulphate of copper. The effectiveness of this preventive will be seen by the annexed letter from Mr. Haden, near Lexington, Kentucky, As to his suggestion of the cause of smut—that it is an injury from an insect depositing its eggs in the grain of wheat, which hatches the worm described by 7 him—this cannot be, because the worm must live upon the substance of the grain, like the weevil, and the grain could be destroyed only to the extent of the part consumed by it; its entire nature, from starch to fetid, greasy smut, could not be so changed by this worm, nor could it be resolved into smut spores, ca- pable of vegetating and reproducing itself. It only shows that there is a worm whose natural food is the smut spores, and the egg of the fly is deposited among them, that it may there hatch, where the worm can obtain its food. It is but an instance of an insect enemy against a vegetable parasitic enemy of the wheat. But the bluestone is a much more efficient one, for we have tested it in the same way that Mr. Haden did, and it is in common use in the west. FAvyeTTE County, KENTUCKY, Near Lexington, December 8, 1864. Dear Sir: As you propose, in the next number of the bi-monthly report, to say something as to the best mode of “avoiding smut, and other deteriorating matters of our wheats,’ I have thought a few lines, giving my experience on the subject, might not be uninteresting, and perhaps furnish some additional information on a subject of vital importance to the wheat-growers of our coun- try. To prevent smut, I simply soak my seed-wheat in a strong solution of bluestone, using ten pounds of the bluestone to one hundred bushels of wheat. It has proved infallible as a preventive. Some four years since one of my neighbors harvested sixty acres of wheat, and I think I am safe in saying that one-fifth was smut. He sowed the following fall his entire crop from his smut wheat, after soaking it well in bluestone, and raised from it as fine and as pure wheat as I ever saw harvested. At the com- mencement of his seeding I prevailed on him to sow one acre in the same field without soaking it; the result of which was so much smut that he did not cut it, but let it remain for the hogs. To satisfy myself thoroughly, I concluded to sow three acres of the same wheat without soaking, and it produced so much smut that F did not harvest it. Since then we have always used the bluestone, and always with the most perfect success. Some of our best wheat-growers use a strong solution of salt, many of them claiming that it answers the purpose as well as the bluestone; but others who have used it have sometimes failed. I think that I have made an important discovery as to what produces smut. I propose to state some facts, which I have never seen referred to by any writer on the subject, leaving it to time and the investigation of wheat-growers of the country to determine whether I am correct in my conclusions. Some six years ago I was in one of my wheat fields, about twelve days before it was ready to harvest, and just as the grain began to assume a slightly yellowish appearance, I soon discovered that there was a quantity of smut. After a close examination, I discovered on many of the smut-heads a very small black and nimble insect, that always at my approach disappeared from the stalks of wheat by falling off, or sometimes by taking to wing. ‘To my astonishment I found each grain perforated or punctured as if done by some insect, the hole or incision being perceptible to the naked eye at the distance of eight or ten feet. I cut several heads of the wheat, and exhibited them to many of my friends and farmers of the neighborhood. I was so struck with what I thought to be an important discovery that I carried them for examination to a gentle- man of large experience, and who was in the habit of purchasing the wheat of my neighborhood. There happened to be present a half dozen or more of our best wheat-growers, and an examination of them revealed the fact that in many of the punctured grains of smut was found a small worm, which, in its general appearance, very closely resembled the common grub worm of our country, so 8 destructive some seasons to our young corn. I have continued my examina- tions from year to year, aud always with the same results. About ten days before the grain is ready to cut, the smut-heads invariably show that they have been pierced, and a close examination always reveals the small grub-like worm. I should here state an additional fact, that the punctures or incisions in the grain always close up about the time the grain is ready to cut, so closely in many of the heads that you cannot detect with the naked eye any appearance of them, but with the aid of a glass they are plainly perceptible. From the foregoing, I assume that the worm found in the smut-grains produces smut the following year. You sow the smut grains with the worm in them, which lies in the ground during the winter. ‘The pleasant warm weather of spring warms it into active life, and it is changed to the insect, which is soon ready to ascend the stalks of wheat, punctures the grain, producing smut, and then disappears. My Tappahannock is looking remarkably well ; it will prove to be one of our most valuable varieties. I would like to know the result of the variety, dis- tributed in 1863, called French white. I am looking with much interest for the forthcoming report from your depart- ment. The Bi-Monthly is getting to be one of the institutions of the country. I close with the hope that Congress will extend to your department all efficient help. Very truly, J.J. HADEN. Hon. Isaac Newton, Commissioner of Agriculture. AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN GREAT BRITAIN. The subject of the education of the industrial classes is now undergoing a discussion in Great Britain, as it is in this country. The cause that has awak- ened this interest in it is found in the fact that a general opinion prevails recog- nizing the necessity of extending the right of suffrage to a greater portion of these classes than now exercise it. To fit them for its proper exercise is regarded as necessary; but how can this best be done is a question of much controversy, and one which seems to materially influence opinions on the nature of the instrue- tion to be given. In referring to the wonderful exercise of universal suffrage in the United States, as seen in the recent election of President, when, under most extraordi- nary circumstances, millions of men cast their votes, decisive of the exciting controversies originating in these circumstances with the same quietness they manifest in the most ordinary transactions of life, and as good-natured after the known result as after eating their dinners, Mr. Bright, the great reformer in the English Parliament, took occasion to restate his demanded reform for uni- versal suffrage in Great Britain, and the means essential to that reform. He holds that the laws of primogeniture, which entail the real estate of the nobility upon the eldest son, should be abolished. His argument, expressed in a statistical form, will be seen in the following table, exhibiting the division of the profits of the soil between the landlord, (the noble,) the farmer or renter, and the laborer: Estimate of the annual product of land in England and Wales in 1860, as divided between the landlord, farmers, and laborers. Maleevouyprpdmct sof dand). ...1..9))22 40 ohh ee heel oie $521, 000, 500 AGAMGILOTARMBNALE hs hio4 . .'cnic eine hea ett 770; Silo Farmers or renters’ share,............... 107, 389, 905 MAD OUETS: PAMATS Wel Met. gia oke oe oases s)he De ee 198, 830, 780 521, 000, 500 9 The result, gradually effected by the proposed reform measure of Mr. Bright, would be to break up these large estates, and oblige the owner to superintend his farm, as is done by the American owner. The landlord’s share would then become merged in the other two, which would so meliorate the condition of both that the laborer could partake of those blessings of life—society, religion, a place in the state—fitted for the duties and enjoyments of each by proper instrue- tion. How far he is now removed from these may be seen in the following esti- mate of the expenses of a laborer, his wife and five children, and their earnings: Articles. Cost. MONE cerns Sad aku s elas, = eee A UPS chastened $100 00 OMAR a ania Se od ola EEE ae Me aide 3545 bam sina « » 30 Prams, Candies, ANd BOA 2. ic atu hon SEBO wie si e245 > =e - 15 00 UES eh COR ih Sei hase yeh ay 3 Beene a ms. 30 00 Samm tMenAS. (Ol (55 Si Og asen qomadee oe Loans 1 50 PIR ewe 30 6 oe tants 2 Sida satel = oe 491s AAO hate wat ee 20 00 epooline and GORE. 2... nee aa o- « ade waneaet | inden. 2 50 PR ete a AS iat - aie tet Be ie one & E Sptia eee Ee - 169 30 The earnings of such a family—the wife and two of the children, supposed to be over ten years of age, and, therefore, required to constantly labor—are esti- mated at $201 20, leaving $31 90 as their net income, an amount that ordinary sickness would lessen. These statistics, taken from Purdy on Rate of Wages of Agricultural Laborers in England and Wales, indicate the character of the clothing, and the statement is made that ‘the husband’s cloth coat for Sundays cost fifty shillings, ($12,) but he had worn it for thirteen years, and his wife’s bonnet, costing two shillings and sixpence, (sixty cents,) lasts for one year and a half.” It is easy to see why Mr. Bright demands an amelioration of this deplorable condition of the English agricultural laborer as a necessary condition of the recognition of his right to vote; but few, however, in England seem to partake of his lofty and wide grasp of the question involved in this reform movement, but the great majority seek the instruction of the renter only. Shall this instruction be to fit him for his occupation merely, or shall it have reference to his wants asa man? This is the question now discussed there—the same pre- cisely as here—and there, as here, the discussion, as it progresses, grows warmer for the man. All general education, in the language of the London Agricultural Gazette, should aim ‘to quicken powers of observation, to confer alert vitality and wake- fulness, to create habitual thoughtfulness, to strengthen resolution, to foster religious feelings and conviction.” And these qualities of mind belong as much to the industrial classes as to any other in society, for though covered with the sweat and dust of the harvest field, and begrimed with, the smoke and soot of the forge and workshop, yet is the individual a man—a man, too, absolutely essential to free governments. Who, for a moment, can suppose that this rebel- lion could have been forced upon the country by the vaulting ambition of a class not industrial, if the labor of the south, like that of the east and the west, had had its powers of observation quickened by instruction, and habitually and actively thoughtful of its own temporal interest and religious convictions? But the inevit- able tendency of slavery is to deprive the industrial classes of such instruction by placing labor in a lower caste, and therefore has that institution been justly regarded as inimical to free government. Justice to the man, then, demands in England, as well as here, such an edu- cation as alluded to in the following extraet from the London Agricultural 10 Gazette. Among the writers in that country is Mr.'T. Dyke Ackland, who has recently issued a pamphlet, containing letters addressed to the president of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, on the subject of the kind of education proper to the agriculturist. This pamphlet we have not yet received, but the editor of the Gazette, in noticing it, thus comments on its general character : “Tt seems to us that agricultural education and the education of agricultur- ists are two altogether different things. The former relates to the profession, the latter to the whole human nature of the individual. It is the object of the latter to place the body, intellect, and soul of man in cordial and intelligent re- lationship to the whole world of moral, spiritual, and material truth; it is the object of the former to teach only such applications of the truths thus conveyed as will tell upon the relationship of farmers to each other, to their landlords, their laborers, and their land. “ Acricultural education, in Mr. Ackland’s pamphlet, means physics, chemistry, physiology, meteorology, the laws of heat, geology, botany, animal pathology, political economy, &c., &e.—a medley of all the sciences. It is to quicken powers of observation, to confer alert vitality and wakefulness, to create habitual thoughtfulness, to strengthen resolution, to foster religious feelings and convic- tion. In the words of his correspondent, whom he quotes, it seems as if he would rather forget that his pupils are to be farmers, remembering only that they are to be men. And a very great service indeed he will have rendered if his pages being generally read by agriculturists, they shall be induced by them to seek such an education for their sons as shall implant these, which are the essential elements of ultimate character, the firm foundation of ultimate po- sition, whatever occupation or profession they may afterwards adopt as their source of maintenance and livelihood. “Nor do we say that there is not much in these pages relating more directly to the merely professional aspect of a good agricultural education. Although the pamphlet might be as properly addressed, let us say, to the medical as to the agricultural profession, yet there is much in it of assertion, argument and advice, from which the future farmer especially may benefit. We do not pur- pose to-day to offer here any analysis of its pages, but content ourselves with a cordial recommendation of them to those alone of the agricultural world to whom, as we believe, they have any business to be addressed—the young farm- ers and agricultural students of the country.” THE KIND OF WOOL MOST IN DEMAND. To give direction to the agricultural industry of the country, by laying be- fore it such facts as will serve to guide the farmer, is a duty of this department. In the report for January, we referred to the fact that Canadian wool under the miscalled reciprocity treaty is admitted free of duty, and that it is combing wool, produced by the Cotswold and Leicester sheep. The necessities of the country caused by the want of cotton have occasioned a greater demand for the cheap wools than for other kinds, and the urgencies of the war have increased the demand for combing wools. These demands must continue some time yet; and as they abate, the fact that Canadian wool will not be admitted as now, will serve to keep up the demand for home-grown combing wools. ‘The next report from this department will exhibit a great reduction in meat-pro- ducing stock, serving, by its reduction, to keep up the prices of fresh and salted meats. This fact will increase the demand for mutton, and as the Cotswold , 11 and Leicester are excellent mutton breeds, they cannot but be a valuable stock o the farmer. This increased demand will be seen from our table of the re- ceipts of live stock at New York, published in the last report—the number re- ceived there in 1864, showing an increase of 54 per cent. over that of 1863. The following letter cannot but be instructive; and what it says in regard to Saxony wool will command attention. In past years, when the country ,was -overstocked with British broadcloths, there was but a limited demand for this fine wool. Its price was 60 cents, when the finer Spanish merino sold for 55 cents. A Saxon sheep, at the best averages, did not yield more than 34 pounds per head, whilst the Spanish produced 6 and 7 pounds. It is true, a greater num- ber of the Saxony could be raised per acre than of the Spanish, but still the Spanish was most profitable. Hence their increase and the decrease of the Saxony. But, in future, fineness will determine the market value more than in past years, because that quality will be used here more extensively ; foreign broadcloths will not so press down the sales of the fine domestic cloths as to force them from our own markets, as in past years, under the free-trade policy. With these encouraging prospects before the American wool-grower, he can- not fail to find profit in a still further increase of his flocks. PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, February 13, 1865. Dear Str: We return herewith your circular of December 20, 1864, with our replies to your interrogatories, and we will add a word further. The increase in the production of wool in this country is imperatively de- manded by the manufacturing interest; the increase of machinery for the manufacture of woollen goods having been so rapid in the past five years that twice the amount of wool is now consumed by it than in 1860. The increase of wool called for will apply to all grades, as none of them are fully supplied by the domestic growth. The two extremes may be regarded as most sought for at this time: the one, the fine Saxony; the other, the long combing wools. The introduction of the fine long-wooled Merinoes has driven out and taken the place of the fine Saxony; the latter in this country being much less now than formerly, for the reason that the heavier fleeces are more profitable to the farmer. We think the Saxony wool cannot be materially increased until we approach the point of producing nearly the amount of wool consumed by the country. The Leicestershire or combing wool is grown in the United States but to a limited extent, the worsted machinery now in operation here being supplied with this description of wool from Canada, the entire clip of which is barely sufficient to supply the machinery now in operation. This branch of the woollen manu- facture is being largely increased by new mills, and by the enlargement of those already established. American wools may now be quoted at about $1 per pound for the average, whilst the coarse Canada wool, if runing largely to combing, will command from $1 25 to $1 30 per pound, and have once sold this season for $1 45. With a present consumption equal to the entire clip of Canada, and. but a small quantity now grown in the United States, we think this kind of wool offers more inducements to the wool-grower than any other quality. Upon the repeal of the reciprocity treaty with Canada, this wool must pay a duty of 10 cents per pound, and 10 per centum at least, and to import it from England at this time it will cost 80 cents per pound in gold, or $1 60 in currency. Fine Saxony wool is in very small supply in the markets, and it is only 12 . grown in western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and in the southeastern part of Ohio. ‘The manufacturers working this grade of wool are obliged to use fine foreign wool as a substitute for it, costing now in the grease about half the price of washed domestic—the domestic shrinking about 40 per cent., and the foreign about 65 per cent., in scouring. Hoping that the foregoing may be of some value, we are truly yours, TAFT, WEEDEN & CO. Hon. Isaac NEwron, Commissioner of Department of Agriculture. HOSPITAL GARDENING. There is no one of our readers but will be pleased with the following com- munication from the gardener in charge of the hospital garden at Chattanooga. And many a heart will be touched by it, for it exhibits a trait of our soldiers so purely American in its love of home, and of the flowers of home, significant of the moral beauties clustering ever around his heart, that the mother and the sister, receiving the flower-seeds he sends home, will with delight read this account of the place where they were grown. HEADQUARTERS HospitaL GARDEN, Chattanooga, Tennessee, December 29, 1864. Dear Sir: I presume you have heard of cur garden here for the growth of vegetables for the sick and wounded of the United States army. I have taken the liberty of sending you our fiscal report, with a brief account of our proceed- ings, believing they will be interesting to you and the community. The grounds comprised in the garden are cultivated by the permission of General Thomas. ‘They embrace one hundred and fifty acres, beautifully situ- ated on the bank of the Tennessee river, about one mile from this city. In addition to this land we have forty acres of grape vines, planted six feet square in the Catawba variety, and trained to stakes. These were planted and owned by a rebel of the name of Boyce, who went to the south upon the arrival of the Union army. The garden and vineyard are worked by convalescent soldiers, and with horses unfit for military duty, which we received from the government. With a little exercise, and a variety of vegetable food, these men are soon able to zeturn to their regiments, and others are received from the hospitals by order of the medical director. The enclosed list will show the variety and quantity of wegetables grown. Gardening operations commenced in February, 1864, and teams run daily from April to the close of the season, carrying fresh vegetables to the various hospitals and headquarters, camps, &c. Many thousands of soldiers have par- taken of the rich variety ef our productions through the past season. By per- mission of General Thomas these grounds, with an addition of thirty-five acres upon Lookout mountain, are to be used next season for the same purposes, when we hope to commence earlier under more favorable circumstances, as buildings have been erected for the men, horses, vegetables, seeds, roots, implements, &c. All these have been built by our own men, when they could not be used to advantage in the garden. Near the entrance of the grounds is an Indian mound of an oval shape, forty by eighty-four feet on the top, and about twenty feet high. Upon this mound . 13 are the headquarters of the garden, from which two-thirds of the garden are visible, the city of Chattanooga, Raccoon mountain, Walden’s and Mission ridges, and overlooking all these that monster of mountains, Lookout. ‘The view from the top of the mound is magnificent and the admiration of all visitors, who are very numerous. After producing a large crop of radishes, lettuce, and mustard, the surface of the mound was beautified through the season, with one hundred and eighty-eight varieties of flowers. These have awakened most pleasant remembrances of the loved ones at home in the hearts of the sick and wounded soldiers, and have been a delight to all others who have seen them. From these floral beauties seeds have been secured, of which 5,775 papers have been put up, and half of them to this time have been given to the soldiers to send to their homes, that they may find the garden and yard beautified when they return, and that they may have so pleasant a remembrance of the United States sanitary garden when the sword shall have been laid aside, and all, once more, united in peace. In excavating a cellar for our sweet potato sets and other roots, many inter- esting curiosities were discovered, among which are skulls in good state of pre- servation, supposed to be of the race of mound builders that existed hundreds or thousands of years since. More than one hundred feet of tunnelling have been made in the mound, and this work will be continued as opportunity offers. Our works are visited with much interest by the community. With respect, yours &c., THOMAS WILLS, Gardener in charge. CoMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE. The number, variety and value of vegetables issued from this garden are a follows: Bushels. | Dozens. Beets ...-.-- Sphied been Lh ad aa Ch 1563 |} Green eomi4. 3. 8.0 a! 8,963$ Jc L077 Ran i a ae eS IR 1,496 | (GUGHIRDGES 0 2. Listas sins s eee 2,673 Wace wae Jee, ATE Ie LDR \Ghetaee rite tn. 2 uri 34 E7 roe, 2k ON a0 OPN Peppers naa at. DAL tad: 958 AT ae DArOne ap paee oe cana eae 896# Han potatoes 0. 22... 2. 904% | Summer squash.....----- 400$ Bremer eo as. Ce Thy. PRteangt Lb. Vebw uO. Xe eee 139 21) 0) 2) ee a aaa 4450 °}. POMPING: «5.60 i Sheets 96 eawet neatie’<) 2 22! oto #310 "> Winter /sq mash. v3. 4213. 26 weet potatoes ........... 384 | ri as 148) | Total dozens 2...) eines 15,9494 pepinael eee 133 | "Total bushels) sos. sane 11,155} Miscellaneduge 2 5... 2.2: 76 | Seeds (papers)....-....-- 5,775 Total bushels 11,1554 Estimated value... ..- $66,375 70 14 CALIFORNIA WINES. The following are the imports and exports of wines at San Francisco in 1863 and 1864, taken from the Mercantile Gazette of that city: IMPORTS. EXPORTS. 1863. 1864. 1863. 1864. Hogsheads .-.--.-- 20 572 Pipes and casks 856 ~=1,485 PRE Rafe occ tetas B a 31 Half-casks ..... 92 96 Casks (60 gallons) .. 5,444 791 Quarter-casks .. vp 42 Half-casks.- - - - -...- - 830 1,757 Barrels, 2.) eo. 151 147 Quarter-casks - .-- -- 1,600 2,534 Odiaves cae 128 40 Boi 3 eee eee 72 595 LT ae eS 69 53 6. 0 aS ey Sete 432 1,188 CEE sa Samp ta Mest 8,994 9,481 eee ee bins = = = = 31,257 48,574 Baskets a. or ee 0,935 Bele (Creche 48,640 65,217 _- PAeeares - 21.8 - 23 wy The imports have evidently increased much more than the exports, and hence, even for California consumption, the home market invites to an increased wine production. ‘The assurance which the act of Congress has given, by its increased duties on foreign wines, that the home market will be at the command of the home production, is infusing a greatly increased vigor in vine-planting in California. The fact, too, that it is a crop that will seldom be much injured b the occasional extreme droughts of the California climate, and that its habitual dryness during the summer is highly advantageous, will also give an additional stimulant to grape cultivation. The lesson taught by the recent drought, that thorough farming is the safest, and to be thorough it must be limited to small farms, will also aid this crop. With these motives to the full development of the great natural advantages that California has as a wine-producing country, we may anticipate such an advance as will make it the great wine country of the world; and as this advance progresses, to draw such attention as will increase correspondingly the demand for its-wines. The Gazette says: ‘As soon as it was known that Congress had passed the before-mentioned act [the tariff act of last session] new life was spread through the vine plantations, and millions of vines will this year be put out. The Bu- ena Vista Vinecultural Society alone plants 700,000 vines, principally of foreign varieties. Every man in Sonora county increases his vineyard. As far as we can hear, that valley will plant at least one million vines, and we feel confident that California will this year plant no less than five million vines. How great an increase this is will be seen from the State Register of 1859. In 1856 there were planted in this State 1,540,134; in 1858, 4,054,548. The standing com- mittee of the legislature of 1862 reports the probable amount of 200,000 vines added since then, admitting that little had been planted since 1858. ‘The wine produced in 1864 throughout the State will not fall short of 4,000,000 gallons, and brandy about 200,000 gallons. « As to the product of 1864, we remark that the quantity of grapes produced all through California last year fell short of expectation on account of excessive dryness. The quality of wine produced is, on the average, better than of many previous years. Up tothe present date about 200 pipes of the new white and red wines have been shipped trom the southern counties to this market, and find ready sale at 35 to 50 cents per gallon.”’ Every country should conform its general crops to the peculiar climate it has. Occasional and very limited ones may be grown where peculiar causes may render them profitable. Thus the grape in the western States, except in cer- tain localities, where the general climate and soil do not exist, could never be made a general crop, because its moisture and richness induce diseases which 15 must make the crop unprofitable. But the California climate and soil are pecu- liarly adapted to the growth of the grape, whose leaf exhales but half the amount of sap that is evaporated by an equal surface of the apple leaf. This physiological fact points to the dry trade-wind climate as that intended for the grape; and hence, as a general crop, California may confide in the fitness of the grape for its climate; and on that fitness it may as confidently rely for ultimate success in making for its wines a commercial demand equal to its production. THE PROFITS OF INDUSTRY. The following table of statistics, exhibiting the mercantile, manufacturing, and trading wealth of the States embraced ‘in it, we find published in Hunt’s Merchants’ Magazine, and is prepared by R. G. Dunn & Co., at the mercantile agency office, New York. This table is a most interesting one, especially at this time, because it furnishes so much statistical matter, through which may be read the influence of the war on the manufacturing and commercial progress of the country. It is a matter of regret that the table did not separate from each other the business houses and wealth of each of the pursuits named—the mer- cantile, manufacturing, and trading. ‘The statistics pertaining to the business of the carrying trade on our great lines of railway and lake navigation are given by the Treasury Department, and now all that is wanted is a like estimate of the wealth and profits of the agriculturists, in order to have before us the data upon which to base estimates of the relative profits of capital and labor invested in each of the great industrial pursuits of our country. As the plan of gather- ing statistics of the crops, adopted by this department, is as applicable to the obtaining of those relating *to the capital invested in agriculture, we will en- deavor to procure the amount of this capital. Referring to the importance of the statistics they give, R. G. Dunn & Co. say: “The deep interest we have felt in arriving at correct statistics, to submit to the judgment of our subscribers, has induced us to make the most rigid and careful research of our records, at this particular juncture, in order to present to them at a glance an estimate of the wealth of the mercantile, manufacturing, and trading interests in the loyal States. This estimate is not obtained by ay- eraging the whole number of traders, but by a specific examination of each name or firm. It has been the work of months, both with us and our associate officers throughout the country, and the result is shown in the appended table, arranged by States and the principal cities. The States of Missouri, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Kansas having been made the theatre of war, thereby disorgan- izing trade, are consequently not fully represented in this estimate; and Cali- fornia, as it will be observed, is entirely omitted. Still, without them, the ag- gregate shows 168,925 business houses, representing a wealth of $4,944,766,000, mostly invested in personal property. It is generally conceded that the average profits of trade range from twelve to fifteen per cent.; but assuming the low figures of ten per cent., we have $494,476,000 as the accrued gain the past yearon the business interests spoken of. This, in view of the unprecedented expendi- ture necessarily incurred, both by heavy taxation and in otherwise sustaining the government, exhibits the self-supporting character of our people, and but. one element of the strength of the country, which, when added to the other immense resources not brought into our estimate, such as real estate, agricultu- ral, mining, and other interests, should inspire the most hopeful confidence in our future growth and permanent prosperity. 16 Mercantile, manufacturing, and trading wealth and profits for 1864. Connectivut.:.: st Sad. ee. cine ee toate Shes a ee $145, 588, 000 Pelarwvere ttle ds 22 Ce AR Ph A ADO Ae ve Ae 24, 701, 000. Disiziet of, (Colambia:| idee ws teen Jens ASP Ls) rer yu 17, 448, 000 AUN INOS fy she ym oop pe Ae, Sp i AR op eae 12, le ye asec 207, 508, 000 AP SPEETEREN ER Sc ice oe ac eae ee Ie Bly lois & ‘op Plas so Bkiat 134, 240, 000 NV ee eRe TE ears mhaiek Sie SPOUSE te se 38, 532, 000: EAT BAS ts, Le esa ONE a PS ja tote wn nsicn ae 3, 357, 000 ioarigekeyriisi-nint- ee PEL feiss s): AL 1p HOSES ae 39, 559, 000 Louisiana,* (New Orleans, only)... ----- SOO eat 26 ke 50, 794, 000 IVI PU Eerie 4.5 cose Soir’ yeegeee Ae QS De Mois aalaee 99, 293, 000 WPA RR Soo. oe ways) = er Ante eins 5 Ao is a 102, 359, 000. Mieaeiusenise s22 Sed 2. oS Se eee bys See eee 868, 815, 000: Michigan So PAGS eee pS ant cen D, ODA Seeds 83, 943, 000 WR COTTE? Sea ERS See re esteier ones ole fest BO Gore eee 81, 334, 000 Mar oagiath. £6 emit. hes Sh Oe oe die ORG, voce te 7, 602, 000 Mier. ELAM PShITe «~~ scinek Gvsela c's Beipeps 4 DS Sib net 38, 685, 000 SAS cae Ree ee me ORG rT agree res | Meena ey 90, 250, 000 Pe WOE Ke ke ee eee aie ei 36 OBO deck oe 1, 677, 204, 000 CONOR aes ee tac RR Bh old CEN ea Zio. OO ceviche ene eae 310, 725, 000 Peres ee ae mr icigons & wlag ¢ SUE) AN pet ae oe 733, 296, 000. grees RE TEN a aS re oc Sy OPT 115, 704, 000 Wienm Ont eaP Le fein Ea ee. eA eee ee DHA Ay ce Rae 19, 989, 000 WRERSTas Me AE ons Ze RAn sc cit, cate bie: Chew. te 2 eae te 53, 775, 000 ‘ortailt geyaye, Sede cice eee cet INSTR MIS, Sees ose 5 4,944, 766, 000 WINTER WHEAT AND SPRING WHEAT. The annexed letter to the Commissioner of Agriculture raises the question, What is the essential difference between winter and spring wheat? We now know that one must be sown in the fall, the other in the spring, for a reverse sowing would cause the spring wheat to be killed, and the winter wheat not to ripen timely its grain, and to yield but a light crop if ripened. Still the one can, by gradual changes, be turned into the other. Hence there is no radical difference between them. The difference, as we can now see it, appears to be climatic only. Individuals have sometimes sown winter syiiea so late in the season that the sced did not exhibit any surface growth until February ; yet with a favor- able season it has produced a good crop. Whether this, like the experiment stated in the letter, is an accidental result, or that sprouting the seed and ex- posure to cold so hastens the change of the elements of the seed that the growing plant derives a nutritious support so rapidly as not to require an earlier sowing, are questions about which many conjectures might be made, but the * These States, in consequence of the disorganized state of trade caused by the rebellion are not fully represented. 17 ? safer and more proper course is to have the facts made out first, so that the fact being first clearly established, the causes may then be investigated, and the benefit of the knowledge of them be made available to increase the wheat crops. We would urge, therefore, our farmers to experiments like that given in the letter. If the result stated in it is found not to be accidental, but in conformity to the nature of the growth of the wheat plant, it will readily be seen to how . many useful purposes it could be applied. ‘The casualties arising, from freezing in and out, to the crop of winter wheat, are great, but these could be met by cross-drilling, in the spring, winter wheat prepared after the manner suggested in the letter. Or, in districts where spring wheat will not yield a profitable return, a portion of the crop might be left unsown until spring, and then put in with the prepared seed, and in this manner avoid the casualties of winter. But here is the letter: MANTORVILLE, Dodge Co., Minnesota. Dear Sir: The wheat which I obtained from the Department of Agriculture, known as the bald Mediterranean, came to hand some time during the month of February, 1864. It being too late in the season to sow it, being winter wheat, and wishing to determine its value as soon as possible, the thought occurred to me that by sprouting it, and subjecting it to the action of frost for a length of time, I might possibly succeed in raising a partial crop, at least, that season. My expectations were more than realized, as the product was at the rate of forty bushels and three quarts per acre. The experiment is as follows: I took a little more than one-half of the package, which contained about one quart, reserving the rest for a second trial the coming fall, in case of a failure in the experiment, and placing it in a dish, I poured warm water upon it until the wheat was covered a half inch in depth. In this it remained until the greater part of the water was absorbed, when it was removed from the dish and put into a small bag and placed in a hot-bed frame on top of the soil. Here it remained thirty-six hours, when it was examined and found to be suffi- ciently sprouted; the root sprouts being from one to one and a half inches in length, and the stem or leaf sprout from one-fourth to one-half an inch in length. I would here remark that my thermometer had been accidentally broken a short time previous to the commencement of the experiment, and that I was without the means of determining the exact number of degrees of heat or cold that was employed throughout the experiment, but each person can probably form an opinion near enough for all practical purposes. The water that was used to soak the wheat in contained about 120 degrees of heat, (Fahrenheit.) The number of degrees of heat within the hot-bed frame was about sixty. After the wheat was sprouted, as before stated, it was removed from the hotbed and placed upon and slightly covered with snow, where it remained four days, the mercury in that time, as I was informed, sinking as low as zero. It was then placed again in a hotbed frame, where it remained about twelve hours, when it was exam- ined and found to be uninjured. It was then placed on top of the snow, where it was left ten days, the weather being warm enough to thaw ia the middle of the day, most of the time, and during the last four days all of the time. While there the wheat was frequently turned in order to keep it moist throughout. When it was sowed the sprouts seemed to be about in the same condition that they were in when first removed from the hotbed. The wheat was sown broadcast on land that had been ploughed in the month of September, pre- viously. The soil had been covered formerly by a hazel thicket, on the edge 2A 18 of the prairie, and was rich in vegetable mould. The land was ploughed about ten inches deep, and dragged three times before, and the same number of times after sowing. I did not discover any difference in the appearance of the wheat after it came up from what it would probably have presented had it been sown in the fall, except that it did not tiller on the stool quite as much, but this I thought was attributable to the very great dryness of the season. The growth was vigor- ous and healthy throughout, as much so as wheat sown in the fall that had win- tered well. It exhibited no signs of disease whatever, and the heads were long and well filled. The product was harvested about one week before my spring wheat that was sown three days after it. There was no other winter wheat raised in the vicinity, so that I am unable to say what the difference would have been in the time of ripening between it and the same, or any other kind of fall wheat sown in the fall. The date of sowing I have not got, but I think it was in the last week of March, or the first week in April. 1t was as soon as the ground would permit it. The experiment has demonstrated, to my mind, that fall wheat can be suc- cessfully grown by sowing in the spring, and in all probability as large a crop can be raised as by fall sowing, at least in this climate, in a majority of instances, without the risk of winter-killing, though these facts were not sought after when the experiment was commenced. I regret that in sowing all the seed last September, I did not re-sow a portion of it to repeat the experiment and compare the results with that sown in the fall. That sown in the fall was look- ing finely when I last saw it. Yours, very respectfully, C. R. HOAG. Isaac Newton, Conmmissioner. TOBACCO PRODUCTION ON THE CONNECTICUT RIVER. The department has furnished for this spring’s planting a large quantity of the Connecticut seed leaf tobacco. It is not only an excellent variety, but is very productive, and well adapted to the colder latitudes of our country. For the purpose of showing how productive it is when planted ina suitable soil and cultivated properly, we publish the following statements sent to the department by a correspondent: “Samuel 8. Smith, of Poquonock, Hartford county, Connecticut, raised last season, from two and three-fourth acres of land, 6,461 pounds of tobacco, being 2,350 pounds to the acre. “QO, H. Seymour, of the same county, raised on seven-eighths of an acre 2,323 pounds of first-class tobaeco, which is at the rate of 2,613 pounds per acre. “Thaddeus Smith, of Hadley, Massachusetts, raised twenty-four tons on twen- two acres, being 2,181 pounds per acre.” WILL CONGRESS TAX TOBACCO LEAF ? To this question we may now give an answer in the negative, and we are sure that the information it conveys will be hailed with joy by the growers of to- bacco. No class of men are more ready to contribute to the support of govern- ment than they, but any tax on the leaf must so evidently destroy the export of it—amounting in past years to twenty millions of dollars—that the tax itself would have resulted in an evil of so much greater magnitude to the country than benefit to the government, that the well-being of the country demanded its exemption from the proposed tax. This was shown clearly a year ago by 19 this department. The bills to tax it, introduced into the House of Represent- atives, were best condemned by themselves. But apart from their obvious im- -port, the principles of the entire internal revenue system are now undergoing eareful consideration, and we trust that they will be so changed as to keep out any tax induced more by speculative interest than the general welfare. It may be regarded as a general rule, subject, however, to modifications by the law of supply and demand, that the consumer will have to pay the tax, with _such profit on it as will reimburse the various payers of it. The further, there- fore, the tax is levied from the consumer, the more onerous it will be to him. Many cases might be adduced to show that where the government has received a dollar of internal revenue, the consumer has had to pay two dollars. A sys- tem of this kind is wrongfully oppressive, because unnecessarily so, and hence, taxes on the raw material of a manufacture, or on its different processes of the manufacture, ought to be avoided if possible, and made to bear directly on the consumer. How far it may be advisable to avoid every tax on business and place it on the results of business, is a question that will, doubtless, soon receive a thorough investigation. Seeing that as the internal revenue system must be in existence for many years, its operation upon all practicable bases should be well considered. ‘The selection of so many specified articles for taxation en- genders business rivalry, and creates speculative hope and projects, as well as multiplies greatly the expenses of collection. 20 TABLE No. 1. Showing the amount in bushels, &c., of each principal crop of the several States nam d, the yield per acre, the total acreage, the average price in each State, and the value of each crop, for 1864. » z 45 & 8 aol ~— eo ard 3 cee ce we 5 2a 3 >) rs) = o Products. 2X BS ao 55 Fs = cos ves Py a eo 2 Co) ge 5 BS zs 3 S| 2 Bay "3 6 < = Zi e al MAINE. Indian corn. ...---- bushels.-| 1, 410, 017 27 52, 223 $2 10 $2, 961, 036 Wiicdtiee= === se - =o ae 167, 194 1056; 15, 999 2 60 434, 704 Riyexiwaled. acess Eilat gfe 128, 612 12 | 10,718 2 044 263, 012 Wntstheen-cosfec cs Cfo beber il hey O25 904 22 95, 591 1 Ol 2, 124, 024 ip eee tl 668, 424 18 37, 135 1 45 970, 215 Buckwheat..-.-.-.-- ag, ee 350, 837 19 18, 465 1 28 449, 071 Ordos ees. oe. AE SER EPP OD, Med 143 50, 274 67 4, 816, 731 Mowseco'’. A22/4)2kie< poundse iui .u cete enue ee. Se ee es Ay. soso eae tons =.--| 1,085,705 $ 1,240, 806 21 00 22, 799, 805 Paint. 2 Ae eee ae ee Pa eee ae | 34,818, 598 NEW HAMPSHIRE, Indian corn.--.-.-- bushels-.} 1,334,628 |° 294 45, 242 2 Ti 2; pet 065 Wheat... s-sccssc =r ce 251, 518 2 20, 121 2 68 4, 068 ya No Sl 0G es 144 | 7,543 2 04 303) 121 Oatsper 22 chs cee ac SSenwale TROEE fee 24 | 45, 652 92 1, 008, 220 Barley .----------- See 96, 278 18 5, 349 1 69 162,710 Buckwheat....---- yin 87, 447 194 | 4, 564 1 32 115, 430 ROMATOGS Seats o> SOT ato] indy G42 Loe 164 | 23, 427 60 2, 305, 292 {Malice}: Gaoaos ober pounds -. 64, 000 985 65 25 |* 16, 000 Haye en cisco TONS =e 694, 161 vr 694, 161 21 00 14, 577, 381 Wotaleete css seep see eee K cca epee S46, 134) 8| Sat eese 21, 898, 287 VERMONT. {ndian‘com-. 22 2-'2- bushels-.| 1,585, 020 384 | 40, 851 1 96 3, 106, 639 Whcntese swabs. sl] 497,951 14 35, 568 2574 | 1, 282, 224 LA ee ee Ate ies 140, 798 15} 9, 263 1 88 264, 700 Osis s+ esse site ie Nip Sollee ycan WIGS Eis 33 109, 452 87 3, 142, 386 Barley 2s. 22uee ee ais 94, 102 22 4,277 1 61 151, 504 Buckwheat....---- SS. 210, 516 Nos 10, 954 1 04 218, 937 Potatoes: 242 25-2% oe 5, 920, 810 1624 36, 434 54 3, LO7EeOT RobHCCOP erence meee pounds. 59), COO xe caro \somssew sec pitied. 25.2l eee Hay o-oo ct eec tons ssc. - 850, 127 1 850, 127 17 95 15, 259, 780 Totaliict eas lss les | ase ees ee ee 1,096,926 |... 1...) 26, 623, 407 MASSACHUSETTS Indian'corn..--...- bushels..| 2,280, 324 3lh 72, 319 2 04 4, 651, 861 Wikteats.-2-)o.-- -- ree 128, 143 16 8, 009 2 41 308, 825 Vivier sees rele += parein 413, 957 15 21,097 2 00 827, 914 (Oats ee cir atte a oe cele la lOAnead 2635 45, 430 1 04 1, 242, 620 Baey eho ee 2 aia <)> te 149, 584 20 7,479 1 78 266, 260 © Buckwheat. ----. -- ae 110, 972 164 6, 829 N25 138, 715 Potatoes...... .--- fi) oa). 3: SAaepe ale Lagos 25, 546 93 3, 147, 937 Tobacco..---------pounds..| 6,760,000 | 1, 650 4, 097 25 J, 690, 000 A aa oii on a ne cine TONS 25. 760, 517 760, 517 29 00 22, 054, 993 MR a2 |e Es ee, RMR RRR [a pst 5 Mie gay Japa home cel. 34, 329, 125 21 Table showing the amount in bushels, §:¢.—Coptinued. gy cS) ss Products. Pi StH coo =| < RHODE ISLAND. Indian com. .....-- bushels- . 474, 208 Wille et. slat. ae 1, 413 Bye tes ocie. 42. de: a 37, 302 Mates 222 ue 182, 873 Peameyee. S25 NS Le ic, 41, 506 Buckwheat..--..-. ie 3, 097 Potathese 2... 422. a 525, 727 Pebacco.-5--. =<: pounds 1, 848 Ss tons. .... 62, 044 ENO Elbe sree nis harar aycoareecl| er a ISR ae He a CONNECTICUT, Indian‘corm:. ....02- bushels..| 2,059, 835 Westie: ..5. 320822 “= 71, 881 Oe ee ae ee 721, 889 Oct ee oe elke 2, OFT, Sat. nS t uve 18, 732 Buckwheat.-..-..-- Chae 387, 477 Botatees =: ...%,4.25- sre 1, 833, 148 MOBAGCO 32% 25 re- pounds 9, 900, 218 pS TONS ores 449, 956 SAEs peacatesatakcxegepagittic ahgu Gaara NEW YORK, Indian corn...--...- bushels..| 22, 628, 862 Witteate 5)... 42.24. re 10, 918, 615 Mypssas..2.sbek. 6) aD, 205; We Jf. He 35, 724, 746 Harley 2. -.2. 2828. SOP Rea od, 4 LOCO Buckwheat........ ae 5, 677, 490 Memes =... 5.1. or Hah 29, Fo, ole Tobseco:...-. .... pounds ..| 12, 912, 662 ee tons ~/-:t 3, 921, 264 SR Ra hs oe nS RAPS Ce ek i NEW JERSEY. Indian corn......-.. bushels 8, 464, 262 Wikente. wit.) te te 1, 582, 113 Bye Soo. s.. 5 phe i 1, 424, 523 Oats. soo toes es 5, 735, 647 Barley: $55. pacte. oe ee 29, 098 Buckwheat... 2... ee 921, 256 Rafatoes. 25. ods. ais) 63, 989-129 Tobaces.:... > 60. pounds -- 179, 755 Eloi as Je Seger 08: tonsegee 2 436, 496 obabs. ssw yoseweeees teeossd oes epoageneete Average yield per acre Total valuation. ao ics) wo ma °o qe as | oo os ae 2 o On Ba eee a) 3 a > 15, 676 $2 09 94 2 50 2,194 2 00 5, 542 982 1, 660 1 64 > Oe hia 4,123. | 974 1305 30 62, 044 31 50 i, snarl | 3,785, 403 | 3, 728, 301 170,717 1, 378, 868 2, 011, 334 33, 905 523, 094 1,521,513 2, 475, 054 12, 148, 812 38, 016, 488 25, 622, 350 8, 875, 819 33, 581, 261 6, 469, 355 6, 453, 414 19, 637, 186 3, 212, 025 90, 385, 135 -| 232, 253; 033 14, 401, 337 3, 686, 323 2,414, 566 . 5, 227, 640 51, 940 1, 326, 609 4, 308, 312 44, 939 11, 660, 991 | Ss 66, 446 1 81 4, 356 2 374 48, 126 191 67, 044 1 00 797 1 81 23, 342 1 35 13, 993 83 6, 828 25 374,963 | 27 00 Geass PE | 771, 526 1 68 839, 893 2 342 359, 018 1 704 1, 553, 250 94 197, 915 1 744 313, 488 1 132 257, 984 66 | 15, 085 241 3,547,810 | 23 05 | 7, 855, 969 Fae 267, 349 1 70} 105, 474 2 33 105, 520 1 694 176, 481 git 1, 454 1 78} 54, 191 1 44 46, 033 1 08 25 77,770 | 26 714 OO i oo 1 L 43, 122, 658 —— ee 22 Table showing the amount in bushels, &c—Continued. ay 5 ma o a Bi bile oa -| ay hom 33 ort 5 Ag 3 Products. 2B ae a ~ 36 4 q a0 & og Ae, > 56 s 5° gx 3 E 2 Eg a 3 < a A a PENNSYLVANIA. Indian corn .....-- bushels..| 28, 381, 685 294 962, 091 $1 543 $43, 920, 658 Mreatiens Le. el Ee Es ile, 523, 404 12 1, 043, 617 2 40 30, 056, 170. yer cp caer cee See | 6, 643, 427 144 480, 240 1 70%] 11, 645, 232 Qatsee |. ose eae oC PA oy ,O7,13e9 294 | 1,287,430 87 32, 76], 876 Batleyetc. 25s fone 630, 491 18 35, 027 1-7) 1, 078, 140 Buckwheat ...--..- ce 7,577, 955 182 404, 157 1 16% 8, 847, 262 Potatoes... .---.- ‘6. 5 2| 12:661,-424 1104 114,759 89 11, 268, 667 Pobaceo..-...:.-2--- pounds ..| 6,124,551 | 1, 0684 5, 732 18} 1, 133, 042 yee =a = (2. ee hONsee es - 1, 796, 336 13; 1,381, 797 24 55 44, 100, 049 Motilectsccmacs sseec cleo tee eee eee eee fl: acetals eerste 184, 811, 096 MARYLAND. Indian corn ------- bushels..| 10,509, 243 214 488, 802 1 62 17, 024, 974 Wihedis: s2.. -j..32' se --| 6, 487, 946 Jig 564, 178 2 60 16, 868, 660 nye s2t8.2)2 0 Bane is 529, 744 14 37, 838 1 64 868, 780 Onteeet ed. 22 cA. fe ee hat 429) 804 2 246, 813 87 4,724, 008 barley. is. te. rs 26, 591 263 997 1 78% 47,509 Buckwheat .-.-.--- ¥ 189, 285 193 9, 657 1 58 299, 070 Potatoes ....-...22- « ..| 1,061, 994 55 19, 309 1 20 1, 274, 393 NoWaeco 2. - = wee pounds ..} 33, 292, 968 750 44, 391 133 4, 550, 039 2) See eee TONS 15 oe 167, 909 14 125, 931 27 00 4, 533, 543 ARO le are RM TRA hasmimeg ons eis ees icra ISSBTAO IG e * ees aaa 50, 190, 976 DELAWARE. | Indian corn ...---- bushels.-| 3, 892, 337 204 191, 45 1,55 6, 033, 122 Wheat..........-- “1,054,954 12 87, 912 253 2, 668, 834 1, eee oe “ 41, 153 153 2, 627 1 56% 64. 473 Oates eae. foe. ne 1, 184, 437 24 49, 351 80 947, 550 barley )-2...4.56 \- pe 4,595 27 170 1 874 ®, 616 Buckwheat ...--.- cs 15, 641 20 782 1.00 15, 641 Botatoes 2... 2: * 327, 540 125 2, 620 1.32 432, 353 Pobaceo ¢. 0... 56 pounds 14, 057010... Le Sas ead. Cees os el aoe gras. Bay eta. OR). Oe tons..... 33h Bt 22,074 | 30 00 993, 330 WoW, on's oiindeere AO Me Bae ee 31 MOA ose bane | 11, 163, 919 KENTUCKY. Indian corn ...---- bushels..|} 42, 828, 706 284 | 1,502,761 963 | 41,399, 749 Where -2.. .t20. “ 3, 882, 275 104 378, 758 1964 | 7, 628, 670 Bye eee es --- 5) -. SO Wee 554, 014 132 41, 344 } 354 750, 689 Gates... 1485. | 4,346, 326 244 179, 229 794 | 3,444,463 Banleyie -& -. 15220. it 256, 713 234 11, 003 1.59% 408, 602 Buckwheat ...---.. Wy 14, 187 204 698 1 374 19, 507 Potatoes .- -\- 2). fs 1, 255, 921 814 15, 474 1 093 1, 377, 327 Tobacco ..6-c, oo pounds ..| 56, 956, 469 770 73, 9694 12 6, 834, 776 Bbepyrarenereratet wei tarseatn tongs—== 2 112; 325 It 84, 243 20 16 2, 264, 472 Retalysun ee meaette as. (-otrose bees | rip ATD » a: boctrcecr ~ 64, 128, 255 ‘ 1 ‘ ( 23 Tab’e showing the amount in bushels, §c—Continued. Products. OHIO. Barley Buckwheat .... --- Potatoes Tobacco Bailey... ..-<2. Barley Buckwheat Potatoes Tobacco. ..-.- ee oe - weer Amount of crop. of 1864. bushels. .| 68, 202, 641 -| 20, 407, 503 704, 974 14, 428, 833 1, 585, 630 1, 300, 141 4, 615, 881 29, 017, 931 1, 415, 096 11, 088, 801 13, 966, 153 434, 894 4,810, 136 338, 388 823, 453 3, 422, 078 248, 473 847, 737 Total valuation. $65, 474, 535 39, 386, 481 331, 741 10, 417, 617 2, 473, 583 1, 430, 155 4,211, 991 3, 917, 421 27, 424, 560 145, 668, 084 13, 971, 889 27, 373, 660 592, 905 3, 643, 678 527, 885 975, 792 2,788, 994 49, 695 16, 386, 756 i | | |S EE .| 74, 284, 363 ..| 22, 321, 376 .397, 632 6, 084, 793 339, 198 272, 171 2,904, 847 8, 767, 065 962, 805 70, 941, 567 39, 062, 308 520, 898 4, 478, 408 529, 149 338, 399 2, 890, 323 1, 227, 389 17, 147,557 ee -|138, 356, 135 33, 371, 173 850, 071 -| 24, 273, 751 1, 144,790 280, 370 4,511, 083 18, 867, 722 2, 166, 725 103, 767, 101 51, 725, 318 862, 822 14, 806, 988 1, 568, 362 308, 407 5, 187, 745 3, 045, 789 33, 215, 894 S S 3 = = 5 25 ee «=S5 ait Be ° mS o°v as. 2° an 3 os Py 3 25 Ow, = as 2 a Ss | 314 | 2,176,911 | $0 96 104 | 1,990,976 1 93 124 57,548 1 324 29 497, 546 724 232 67, 016 1 56 17 76, 479 1 10 96 48, 082 912 8704 33, 335 134 14) 1,061,322 | 19 38 GMD O1R : shueswssss 244 455, 766 1 26 12 | 1,163,846 1 96 124 35, 419 1 364 26 185, 005 758 192 17, 624 1 56 12 68, 620 1 18 79 43, 317 814 1, 000 248 20) 1 762,963 | 19 33 ee oe ae 29 | 2,561,529 954 14 | 1,594,384 1 75 14 28, 402 1 31 26 234, 030 733 24 14, 133 1 56 18} 14,712 1 244 80 36, 310 994 856 10, 241 14 ie 641,870 | 17 81 eee) ae OD 33 | 4,192,610 75 144] 2,328,763 | 155 15 56, 671 1 013 314 779, 003 61 222 50, 520 1 37 17 16, 492 1 10 812 55, 521 1 15 907 20, 802 164 14} 1,444,483 | 15 33 8,944,865 |....---- 24 Table showing the amount wm bushels, §c.—Cont nued. ——_— Po 4 2 oo re) sini =. 8, = Ow a BS 3 =] S = $0 97 | $35,535, 961 175 5, 742, 648 Li 264, 463 714] 1,521,893 1 473 240, 415 1 07 77, 533 1754 | 1,361,691 134 | 1, 009, 257 18124} 7,242,731 Reivers | 52, 996, 592 94 9, 481, 829 1 481 | 21,016,337 1 09) 884, 624 60 7, 226, 123 1 49 1, 005, 629 882 65, 016 55 1, 970, 137 15 22,212 13 00 | 10,266,945 ibecvaet 51, 938, 852 rv S: Ors sd Products. s £2) BS | = MISSOURI. Indian corn ...---.. bushels..| 36,635, 011 Wiheat.- 22: ..J... £5 po G2) (3,281, 54 ye .tee....-. soe. es 237, 542 Oa Sif 525. 235- fo AY! , DIDS, 522 Purley== 22... . ob. a 162, 809 Buckwheat . ...... re. UE 72, 461 Bomtees -.-... 212. a 776, 630 ‘Tebacco -=.... =... pounds -..| 13, 697, 063 Heyes cts 222 ee tons. -... 399, 599 otal -ssscses. = see eRe eh ice WISCONSIN. Indian corn ..----- bushels. .| 10, 087, 053 ‘Wihestet=*s . .. 22. ee 14, 168, 317 Hyeee-:-- .. 5.80. 4: 810, 343 Oatais Use... sors fe 24} 12, 043, 538 Warleyer - =~. 3.08: a 674, 919 Buckwheat ....--. + 73, 258 Poratoes 2..... L 52. ce 3, 582, 068 Paparco =. . 5. 25: pounds .-. 148, 083 BY eres a= aes tons. ..=- 789, 765 Mota ei ssssecedts 2S eb Saasokee IOWA. Indian com........ bushels. .| 55, 261, 240 Whebtoses.....22.. ee, 22] 23649; B07 Hyper ss. 2.5. cls. of atk 119, 333 Gaig ee seoe.. ee $0232 179; 3135, 069 Barleyie-c.- =s2-2- 66) Pe 584, 446 Buckwheat - .-.--- Sie: 276, 524 Pataieds=. ....22. 6 8 OR, bop mst Tobacco ...... --_, pounds .. 390, 522 py wee ese = ne ee tons - 5). _ 814, 764 Motel 222.22 32 ee eh ee MINNESOTA. Indian corn ......- bushels. 4, 647, 329 Witteatses +. . =. 2. Le 2, 634, 975 Juyes see ol sional. OT 161, 974 Oaipe eseee se ooo. COS 2209 Bae Batleyeecca: 225 \. NE 148, 592 Buckwheat..-.-.-. ae 31,714 Potatoes 32.22. AS RES 2; 163 50eE ‘Rebacco:c2 1 E282 pounds -- 34, 659 fe ee ee oe tons. .... 249, 289 Totalves=tzcceces oe te: o.oo Se aeaeaee=e=e=eOoOeOEeee OOOO=OO=OOQ®Q®QR=__ eee a nm 2. eo . = os Es ‘5S 5} es Ss 33 i) ‘=| sa “4 ila 264 | 1,366,978 144 231, 092 153 15, 168 Q54 84, 297 23 7, 078 153 4,615 39 19,913 562 24, 372 13 279,719 ane ONS 2, 033, 232 31 325, 388 94} 1,491,401 121 66, 150 274 437, 945 133 50, 93 164 4, 440 118 30, 356 980 151 14 691, 0443 ey uae 3, 097, 8123 362 | 1,507,124 123] 1, 032, 637 15 7, 955 32 291, 042 21 27, 830 174 15, 800 76 33, 164 957 408 13 501, 394 a See | 3,417,354 33 140, 828 134 197, 672 144 11, 303 28% 78, 582 20 1, 429 17% 1,796 112 19, 313 800 1} 166, 192 _——————— i 67g. | 37,370,414 1 343 | 17,013,990 g2 109, 786 53 | 4,936,086 1 203 702, 796 114 315, 237 1 114| 2,806, 136 25 97, 630 951 | 7,748,406 71,100, 481 94 | 4,368, 485 1 133] 2,995, 088 92 149, 016 734 | 1,660, 536 1 094 163, 212 234 39, 114 67} | 1, 452, 395 20 6, 932 936 | 2,333,345 Bie 08 | 13, 168, 123 25 Table showing the amount in bushels, &c.—Continued. bond { nm Loe 2 ay | Bd - 8 2 Ben I) = < Zi > a KANSAS. Indian corn -...--- bushels..| 4,673, 081 25 186, 923 $1 37 $6, 402, 12] WRHPRIEE 22% ~-...5. aa 201, 598 15 13, 439 2 01 405, 212 | 2 aes ge Me. 4,061 17 239 1 25 5, 076 Ae grit. 146, 500 29 5, 051 96 141, 372 Hemleynee te ob 5. no 5, 901 23 256 1 27 7,494 Buckwheat - -.---. gene 24, 288 15 1,619 1 25 30, 360 Potatoes .......... “© } 184, 480 3 4,290 2 68 494, 406 Fobaceo.*---- 22. pounds -. 22,043 675 322 ii 2, 480 aes tons ..... 82, 569 13 49,541 | 13 00 1, 073, 397 1 >] SAY ee | ee we) | Se Se ee 261, 390% |-------. 8, 561, 918 NEBRASKA TERRITORY. i — oa Indian corn ..-.--- bushels.-| 1, 366, 622 284 47,951 99 1, 352, 956 Weent.. “ 126, 000 14 9, 000 150 189, 000 Myers... | -24. gs 1, 600 16 100 1 29 2, 064 rea. 25). .) 2 2'4. ce, fb 223, 284 28 7,974 684 152,577; Barley 4s bea 98, 965, 198 D6, 532, 029) | sa00 erences 2, 433, 169 fetal... ...eep 888, 546,554 |1, 012,959,292 | 141, 386, 939 16, 974, 201 Wo pACCO =.= === S-2=2ee- 163, 353, 082 | 197, 460, 229 34,107,147 .|..- «02. eee 11) eee. ee 18, 346, 730 18, 116, 691 |.------------- 230. 039 | ACREAGE OF CROPS, Indianieom). 1426.5. 522 233 15, 312, 441 17, 438, 752 2; 126; SM. ee eee What tase. ta. Geimee 13, 098,936 | 13, 158, 089 59, 153 1/2. 5. eee Ry Percncisemies osserene wets 1, 439, 607 ALOMOBS Nes Saee rar sees: 28, 624 OC eee Se Sener 6, 686, 174 6461 750M ae 224, 424 1 ie NS Ss sar pe ee lr 557, 299 SUS) fe pee eae 16, 982 Buckwheat .......--.---- 1, 054, 060 LU bak gt, 1 (alee eg 2, 360 Pwisipes 2-2. bee See 1, 129, 804 SO Bee (oes lepers he 227, 509 ROBRCCO oo =e oS ae seer 216, 423 239, 826 23,403 | cnc ee yc cles cir e ee es 15,641,504 | 15, 034, 564 |...--.---.---- 606, 940 fic ot FR seed ooh 55, 136, 248 56, 238, 276 2, 208, 867 1, 106, 839 VALUE OF CROPS, fgour Corn’ i322 on eee $278, 089, 609 | $527,718, 183 | $249, 628,574 |..---.-.2..... AUN (LIYE Re a ea iy sr 197, 992, 83i%uj5 294,315, 119 96,322, 282 |... -- = «eeeleeee oo EE Bip ely aces 20,589,015 | 31,975,013 | 11,385,098 |...... sc o6. CDS ee erie aot lo 105, 990,905 | 139, 381, 247 33,000, 342 |... oes paAneyee ae 22)- Moos eet 13, 496, 373 16, 941, 023 3,444, 650 |..-53s) ese Buckwheat 225.252... ee 12, 660, 469 21, 986, 763 9),326;294 ||. : -- 58 Sees IROIBLORS eee oon ce me cee 55, 024, 650 77, 184, 043 22,159,393 |... - Sasa Taecny holes’ cent 2 24,239,609 | 29,335, 225 5, 095,616 |... 2. -ceeee ihn Oe 247, 680,855 | 365,707,074 | 118, 026,219 |..........-..- nee. 955, 764, 322 |1,504, 543,690 | 548,779,368 |...........--. The above tables of the general summary do not show the exact comparative differences between the years 1863 and 1864, because the latter year embraces the crops of Kentucky, which are not in the year of 1863. Deducting Kentucky from 1864, the comparison will be as follows: ol Table of comparison between 1863 and 1864. 1863. | 1864 | Increase. | Decrease. Total, bushels .---2----.-- 888, 546, 554 | 959, 821, 150 | 71s SCS DUG eee eee Total tobacco, pounds. -.-- 163, 353, 082 | 140,503,760 |.-..-.--..---- 22, 849, 322 otal hay. tons 2=.'..~-~--=- 18, 346, 730 1S) 0045366.) 2 scage ose 342, 364 Total Acreare..'..--..---=- 55, 136, 248 EMOTO! | oan ao cae 1, 185, 451 Total value of crops--.----- $955, 764, 322 1,440, 415, 435 | $484, 651,113 |..---...-.-.-- Explanation and comment on the foregoing tables. The first of these three tables exhibits the amount, the yield per acre, the total acreage, the price per bushel, &c., and the total value of each of the crops _named in the several States. The amount is estimated from the returns of cor- respondents in tenths, increase or decrease, of the preceding crops, and the yield per acre and price per bushel, &c., from their returns also. ‘The average yield per acre and the average price per bushel, &c., are ascertained for each State from them. The ¢otal acreage is derived by dividing the yield per acre into the amount of the crop, and the ¢otal value by multiplying the price per bushel, &c., into the amount. A more accurate way would be to make this division and multiplication into the crops of each county, instead of into the estimates for each State, but this cannot be done, for the Interior Department has not yet published them as given by the census returns of 1860. The returns of each State, as given in the abridged census report, is the basis upon which the amount of the crops for 1862, 1863, and 1864 have been estimated. But as the excess of one county is much counterbalanced by the deficiency of another, or more than counterbalanced by a third, the general result, in this way, from the many returns for each State, affords a much closer approximation than would be supposed at first view. This fact we have determined by various means. The pricés for 1863 were taken in November of that year, and for 1864 on the lst day of January, 1865. This time is best to show the value of the crops to the farmer, as so large a portion of the crops is sold in October, Novem- ber, and December. The table of comparison, between 1863 and 1864, exhibits much that is in- teresting. There is a large increase in the number of bushels of grain, (71,274,596,) a decrease in tobacco of 22,849,322 pounds, a decrease of hay of 342,264 tons, a decrease in the acreage of 1,185,451 acres, but an increase in value of $484,651,113. The first increase is from the corn crop, which regained nearly all of its loss in 1863; the second from the condition of the currency, and is a subject of not only present but future interest. The value of the crops, the market value of gold when the prices were taken, and thé per cent. increase of the value of both, are as follows: Years. §- Value of crops. Rate of gu.d. Gold, increase Increase value of crops per ceut. per cent. 1862.. $706,887;495 131 a = 1863.. © 955,764,322 147 12 35 1864.. 1,440,415,435 227 34 50 An examination of the increase of the different crops in 1863 shows that it was chiefly in those most demanded by government for war purposes, hence the difference between 12 per cent. and 35 per cent., being 23 percent, may be attributed to the advance in value occasioned chiefly by the war demand. The 32 increase in gold value in 1864 is 4 per cent. over the increase in the value of the crops of that year, the one being 54 per cent., the other 50 per cent. This comparative decrease in the value of the crops may be attributed to the de- creased foreign demand, as seen in the decreased exports. The total increase from November, 1862, to January 1, 1865, in gold value is 73 per cent., and of the value of crops 103 per cent., showing the war demand chiefly has added about 30 per cent. to the value of the crops, and the increased value of gold over currency about 73 per cent. IMPORTS AND EXPORTS. The more complete returns of imports and exports than published in the last monthly report are as follows, taken from the New York Journal of Com- merce : Imports at New York. 1862. 1863. | 1864. Ty POON S ae eet ee he eam aien eee $56, 121, 227 $67, 274, 547 71, 589, 752 General merchandise. ..--......-.---- 117, 140, 813 118, 814, 219 144, 270, 386 Species =-22@2 52) 882 - 58. e412. cee 13390, 277 1, 525, 811 2, 265, 622 Mokall Smo poris «Soon ee 174, 652, 317 187, 614, 577 218, 125, 760 Exports at. New York. 1862. 1863. 1864. Domestic produce; }). >. -sbisaces. f2-8 42 $149, 179, 591 $164, 249,177 | $201, 855, 989 Foreign merchandise free-.-.--.-.----- 2, 853, 848 1, 037, 212 2, 142, 458 Foreign merchandise dutiable-........ 4,901, 383 5, 424, 579 17, 824, 095 Total produce and merchandise- -. 156, 934, 822 170, 710, 968 221, 822, 542 SNCCIC2 52,24 320 35 os hake ach oer ee 5Y, 437, 021 49, 754, 066 50, 825, 621 ‘Total exports#2s254. ie yee es 216, 371, 843 220, 465,034] 272,648, 163 -_—_ It will be remembered that the values of the zmports are GOLD values as fixed on the merchandise at the ports from whence imported, and the values of the exports of produce and merchandise are CURRENCY values at the port of New York. 33 EXPORTS AND PRICES OF PRODUCE. Table of the exports from New York of the leading agricultural products from January 1 to February 22, 1865, compared with those during the same time in 1864, and their prices in New York and Chicago. Jan.1to Feb. | Jan.1to Feb. | Prices in N. York | Prices in Chicago 22, 1865. 22, 1865. Feb. 22, 1865. Feb. 14,1865. Wheat flour..-.--.- barrels..| $224,715 $308, 998 to 1200 | $6 00 to 1000 397 580 Eye flour . ..2: «5. barrels_.|. . indelwedad pl) |” WSS yesjss> 2 =. . 625 to 650 Corn meal ....-- barrels 24, 409 19, 742 fae 80 8 GO sce ss eevee ee Wiheatiz:. - 22024 bushels - 105,578 } 2,417,190 2 60 127 to 1514 Werny: 242.2 bushels 77, 346 20, 847 1 90 7d. .to.. 28 Myee-.22.5...-- bushels - 141 BOD els dn a oo aie 96 to 1 02 Bavleye 3} =) bushels.-joccocs-cs2- no ee oe 208 120 to 125 ES, eae, bushels -- 12, 366 oy tot 107 to 113 59i to 61 Beas --------=-- bushels-. 9, 786 BOr Gee Worse: soo cece bceees sane aoe Petter 25. 622.2. bales 6, 831 205 to: }) 2 8545 «ees -4g-383-- Bin oe. 2 wk bales - - 5, 844 "2,806 | *160 to 165 90 to 100 Héps.--£ 2% - £24. bales - ' 5, 123 7,938 25 te. 50 33, to 55 Leaf tobacco --hogsheads- -| 18, 029 4, 324 9D© tOpe 4S fos es cscs wpe Leaf tobacco. .. packages. “| 17, 263 Bunter fe oo cama oen (es oe ay Saeraaeeee Man’fac’dtobacco.pounds-.-| 1, 020, 950 Sos oe ae 65 to 150 ’ Petroleum ....-.-- gallons..| 1,446,228 | 2,198, 017 GY: tO TAGH Oi seio Le...s ae barrels. 21, 525 24,974 | 3325 to 35 874; 3050 to 3475 Loe eee ee barrels - - 7,427 5,036 | 1800 to2400; 1400 to I7 00 Beet) Ses) .2. ; tierces -- 12, 058 183, 00: |e sees se rse se cee 8 sae Cut meats....-..- pounds..| 8, 467,920 | 27, 650, 245 17 to 21 14ito 163 7) oe ee pounds..| 4,010,086 | 4,641, 063 32 to 46 21 to 30 ae pounds..| 7,197,309 | 4,903,290 15 to 25 18 to 24 i. pis i pounds..| 6,374,577 | 5,931, 101 20: toi °25 20i to 232 WAMNOWooss ses MONTOOs. sn sca Miss F. E. Whelpley - 5 44 State Agric’] College.} Ingham .. ....... Prof. R. C. Kedzie... 5 39 Garlick’. ..... £:..2.| Ontonagon ...... Edwin Ellis........ 30 33 INDIANA, Vevay -....-. .--...| Switzerland ..... Chas. G. Boerner... 5 45 Peanvale . se da wu ay cee ooh ok Miriam Griest .. .... 13, 30 48 New Castle-/2. 5.25.32] Halenry 21.222: = T. B. Redding, A. M. 13 45 Madison ............| Jefferson ........ Rey. S. Collins .... 13 41 Newealbanyreec.) Se loydls & =2 See. 2 E. S. Crozier, M. D.. 5 48 South Bend. ........! St. Joseph.....-. Reuben Burroughs. . Q1 44 Indianapolis .-...... Loni Sees 48 W. W. Butterfield -. 5 44 Dp aeeeee st ciss Je acer doeees Ue 2 ae Royal Mayhew ..... 31 45 Rensselaer.......-.-- .| Dr. J. H. Loughridge. 21 46 Bloomingdale -.....}| Parke......-.... Miss M. A. Hobbs... 29 48 New Harmony......} Posey ........... John Chappellsmith. 31 48 ILLINOIS. Chicago. cnecees.4 sieesine asus Samuel Brookes .... 21 44 BiVeMELON! . S~= S22 fe feoee Ss abeanecae A. D. Langworthy-. 21 45 RUlBy-e cities eerie E: Babeoek). 25.-- 19, 20, 21 40 Sandwich. 2..222..2.0/DéKalbe... i... Dr. N. E. Ballou.... 9 51 Ottawa... 2522.2 -.|eua Sallee<.2224, Mrs. E. H. Merwin.. 20 44 Winnebago .....-.. James W. Tolman .. 20 38 Wyieitet..<. 2. <5.-|iputean sas E.S. and MissPhelps.| 12, 20 44 POISE We iinet we Sac ROSE e et Verry Aldrich ...... 20 42 Bilmine) sa). . + 5250] SEAR oe eae O. A. Blanchard.... 12 47 iennepinic: -.3.<8..}) Putnam. #22 Smiley Shepherd....} 12,20 42 BOOTIE REE. nn se aac 18 SoS eS a ee Ae OGL 9 “BG CLG B96 GS *€ G08 P81 to 9'8T GL 008 GT), es sisal 2 se eS eer Agua 6 66 OL *F £ 86 LE'S Rats 9°6L 19S 9°06 LES PGE ¢ az b'9G 00 °€ GEG 6S "E P96 6 EL B'S 6 ‘9T 9€ 'E L°LG (ES ee G96 86 ‘P 8 TG ech 8 GG 8ST 19 '‘F £ 0G OF 'S 9 6G na £°LG 96'S CG 'SG GL‘S £63 £91 GG °S 9 '8L Cro 0 ‘0€ I! Se ae ee ee ee PURIST ODOUR g'°cR 89 “F TFG $0 °L 09% 0°9L #6 'E 0 ‘8L 88 ‘F T ‘66 BL [rrr tress teerreccsssses SOSNYORSECIL Go OL’ T°2t £9'°G T'8L 6'8 8F ‘'T PIL 6‘ € SG aaa Sag i> SRUOUMIO K T ‘06 £9 '€ 9 ‘8I 68 *E T'9T POL C6 % 8ST ¢9 °C 8 SG i **----omysduey AON B'GG FL 'P BLT 18% L°kt 6TL 9b 'G 9°6L €8 ‘PF £ PG G ‘Bo Ul ‘Ba ‘ur “sa “5a “ul “8a “Ur “Ba “uyel WOOL “dulo} up *so[10}][410,], PUB 8078} “uyeI WeO]L *duio} wast *srBod “SOT ‘SoSBi0AY| ‘FOST ‘SoSvIOAW | OAY acy “AW | ‘6SBT ‘Sodvr0Ay | ‘gggl ‘Sosvs0AyY | “LOST ‘goSni0Ay | ‘9Ggl ‘sodur0ay | ‘gogT ‘sedv10Ay *sooe[d jo JoquInuU “AY > ‘APDUL LIM SUOLYJDALISYO BYZ YRYM UL BDI) YODA UA saonjd fo saqunu 9Sp.190D ayn yyun ‘hjaaryoayjoo ‘paunu asf stnah aa ay? of puv ‘paupu wvah yova ur hoonune J0 yuo ayn Lof (syjuay pup sayour uw Jus fo yof pun alngo.LadUay IGDLIAD AY) FULNOYS I7QV I, 41 SNOW ANDICE. In the New England and Middle States, and as far west as Indiana, the snows in January were frequent and some of them deep ; but west of that State very little snow fell, and at most of the stations no rain. Cornish, Maine—Twenty-six and a quarter inches of snow in January ; nearly half of it fell on the 23d and 24th. - Gardiner, Maine-—Amount of snow in January 32? inches. Good sleigh- ing, and river closed every day during the month. The mean temperature was 3.63° lower than the mean of January for the previous twenty-eight years. The coldest January in those years wasin 1844, 7.08°; the warmest in 1841, 26.43°. West Waterville, Maine—Amount of snow, forty-three inches. Lisbon, Maine-—Amount of snow, fifteen inches ; about ten inches fell on the 23d, drifting badly, blocking up the railroads, and stopping trains the next day. On the last day of the month there was three feet of snow in the woods, and about two feet on an average in the roads. , Lee, Maine—Forty and a half inches of snow during the month; fifteen ~ inches fell on fhe 23d and 24th. January 31: There is now something over three feet of snow on the ground in the woods. Cornishville, Maine-—Thirty-four inches of snow fell during the month ; twelve inches of it on the 23d. Steuben, Maine—Thirty-three anda quarter inches of snow during the month ; the deepest were six inches on the 2d, nine inches on the 4th, Sth, and nine inches on the 23d, 24th. Claremont, N. H.—January has been characterized by steady cold and no thaw of any account. The sleighing was never better than now. It commenced early in the season and has been enjoyed without intermission. It would be difficult to find a month of January containing so many days favorable to work, both by men and cattle. The farmers say this has been a good season for stock, the cold having kept everything dry and clean. Seventeen and a half inches of snow fell during the month ; seven inches fell during the storm of the 23d. Shelburne, N. H—Seven inches of snow fell on the 23d. The trains were delayed by this storm on the railroads throughout the State. Twenty-four and two-tenths inches of snow in the month. Barnstead, N. H—Twenty-seven inches of snow in January; twelve of it on the 23d. Stratford, N. H—Thirty inches of snow during the month ; ten in the storm of the 23d. Craftsbury, Vermont—Amount of snow in January, twenty-seven inches. Lunenburg, Vermont.—Amount of snow, thirty-one inches; twelve inches on the 23d and 24th. Middlebury, Vermont.—Depth of snow during the month twenty and a quar- ter inches. Westfield, Massachusetts —The sleighing has been very good every day dur- ing the month. New Bedford, Massachusetts.—The snow that has fallen has at no time made good sleighing, and there have been few days that sleighs were out in large numbers. No obstruction by ice in the outer harbor, and the approach to the wharves below the bridge has been kept open by the steam ferry-boat, which occasionally ran down the main channel between the fort and Palmer’s island, to let the broken ice drift out with the wind and tide. Worcester, Massachusetts—One and a half inch of snow on the 24th; fifteen and a half inches during the month. 42 Baldwinsville, Massachusetts —Nineteen inches of snow during the month eight inches on the 23d. Topsfield, Massachusetts—Fifteen and a half inches of snow during the month; on the 23d one inch, also rain and hail. Sandwich, Massachusetts—Amount of snow during the month eighteen and a quarter inches rain on the 23d. This has beena remarkably cold January, and also remarkable for the number of snow-storms unaccompanied with heavy wind, thus giving an unusual number of days of sleighing. The ice was five anda half inches thick on Sandwich pond on the 11th, and nearly ten inches on the 31st. Newbury, Massachusetts—Ten and a half inches of snow during the month. On the 23d a heavy fall, the most of the forenoon; snow from 1 p.m. to 104 p. m. three inches. Springfield, Massachusetts—This has been the coldest January since 1857; good sleighing all the month. Middletown, Connecticut—Eleven inches of snow in January; rain on the 23d. Columbia, Connecticut——Eleven inches of snow during the month; rain and fog on the 23d; snow squalls on the 24th. Theresa, New York.—Amount of snow 15.2 inches; the greatest depth of snow on the ground this month, twenty-six inches; snow and rain on the 22d. Moriches, New York.—Fifteen and a half inches of snow during the month; sleet on the 23d. Nichols, New York.—January 23, snow from 7 a. m. to sunset; between six and seven inches fell. 25th, Susquehanna river closed. 27th, teams cross in various places on the ice. Palmyra, New York.—January 23, began snowing at 10 a. m.; stopped at 5 p.m.; melted as fast as it fell. Jamestown, New York —F¥orty-three inches of snow fell in January. The month has been good winter weather. The snow is deeper than has been known for nine years. Many roads are wholly impassable, and there are drifts which may hardly be expected to disappear before May. The ice in Chautauqua lake is about ten inches. There are no places bare of snow. In riding thirty miles, to day, (February 1,) I have not seen a field bare of snow; half of the way 1 rode over snow drifted six feet deep. South Trenton, New York.—Fifty-seven inches of snow during the month; four inches on the 23d. Garrison, New York.—The river closed on the 26th of December, and has continued so through January. Fourteen inches of snow this month; two inches on the 23d. Clinton, New York—Twenty-four inches of snow during the month; six inches from the 21st to the 23d. New York, New York.—Eleven inches of snow during the month; rain on the 23d. Snow for a few minutes at 8 p. m. on the 24th; hardly covered the ground. Oswego, New York.—Forty-eight inches of snow. Rochester, New York.—Twenty-three and a half inches of snow. Good sleigh- ing from the 11th to the close of the month. The mean temperature of January, 1857, was 15°, the lowest on record. Gouverneur, New York.—Amount of snow twenty-three inches. Fishkill, New York.—Fifteen inches of snow. Newburgh bay closed by ice of the 8th; crossing on foot. Skaneateles, New York.—Seventy inches of snow during the month; eighteen inches on the 23d. South Hartford, New Yors:—Twenty-one inches of snow during the month. 43 No snow or rain recorded on or near the 23d. January 11: In consequence of the frozen rain adhering to the track of the raiload, communication by rail was delayed full twenty hours. Two powerful engines were thirteen hours in ae- complishing the distance of twenty-three miles, from Whitehall to Fort Edward. January 21: Ice trade on the Hudson river at Fort Edward commenced. Vermillion, New York —Thirty-three inches of snow during the month; three inches on the 23d and 24th. This January has been the coldest for five rs. ere athe New York.—F¥ifty-seven inches of snow during the month; twelve inches on the 2d, ten and a half inches on the 7th, six inches on the 23d, and five inches on twelve other days. The mean temperature of the month is more than four degrees below the average of the last thirteen years; only two Janu- aries were colder, those of 1856 and 1857. Depauville, New York.—Depth of snow at the end of the month, three feet on a level; no frost in the ground below the snow. Buffalo, New York.—Amount of snow during the month forty-six inches. This January was colder by six degrees than the same period for seven years, with three times the amount of snow. There have been but twelve entirely clear days in four months. Lake Erie was closed by ice on the first; there was good sleighing the entire month. Amount of snow thus far, this winter, eighty-three inches. Auburn, New York—This has been the coldest January since 1857; there there have been four weeks of good sleighing. Oneida, New York.—Thirty-five inches of snow in January. Greenwich, New Jersey—Six inches of snow fell during the month ; rained on the 23d.. Newark, New Jersey—Ten and a half inches of snow during the month; rain on the 23d; flurries of snow on the 24th. Mount Holly, New Jersey—Hight inches of snow.: New Brunswick, New Jersey—January 5, roads in good sleighing order; 19th, temperature at 7 a. m. 4° below zero; the coldest morning in four years ; ground frozen about six inches. Burlington, New Jersey—January 2: Delaware river froze over last night ; the second time this winter. January 31: The Delaware has been frozen over at least four times this winter, and teams can now cross on the ice to Bristol. Although the greatest depth of snow falling at one time has been but two inches, the snow has not disappeared at any time during the month; whole amount of snow seven and a halt inches. Passaic Valley, New Jersey—Hleven and a half inches of snow fell during the month. Progress, New Jersey—Delaware river froze over the night of the 17th. Amount of snow during the month seven and three-fourths inches. Moorestown, New Jersey— Amount of snow during the month seven and a quarter inches. Haddonfield, New Jersey—Kight and a quarter inches of snow. The win- ter thus far has been more uniformly cold, and more snow has fallen and has remained longer on the ground than in the previous winter. The crop of wheat will promise better from the protection thus afforded. Canonsburg, Pennsylvania—Seventeen and a quarter inches of snow fell during the month; four inches on the 22d and 23d. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.—Amount of snow during the month, nine and a half inches ; three inches on the 21st, and three inches on the 23d. Fallsington, Pennsylvania—January 4.—Delaware river closed the third time this winter. 10th, river broke up the third time. 18th, river closed the fourth time. Amount of snow during the month, eleven inches. 44 Gettysburg, Pennsylvania —F all of snow during the month, 4.18 inches. Berwick, Pennsylvania —F all of snow, thirteen inches. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—January 18: Schuylkill river closed with ice, and continued closed the remainder of the month. Amount of snow, nine inches. Dyberry, Pennsylvania—January 31: Streams are very low and well sealed with ice. ‘The ground is frozen one and a half inch under fourteen inches depth of snow, which is much drifted on the hills. Amount of snow during the month, thirteen inches ; four inches on the 23d. Blairsville, Pennsylvania.—Highteen inches of snow fell during the month. Fleming, Pennsylvania.—Ten inches of snow fell during the month. Connelsville, Pennsylvania—Twenty-four and a half inches of snow during the month; five inches on the 23d. Horsham, Pennsylvania—Seven inches of snow during the month. The month throughout has been unusually cold, with a great many snow-squalls ; very little of the time that the ground has not been covered. Tioga, Pennsylvania.—Twelve and a half inches of snow during the month ; five inches of it on the 6th and 7th, and five inches on the 23d. Steady cold weather all the month ; ground covered with snow ; excellent slcighing ; very favorable for lumbermen, and they are improving it by getting large stocks. Very favorable also for winter grain and clover. Under the snow the ground is not frozen more than four inches deep ; ice in the river fourteen inches thick. Wilmington, Delaware.—Hleven and a half inches of snow during the month ; rain on the 23d. St. Mary’s City, Maryland.—Kight inches of snow in January ; rain on the 22d. Sykesville, Maryland—January 23.—The trees and shrubbery bent down with sleet; rain and snow in the afternoon. 24th, best sleighing this winter ; the ground was frozen hard when the sleet came, then the snow, and again rain and snow; all froze hard together. Six and three-quarter inches of snow during the month. Annapolis, Maryland.—Three and a half inches of snow on the 3d, and nearly half an inch on the 6th; sprinkles of snow several times afterwards. Hilton Head, South Carolina.—No snow during the month; rain on the 23d. Beaufort, South Carolina-——No snow; two inches of rain on the 22d. Natchez, Mississippi—No snow; ice on the 1st; ice on the 24th half an inch thick. Smithville, Kentucky—Twenty-one inches of snow during the month; 3.8 inches on the 23d. East Fairfield, Ohio—Twenty-one inches of snow in January ; three inches on the 23d. Cincinnati, Ohio—Sixteen and six-tenths inches of snow during the month ; three and a third inches on the 23d. Kingston, Ohio —Amount of snow, 13.3 inches; snow on the 23d, amount not given. Cleveland, Ohio—Amount of snow, 13.1 inches; rain on the 22d. College Fill, Ohio— Amount of snow, twenty-six and a quarter inches; five inches on the 23d. Portsmouth, Ohio—January 4: Ice very heavy in the Ohio river. January 7, snow from 1 a. m. to 6 a. m., ten inches in five hours. This was the heaviest fall of snow ever known here in so short a space of time; had the ground been dry the snow would have been much deeper. 15th, some ice in the Ohio river. 18th, ice packed by our merchants six and a half to seven inches thick. 25th, navigation suspended on account of ice; fine skating. Fall of snow during the month, nineteen and three-quarter inches. ‘The snow, on the 7th, was from eight 45 to twelve inches deep at a number of stations in Ohio; at Cleveland it was only an inch and a half. New Lisbon, Ohio—Twenty-four and a half inches of snow during the month; four inches on the 23d. January 31, although the weather has been very cold, the ground is frozen but slightly, in consequence of the heavy snow covering it. Hillsboro’, Ohio —There was good sleighing the whole month of J. anuary, but the snow is melting to-day, February 1. Kelley's Island, Ohio—January 18.—Channel frozen entirely over; mail erossed wholly on the ice. 24th, channel again open through the middle; west wind has blown the ice down the lake. Amount of snow during the month, nine inches. ‘The mean temperature of the month was 4.89 degrees below the mean of January for the last five years. Westerville, Ohio —Amount of snow during the month, eighteen inches; five inches on the 23d. There has been more and better sleighing this winter than has been known in Ohio for many years; perhaps not more in quantity, but it remained longer. Urbana, Ohio—The first four days of the month the ground was covered with snow; the 5th there was none on the ground; snow fell again on the 6th, and the ground is still covered at the end of the month; the sleighing has been good for three weeks. Amount of snow during the month, ten inches and seven- tenths; three inches on the 23d. Bethel, Ohio —Amount of snow, nineteen inches. Saybrook, Ohio—Some snow has fallen on perhaps half the days of the month, including some of the coldest. Amount of measure during the month, seventeen inches. Welshfield, Ohio —Twenty-eight inches of snow during the month; an inch and a half on the 23d. Wooster, Ohio—HEleven and one-sixteenth inches of snow during the month. Smithville, Ohio —Fifteen and a quarter inches of snow during the month; two and a half inches on the 23d. Milnersville, Ohio —F ifteen and a half inches of snow during the month. Ripley, Ohio —Seventven and three tenths inches of snow during the month; two and a half inches on the 23d. Steubenville, Ohio—Snow fell on twenty-six days in small quantities ; amount not given. The ground, at the end of the mouth, is covered, and sleighing more and better than for several years. Monroe, Michigan.—Nine inches of snow during the month; four inches of it the 9th and 10th, and five inches on the 26th and 27th. Lansing, Michigan.—Six and a half inches of snow during the month. New Albany, Indiana.—Fifteen inches of snow during the month; eight inches on the 6th and 7th, three on the 10th, one on the 19th, and three on the 22d and 23d. Madison, Indiana—The month has been unusually cold, with more snow than has been known for several years past. The ground was somewhat frozen before the snow fell. Sleighing has been good for two or three weeks. Amount of snow during the month, twenty-two inches. Yewcastle, Indiana.—Ten inches of snow during the month. New Harmony, Indiana—The maximum temperature for January was 48°, the lowest maximum during twelve years, except in 1856, when it was the same; the highest maximum was 67°, in 1864. The minimum temperature of the month was 1°; in 1864 it was 15° below zero; the highest minimum during twelve years was 22°, in 1858. The range of temperature for the month was 47°; in 1864 it was 82°. ‘The least range during twelve years was 37°, in 1858. The mean temperature for the month was 28.24°; the lowest mean during twelve years was 20.4°, in 1857; the highest, 40.6°, in 1861. 46 Rensselaer, Indiana—The month of January has been dry, and rather cold, but remarkably free from the sudden changes of temperature so common in this climate, and especially on the broad, elevated prairies of northern Illinois and Indiana. Amount of snow during the month, 5.65 inches. Vevay, Indiana—The large amount of snow (eighteen inches) which fell from 10 p. m. of the 7th to 5 a. m. of the 8th, created a heavy rise in the Ohio river, threatening an overflow at this place and various points below, which, however, was checked by the continuous cold weather which set in. The accu- mulation of ice in the river is very great, endangering navigation, which was entirely suspended during the last week of the month. The amount of snow fallen at this point in January was not less than thirty-five inches. South Bend, Indiana.—Fall of snow during the month, fifteen and three- quarter inches. Bloomingdale, Indiana—Kight inches of snow during the month. Indianapolis, Indiana.—Amount of snow during the month, 17.8 inches. Spring field, Illinois Amount of snow recorded, 4} inches; several snows are entered on the register, but no depth given; probably small. Ottawa, Illinois —Four and a half inches of snow during the month. Tiskilwa, Illinois—Two and a half inches of snow during the month; one inch of it on the 16th, an inch and a half of it on the night of the 21st. Snowed for a few minutes at 7 p. m. of the 8th. Waverly, Illinois. —January has been the most remarkable ‘of any winter month for a period of twenty-five years, for the uniform range of temperature— cold and dry, without rain or snow. On the Ist of the month the depth to which the ground was frozen was eleven inches, which gradually increased in depth until the end of the month, when it measured eighteen inches. The streams of water are all frozen, and the public roads are as solid and smooth as a railroad. Two inches of snow fell on the night of the 8th; no other rain or snow is recorded during the month. Elmore, (ilinois—An inch and three-quarters of snow during the month. Sandwich, Illinois —January has been the dryest month since my recol- lection, no rain falling, and only two and a half inches of snow—an inch on the 15-16th, and an inch and a half on the 22d; a slight amount also fell in the night of the Sth, not measured. There has been no freezing and thawing, and hence winter wheat is thus far but little injured. Abating the cold week near the end of the month, January has been rather milder than the average for a number of years. Riley, Illinots—Half an inch of snow on the 16th, and six inches on the 22d. Wyanet, Illinois —A sixteenth of an inch of snow on the 3d, an inch on the 16th, and an inch and a half on the 22d. Hoyleton, Iilinois—Four inches of snow on the 6th, and one inch on the 910th. Chicago, Illinois—Snow on the 8th, 22d, and 23d. Clinton, Illinois ——Two and a half inches of snow on the 9th, and one and a half inch on the 17th. Augusta, Illincis—A quarter of an inch of snow in the night of the 8th, three-quarters of an inch on the 16th and 17th, and three-quarters in the night of the 21st. Winnebago, Illinois—Two inches and six-tenths of snow, an inch and a half of it on the 22d. Winter, thus far, (January 31,) dry, and fine for stock. Elmira, Illinois —One inch of snow on the 17th, and two inches on the 21st. Galesburg, Illinois——Two inches of snow on the 16th, and one inch on the 2ist. The water is low in cisterns and wells. Peoria, Illinois —Light snow on the 8th, 16th, and 21st. 47 Manchester, Illinois —Three inches of snow on the 21st and 22d. Hennepin, Ilinois-——Though the weather has been variable in January, the changes were not sudden nor extremes great. No storms and less severity of wind than usual. Comparative steadiness and low temperature of weather has rendered stock water scarce in many neighborhoods. The present thaw (Feb- ruary 3) will give them plenty of water. Allenton, Missourt.—¥ive and one-eighth inches of snow during the month; _four and a half inches of it on the 9th and 10th. Athens, Missourt—January has been cold and dry; no rain, and only an inch of snow—three-quarters of an inch on the 16th and 17th, and a quarter of an inch on the 22d. There has been great trouble to get water for stock. The ice on the Des Moines river, above the dams, is fourteen inches thick, very hard and pure; the best winter for putting up ice for twenty years. Canton, Missourt—One inch and thirty-five-hundredths of snow during the month—a fourth of an inch on the 8th; a tenth on the 16th, and an inch on the 21st. Easton, Missourt—One inch of snow on the 8th, and an inch and seven- tenths on the 21st. Harrisonville, Missouri—Two and a half inches of snow on the 8th, and two inches on the 21st. Bloomfield, Wisconsin—Three inches of snow on the 22d; no other recorded during the month. January 31, temperature of water in well forty feet deep, 45°; temperature of air, 34°. This is lower than for the two years preceding, when it was 45° and 49°. The ice in Geneva lake is from twenty-one inches to two feet thick; last year the ice was fourteen inches. Baraboo, Wisconsin ——Half an inch of snow on the 4th, quarter of an inch on the 20th, and four inches on the 22d. Embarrass, Wisconsin —One inch of snow on the 4th; half an inch on the 14th and 15th; eight inches from the 19th to the 22d, and half an inch in the night of the 26th—ten inches in all. Waupacca, Wisconsin.—Five inches of snow from the 19th tothe 21st; no other recorded. Green Bay, Wisconsin.—Six inches of snow during the month, distributed nearly equally on the 4th, 13th, 19th, 21st, 22d, and 30th. New Holstein, Wisconsin —A. few flakes of snow on the Ldth, 16th, and 20th, and fiye inches on the 21st and 22d. Plymouth, Wisconsin—A few flakes of snow on the 14th, 15th, 16th, and 19th, and four inches on the 21st and 22d. Depth of ground frozen on the 31st about two feet eight inches; where the ground is covered with about ten inches of snow it is frozen only a few inches. Delavan, Wisconsin.—Six-hundredths of an inch of snow on the 16th, and three and six-tenths inches on the 21st and 22d. A few flakes on several other days. Manitowoc, Wisconsin—Amount of snow during the month 3.87 inches. Milwaukee, Wisconsin—aA quarter of an inch of snow on the 10th, and two and a half inches on the 21st and 22d. Saint Paul, Minnesota—Six and a quarter inches of snow fell during the month, five inches of it on the 19th and 20th. New Ulm, Minnesota.—One inch of snow on the 16th, one on the 18th, and. two on the 20th. Minneapolis, Minnesota.—Seven and a half inches of snow on the 19th and 20th; a little on three other days, not measured. Clarinda, Iowa.—Three inches of snow during the month; one inch on the 16th and 17th, and two inches on the 21st. Algona, Jowa.—Six inches of snow on the 20th; no other during the month exeept a few flakes on the 13th and 16th. 48 Lyons, Towa.—Slight snow for half an hour on the 4th, an inch on the 15th’ and three inches on the 22d. Ice on the river sixteen inches thick. Independence, Iowa.—Four-tenths of an inch of snow on the 2d, one inch on the 16th, and an inch and a half on the 22d. Monticello, lowa—Half an inch of snow on the 16th, two inches and four- tenths on the 22d. January 16: Temperature of springs 48°, which is three degrees lower than in August last; temperature of wells average, as far as ex- amined, 44°, which is from four to six degrees lower than in August last. lowu City, Iowa.—Snow on the 3d, 16th, and 22d, in all 3.15 inches; two inches of it on the 22d. Dubuque, lowa— Amount of snow during the month 2.26 inches, one inch of it on the 16th and one inch on the 22d. The snow-storm of to-day (the 22d) from the northwest is of unusual occurrence. Such storms almost always come from an easterly or southerly direction. Muscatine, Iowa.—Six inches of snow during the month; one inch on the 2d, one on the Sth, two on the 15th, and two on the 22d. Guttenberg, Iowa.—One-tenth of an inch of snow on the 8th, seven-tenths on the 16th, and one-tenth on the 20th. Olatha, Kansas—One inch and three-quarters of snow on the 8th, and a quarter of an inch on the 21st. Manhattan Kansas—Three inches of snow on the 21st, and a very little at noon on the 8th. , Bellevue, Nebraska.—Ualf an inch of snow on the 17th, and two inches on the 20th. Nursery Hill, Nebraska—One inch of snow on the 20th, and two inches on the 21st. Ground frozen twenty and a half inches deep on the 2d day of January. «=~ METEOR. A very large and brilliant meteor was seen from different towns in Minnesota on the morning of the 27th of January. Nore.—The late disastrous fire at the Smithsonian Institution will not in- terrupt the active operations of the establishment. Though most of the me- teorological records were preserved, a number of sheets are wanting, which it is hoped the observers may be able to supply hereafter, when a list of deficiencies ean be made out. All the dlank registers were lost, but a new supply will soon be obtained, and correspondents will be furnished with them. eV = CC —_— : £ ‘ . ‘a =) a Poe mare <