^OtMAs^ \ DATE DUE ■ UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY S 74 M3K3 1887-89 X \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ X \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ TRANSACTIONS OF THE MARSHFIELD SOCIETY, !/ i / DURING THE YEAR I i * 1877. I ^ li PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Steam Book and Job Printers. 1878. '9 1/ :/ TRANSACTIONS OF THE MARSHFIELD t<^S mm mmmi SOCIETY, DURING THE YEAR 1877. PLYMOUTH : AVBKY & DOTEN, StEAM BoOK AST) JOB PrFNTEBS 1878. 12f 18«C I LIBRARY UNIVERSTYOF MASSACHUSETTS AMHEi^ST, MASS. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1877. PRESIDENT: GEORGE M. BAKEE, Maishfiekl. VICE PRESIDENTS: LEVI WALKER, Marsbfield, FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. SECRETARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREASURER: ROBERT H. MOOREHEAD, Marshfielcl. AUDITOR: JOHN H. BOURNE, Marsbfield. DIRECTORS: CHARLES T. HATCH, Marsbfield, STEPHEN GARDNER, Marsbfield, CHARLES A. WAT>KER, Marsbfield, STEPHEN HENRY, Marsbfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Dnxbury, JAMES M. WESTON, Dnxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxburj, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. NEW MEMBERS. MARSHFIELD. Miss M. Louisa Alden, Allen Taylor, George H. Bourne, Quincj A. Ewell. HANOVER. Joshua Stuclley. HANSON. John Beal. BOSTON. Beza Lincoln, Howard Clapp, " Edward E. Eames. SCITUATE. Mrs. James N. Turner, Miss Mabel Sables. DUXBURY. Thaddeus W. Chandler. Introductory. To the ' Memheis of the 3Iarshfield Jgricultutal and Horticul- tural Society : It will be seen at a glance that this annual Keport is much thinner than those that have immediately preceded it, and a glance at the Treasurer's leport may explain the reason. " Money makes the mare go," and it requires money to make the printer's ink flow. In view of the fact that there is not money enough in the Treasury to meet the current expenses of the Society, the Directors have thought it best to economize in every direction possible and judicious. Therefore, it was decided not to print ■with this Report the long list of individual awards that has already been printed in the Old Colony Memorial, and been read, doubtless, by most of you. The amount awarded in each department will appear in the abstract of the annual return made to the Board of Agriculture. Your annual Fair, so far as being an exhibition of the prod- ucts of the farm and the fireside, was very successful ; and had the mornings of the two last days dawned with favorable probabilities, or, better still, with favorable realities, no doubt it would have been financicilly successful. A universal feeling of satisfaction appeared to pervade the company in attendance, and that is worth more to the future prosperity of the Society than a small amount in the treasury. At a meeting of the Directors previous to the Fair, a vote was passed offering premiums on trotting horses. This was done against the earnest protest, both spoken and written, of a minority. At the annual meeting the action of the majority was endorsed by the Society, in offering a small amount for the same pur- pose. We hope that those now in the minority will submit gracefully to the v/ill of the majority, that their interest may remain unabated, and that peace and harmony may reign within the Society in the future as in the past. For premiums offered, see premium lists, which will be posted in conspicuous places in Marshfield and neighboring towns in April or May. These have been reduced somewhat, too, on the score of economy. F. COLLAMORE, Secretary. North Pembroke, Dec. 24, 1877. REPORTS. HOME DP]PARTMENT. The interest seems unabated in this special department of our Fair. The exhibitors numbered one hundred and forty- two ; the exhibits two hundred and forty. A kaleidoscope's combinations could not have displayed more lavishment of color. Here Berlin wools flung out their richness in carriage robe or fleecy shawl ; they were woven into the meshes of canvas in fantastic arabesque, symmetrical figures and floral designs. Scraps of print were fashioned into innumerable forms, and soft woolen bits had been combined in rugs to blossom into pausies or stray in wandering vines, while the brief rages of fashion in knicknacks were displayed in works of straw and colored thread. When one thinks of the general industry always seen in a country home, one w^onders where the extra time was found to so dress our hall in gala tints. A year is a brief space. A little rush of time, and again the bright October is upon us. 8 That the twelvemoutli is not lost to many, their works attest. Needlework is to woman a most natural exercise. Her work basket is stamped with her identity, and matron or maid who hums in her low rocker, and plys the bright needle, finds little " ennui in life. Who ever knew a hypochondriac to sew ? The listless, dreaming woman who finds life a hardship is she whose needles are flecked with rust, and whose cottons are sallow from being long lain. A whole troop of miseries can be transferred from the nerves of an idle woman's body into a batch of rags, if she will, from out their apparent worthless- ness, bring forth a useful article, such as decked our w^alls at the Fair. A storekeeper attested to me once, upon enquiry, that the merry, chipper, womanly little housekeepers who visited his store were those who were ever buying spools of cotton and silk, pounds of yarn, and every number of needle. Woman has no time to study up fashionable diseases when she is employed. Industry is the doctor's rival. In a direct sequence, we can trace disease from indolence : its stages are aversion of work, decreased energy, flagging exer- cise, inaction, disease. The old monasteries, where the hooded nuns lived their solitary lives, would not have had such sweet serenity written on their inmates' pale faces, if marvelous tap- estries and grand pictures had not been wrought by their untiring fingers. The immolation, the cell, the penance would have made them beat their bars in frenzy, the chant would have become a wail, had not hours of work filled up their lives. The ferns of woodlands, the remembered landscapes, the, soft blue of summer skies, the richly draped women, the mailed knights their needles painted on the great canvases, supplied that warm tone of life their spiritual zeal had denied them. While our tables held the useful and beautiful, they alsa held the frivolous, so that the dividing line between the chil- dren's department and our own could not be ascertained by observation. If the little ticket pinned npon such denoted a small sum, it must not lead to harsh criticisms of the Com- mittee, who look, perhaps, with too critical eye, and find scant award dest rved by airy nothings, or little tricks in needlework that consumed but an evening, and called for no ingenuity. They helped, true, to give general glow of color to wall and table, but there their mission ended. Individual interest could not centre upon them. If they afforded the donor a contribu- tor's ticket, plus the little sum in gratuity, they achieved more than their value. It is the best that should be seen here. Mediocrit}^ is out of place. On the child's table it is a pre- cursor of 'something mpre ingenious in the by-and-by ; it shows hours when she withdrew from play, that is innate in childhood, and liiid by skipping rope and doll to become the little, demure maiden — miniature tjpe of bus}' matron. The simple designs are apropos of her years, and she is entitled to much credit ; but if, in the course of the flying years, when the light skip solders into the quiet woman-step, and the trilling laugh becomes the decorous smile, she moves southward on our tables to the woman's department, let her^ also, with her youth's buoyant ways, leave youthful products of her needle. The woman who would oflfer fur inspection the careless stitch, the tritle of workmanship, surely courts adverse criticism. The Committee aim at perfect fairness : their stoic hearts do not soften at the name of a friend and unjustly raise the sums on such. Such remarks pos.sess but little rancor for us ; for, philosophically, we see we are judged hastily, and, in our place, our critics would, by careful thought, make most excellent judges. " Is not that cornucopia prettier than that one, and see how much less the gratuity," was a remark. 10 Yes, we answer ; but, gentle friend, you went in your inspec- * tion as a butterly from flower to flower, scarce lighting ere flown, not as the busy bee who dives at the heart of rose and lily to extract its sweets, or you would have observed that the article you found less pleasing was the work of one that is blind. On one article the needle quickly wrought, and with eyesight's aid, produced a few more moi-e stitches ; on the other the needle slowly counted distance, and her patient hours were rewarded by no after contemplation of the soft blue upon the silver ground. That exhilaration one always feels viewing a completed work, that compensates for labor, was denied her. We could explain much that may seem unjust, if space per- mitted. I think, however, a deaf Committee would find less to dissatisfy them with their long labors. Again, articles of underwear are brought that are attractive, but what has the donor done but put together the fruit of the looms? The fine embroideries are not of her deftness, the laces are not her workmanship : then, she is entitled simply to as much praise as is due to the skill with which she combined them. The owners of home-knit lace or hand embrtndery no doubt were satisfied with our judgment, while the possessor of the eye-catching combination of bought torchons and Ham- burgs wonder what blunted our appreciation. The lady's work, who, after her seventieth birthday, hemmed with such regulirity and fineneps, and who wove the floss into flannel with marvelous care, restored our blunted faculties very quickly. We did have the best of many, and " their works do praise them." It is not quantity that is desired : six square inches of can- vas can show marvelous shading, intricacies of color, and wonders of industry, while a yard of Java canvas can be gone over in one hundredth part of the time, and something accom- 11 plished that would not even make an artistic dishcloth. In the hall below, the farmer does not bring a bin of small potatoes or two hundred baby squashes, or ears of corn with kernels that mice would have to use a microscope to see ; he singles out his finest, till we wonder at the earth's powers. Let the woman heed the same impiilse that makes her husband ashamed to place inferior vegetables or fruits in contiguity with his neigh- bor's magnificent specimens. The rug and quilt department found many admirers. There were a greater number than ever before, and an increase that is most commendable, for comfort and usefulness speak from their very textuies. We are glad to see the })atch quilt lose none of -its prestige. The avidity for white quilts and many blankets for bed wear is making inroads on this industry. The young housekeeper who runs up the few seams, to make the comforter top of but a single kind of calico, and smiles at the ancient custom of cutting it iuto small pieces and sewing it together again, has the more forcible side of the argument, I agree ; but she will ever hold in reverence the patch quilt her mother gave her, and it will prove, in her da^^s of care, a souvenir of a mother's goodness and exemplified patience under like trials. There is sentiment in a patch quilt, though so domestic in its make and so allied to the old homelv life. I use the word homely, not in the sense of ugly, but as plain and home-like, and full of c<^nif()rt. But, generally, there is an utiliz ition »)f else worthless bits, and slumber is sweet under one when we ourselves practice those economies of trifles of time that she does who constructs one. The rugs were a study. " Wh}^ the}^ are almost as hand- some as Persian rugs," a lady said to me. So they were ; the shaded flowers upon them had brought the aesthetic from a chaos of erst most prosy rags. There is a sense of comfort in 12 humanity that becomes acute when it gazes on the thick rwgs and generous patch quilts. I think there will be some warm feet and hands in Plymoutli County this winter, judging by the rows of wool socks and mit- tens. A row of blue woolen socks may be passed lightly bj^ while a row of fluffy, fleecy fascinators (hood;-) in handsome colors will arrest the inspector's step; but more solid comfoit is worked into the " two plain and one seam " of the former^ than could be extracted from a superficial rod of the latter. While we are on the subject of hosiery, we will mention the fine needlework of Miss Carrie Randall, in embroidery in silk on the sides of a pair of delicate lisle thread hose. Now we have been all about the hall, and in passing we did not look once, but many times, at the paintings. The repre- sentation of the " Jersey Belle," no doubt, was true to life^ although we had not time to compare them ; but, as a cow, it was excellent, with that placid expression of thrifty content depicted, and there was a decided touch of genius in the shi'ubbery in the background. Mr. Ellms is happy in being possessor of both picture and animal. Miss Hattie Ford's little scene of "The Gurnet" was excel- lent in perspective, and her other of purple and white lilacs. excelled in color, and seemed a breath of spring. We wish more young ladies were able to pursue the exalting study of the brush and canvas. Trusting our friends will deem our judgment exercised according to our wisdom, and take our criticisms as honest and well meant, we will thank th^m for their interest, and express a hope that the October of 1878 will see the gai'nered industries of a year upon our tables, bearing all the names we have this year recorded. FLORENCE Y. R. BROWNE. 13 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. About one hundred and fifty articles were entered in the CJhiklren's Department by the eighty-one contributors. This appears to be one of the most attractive departments of the Fair, for all, parents, teachers, and other friends of the children are interested in their work, and like to see what they have been doing ; while the children themselves like to compare their work with that of others, and we often see them lookinsr eagerly over the tables, interested to know what their little friends have contributed; and we often are amused at the fre- quent visits to their table of the anxious-faced little ones before the work of pinning the gratuity cards to their little articles is completed. All this is very natural, and we children of a larger growth no doubt are often seen showing a similar inter- est as to the result of our contributions, all through the various departments, from the contributor of the ten cent fancy article, to the owner of the famous "Jersey Belle." We sometimes wonder what the result would be should we iiold one of our annual fairs just for the benefit of the Society, -offering no premiums at all in any of the departments. There is little doubt that the real friends of the Society would put forth extra effort to make the Fair a success, and would con- tribute jnore freely than ever before. ' The suggestion is probably worthless, .as the uncertainty of its proving success- ful, if made practical, is too great to warrant the experiment, jet this method of reducing the debt of the Society could hardly be less efficient than those that have been tried here- tofore. Sometimes, on the first morning of the Fair, we feel a little anxious in regard to the " Children's Department," fearing that it will not be as attractive as in years before, but as it has 14 never yet proved a failure, we thiuk we can safely leave it with the children to make it a snccess from year to year. Every year we miss some names that have become familiar to us, and we have in mind now, some who have for years been regular and valuable contributors, who have made their last article for this department, but we feel sure that their places will be well filled by some of the little ones who are just beginning. We notice that about the same number every year try their skill at making patchwork quilts. There were nine this year, and generally the work was well done. Some are more careful than others in matching the squares, and in binding and finish- ing off neatly. The rugs, made in various ways, it seems to us, must have been the hardest work for little hands, and done so well too, of any in this department. Of the mottoes — which were about twenty-five in number — perhaps not much needs to be said, as they have become such a common article in both this and the " Fancy Department." Most of the work was very good, and they certainly added to the attractiveness of the tables Some very little children tried their hand at this work, and we think their mottoes were excelled by none in the whole collection. We want to encour- age these nice little workers, of whom there were quite a num- ber from four to seven years of age, for we think they give promise of being a great help to this department in the years to come. The tidies were fewer in number than usual, and cardboard work in great variety seems to have taken their place. The little girl who brought the rice and shell boxes and the worsted flowers and other articles, shows good taste and ingenuity in her careful work. 15 As usual, very little plain sewing appeared among the arti- cles, although we always try to speak encouragingly of this kind of work. Wouldn't it be a good plan for each girl to show her skill in work both useful and ornamental, by bringing some article of plain sewing, — some garment for herself, nicely made, as well as the motto, or the frames, or the tidy ? then we should see how well she could do both kinds of work. One thing about the worsted work we usually have to speak of, and it still needs to be repeated. Let each girl look care- fully over the work that she carried to the last Fair, and see if the stitches are all crossed the same way, or whether they are crossed every possible way. That may be the reason why a few more cents were awarded some articles than others of about the same work, but more neatly done. Choice of colors is another thing which the children need to be reminded of often. If pink, red, purple, blue and green are all mixed together in a single tidy, motto or bookmark, it may look gay and bright to the child, and the effect is certainly very striking, even to the eye of taste — but not pleasing. If only two colors that contrast or harmonize well, or various shades of one color are used, the article, when finished, will be much more beautiful. Another thing we usually speak of, is the drawing. As this is being introduced into our schools, wouldn't it be well for a few of the best designs and copies from each school to be exhibited, and thus show that some improvement is being made in this useful art? Boys and girls, don't allow " Bennie" to be the only one who exhibits his drawing book from year to year. A few nicely made brackets and card receivers show tliat two or three boys know how to use the bracket saw to advantage. One thing more seems to need repeating in every report, — 16 the necessity of entering each article, as it is brought in, at the Secretary's desk. Several articles in this department this year were not entered at all on our list. If the work of any child was entered by mistake in the wrong department, or was in any way overlooked, don't let it hinder him or her from trying again another year, as it will not be iikelv to occur in his case aofain. As this department is for domestic and fancy articles, and not for preserves, flowers, or anything that properly belongs to another department, we removed some things that were placed on this table to the proper place for them. We were sorry to do it, as the articles would not probably receive the notice that they would, had they remained on our table. The thought came to us that it might be a good idea to have a " Children's Department " in the basement, where the boys might display the produce of their own raising, but this might not be considered practicable. While we are commending the children's work, we like to feel sure that the article was really done, with as little help as possible, by the child whose name is attached to it. This thought was suggested by overhearing some person, personally unknown to us, speaking of one of the articles on our table, in a way that gave us the impression that the work was not done by the child at all, but was done by some older person, and, to please the child, brought to the Fair in his own name. We should prefer to use the money, placed as gratuities on such articles, for the benefit and encouragement of the little ones who really do spend hours of patient labor on some article, and bring it to the Fair as their own honest work. While we consider it decidedly dishonest — and it certainly is against the rules of the Society — for any person to carry a piece of work to the Fair, and obtain a premium or gratuity 17 tlierofor, which work was never produced in any way by him- •self, we think it is giving the child a lesson in dishonesty, to do a piece of work for him, and then allow him to carry it to the Fair as his own production. In saying this, we, of course, don't object to the stitch here and there, by way of teaching or assistance, which every little child needs, in order to have the work well done ; but doing the work /or the child seems to us to be doing him no favor, but a positive wrong. In closing, we would say to the children, try to bring some- thing to the Fair every year, — two articles, if you can : one of plain sewing, and the other ornamental, or for use and orna- ment combined. Do the work just as well and make it just as beautiful as you can. Do as nearly the whole of it yourself as it is possible for you to do, — don't be willing to have anything brought for you that is not your own work. See that your article is entered in season and in the right department, and by all this, you will be doing your little part toward making the successful. Eespectfully submitted, SUSIE B. STEVENS, for Committee. THE FIELD AND GARDEN. If we had never wished to fill our cellars with fruits and ■vegetables raised by our own hands, we think the desire would have been created by visiting this department the present 2 18 season. Improvement every year has been our object ; now and then one falling by the wayskle, but the ranks always kept full by new contributors. A new feature, and prominent, has been the increase of field corn over previous years. This cereal has appeared on our tables, of excellent quality, and grown in quantity at the rate of 107 to 112 bushels per acre. This gives us all a feeling of encouragement. " With plenty of corn and hay, we can have things pretty much our own way," said the old farmer. It will pay us to cultivate corn if we feed our crops. It sells well on the farm, and there is no fear of decav, if it is cured with care. Your Committee report a large variety of vegetables, com- piising squashes, beets, turnips, potatoes in great variety. If these productions cannot be sold at remunerative prices, they are valuable to the farmer to feed to stock, and he can grind them into milk and meat and chickens and eggs, ad infinitunif thus keeping the wolf from the door in a period of great com- mercial depression. Learn, then, to feed your crops if you would be fed. Give and you shall receive, is the law. Heavy crops of onions have been raised on sandy soil, by extra care and an application of ashes, at the rate of forty barrels to the acre. The same general rule applies to strawberries and most of the early crops. In addition to the usual variety was a table covered with the productions of the new soil on Green Harbor marsh. Heavy oats and rye and barley, and all the vegetables that- were grown there were of good quality, and grown witliout special fertilizers ; in fact, where manure has been applied^ there has been no apparent benefit. Some idea of the pro- ductive quality of these lands may be formed, when w© consider the depth of soil, which ranges from six to tea feet, a great deposit from the ocean of exceeding value to 10 the fanner. Mi. Ware, of Marbleliead, inention.s the fact of seventy-three tons of Mangold Wurzel produced to the acre upon sea manure alone. Tlie Mangold has done well on the new soil, likewise strawberries, which seem to thrive near the borders of our marshes. A firmer faith in the capacity of the soil and the value of the soil is the need of the hoiir, and will give to our youth that character which is sare to come by patience and perseverance. We do not hear the discouraging word uttered without recall- ing the interview with an intelligent man from New York, whose grandfather conceived the idea of reclaiming a tract of land larger than Green Harbor marsh, and, going to work with courage, cleared off the bushes and trees, opened drains at con- siderable expense, letting in light where was darkness and death, receiving much in return, though not enough to pay the expenses. So much in one life-time ; but one short life is not all of life, — " there is a day after to-day." The property passed into the hands of a relative, who, with commendable spirit, prosecuted the work already begun. "Let us have more light," said he. "Does this property pay now," we asked. "Yes, the net profit is ten thousand dollars every year." AVe suppose this land to be very fertile, as not more than fifty head of cattle are kept on the domain. But the dollars, so very tempting, are not all the benefit derived from improvements. Farming is the study of Nature in all her infinite varieties, from the first box of strawberries to the late harvest ; through the frosts of winter, the care of our domestic animals, and the inspiring thought of the early spring, all brings us joy and health, and carries us back to first causes, as far as known, and we trace them down to the final result. If the farmer is the slow, narrow man he is said to be, it may be said that Nature is slow ; but it is the duty of the Agricul- 20 tural Society to enlarge the individual as well as itself. Not a family that attended our late Fair but has exclaimed, " I have had a good time " ; and it only makes us feel a little sad that there are not more festivals like these. With a firm faith in the value of our cause, we respectfully submit our report. G. J. PETERSON, JAMES H. AVEST, )- Committee. E. REED, POULTRY. Another Fair has come and gone, and it remains to us to add another to the list of reports on poultry. While the number of fowls exhibited was less than at any exhibition for several years, your Committee found no cause for discouragement, from the fact that nearly all present were first-class fowl, those missed being of the ordinary or inferior class, which it has been our aim to discourage. There being no fever or excitement on the subject at present, the raising of poultry may be supposed to be conducted on a purely business basis, and the late exhibition, taken as a whole, shows a tendency on the part of breeders to throw aside the larger breeds, and replace them with those of a medium size. This, we think, is for the best, for although every one likes to see large fowl, and they will doubtless continue to be bred for exhibition purposes, those of a medium size possess many advantages where a profit is desired. Some of the best laying fowl we have ever seen were the result of cross between the 21 Leghorn and Bralima or Cochin, several handsome coops of this grade being on exhibition. Liglit Brahmas were well repre- . sented, Enoch Freeman, of Dnxbury, having the best, and they were good enongh. Eliott Tilden again took the lead with his Black Cochins, which were very fine, as were also the Brown Leghorns contributed by Lot Madan, the Black Spanish by C. Russell Hatch, and the pretty little Sebright Bantams by I. S. Thomas. A coop of speckled fowl called Alaskas, contributed by H. B. Magouu, West Hanover, were very handsome, and may become a popular breed. There were several pens of fine geese, which noisily demanded attention. A flock of domesti- cated wild 'geese belonging to Elijah Williamson, and a pair shot from a flock, belonging to Timothy Williamson, attracted much attention. These Avere especially interesting as showing the change in color produced by domestication. While the wild pair showed a uniform dark color, the others had a fringe of a lighter shade around the edge of each feather, and go^^lings raised the present year were of a still lighter shade. Pekin duiks continue in favor, and several coops of nice ones were to be seen. Also, some fine Eouens, and Caj-ugas, by S. B. Chand- ler. Some misunderstanding exi^ted in rfgard to the time of bringirg the fowl to the giounds, some considering them as stock, did not bring them until the second day. They should be on the grouiid by ten o'clock on the first day, that the Com- mittee may have time to make the awards and attach the pr(miuni cards, ready for the second, or principal day of the Fair. Very Piespectfully, ALPHEUS PACKARD, Chairman Coinmlttee on Poultry. 22 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To G. J/. Baker, Esq., President of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society : Sir : — There were four reports presented to us for premi- ums, all of which are creditable to their authors aud to the Society. We recommend that the sum assigned to oar depart- ment be divided as follows : Six dollars for the report ou the " Home Department," five each for those on the " Children's Department" and " The Farm and Garden," and four for that on "Poultry." Respectfully, N. H WHITING, ) Committee S. N. GiFFOLiD, V on E. ALDEN, Jii., ) B-ports. Marshfield, Dec. 27, 1877. 23 COMMITTEE ON GRAIN CROPS. To the Directors of the dlarshfeld Agricultural and Horticultural Society : Your Committee on Grain submit the following report : — Wiiole number of entries for corn were five : — F. P. Arnold, Pembroke ; Elton B. Clapp, Marshfield ; Joseph J3. Hastint^s, Marshfield ; William L. Gushing, Marshfield ; Charles M. Til- den, Marshfield. One entry for rye, also one for oats. " ' F. P. Arnold raised one hundred and seven bushels of jorn to the acre, and he is entitled to the first premium — $12.00. Elton B. Clapp raised ninety-five bushels, and he is entitled to the second premium — $9.00. Joseph B. Hastings raised ninety-three bushels and fifty-two pounds. Second premium for one half acre — $4.00. William L. Cashing raised ninety bushels. Charles M. Tilden raised thirty-nine bushels on half an acre, and he is entitled to the first premium on a half acre — 16.00. 24 Edward White raised thirty and one-half bushels of rye to the acre; to him we award the first premium — $6.00. Edward White raised forty-three and one half bushels of oats to the acre. Your Committee recommend that a gratuity be awarded to Edward White, of Maishfield — $4.00. The rye and oats were raised on the dike meadow. Respectfully submitted, ELLIOT R. TILDEN, JOHN B. CHANDLER, }■ Committee, DANIEL BARSTOW, CORN ON ONE ACRE. STATEMENT OF F. P. ARNOLD, OF PEMBROKE. The acre on which my corn grew is a sandy loam, and has been in grass since 1872 — cut 1,500 pounds each year, spread on six cords of stable manure, ploughed eight inches deep^ May 18th furrowed three and one-half feet apart, each way, and planted the large yellow corn, supposed to be Compton's Early, putting four kernels in the hill ; hoed four times ; har- vested two rods, the weight of which was seventy-j&ve pounds of shelled corn. I estimate that there was four tons of top and butt stalks. 25 STATEMENT OF ELTON CLAPP, OF MARSHFIELD. The land was in sward ; soil, gravelly loam ; ploughed under about seven cords of barn mainire about the middle of May, harrowed once, planted May 28th, no manure in the hill, horse hoed four time^, hand hoed twice. On the 23d of October, the product of two square rods was ninety-one and one half pounds on the cob. Ninety-five bushels to the acre. Kind, Smutty White. STATEMENT OF WILLIAM. L. GUSHING, OP MARSHFIELD. One day's work plowing and harrowing S 3 50 Three days' work planting 3 00 Seven cords of manure at $4.00 per cord. 28 00 Five days' work hoeing 5 00 One day cultivating 2 00 / $41 50 Weight of corn, sixty-four and one fourth pounds to the two rods. 4 26 CORN ON ONE-HALF ACRE. STATEMENT OF CHARLES M. TILDEN, OF MARSHFIELD. To the Committee on Corn : Gentlemen : — My laud was planted in 1875 to* potatoes, and in 1876 to corn. This year, was manured with a compost com- posed of stable manure and kelp, at the rate of twelve cord to the acre, ploughed in. Planted one half acre, May 14th, with eight rowed yellow corn. Cultivated both ways, and hoed twice. Harvested two rods October 15th. Yield, thirty-nine bushels on the half acre. Cost of raising, $20. statement of J. B. HASTINGS, OF MARSHFIELD. This corn was raised upon the same ground that I raised the same kind of corn on last year. Hauling 15 loads kelp and spreading Ploughing , Harrowing and furrowing , Planting and seed .' . . . Hoeing once Handful hen manure and loam each hill. $5 00 4 00 2 00 3 00 2 50 5 00 $21 50 Planted June 5th. Weight of corn at mill after being dried for grinding, sixty- five and three quarters pounds. Fodder more than paid for harvesting. Kind, Yellow. 27 EYE AND OATB. STATEMENT OF EDWARD WHITE, OF MARSHFIELD. The land wliere the rye was raised was plowed first time in fall of 1875, and sown to rye. Plowed again fall of 1876 and sown to rye. One acre surveyed by your Committee was har- vested and threshed, and yielded thirty and one half bushels, without the use of any fertilizer. The land where the oats was raised was plowed fall of 1876, sown the spring of 1877. One acre surveyed by your Commit- tee was harvested and threshed, and yielded forty-three and one half bushels. The above crops were raised on Green Harbor marsh, with- out the aid of any fertilizer. 28 COMMITTEE ON STRAWBERRIES. STRAWBERRIES EAISED BY ALLEN TAYLOR, OF SOUTH MARSHFIELD. On one quarter acre of land, raised 1,855 quarts of straw- berries. Land, before ploughing, was pasture land, some of it in bushes. Soil good, loam, and rather fine. Should say, before ploughing for strawberries, had not been cultivated for twenty years. Set the plants in year 1875, season autumn. Let them run the next year. This year, being the first bearing year, used one cord manure from stable and swine mixed, and one small load from the hennery- ; harrowed it in. Have not used any manures since on said land. October 1, ]877. I certify that I have measured the above one quarter acre of strawberries, and find them looking very flourishing, and would recommend he receive the second premium of six dol- lars. They have never been entered for premium before. H. E. SMITH, Chainnaa Committee on Strawberries. 29 COMMITTEE ON HAY. To tlic Directors of the Marshfeld Agricultural Society : Only one piece of grass entered for premium this year, and that from the much abused, but highly productive, reclaimed marshes of Green Harbor, by Edward White, The laud was ploughed in the fall of 1875, sown with rye and grass seed ; July of 1876 was harvested thirty-three bushels of rye on the acre. 1877 your Committee surveyed one-fourth of the acre, which they thought an average of the acre of grass. Was cut about the middle of July, and weighed seventeen hundred and two pounds, (1702) of well made hay, making the crop of the acre three tons, eight hundred and eight pounds, (6,808 lbs.) which your Committee think entitles Mr. White to the first pre- mium of tea dollars. Respectfully submitted, HARVEY D. NORTHEY, Scituate, ) ^ ... JOHN H. BOURNE, Marshfield, [ ^onminee. 30 GARDENS. To the Committee on Boys' Gardens for tM Marshfeld Agricultu- ral Society : The following is what was raised on three rods of land, viz.: 4 bushels of Beans, \\ bushels of Potatoes, I of a bushel of Peas, 195 Cucumbers, 40 Radishes, • 30 heads of Lettuce, 51 ears of Corn, 1 peck of Beets, 2 quarts of Onions, J bushel of Turnips, 36 pounds of Squashes. My garden was surroutided by five pear trees, and there is one pear tree and one grape vine in the centre of the garden. From the tree in the centre of the garden I gathered one bushel of pears ; from the grape vine, one-half peck of grapes ; and from three of the trees around the garden, two bushels of pears. WALTER E. DAMON, North Marsh field. 31 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from Nov. 20, 1876, to Nov. 19, 1877. By casb from last year, State allowance, Donations, New members, Rent of small hall, Rent of large hall. Other sources, . $235 79 600 00 66 80 45 00 44 40 20 00 25 88 $1,037 87 Receipts of Exhibition 0/ October 3d, 4:th, and 5th, 1877. For admittance to hall and grounds, . $946 95 Admittance to concert and dance. Rent of grounds. Dinner, ...... Entrance fees, .... Total, Deficiency, $186 21 72 78 122 93 342 00 15 00 $1,499 66 - f • $2,537 53 32 Payments from Nov. 20, 1876, to Nov. 19, 1877. Paid premiums of 1877, . Printing, ..... Interest on notes, . Salary of officers, Stationery, .... Expenses on balls and grounds, . Traveling expenses, Sarvey of track, .... $955 40 257 17 352 66 75 00 20 71 219 95 10 30 40 00 $1,930 99 Expenses op Exhibition of 1877. Paid gate-keepers, . $20 00 Committees, 17 00 Entertainment, 33 50 Speakers, 80 00 Music, .... 131 25 Dinner, . • . 419 00 Horsemanship, 45 00 Stock, .... 22 00 Police, .... 25 00 (ftTOO 7K 3|e^ % '3. I iifkilliial iii l@iil@iltiiii i ■i SOCIETY, DURING "THE Y EI A R \%x%. % I I ■ I PLYMOUTH : % Avery & Doten, Steam Book and Job Printers. If 1879. pl TRANSACTIONS OF THE *^M^RPPHffiIiD->3|e^ mmmi^ aia M§iii§iiiiie SOCIETY, DURING the: YBAR IScS. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Dote^j, Steam Book a^'d Job Proters, 1879. A' \ ^--.v^/iMA&li 05 S CO ^^ OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1878 PRESIDENT: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. VICE PRESIDENTS: LEVI WALKER, Marshfield, FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. SECRETARY : FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREASURER : FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIRECTORS : FRANK FORD, Marshfield, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, STEPHEN HENRY, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JAMES M. WESTON, Duxburv, THOMAS ALDEN, Daxbuiy, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. Henry S. Brown, Judson Ewell, MARSHFIELD. Edward R. Church, Mary E. Ewell, Harris B. Hatch. James Alden, DUXBURT. Benjamin Alden, Gideon Shurtleff. Alfred Rogers, Mrs. Alfred Rogers, BOSTON. Thomas Bryant, R. Woodsome. SOITUATE. John J. Ford. HANOVEE. Robert Sylvester, Jr. WINTHROP. Washburn Weston. PLYMOUTH. Charles C. Doten. REPORTS. HOME DEPARTMENT. Our tables bore the grace of two hundred and two displays, the names of one hundred and fifty-four exhibitors. The num- bers show a large diminution from previous years, but our tables were full and did not present that chaotic state of an over-crowded exhibition. Each article had proper area, and the Committee were pleased to be able to append to each a larger gratuity, appreciative of effort, than when vast numbers rendered sub-divisions of money requisite. Tasteful and useful would be fair words to apply to most, while elegance, also, spoke regally from a prominent few : yet our Fair was none the less interesting. The reflective mind will accord observa- tion to the issue of a painstaking manufacture whether the achievment be a result of the patrician threads of silk or the plebian filaments of cotton. A stitch set in the satin robes of an empress can be excelled by the sewing in a milkmaid's gown. 6 It was a careless eye that did not note a handkerchief — frt accompaniment for a trousseau where coronets are broidered in — that erst was a bit of plain fine fabric from the loom. By the drawing of threads and the ingenuity of the needle the little square had more than a finger's depth of border of curious lace work, making an unique and beautiful object, fit appendage to the richest costume. It was not its costliness. A field of flax would have in their slender stalks the substance of myriads. The looms throw off countless yards of such yearly. The bit of snowy lawn, with a plain hem, would have hardly served the modern school girl ; but art interwove its magic and a bit of daintiness was emanated, a queen's hand would not disdain. Miss Mary A. Baker, of Salem, was the exhibitor. Conspicuous for its isolation — it being the only thing of its kind present — as well as for its fineness and perfection of stitch, was a roll of knit edging. In these days when Hamburg embroideries run riot — when patterns are flamboyant and tend to carry the taste from chaste edges to the wide, showy, folia- ted and open designs — the little bunch of hand-knit seemed like the appearance of a demure Quaker maiden among loud, showy, dames of fashion, or a handful of wood violets, or arbu- tus from ferny coverts, laid beside a hot-house" bouquet. In the poetic past the fine linens of our grandames boasted no prettier trimmings than these same hand-knit designs ; and I believe when tastes were simpler hearts were happier. There was a time when nearly every want of dress was sup- plied by the farm. How concentrated must be the thoughts of a family that go not beyond the home limits for its wants. The farmer sowed the flax, the good wife spun and the mar- riage portions were cut from the rolls of linen and flannel and the maidens wrought cobweb laces to decorate, glistening their shining needles in the afternoon suns, on the trellised porch, carolling as blithely as the twittering linnets. Her thonghta were brmnded by her home, or that other just over the hill, to which she would soon go, Avhere even then her bronzed lover was tossing, with stalwart arms, the crisp hays. Such peace- ful, simple thoughts ! How tlie bride-elect sits and dozes over the last novel or wearies of herself. AVhite sails have s]ied ships over the sea and have brought her French perfectioiis. Her lingerie has passed under inspection of custom house officials. Her outfit will include India shawls or wonders from the vale of Cashmere, Worth's dresses and fine laces from for- eign fingers. Even so is her mind — diffusive, vacillating. If, to supply her bodily needs, half the places of the globe have been levied upon, think jon her mind, which ever o'ersteps the body, can abide in simple ways? Her dreams are of phaetons and four-in-hands, with a moneyed simpleton holding the rib- bons, not of a bronzed, intellectual farmer guiding the plough. Is it possible there is such a sequence of thought to the seeing of a bit of old-fashioned lace ? The works in Berlin wools were not very numerous, but instead of detached groups here and there in motley beauty, they hung in rich masses forming superb afghans. The exqui- site ones were present — grand from extreme size and beauty of design. They suggested cosey, family parties of brilliant ladies and pretty children, and high-stepping horses out on pleasant drives in the bright autumnal Aveather. When land- scapes are getting grey and the October's passionate glow of color is burning out, and leaves are thick and crisp beneath our feet, these merry parties, snugly ensconced beneath the elegant colors, dashing round a curve of road, give sudden vigor to the scene and lift a little of the melancholy that falls, falls, with the falling leaf. A glow of color along the roadways, though 80 purely artificial, has its effect by the sudden transition it 8 imparts from reflections of a nature that seems to be throbbing out its life forever : were it an eternal death — no springtime resurrection of bud and flower — who would piot rather, with their own heart's blood, dye once more the fallen russset leaf with vermilion. In smaller space glowed sofa pillows and ottoman covers — concentrations of Avork, for in a piece of canvas of ordinary fineness, eighteen inches square, are comprised one hundred and twent^'-five thousand stitches. When we compute the time consumed in assorting wools and shading the wrought flowers, they truly seem something anah^gous to the beehive in indus- try. These needle-pictures alwaj's receive warm greeting from the Fair's visitors. Some delicate needle-work on underwear was observable, although the hand feminine will so ingrain bought laces and Hamburg edgings into their underwear that the majority of these articles were of no value as exponents of woman's skill. The gratuities upon such should be classified thus : twenty five per cent, to the Flj'ing Shuttle Cloth Mills, fifty per cent, to the Calais Bobbin-net Lace Works, twenty per cent, to the Patent Tucking Company and five per cent, to the worthy woman who plagiarized in all these to bring forth a nigbt-robe. The vast array of quilts and rugs portrayed very marked industrial qualities. Some of the rugs had shaded flowers that looked soft as if done in chenille or German wools. The mak- ers are entitled to much credit for they have evolved a tiling of beauty from the most uninviting, prosaic products. Of hosierj'', and hand-wear, there were goodly numbers. Good health is retained bj' warm feet, and, I believe, the wifely hands fight off many a grim disease by the persistency with which she throws glistening streams from her bright knitting- needles in the evening firelights. As I see the little children this Fall, school bound, lookiug as if prepared for a Lapland journey, in the red clad legs and hands, I fancy I recognize fac-similes of those knit comforts that in the sultry Fair days spoke a pro})hetic language of defense against the near Winter. One " crazy cushion " was present — so named from the medley of figures, each worked by a friend, and interspersed as thickly as consistent with taste. There character seems to be comic, ever, for the Japanese pictures enter largely into their construction, and the little swaddled men are made twice as high as contiguous pagodas ; gnomes waltz about the borders or monkeys with brooms seem to entertain dark designs on the Colorado beetle that generally occupies one or two sections — as cobiquitous almost as his living self in our potato patch. They might be made souvenirs of sentiment — each space the memory of a happy day. Did you spend a Summer in your friend's country house ? then record the bright mornings in the garden, when the drapery of your dress swept out sweet odors from the mignonette in the borders, by a little picture of a gar- den hat and rake. Did you thread the grassy lanes, bridle to bridle, or canter over long stretches of road till your blood seemed fountains of buoyancy ? then interweave the head of Vic or Leo with the beautiful arching neck and proud nostrils Perchance, some ]->oetic eve, voices blended and cadences trem- bled the leaves and died in faint echoes over the river in the wood beyond — a night to be remembered by its unwonted radiance of moonbeam, its clear cut shadows of tree and shrub, the gentleness of its dews, that fell and glistened on the sward yet brought no chill with them ? then on the canvas work a bar of music, the notes the same as had such witchery and melody as never to be forgotten because of the conditions of that night In the years to come a lonely woman may look upon the faded tapestry and in each figure find a remembrancer of a specific 10 time and relive in memory a beautiful past, though those beings who would reinliabit with her her dreamland would come back from places where mossy marbles rest with carv- ings of names she loved. Two paintings, by Miss Hattie W. Peterson, were well worthy of close study. It was not their insulation that enhanced them : among many, in the salon of art, the siibject of the girl spinning flax would have attracted attention. It bore no descriptive label but had these lines of Longfellow : Then, as he opened tlie door, he beheld the form of the maiden Seated beside lier wheel, and the carded 'wool like a snow drift Piled at her knee, her white hands feeding the ravenous spindle. While with her foot on the treadle she .a:uided the wheel in its motion, — been appended, it would have been a fine exponent of Priscilla, The Pnritan maiden, of " the Colonj- days in Plymontli, the land of the Pilgrims." A most singular natural curiosity was brought up from the sea on the opening morning of our Fair. It was a piece of rope completely encrusted with minute shells, rendering the rope invisible. Can it be old Neptune sent his contribution ? or did he, as he rode in majesty over the tangled sea-weeds of our bay, attended by the nereids, meet with a disaster on Brant Rock and lose a portion of his bridle-rein ? or do millions of these little shell-fish live in servitude and pull his triumphal car ? or were they ambassadors sent from his realm ? Curt reception had they then, for they lanquished and died, nor did we heed their faint murmurs. They were to us a song of the sea, nothing more — like Beethoven's songs without words, that have melodies divine but speak no Liuguage save that of sweet sounds. And now adieu, fair patrons, till once more " in the mild September " we again come face to face. The frosts herald the 11 Winter already. Tlie moan of winds cliant the war-songs of the Ic}' King. Let liini encaniji and bring np his forces : let him besiege. Within our sti-cnig defences we will carry on the accustomed routine, nor heed the assailant, and by leaping fire- light we will still broider and s[)in till lie retires with his army away to northern borders FLORENCE V. R. BROWNE. CHILD REX'S DE P A RTM EXT. If any of the departments of the Fair this year failed to come up to the usual standard, we feel quite certain that the Chil- dren's Department is not to be reckoned among them ; and the articles, about one hundred and fifty in number, brought in by eighty-eight children, — a larger number of contributors than has ever before been reported, — presented the usual attractions to old and young. If the tables were not as full as they have been at some former Fairs, owing to the scarcity of worsted work on canvas, and other work suitable for laying upon the table, one onl}' needed to look a little higher to the variety of framed mottoes, cardboard, and other articles suitable for hanging upon the walls, to see that the deficiency was fully made' up. Among the more noticeable hanging articles may be mentioned the 12 mottoes, which seem to be the favorite work of the children just now, as tidies were a few years ago ; also, a large and very pretty air castle, made by a little girl who acted upon our suggestion of last year, that each child bring pieces of work both useful and ornamental, and quite a number of others did the same. The frames, brackets, and other smaller articles added to the variety of the collection, while on the line above hung the usual number of rugs and quilts, telling the story of days and weeks spent in taking little stitches till the work was done. We are glad to tell the children that they have, this year, excelled in plain sewing, of which we have always tried to speak encouragingly ; and now we can report a larger number of pieces of this kind of work than we have ever done before, and in greater variety. Sheets, pillow slips, underclothing, and aprons were scattered in among the fancy work, and all well done ; and the little girl who made the garment of which " every stitch Ayas made by myself," may be assured that the stitches were very nicely put in. The two little girls who, oftener than any others, have brought the work of the knitting needles, exhibited two pairs of nice warm stockings. There was more work done by the boys than has been shown at any of our other Fairs. Sewing, knitting, worsted work, wood carving, drawing and painting, were all done by the boys. We notice, in particular, that the articles brought bv one boy, who has been a regular contributor to this department for a number of years, take in all the kinds of work mentioned above ; and his little mottoes in water colors show taste wliich should be cultivated. We are not* yet satisfied with the display of drawing, which is receiving much more attention in the schools now than a 13 few years ago, and yet we have no more specimens exhibited than at that time. " Bennie" still continues his annual exhib- its, which show how much of his leisure time has been spent ; but we are reminded, b}^ the age attached to his specimens, that his days in the "Children's Department" are fast being numbered. We were glad to see that one girl brought her drawing book, and we have no doubt that many others only needed a little encouragement by parent and teacher to bring equalh' as good specimens. Nearly all the work on exhibition is deserving of more or less praise, which Ave would gladly give, mentioning each one separately, did time and space allow. In only a few cases did we think that the age and experience of the child demanded a better article than that which was brought. Articles are seen occasionally, not only in the Children's, but in other departments also, which have the appearance, not only in being of little value, but in careless construction, of having been made simply to " get in on," the contributor meanwhile croaking on the meanness of the Society for not allowing such persons the privilege of choosing their own day for free admission, at the same time declaring that they will never do anything more for the Society as long as they live. However, Ave fully intended not <-o omit any child rightfully belonging to the Children's Department, and in a few cases unwittingly placed gratuities on articles belonging to persons of an age beyond our limits, as Ave afterAvard learned ; but we Avill be charitable enough to suppose that such persons' articles were entered in the Children's Depart- ment through mistake, and that they had not a thought of dishonesty in the matter. We are sorry to know, too late to correct the mistake, that a quilt was brought by one little girl and entered in our 14 department, but not brought to our table, as we suppose, therefore, was entirely overlooked. We plead guilty to a share of the neglect in this case, as the entry was rightly made ; but, on the other hand, if the contributors would always leave articles in the departments to which they belong, after being rightly entered, it would save Committees much trouble and confusion in looking up lost articles, and all such mistakes would be avoided. AVe are certainly very sorry for this little girl, who, no doubt, had worked long and steadily on so large a piece of Avork ; but we hope she will be persuaded to " try again," and she has, at least, the thought that her quilt added one more article to the exhibition, and that she did her part toward making the* Fair successful. We hope such instances of neglect are rare, and if in any other case a child was overlooked, as possibly there may have been, be assured it Avas wholly unintentional on the part of the Committee. While we find it extremely difficult to please the majority, and simply impossible to please all, an effort is made to deal justly ; and when, after the three days' work, which often extends far into the night, endeavoring to satisfy all, and yet not go beyond our means, we overhear the criticisms from the passers-by, we mentally exclaim, "Put yourself in his place," and it is to be presumed that you will " forever after hold 3^our peace." And now, a little talk with the children in closing. You see by our report that you are improving — in numbers and in quantity and quality of work ; but there is room for a good deal of improvement still. I was reading, not long ago, an account of a county fair in the western part of Illinois, at which the children did much more than we have ever thought of doing. Nearly all their school work was brought into the 15 fair, — drawings, compositions, letters, written examinations, copy books, botany work, consisting of pressed leaves and flowers, with descriptions of the plants, collections of woods, grasses, and grains, insects, stuffed birds, etc., and as the children crowded with great delight into their own de])art- ment, they were heard saying, " We'll have something here next year ! " " We'll do better yet next year ! " Perhaps you may get some new ideas from hearing about this work of theirs. This we think you might do, boys: — collect speci- mens of all the different kinds of wood you can find growing in your town, or beyond the limits of your town — county, if you like, — take a little section of each kind, cut so as to show the grain of the wood, if you can, with a pressed leaf of the tree numbered to correspond with the piece of wood, — that's the way those boys did, — and see how many kinds you can find. Those boys found fifty-six different kinds ; do you think you could get as many ? I think you would in that way learn more about the trees of our own section of country than you ever knew before. Try it, will you ? At the Summer Fair, which was held a few years ago for the benefit of the Society, a flower stand was erected, where the children, through the three days of the Fair, sold flowers, which brought in quite a little sum to the Society. We think if the same plan were adopted at our Annual Fairs, a few dollars, at least, might be realized. Let the friends of the Society, of children, and of flowers, contribute for the occasion small bunches of flowers, " button-hole bouquets," slips of plants in little pots rooted, ready for winter growing, and children enough will be found who will be delighted to act as retail dealers for the occasion. And now, children, good-bye for another year. Glad that you are improving ; and each year, as the Fair closes, 16 though you have done well, still let your motto be that of the Illinois children, " We'll do better yet another year ! " Respectfully submitted, SUSIE B. STEVENS, for Committee. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, AND SEEDS. Our Annual Fair was held a month earlier the past season and while we were suffering from a drought as severe as we have seen for the past twenty years. The interest in the Vegetable and Grain Department seemed to decline a little, the entries not reaching the maximum of former j^ears. Pros- perity for ten years made the phrases " best and excellent " common from year to year ; and we confess to a little disap- pointment because our tables were not filled as usual. After a careful review, we are able to report some as fine collec- tions and as fine specimens as in former years. There has been great, progress in all departments of farm labor and production, and the corn, and squashes, and wheat, and hay on exhibition are cause for encouragement to every farmer. Mr. Turner, of Scituate, exhibited corn harvested the 10th of September, ripe enough to grind into meal. He claims superi- ority in yield, in earliness, and better fodder than the larger 17 variety. The Compton corn has proved earh' with us, and the bright September days have cured our corn and fodder better than ever before. It is remarkable to witness the thrift and flow of milk produced by husks alone, — almost equal to the best English hay, Mr. Moorehead exhibited some pars- nips, very smooth and large, which would have improved in the ground two months longer. Oar estimate of the value of this root has not abated since we recommended them years ago. The value of hay and roots of every kind is enhanced very much by curing them while the rich juices can be retained for winter use. This is the important period, when art takes the place C)f nature, to a great extent, in the care and propagation of our domestic animals. A peck of the best wheat we ever saw raised in this vicinity suggested thoughts of light griddle cakes and healthy bread ; likewise that material which poultry manufactures into eggs when frost closes the avenue to them of some needed elements. Corn and meal supplies the fat and heat, but wheat and oats other material. We cannot let this occasion pass without men- tion of the pure squashes exhibited by our friends Jenkins and Sampson, of Scituate. These gardeners are experts, and do not waste their labor with poor seeds and by poor tillage. Mr. Sampson will inform you of the value of large quantities of plaster applied to potatoes, which he always produces in per- fection. It would be difficult to describe in a little space the virtues of all the roots which were on exhibition. Mr. Randall of West Duxbury, brings French turnips, which were smooth, and, like the parsnips, " had just begun to grow." Their cultivation is very simple, and the value is great in connection with dry fodder. We cannot harvest our main crops by the 11th of Sep- tember ; but, by a little forethought, we can help this 18 department by selecting the early varieties, and they will help fill our tables at home while the later crops are maturing. The early Winningstadt cabbage is a gem in its way, and we have found them in perfection during the month of March. The early scarlet carrot, so nice to flavor soups, can be perfected in the month of September. The Danvers onion is often, as it was the last season, ripe by the first of September. We saw the best peck of this variety on exhibition from the dyked marsh of Green Harbor. Also, specimens of hay and oats, all without special fertilizers. "We have little doubt that the grape and the pear could be raised in perfection on this new soil. The writer picked strawberries from vines on this soil until the 10th of July, when our berries and vines at home were completely burned up by tlie drought. The venerable President Wilder tells us that there are three things requisite to tlie successful cultivation of the strawberry : " The first is, water; second, more ivater; third, plenty of watery And the same remark applies,, in a less degree, per- haps, to all plants and fruits when they reach the time of ripening. Those strawberries and onions found plenty of water somewhere during those scorching days of July. We call the attention of the community and the State Board of Agriculture once more to lands like these. Every farmer feels the need of more manure from year to year, and the cost is considerable. Where all farm products can be produced without special fertilizers, there, if anywhere, can the problem of labor be solved for the farmer. At no time during the history of this country have we more cause for encouragement. We have no royal road to offer, no certainty of success with every crop, because the farmer is sub- ject to the caprice or change of the seasons, yet is master of his trade, if he only cultivates faith and works with patience 19 and energy. How many anxious hours we watched our early garden, when it seemed to us that all was. lost. Persistent weeding and frequent stirring the soil carried it through, if not complete, to wonderful success. We can now understand the advice of the Long Island market gardener, Peter Henderson : " Never engage in market gardening after the age of forty." The anxious hours, however, are compensated by the love for our calling. It is never too late to work in the earth, for we are thereby learners, and it is never too late to learn the art of growing crops and the art of using them when they are grown. The mastery over the forces of nature strengthen rather than weaken. The farmer is the true conservative, as well as the true radical. He must save, and he will go to the roof of things. Fellow farmers, do not let this department languish ! Culti- vate that enthusiasm which has carried it forward to its present high state of perfection, and, moreover, which has carried us all along in mutual love during the past ten years. Respectfully submitted, '""■ "■ GEORGE J. PETERSON, , ^** ^''"'■"" JAMES H. WEST, J- Committee. i» .V ux . EDWIN REED, ivi rria*/'-. t • - ■< Hif-rc '^ iiiti: BULLS. The Committee to fill a vacancy in this department of neat stock would report a number of fine animals which were admired by many specially interested in the improvement of beef and the dairy. 2a A word to all who may desire to enter similar animals for competition or premium in the future. Whatever may be the private opinion of any member of the Society, the State Board of Agriculture have adopted decided rules, which it may be well to reflect upon to prevent disappointments such as occurred at our last Fair. In 1873 the Board voted, — that hereafter the Secretary be instructed to withhold his approval of the payment of any State bounty to any Society which shall bestow any premiums or gratuities on grade or native bulls. Only one registered bull came under our notice : a pure bred Ayrshire owned by Alden Hunt of Duxbury. JAMES H. WEST, ) ^ ... GEORGE J. PETERSON, [ ^onumttee. CRANBERRY MEADOWS. There was but one claimant for premium entered in 1875, which becomes due in 1878, viz. : Charles S. Peterson, of Marshfield. Owing to some cause or causes his vines did not take well. As to what the reason was perhaps your Committee may be divided in opinion. It is on what is called "dyke meadow." It appeared to lack that element which is needed to give the claimant success. Tour Committee did not feel to give a premium, but recommend that a gratuity of five dollars be given Mr. Peterson, as it is evident that he has spared no pains or labor on the premises to make it a success. Respectfully submitted, JOB H. BEAL, OTIS WHITE, y Committee. JOHN H. BOURNE, 21 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To George M. Baker, Esq., President of the 31arshjield Agricul- , tural and Horticultural Society : Sir : — There were but four reports presented to the Com- mittee for premium. Three of them were of the usual excellent quality, making it difficult to choose between them. The other is chiefly valuable as embodying an important rule of the State Board of Agriculture, to which the Committees of the Society, as well as those who have stock to exhibit, should give heed. We recommend that six dollars be awarded for each of the reports on the Home and the Children's Departments, four for the Field and Garden report, and two for that on Bulls." Respectfully submitted, N. H. WHITING, I Committee E. ALDEN, Jr., j on Reports. Marshfield, Dec. 30, 1878. ^ BOYS' GARDENS. To the Committee on Boys' Gardens of the Marshfield AgricnUu- ral and Horticultural Society : The following is what was raised ou three square rods of land : Peas — 3 pecks, in the pod. Beans — 5| bushels, in the pod. String Beans — \ peck. Potatoes — 3 pecks. Beets — ^ peck. Cucumbers — 95. Corn — 6 dozen ears. Owing to the Jry weather my onions and several of my other crops failed. WALTER E. DAMON, North Marshfield. 23 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from Nov. 19, 1877, to Nov. 18, 1878. Received from R. H. Moorehead, former Treasurer, $51 41 G. M. Baker, readings by Mrs. Brown, 1 95 State allowance, .... 600 00 New members, .... 60 00 Walter S. Peterson, for land, . 27 00 Rent of old hall, .... 67 30 Rent of new hall, .... 12 00 Use of ware, ..... 5 10 Stone, 13.50 ; lumber, .25, 3 75 Canvas, 34 13 Use of blocks, 50 Receipts or Exhibition Of September llth, 12th, and 13th, 1878. For fees for entries, .... $54 30 Admittance to grounds, . . 1,647 08 Concert and dance, .... 82 75 Fruit, &G., sold at auction, . . 14 02 Dinner tickets sold, . . . . 13 00 Rent of grounds and hall, . . 262 00 $863 14 Total receipts, $2,073 15 $2,936 29 Payments fkom Nov. 19, 1877, to Nov. 18, 1878. Paid R. H. Thompson, premium 1875, Premiums of 1877, Premiums of 1878, Printing, ....... Interest on notes, ...... Salary of officers, ...... Expenses on hall and grounds, . . . Express, postage, and stationery. Travelling expenses, ..... Sundry bills, ....... C. T. Hatch's note, ...... Stella S. Gurney's note, .... Expenses or Exhibiton 0/ Septemher llfh, 12th, and 13th, 1878. Paid ticket office and gate keepers, . .$51 20 Committees, .... 31 00 Music, . . . . . . 204 50 Care of stock, .... 33 00 Entertainment, .... 22 00 Police, 52 00 Furnishing -water, . . . . • 6 00 Freight, 3 30 12 25 168 76 569 70 160 00 393 37 75 00 315 29 10 58 11 55 25 35 150 00 500 00 ,419 18 $402 95 $2,822 13 Cash on hand, 114 16 $2,936 29 25 Outstanding notes are now as follows : Plymouth Savings Bank, .... Nathaniel H. Whiting, .... Estate of Rebecca Ford, .... Estate of Mar}' S. Hatch, $2,500 00 1,000 00 600 00 200 00 $4,300 00 Respectfully stibmitted, FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer I have examined the foregoing accounts of the Treasurer, and find them to be correct. ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Auditor. Marshfield, Nov. 18, 1878. 26 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN MADE TO THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, 1878. Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, From all other sources, Total amount of receipts for the year, . Premiums offered, . Premiums and gratuities awarded Premiums and gratuities paid out. Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuities paid, Total amount of disbursements for the year. Indebtedness of the Society, . Total value of realestate belonging to the Society Personal property belonging to the Society, ..... The capital stock is invested in seventeen acres of halls, out-buildings and hall furniture. $600 00 60 00 2,276 29 2,936 29 1,042 00 744 30 569 70 2,366 59 2,936 29 4,300 00 11,866 92 1,372 98 land, two 27 Farm Improvements. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, . $30 00 Cranberries, .... 5 00 Gardens, 2 00 Total amount offered for farm improvements, . 73 00 Awarded for farm improvements, . 37 00 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, 37 00 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for Bulls, .... 11 00 Milch cows, . 40 00 Heifers, .... 24 00 Calves, .... 11 00 Working oxen, . 21 00 Steers, .... 4 00 Fat cattle. 19 00 Horses, 56 50 Swine, .... 34 00 Poultry, 28 00 Total amount offered for live stock, . 307 50 Awarded for live stock, . 248 50 Paid out for live stock. 248 50 Farm Products. . Amount awarded for collections of vegetables, Total amount offered for grain and root crops, Amount awarded for Fruits, . . . , Flowers, Butter; . . 48 00 97 00 62 80 26 05 6 00 28 Amount awarded for Cheese, .... $12 00 Preserved fruits and vegetables, 15 80 Wheat bread, • , • . 4 50 Rye and Indian bread, . . 3 25 Total amount paid out under the head of farm products, 178 40 Miscellaneous. Amount awarded for agricultural implements, . . $13 25 Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber, . . 50 00 Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, 130 00 Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manufactures, Asilsiltuial aad iQitieuItuial SOCIETY, roK mzB. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1879. PRESIDBNT: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marslifield. vice: PRBSIDBNTS: LEVI WALKER, Marshfield, FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. SEICREITARY : FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, HAMBLETON E. SMITH, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR iSrg. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOREST TREES. For the best plantation of Forest trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thousand trees, a premium of $30. For the best plantation of Forest trees, to contain not le?8 than five hundred trees, a premium of §20. Premiums to be awarded in 1882. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple trees, set out in 1878, and in the most nourishing condition in 1882, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear trees, set out in a. ' 1879, and in the best condition in 1882, two premiums — $8, 4. Committee. — R. H, Moorehead, Marshfield, Chairman. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums— S8, 4. Payable in 1882. Committee.— Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman, 36 DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining Land, two premiums — $8, 4. To be paid in 1881. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman. ^Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1879. A full and careful statement in writing must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman. GRAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, 4. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 4. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 3. Committee. — William M. Tilden, Marshfield, Chairman. ROOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. 37 For the greatest crop of Beets, on one fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hun- dred bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Augustus Collamore, Pembroke, Chairman. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Roots crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1879, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed,, its previous culture, the kind, quality, and value of the manure applied, and the amount of labor ex- pended, with such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. CATTLE. COWS. All cattle must have been owned hj the exhibitor three months. For the best Milch Cow of the Jersey breed, three premi- ums—$5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, three premi- ums—$5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, three premi- ums—S5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, three premiums — $0, o. A, 58 For the best Milch Cow of the Native, three premiums — $5, o, 2. Committee. — William Cushiug, Marshfield, Chairman. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey b)'eed, having had a calf, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of the Devon breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, three premiums— $3, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Jersey Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2,1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, three premiums — ^3, 2,1. C()MMITTEE. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. 39 For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — 12, 1. For the best^eifer of any other breed, two premiums — 12, 1. Committee. — MarceUus W. Eogers, Marshfield, Chairman. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — 12, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. ^ For the best Grade Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, or Devon breeds, each two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — $6, 4, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman. WOKKING OXEN AND STEEKS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. 40 For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four yearS old, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old, and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Isaac M. Cox, Pembroke, Chairman. SHEEP. For the best flock of Sheep, fifteen in number, two premi- ums— $5, 3. For the best flock of Sheep, not less' than ten in number, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — John W. Hatch, Pembroke, Chairman. HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Hiram Randall, Pembroke, Chairman. DRAFT HORSES. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums— 14, 3. Committee. — Marcellus W. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Chairman. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, two premiums — $4, 2. Committee. — Charles A. Walker, Marshfield, Chairman. GENTS' DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, two premiums- Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman. 41 WALKING HORSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, one premium — $4. Committee. — Daniel H. Thompson, Mavph field. Chairman. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums, — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Ansou Hatch, Pembroke, Chairman. SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $5, 4, 3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums — $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar — two premiums — 13, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four, or more than seven months old, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. Committee. — Ephraim H. Walker, Marshfield, Chairman. PLOUGHING. For the best Ploughing, without driver, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best Ploughing, with driver, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Gratuities may be distributed by the committee, not exceed- n g two dollars. Committee. — Wendell Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES, AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee.— Mrs. S. C. Stetson, Marshfield, Chairman. 42 BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, threpi premi- ums—$3, 2, 1. For the best plain Cheese, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors, to Butter and Cheese ; also Bread. Committee. — Mrs. John F. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman. BREAD. WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums — $2, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Mrs. Clift Rogers, Marslifield, Chairman. RYE AND INDIAN. For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two premi- ums~$2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. Luther Magoun, Marshfield, Chairman. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepara- tion is to be attached to each loaf. FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. 43 For the best disi)!;!}-, of any variet}^ twelve premiums of 25 cents each. Three dollars may be distributed b}- the committee. Committee.— Dr. Stephen Heury, Marshfield, Chairman. PEARS. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — '^1.50, 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of 25 cents each. Two dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — Stephen Gardner, Marshfield, Chairman. PEACHES. For the best display, six premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Augustus Cole, Scituate, Chairman. QUINCES. For the best display, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Chairman. GRAPES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, four pre- miums—$2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, six premiums — each 25 cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, gi own under glass, six premiums — 25 cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the committee. Committei:.— David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman. 44 CRANBEREIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, three premiums — $2, 1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhib- ited, three premiums — $1, .50, .25. Committee. — Stephen N. Gifford, Duxbury, Chairman. POULTRY. Forty-five dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Ezekiel Payne, Marshfield, Chairman. HOME DEPARTMENT. One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Sixty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Sarah Sherman, Marshfield Chairman. FANCY ARTICLES. Forty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Florence V. R. Browne, Pembroke, Chair- man. FLOWERS. Thirt}^ dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Richards, Marshfield, Chairman. children's department. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee.— Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman, 45 MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the committee. • Committee. — H. B. Magouu, Hauover, Chairman. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES,, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the committee. For best collection, five premiums — f6, 5, 4, 3, 2. Committee. — Edwiu Reed, Marshtield, Chairman. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRANBERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing Meadow, uot less than one-eighth of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums —$6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 1879. Premiums payable in the fall of 1882. Travelling expenses of committee to be paid in future. Committee.— Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman. GARDENS. For the most productive garden, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee.— Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman, STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of Strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums — $6, 4. Payable in 1880. Committee. — Hambleton E. Smith, Duxbury, Chairman. 46 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best Report of any Committee to award premiums, three premiums — $8, 6, 4. Committee. — N. H. AVhiting, Marshfield, Chairman. GROUNDS. Committee.— Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield. HALL. Committee. — Edward Sprague, Marshfield, Chairman. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose Edwin Eeed, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshfield. • SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. REGULATIONS. A deduction of tweuty-five per cent, will be made from all premiums awarded to persons not members of the Societ}-. No member of the committee shall decide respecting a pre- mium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles, products, flowers, fruit, and vegetables oftered for premium must have been manufactured or pioduced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested - to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the fair. Chairmen of committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of committees are requested to be in attendance at the committee-room in the Hall at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten oclock, A. M., on the third day of the exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished committees. 48 In lieu of cash piemiums, diplomas of the -Society will be awarded when acceptable. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the exhibition. No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society. No animal will be entitled to a premium unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three mouths prior to the exhibition. The best animal or article to receive* a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and, if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Societj'. All committees to report previous to December, 1879. Reports of committees should contain : — First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of con- tributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth.. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the committee. 35 N N N N N N \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \\\\\\\\\ \..\...\...^^ ^j Itk Transactions I r 9 OF THE :1< i it II i| -^Ic^Mjqi^^PFIEIiD^^lH- ^^ p !%.. S Agricultural^ Horticultural! I! ^-^ : n 11 DURINGTHEYEAR '4/ SOCIETY ■ ll it % If i ^1 t ^ ^ 1^ I li 18^9 PLYMOUTH : |fi Avery & Doten, Steam Book and Job Printers. W 1880. ft n j| Transactions OF THE ^ik; M^I^gJIFIEIiD^>3|^«- Agricultural® Horticultural SOCIETY DURING THE YEAR 18^9. ^^^^^*-^ PLYMOUTH : Avery &c Dotex, Steam Book and Job Printers. 1S80. 01-riCEKS OP THE SOCIETY FOR 1879. PRElSIDElN-r : GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. vice: PRBSIDEINXS: LEVI WALKER, Marshfield, FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. SBCRB-TARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE. Marshfield. DIREICTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Daxbury, HAMBLETON E. SMITH, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES 0. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. MARSHFIELD. Henry W. Nelson, Irving G. Peterson, Alonzo Stevens, Lydia T. Chandler, Laban Cud worth, Ehza A. Ford, Eobert F. Eandall, Emily A. Ewell. DUXBURY. Elizabeth W. Alden, Benjamin P. Ford. HANOVER. E. M. Sweeney, Mrs. E. M. Sweeney. KINGSTON. George T. Adams. CHICAGO, 111. Mrs. J. H. Skeele, CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. The contributors to this department numbered, this year, about fifty, and the articles brought in by them amounted to about one hundred : — a considerable falling oflf, we find, on comparing with the reports of some previous years. We do not intend to encourage any lack of interest on the part of the children, yet this decrease in the number of articles is, in some respects* an advantage to this department. At some of our former fairs our space has been so crowded that many articles could not be shown to advantage, while this year there was just about the right number to place upon the table and hang upon the wall to cover well the space allowed us, so that, perhaps, the deficiency was not noticed. Though fewer in number, yet we think a more pleasing variety of articles was shown than we have noticed for several years. At one time we remember that* the tidy seemed to be made the chief article for exhibition ; at another time, so many mottoes were brought that we found it difficult to arrange them with taste ; again, small articles in card-board v;ork appeared in profusion ; but this year no one kind of work seemed to prevail. There was a good variety, consisting of worsted and card-board work, with a good number of framed mottoes and pictures, quilts, rugs, plain sewing and knitting, wood-carving and drawing, though we would have been glad to see more of the two latter kinds of work. Here and there was an article which drew attention on account of its being a sort of novelty among the things usually found upon our table ; among them may be mentioned a case of insects, by Master Henry T. Bailey of Scituate, in the arrange- ment of which much skill and taste were shown, and which, perhaps, proved to the most attractive article on our table. The beautiful butterflies and other insects were much admired, and we hope the young collector was. as careful in taking the lives of the bright little creatures, to avoid cruelty, and give as little pain as possible, as he was in preserving and arranging them for exhibition. Many of the articles were decorated with the pictures now used so much for that purpose, and wliich add to their beauty-; but in awarding gratuities we have to take into consideration that the work is very slight compared with ornamenting with needle or brush, and those who make use of such decoration will please bare that fact in mind. We know fault is found because, as is said, we put as much gratuity on an article as the article is worth. It may be so in some cases, for few persons would consider a piece of work — the first attempt of a little child — worth anything, intrinsically, for it might be very imperfectly done, an 1 the colors ill chosen ; yet it is the result of only a child's effort — perhaps the best it could do — and we must consider the difficulty experienced in finishing even so small a piece of work, and its value to the child, as great, no doubt, as a handsome and cctstly piece of work is to an older person. The little girl of five years who sewed sixty squares of patchwork "over and over" so nicely, we think deserves as much credit as the girl of fourteen years who runs her squares together, and puts in the finishing stitch, having done it all herself, even to the quilting or knotting and binding. We cannot take time or space to mention each of the many pretty Kttle articles on exhibition, but among the larger and more noticeable ones, it may be well to speak of an ottoman cover of pretty design and nice work, an aircastle, two or three nice toilet sets, some good and serviceable rugs, four pairs of knit stockings and several articles of plain sewing of which we are always glad to speak with commendation. If, in addition to the gratuities, one premium had been ofiered to the one bringing the best lot of work, it would, with- out doubt, have been awarded to Lizzie C. Hatch, who every year contributes such nice work to this department. Her work, consisting of some half-dozen articles, both useful and ornamental, we do not hesitate to say excelled in quantity and quality that of any other contributor to this department, though there were doubtless many single articles done as nicely as hers. We expressed a wish in a former report, and which some have since acted upon, that each girl bring specimens of both kinds of work — useful and ornamental — and now we suggest it again. Every year we find it necessary to repeat the request that each and every article be entered in the Children's Department at the Secretary's office, and that the age of each child be on the paper with the name and residence attached to the article. Still there are a few who persist in giving no heed to these requests; but as justice cannot be done, even as nearly as it is now, unless the}^ are complied with, we repeat them and ask you to please try and remember it another year ; and, in the meantime, let the children be making something nice and beautiful with which to adorn their table at the fair of 1880. Respectfully, SUSIE B. STEVENS. 8 FANCY AND DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Again ? Aye : and the pen returns with its old-time pleas- ure to its wonted task. In the cold November morn, amid the gray of early wintry days, the pen retrogrades to September, when the heavens held an unobscured golden sun, and warm breaths drifted up the valleys and brought undefinable fra- grances born of meadows just mown, orchards mellowing in in fruitage, hedges of golden rod and the autumn gardens of the village homes. In those soft hazy days the hall, for a year deserted, opened wide its great doors and welcomed us to a homestead hearth, and woodlands rang to the merry voices of Fair-way wending people, — glad to put by for a brief space the manifold labors of a farmer's household. The farmer's Mecca seems that great hall, and Fair-days annual pilgrimages. One would suppose each year would be but similarities of the last. Nay : one year differeth from another as one star from another differeth in glory. In the Fancy Department there were one hundred and thir- teen articles brought in by eighty contributors. In the Domes- tic one hundred and eleven entries by eighty-five contributors. There is a tend^cy to exhibits from farther outlying towns than formerly. Old Plymouth sent up dainty lacework. The whole could have been crushed within the hand, but it was concentrated loveliness. Through the flim of its meshes vistas stretched out to me. I saw the women of the Colony days weaving, weaving, at loom or swaying to the motion of the 9 wheel. Industry never flags in tlie grand old town, it seems. The names of Mrs. Harlow and Mrs. Hollis will be thrice wel- come ever. In the centuries gone fair Priscillas wrought at nnattractive cloths, with lithe forms bent ever and anon to catch the echo of a war-whoop. Upon the hills about the blue bay they sleep — heroic in their lives as stalwart men who fought but did not spin. O, ladies of Plymouth, I know as you sit amid the security of these days, and weave laces like frostwork, you give tender memories to those early women. Kingston sent us two satchels of canvas work, — also a beau- tiful screen by the same careful hand : not a stitch wrong — per- fection throughout, as if the doing were a pleasure undertaken, and every part the recipient of that nice painstaking that rounds to a beautiful whole. Send again to us from down the shore, — Marshfield has unlimited appreciation of your dex- terity. Miss Hattie Ford's display of decorated china was sufficient to give Duxbury celebrity. A bouquet of the Gods would be graced by such. There were six desert plates each embel- lished with a different design, and each border bore a different hue — blue, pink, maroon, salmon, etc. The centres were back- grounds for representations of fruit, — tempting as if hung from garden wall — and bended stalks of wheat on which birds poised splitting their throats with song. Twelve little butter plates were minature elegances : one had the ripe fruit of the racemed barberry painted upon it ; another, a few delicious strawberries upon their own leaves ; another, a pansy, and so on, till the brush became coqettish and imprisoned on the china the gay colors of a Japanese fan. Miss Bessie Smith of Marshfield had two pictures of flowers that showed talent is in ambush at Green Harbor. The spray of apple-blossoms would certainly entice a robin. 2 10 Miss Pierce of Rockland sent a tray of bric-a-brac — shells, holding on their inner side a marine view ; stones, found upon the beach transformed into artistic keepsakes for their little stretch of beach an incoming tide and a lazy sail in the offing ; the dainty satchel of silk, or satin, decorated with forget-me- nots or the head of a lady of the old French court. There was, also, a necklace whose origin one could not guess, but oriental enough to have clasped about a Cleopatra's neck. Its mechanism was explained to me, and it shows how original are some minds. The beads were the oval shapes found upon seaweed. Drying had hardened them. The holes were punc- tured by a hot knitting-needle. They were then painted in mummy color, and Moorish arabesques in gilt thrown on. Found upon our own Nantasket Beach, art had annihilated their origin and gave them the beauty of the ornament of an Odalesque. A large painting in oil, contributed hj Miss Crafts of Marsh- field, was among the excellent displays. But we must back to the needle : and, truly, its emanations sometimes rival the pencil and brush. Miss Carrie Eandall of Duxbury exhibited a tablecloth combined of maroon felt and a singular fringe made by thread drawing. Silk floss of gay colors gave brightness to the border. We have learnt to expect pretty, unique things from High street. There were several silk quilts with their multitudinous bits ©f color, afghans of fine workmanship, and sofa pillows that deserve specification. There were cushions, toilet sets, under- wear, and tidies. Excellence in its particular line marked all. There were aisles about our fair where the rich floss and wools entered not, but were they devoid of beauty and color? no : and utility personified stood sentinel. It was in the rug and quilt department. Appreciation was rife there. The frivolous 11 might scan with hasty stare, but the thoughtful women — the motliers and young matrons— made the survey with careful scrutiny, and rendered just estimate to their vahie. There were braided rugs that showed not where braid attached itself to braid, so ambuscaded were the stitches. Either side might be right side. The drawn rugs I think belong among the artistic. It has, like a great many of obscure origin, lifted itself into aristocracy. Its prestige is not like that of the India rug, but surely it approximates that princely drugget. It belougs to the atmosphere of rare carpets and tapestries and has left its species— the declared emanation of rugs — the braided rug. There were regal ones that would have graced the mosaic floor of a Turk ; others of flow^ery prettiness that would be au fait of a satin slij^per in a lady's boudoir. This useful department augments yearly, which augers well for there being many thrifty households. Wool hose and mittens interposed their comfort-displaying selves, and if seemiug mal apropos, on a genial September day, have ere this found their mission and admirers. Vale : Avhen the leafless vines upon the trellis that now gleam with iciles shall hang abundant with the grape's imprisoned wine it will be Salufo. FLOEENCE VIRGINIA R. BROWNE. 12 POULTRY. Agricultural industry includes poultry husbandry which dates back to an early period, and its interests are recognized by almost every family in the land. Later years more atten- tion is given to the breeding and general management of poultry, and the love for the work has enlisted the fancy, so that this department has become one. of the chief attractions at our annual fair. The progress already made is noteworthy, and its vnlue to the farmer should be fairly stated. The pub- lic are agreed that the Light Brahmas combine all the good qualities of the different breeds, and are justly placed at the head as the standard at our public fairs. They are a hardy, handsome fowl ; slow to mature ; good layers of dark colored eggs, and very fine for the market. Every breed has its good qualities. If time is taken into account, two months are saved by adopting the Plymouth Eocks, a strong, hardy fowl, now very much in favor in this vicinity. For eggs and weight, we place them second to the Brahmas. The Black Cochins, like the White variety, are easy to breed to standard plumage, and their almost brick-colored eggs, and their docile disposition make them a great favorite with the fancier. The Leghorns, both Brown and White, are esteemed as great egg producers, and noted for early maturity. We have known the chicks to commence laying at three months of age and continue during the entire season. The Houdan, is of French origin, is very good to cross with the Brahma, and when eggs are sold by weight will come into universal use, with the Black Spanish, as the layers of the largest eggs. The Silver Gray Dorking is of English origin, and a general favorite among the English people. The Crested Polish are admired for their domestic habits, and 13 fine specimens were on exhibition. A coop of Game fowl were on exhibition. They are noted for their bold carriage, indom- itable courage, and fighting propensities. They are plump birds and good layers. No good citizen would encourage the fighting propensity. Our friend, Mr. Erland of Plymouth, came over at the request of the committee to judge the aquatic division. Our Plymouth friends have been to this, what our Scituate farmers have been to the vegetable department, — bringing the best specimens in the best condition. Condition is one of the best fancy points. Better results would follow if the old farmyard fowls received the attention given to the fancy breeds. We love the play of a pure imagination, and Avould encourage every one to do his or her best with the favorite breed. The figures which we kept for three years gave us near one dollar profit per fowl each year. There are few who appreciate the magnitude of this indus- try, and the subject is often treated with levity. We will pre- sent a few facts of value as complied by the Editor of the Ploughman : "The value of the annual egg product in Massachusetts is almost as great as that of our Indian corn, the latter being $1,006,384 ; it is a third greater than the added values of all our other grains, barley, oats, rye, wheat : total — $680,310. It is greater than the aggregate value of cheese, grapes, ice, mut- ton and wool, total — $838,053 ; greater than the added values of cranberries, pears, strawberries, garden and flower seeds, grass seeds and fruit trees grown in nurseries, total — $897,486 ; greater than our beets, carrots, onions, parsnips, turnips and celery, total — $867,612. It is much greater than the value of our beans, cabbages, pumpkins, sqashes and tomatoes, total — $860,601." 14 These figures tell us of the immense labor bestowed on this single interest. This result would be increased if greater care and skill were given to the work. When we enter this field of labor a thousand problems are given us to solve : commenc- ing with the egg, that is a great mystery. As soon as the chick sees the light it is subject to diseases and perils which baffle our skill. They are often left to chance, and the mortality is so great it insures a certain and constant demand for the survi- vors.- Have you a cow or horse to sell there are few buj'ers ; but always the demand for eggs and chickens continues. Nowhere on the farm does the attention to small things pay better than in the poultry yard, and nowhere does neglect prove a surer loss. See then that the chicks have a good start. Keep them free from lice and rats. Exposure to cold causes roup, which is catarrh and consumption in its final result. As with the human race, so many of these diseases are avoided in the poultry yard by care and humane treatment. Our method has been to give the young chicks cooked food, — oat meal and cracked wheat are excellent ; later, cracked corn, and milk. As the chick matures, and is ready to give you eggs, change the treatment to greater variety ; go over the roosts with kerosene — it is sure death to the vermin. The return will be a certain profit" A schoolmate of the writer raised last season a thousand chickens. A portion of these were sold, and the remainder are now, November twentieth, ready to give eggs which are in demand at thirty-two dents per dozen. They will be in demand for a few weeks and then that for chickens commences again. All through the panic, this industry was good. The farmer, not able to engage in the harder work of the farm, could, do this and be at home all the time. Let no one undertake this busi- ness without the love or aptitude for the work. They will be likely to fail. 15 Your committee counsel economy in every department, but they would recommend a larger sum applied to this. We feel sure it would soon bring to us a better show, and insure a greater interest, a greater number, and better quality of fowl. Many prefer the society diploma to money. There is no better place to advertise than at the agricultural fair. The ducks on exhibition were very attractive. And the flock of geese by Mrs. Williamson. Tlie rabbits by Mr. Lyle pleased, O, how much, the little boys and girls. We invite every one to bring his favorites again next year, and we will all be in love with this department. For the committee, G. J. PETERSON. VEGETABLES, GRAIN, AND SEEDS. As we gather into shelter our later harvest, and reflect on our crops and exhibition the past season, we have cause for encour- agement. The season has been marked by a plenty of mois- ture and sunlight and the farmer that fed his crops liberally, received abundant returns. The retrospect is indeed pleas- ant, and the hopes of the Marshfield Society are brighter. The collections brought in by the Scituate farmers were as good as ever, and deserved special premiums. The judges departed from the rules which govern other societies and dis- tributed the money among a larger number of contributors, 16 with the hope that they would make greater effort to com- pete with the market gardener in future. The tendency among farmers of limited means to plant more than they can feed and cultivate clean leaves poor returns. Mr. Turner brings the best specimen of field corn. We need not expect a good exhibit of corn the first of September, unless we encourage the planting of early varieties. It is not the largest corn or the largest vegetables that are the most valuable. A solid cab- bage, weighing ten pounds, may be of more value than one weighing twenty pounds. Onions especially should be firm and solid. We have grown the early turnip beet the past sea- son weighing twelve pounds ; these for feeding to milch cows. Specimens of carrots shown by Dr. Collamore of Pembroke where the finest we ever saw, each one suflicient for a feed for the horse. They are very good for cows, but should be fed with care in small quantities. A peck of beets fed to a cow is of more value than double that measure. Always remember that moderation and regularity produce the best results. Potatoes were seen on our tables in perfection ; one peck, by Mr. Charles Sprague, grown in beach sand, where the old soil refused to grow them, was suggestive of other experiments in like direction. The crops of vegetables have been good in this vicinity, and the price rules low. Many are discontented. Cabbages sold at three dollars per hundred. The land which grew a hundred would produce one hundred and fifty pounds of hay, the former selling for twice the amount of the latter. Turnips sold for twenty-five cents per bushel, and were found to pay better than potatoes at fifty cents. Keep in view the health of your stock as well as the market value of your crop. Thus tlie farmer will always remain the thrifty man though he may not possess large wealth. 17 Our exhibition of 1879 needs no special comment and our reflections lead us to take a few notes in the interest of general agriculture. A small farm located on the borders of the Duxbury Railroad Station, on the South Shore, deserves special mention. Its enterprising proprietor, broken down by over work at his trade some thirty years ago, conceived the idea of reclaiming a swamp, so dense that tlie hunter or engineer would very likely vary his course east or west. The cost per acre was forty-four dollars. A small plot was first broken, made smooth and put into grass. The crop from two and one fourth acres was sold for two hundred dollars, which enabled him to complete the purchase of five and one half acres. His main dependence for fertilizers was kelp, four miles away. Vegetables were grown with vfiryiug success, until the whole lot had been broken and cleared, when cranberries and hay were made a specialty. Since 1865 this lot has done much to sustain the family. We now come down to the products for the year 1878-9 : The hay for 1879 amounts to three hundred and ninety-one dollars. Cranberries from one and one fourth acres, twenty-one barrels, sold for one hundred and thirty-five dollars. Strawberries, twenty dollars. Cabbages, thirty dol- lars. Cost of preparing land for cranberries and setting vines, seven hundred dollars. More vines set the present season make the prospective crop one hundred and forty barrels. Our readers can estimate the value of this land at present for themselves. Land was made on the border of the cranberry plot by putting the turf on and mixing with sand, and the crop of hay secured without ploughing. This covering composts the old surface, and deep soil is secured while making the cranberry plantation near by. Seeing is believing. We think that all lovers of farming would be well 3 18 paid to visit this little farm. Though the time has come for the proprietor to take in sail, he may well exclaim with the mariner "The result is well worth the voyage." His remark to us we well remember, "I take solid comfort in seeing this go on." The farm will hardly take care of itself, but the products of the poultry yard, where a thousand chickens are raised, keep up the fertility of the grass land. All the while this work was being done, the bystanders looked on with doubt. It is "luck" they say. It is not the fortunate circumstances we say ; it is the result of foresight and calculation and work. Further- more, if those who doubted the capacity of the soil could have cultivated the enthusiasm and hope of the proprietor, would not they have been able to go through the revolutions which convulse society better than they do ? We think our report would not be complete if we omitted to speak, in this connection, of Green Harbor Marsh which has sent to our fair its valuable collection. The experiments mentioned in the foregoing remarks involve considerable expense for fertilizers. What may we expect from fourteen hundred acres containing all the elements of plant food? The liberal, unprejudiced mind, cannot doubt that a town of considerable dimensions could be sustained there by work- , ing that rich deposit when disintegration and drainage has become complete. We submit that this enterprise has passed beyond the reach of ridicule and caricature. Seeing is believing. Large crops of onions have been taken from this soil the past season. Your committee understand that onions are not usually grown without plenty of fertilizers. A field of corn, planted the eleventh of June, produced a good crop, the warm October days favoring the ripening. It was har- vested the ninth of October, a little less than four months from time of planting. It was a late variety of seed, and we think 19 an early variety would have enhanced the value of the crop very much. The oats from the Marsh, sent by Mr. Bourne, were admired by all visitors. In conclusion, we urge our friends to new exertions and new experiments. The infirmity of our nature is known ks inertia. When it degenerates and becomes a disease we call it the tramp. There is no better specific than tilling the soil ; and closely connected whith this calling are the higher virtues — health, and mental and moral activity. For the committee, G. J. PETEKSON. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES AND HONEY. We feel that this department of our Fair has failed to come up to its usual standing, owing, in a great measure, to the fact that our exhibition was held nearly one month earlier than it has commonly been. There were in all one hundred and thirty-four articles con- tributed by twenty-one persons. One lot contained forty-two varieties, and it was quite instructive to look over this collec- tion, and find so many good things preserved for future use. We notice that the young ladies are becoming interested in this department, and find the names of quite a number of our little girls on the list of contributors, and their offering is a credit, both to themselves and to the training they have received. In this department we give all gratuities and no premiums ; still your committee must make a distinction, and take into 20 consideration the number of clififerent varieties contributed by one individual, and the disadvantage of bringing large jars, over that of smaller ones or tumblers. There were three entries of pickles ; and one of honey, and we almost wished the privilege of tasting, it looked good enough to eat. The writer of this report well remembers the wonder and admiration expressed over the first jar of canned fruit exhibi- ted by this Society, when it Avas a Farmers' Club, entered by a lady living in the immediate neighborhood of the Fair Ground. But such an art could not long remain a secret, and the next year there were severel entries, and now the department of canned fruits usually forms a large and attractive part of the show, and we can see in this little instance the benefit of exhibiting our best productions, for it might have been years before many of us would have found what a valuable acquisi- tion it is to the housekeejjer to have at hand fresh fruits for the table, to vary the monotony of country living at certain seasons of the year, and there is no farmer or mechanic, with his small garden and fruit orchard, but what can avail them- selves of this great luxury ; and, as we gather around the fam- ily board, many families hardly meeting during the day, only at the table, we can but think these things, small in themselves, are one great reason that farmers' sons and daughters are beginning to love the old homestead, and whatever we can do to make the children love the home, so that when "Afar on life's billow They will long for the shade Of the home weeping willow," will not be in vain. Respectfully submitted, SUSAN M. BEOWN, Jot Committee. 21 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To Gcorye M. Baker, Esq , President of the Marslifield Agricul- tural and Horticultural Society : Sill : — The committee received five reports claimiDg a pre- mium, each of which is creditable to the writer, and of more or less practic9,l value to the interest of the Society. We do not see our way clear to divide the premiums ou the line marked out by the Board of Directors, as, in our judg- ment, it would be hardly equitable. We would suggest, how- ever, that a division be made of the sum appropriated so that four dollars shall be given for each of the reports on the "Children's Department," "Fancy and Domestic Articles," "Poultry," "Vegetables, Grain, and Seeds," and two dollars for that on "Pickles, Preserves, Jellies and Honey." This seems to be a fair recognition and encouragement of them all, and we believe such as will commend itself both to the authors and also to the members of the Society. If this is not so, we trust the Directors will rectify . whatsoever mistake we have made. Respectfully submitted, N. H. WHITING, ) Committee EBEN. ALDEN, Jr., j on Reports. Marshfield, December 17, 1879. 22 BOYS' GARDENS. FIRST PREMIUM REPORT-Award $3.00. To the Committee on Boys' Gardens of the Mcirshfield Agricul- tural and Horticultural Society : The following is what was raised on three square rods of land, by PERCY DAMON, Pembroke, 12 years of age. Peas — 1 peck, in the pod. Beans, string, — \\ pecks, in the pod. P>eans, shell, — IJ pecks, in the pod. Beans, dry, — 2| pecks, in the pod. Potatoes — 69 pounds. Corn — 90 ears. Watermelons — 27. Tomatoes — 26. Cucumbers — 92. More growing. Cabbages — 20. Pumpkins — 8. 23 BOYS' GARDENS. SECOND PREMIUM REPORT— Award $2.00. To the Committee on Boys' Gardens of the Marshfield Agricul- tural and Horticultural Society : The following is what was raised on three square rods of land : Peas — 3 pecks, in the pod. Beans — 4t\ bushels, in the pod. Potatoes — 1\ bushels. Tomatoes — 1^ bushels. Beets — 1 bushel. Onions — 2 quarts. Cucumbers — 120. Corn — 9 dozen ears. WALTER E. DAMON, North Marshfield. u TREASURER'S REPORT. Eeceipts from Nov. 18, 1878, to Nov. 17, 1879 Cash on hand November 18, 1878, Received from State allowance, Luther Magoun, cash loaned, . Nancy S. Waterman, cash loaned, T. P. Ford, cash loaned. Seventeen new members. Rent of old hall. Rent of new hall, Pasture, . . ... ^ Use of ware, .... Storing carriages, $114 16 600 00 100 00 100 00 100 00 85 00 28 75 24 00 10 00 4 00 2 00 $1,167 91 Receipts of Exhibition. Rent of ground and halls. $296 00 Entries for races. 51 90 Dinner tickets sold, 15 00 Concert and dance, . 86 70 Admittance to grounds, 1413 00 Seats, .... 86 80 t1 Q^Q Af) Total, $3,117 31 25 Payments from Nov. 18, 187S, to Nov. 17, 1879. Paid printing, Interest on notes, , Mary S. Hatch's note, Rebecca Ford's note, . Salary of oiRcers, Expenses on halls and grounds, Postage, stationery and express, Travelling expenses, Premiums of 1878, . Premiums of 1879, Sundry bills, . * . . S139 17 306 00 200 00 600 00 75 00 409 55 8 78 7 80 158 66 605 94 108 32 82,619 82 Expenses of ExHiBirioN. Paid ticket offices and gates, Committee, . . . . Music, ..... Entertainment, . . . . Care of stock, VV RcGI*) ■ * • • • Police and Badges, Rural sports, . . . . Total, . . . , Cash on hand, Nov. 17, 1879, $42 75 38 00 160 00. 115 72 30 11 12 75 57 25 21 61 478 19 $3,098 01 19 30 $3,117 31 $2,500 00 1,000 00 100 00 100 00 100 00 26 Liabilities are now as follows : Note to Plymouth Savings Bank, , . . . Nathaniel H. Whiting, ... . Luther Magoun, ...... Nancy S. Waterman, .... Thomas P. Ford, . . . . $3,800 00 I congratulate the Society on its improved financial condi- tion. Besides building seats and a temporary judges' stand at an expense of about $200, its debt is reduced $500, thus mak- ing its condition $700 better than last year. The seats will be a paying investment, as it will be seen, they let at last Fair for $86.80. Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer. I have examined the foregoing accounts of the Treasurer and find them to be correct. ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Auditor. Marshfield, Nov. 17, 1879. 27 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN MADE TO THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, 1879. Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members. From all other sources, Total amount of receipts for the year, , Premiums offered. Premiums and gratuities awarded. Premiums and gratuities paid out. Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuities paid. Total amount of disbursments for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, Personal property belonging to the Society, . . . ' . . 1,592 78 $600 00 75 00 2,018 15 2,693 15 1,063 00 680 75 565 00 1,533 41 2,098 41 3,800 00 11,856 92 28 Farm Improvements. Amount awarded for Ploughing at the Exhibition, . Most productive garden cultivated by a 3'outh not over fifteen years of age, .... Total amount offered for farm improvements, Awarded for farm improvements Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, ...... Farm Stock. • Amount awarded for bulls, Milch cows, Heifers, . Calves, Working oxen, Steers, Fat cattle, Horses, Sheep, Swine, Poultry, . , Total Amount ofiered for live stock, Awarded for live stock, Paid out for live stock. Farm Products. Awarded for collections of vegetables, Total amount offered for grain and root crops. Amount awarded for fruits, Flowers, Butter, Cheese, $28 00 5 00 58 00 33 00 33 00 $14 00 37 00 23 00 6 00 18 00 3 00 14 00 61 50 4 00 30 00 44 00 359 50 254 50 223 00 $76 50 98 00 57 50 19 40 5 00 9 00 29 Amount awarded for Preserved fruits and vegetables, $16 60 Wheat bread, .... 5 95 Rye and ludian bread, . 3 00 Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, 290 95 Miscellaneous. Amount awarded for agricultural implements, . 15 00 Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber, . . 50 00 Amount awarded for all other objects, strictly agri- cultural, not specified above, ... 5 00 Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, . 149 00 Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manufactures, etc., . .... 149 30 Number of persons who received premiums and gratuities, — five hundred and fifty-six. Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed, and the Amount to Each. Marshfield, $315 45 Duxbury, 101 45 Pembroke, 29 80 Kingston, 29 35 South Abington, 3 00 Plymouth, 24 80 30 Hanover, ...... $3 55 Scituate, 40 30 Eaynham, 25 50 Hingham, 1 00 Rockland, ...... 4 00 South Scituate, . . . . 25 00 Middleboro, 60 Bridgewater, ..... 3 00 Medford, 1 00 Hanson, ...... 16 85 Weymouth, 80 East Bridgewater, .... 3 25 Boston, . . . . . . 22 95 Woonsocket, B, I., . . . . 25 Sharon, 2 10 North Easton, 2 00 Cambridgeport, . . ; . . 60 Halifax, ...... 60 Quincy, ...... 1 50 Carver, ...... 40 Brockton, ...... 15 West Bridgewater, .... 55 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1879. GEORGE M. BAKER, President. FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Marshfield, Jan. 1, 1880. LIST OF PREMIUMS OF THE -^Ic-^MHI^^FFIELD^^^i Agricultural 'S Horticultural SOCIETY FOI! ISSO OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1880. PREISIDBNT: GEOKGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. vice: PREISIDEINXS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SEICRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TRBASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE. Marshfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield. CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1880. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOEEST TEEES. For the best plantation of Forest trees, of any kind, having been phmted not less than three years, nor less than one thousand trees, a premium of $30. For the 'best plantation of Forest trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20. Premiums to be awarded in 1883. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; W. T. Whiting, Marshfield, E. H. Moorehead, Marshfield. FEUIT TEEES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four x4.pple trees, set out in 1880, and in the most flourishing condition in 1883, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pears trees, set out in 1880, and in the best condition in 1883, two premiums, $8, 4. Committee. — E. H. Moorehead, Marshfield, Chairman; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACEE OF GEOUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — 88, 4. Payable in 1883. Committee. — Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DRAINING LAND. For the most successful exi)eriment in Draining Land, two premiums — 18, 4. To be paid in 1882. Committee — H. C. Dunham, Marsh field, Chairman ; C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Frank Ford, Marshfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1880. A full and careful statement in writing must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Sam- uel Cushman, Kingston, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. GRAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, 4. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 4. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five busliels, two premiums — $5, 3. Committee. — James W. Sampson, So. Scituate, Chairman; David Brown, Jr., Marshiiekl, Joseplius Dawes, Duxbury. ROOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets, on one fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three pre- miums—14, 8, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one eiglith of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-tive bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hun- dred bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2, Committee. — Augustus Coliamore, Pembroke, Chairman; G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, J. H. Bourne, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1880, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality, and value of the manure applied, and the amount of labor expended, with such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. CATTLE. COWS. All cattle must have been owned by the exhibitor three months. For the best Milch Gov,- of the Jersey breed, three pre- miums—$5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, three pre- miums—$5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, three premi- ums—$5, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, three premiums —m, 3, 2. For the best Milch Cow of the Native, three premiums — ®5, 3, 2. Committee. — William Cushiug, Marshfield, Chairman ; Har- vey D. Northey, Scituate, John F. Hatch, Marshfield. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year, HEIFEES UNDER THEEE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, three premiums— $3, 2, 1. For the best Pleifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of the Devon breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. I^'or the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $3, 2, 1, For the best Jersey Heifer, three premiums- -.|3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — tpOf ^, JL- For the best Heif(n' of any other breed, three premiums — $o, 2, 1. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; Isaac Nightingale, Scituate, Wendell Phillips, Marshfield. HEIFEES UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jerse}- Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — 12, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — $2, 1, Committee. — James E. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Wales Rogers, Marshfield, Martin Kent, Marshfield. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — S2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Grade Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman; Frank Ford, Marshfield, David Brown, 3d, Marshfield. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. 8 For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — %?>, 2, 1. For ilie best Devon Bnll, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $8, 2, 1. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, or Devon breeds, each two premiums — $2, 1, Committee.— Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman ; Barna- bas Hedge, Plymouth, Isaac M. Cox, Pembroke. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — ifrG, 4, 2. For the best Fat Cow, tliree premiums — !!?4, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Job P. Otis, Scituate, J. H. Corthell, So. Scituate, WORKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the ])est pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old, and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2, Committee. — James O. Bonney, Pembroke, Chairman; David S. Jenkins, Scituate, Nath'l Phillips, 2nd, Marshfield. SHEEP. For the best flock of Sheep, fifteen in number, two premi- ums— $5, 3. ' For the best flock of Sheep, not less than ten in number, two premiums — $4, 3. 9 Committee. — Martin Kent, Marshfieltl, Cliairman ; Israel Macomber, Marsh field, Jolni W. Hatcb, Pembroke. HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — $3, 2, For the best Breeding Mare, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Chairman ; Hiram Randal!, Pembroke, James W. Sampson, So. Scituate. DKAFT HORSES. For the, best Draft Horse, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — Hiram Randall, Pembroke, Cliairman ; Levi Ford, Duxbury, S. C. Stetson, Marshfield. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — Frank Fuller, Kingston, Chairman ; Herbert Soule, Kingston, J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, two premiums— $4, 2. Committee. — Levi Ford, Duxbury, Chairman ; C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Walter Baker, Duxbur3% GENTS'. DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, two premiums — #5, 2. Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman; Judsou Ewell, Marshfield, John S. Loring, Duxbury. 10 WALKING HOKSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Thomas Alden, Duxburj, Ghairmaii ; Alfred Rogers, Boston, D. H. Thompson, Marshfield. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Chairman ; Benjamin P. Ford, Duxbury, Franklin Damon, Scituate. SWINE. • For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $5, 4, 3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums — $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four, or more than seven months old, three premiums- $3, 2, 1. Committee. — C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Gershom Bradford, Duxbury, Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield. PLOUGHING. For the best Ploughing, without driver, three premiums —15, 4, 3. For the best Ploughing, with driver, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. 11 Gratuities may be distributed by the committee, not exceed- iDg two dollars. Committee. — Thomas P. Ford, Marshfield, Chairman ; Nath'l Phillips, 2d, Marshfield, Joshua Studley, Hanover. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES, AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. Susan M. Brown, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. James E. Baker, Marshfield, Mrs. David Briggs, Scituate. BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Batter, not less than six pounds, four premi- ums-S4, 3, 2, 1. For the best plain Cheese, three premiums— $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the Committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entrv to be attached, instead of names of contributors, to Butter and Cheese ; also. Bread. Committee. — Mrs. Nath'l Phillips, 2d, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Warren T. Whiting, Marshfiekl, Mrs. James H. West, Pembroke. 12 BREAD. WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums — $2, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Mrs. Ciift Ilogerg, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. G. J. Peterson, Marshfiekl, Miss Mary A. Church, Marshfield. RYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT. For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two pre- miums— $2, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. Frank Ford, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of 25 cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the committee. Committee. — S. C. Stetson, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury. PEARS. For the best collection, not less than ten vai'ieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.75. 13 For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — 11. oO, 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of 25 cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — Alpheus Packard, Pembroke, Chairman ; Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield, Nath'l J. Damon, Marsh field. PEACHES. For the best display, six premiums — $2, 1.50 1, .75, .50 .25. Committee. — Augustus Cole, Scituate, Chairman ; G. W. Baker, Marshfield, Joseph AYeston, Duxbury. QUINCES. For the best display, four premiums — 11, .75, .50, .25. Committee — C. O. Ellms, Scituate, Chairman ; Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield, S. C. Stetson, Marshfield. GPvAPES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, five pre- miums—.f3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, six premiums — each 25 cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — 25 cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ; Washburn Weston, Winthrop, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury. 14 CRANBERKIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, three premiums — $2, 1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhib- ited, three premiums — $1, .50, 25. Committee. — Otis Standish, Pembroke, Chairman ; John Magoun, Marshfield, John A. Harlow, Marshfield. POULTRY. For the best trio of Light Brahmas, three premiums — "Sam- uel's Birds of New England," S2, 1. For the best trio of Plymouth Rocks, three premiums — "Samuel's Birds of New England," $2, 1. For the best trio of any other breed, three premiums — "Samuel's Birds of New England," $2, 1. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, Chairman ; E. F. Erland, Plymouth, Dr. J. Hagar, Marshfield. HOME DEPARTMENT. • One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Sixty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Sarah Sherman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. Hagar, Marshfield, Mrs. J. E. Baker, Marshfield. 15 FANCY ARTICLES. Forty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Florence V. R. Browne, Pembroke, Chair- man; Miss Carrie Eandall, Pembroke, Mrs. Susan Sampson, Marshfield. FLOWERS. Forty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. L. S. Kichards, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Edwin Reed, Marshfield, Miss Rebecca Chandler, Marsh- field. CHILDREN S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Louisa J. Alden, Miss Lizzie Brown, Marshfield. MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the Committee. Committee. — H. B. Magoun, Hanover, Chairman ; J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke, D. 11. Thompson, Marshfield. 16 FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the Committee. For the best collection, five premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3, 2. CoMMirrEE. — Gr. J. Petersou, Marshfield, Chainnam ; H. H. Northey, Scituate, Joseph H. Baker, Pembroke. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRANBERRIES. For the most satisfactory experijnent in preparing meadow, not less than one eighth of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums — $6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 1880. Premiums payable in the fall of 1883. Travelling expenses of committee to be paid in future. CoMMiTTFE. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; Joseph Weston, Duxbury, Alden White, Duxbury. GARDENS. For the most productive garden, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — $3, 2, Committee. — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Marcel- lus Rogers, Marshfiekl, J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke. STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of strawberries, not less than one fourth of an acre, two premiums — $6, 4. Payable in 1881. 17 Committee. — Hambleton E. Smith, Duxbury, Chairman ; Barnabas Eversoii, Haiisou, Chirence Taylor, Marshfield. REPORTS O'F COMMITTEES. For the best report of any (^ommittee to award premiums, three premiums— $8, 6, 4. Committee. — N. H. Whiting, Marshtield, Chairman ; S. N. Gilford, Duxbury, Rev. E. Alden, Jr., Marshfield. GROUNDS Committee. — Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield. HALL. Committee. — John G. Sprague, Chairman ; Mrs. J. G. Sprague, Mrs. E. W. Crane. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose G. J. Peterson, Marshfield. ' SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. 18 REGULATIONS. No member of the committee shall decide respecting a pre- mium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles, products, flowers, fruit, and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the fair. Chairman of committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairman of committees are requested to be in attendance at the committee-room in the Hall at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society will be awarded when acceptable. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the exhibition. 19 No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society. No animal will be entitled to a premium unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three months prior to the exhibition. The best animal or article to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair.. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of committees to indicate the premiums on card-!, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All committees to report previous to December, 1880. Reports of committees should contain : — ■ First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of con- tributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the committee. TRANSACTIONS OF THE -3ltM7I]^3PFIEIlD3fH- Agricultural i Horticultural SOCIETY OURirVG THE YE^IS IBBO PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Steam Book and Job Printers. 1880. TRANSACTIONS OF THE ^P^^^KFIELD* Agricultural I Horticultural SOCIETY r>XJRIIVG THE YEAR ISSO. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Steam Book and Job Printers. 1880. ! f(fe:"<:"'-tE OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1880. PRBSIDBNX: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. vice: PRELSIDEINXS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SBCRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TRBASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIRBC-rORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. MARSHFIELD. Charles M. Tilden, Albert T. Sprague, Jr., J. Fred Heustis, Clara T. Damon, Mrs. J. F. Heustis, Joel A. Stratton, John W. Brooks. DUXBUBY. Benjamin P. Ford, L. S. Seaver, Mrs. Abram Freeman, Peleg J. Alden, Mrs. Peleg J. Alden. PLYMOUTH. William C. Chandler, Mrs. Lydia B. Vinal. KOCKLAND. Henry A. Baker. SCITUATE. Henry T. Otis. BOSTON. Willard A. Rogers, HANSON. Fred Stetson. DOMESTIC AND FANCY ARTICLES. A person of most desultory and fragmentary observation must have felt the prescience of Art at our Fair. The schools of needlework and painting, that multiply yearly in our cities, are centres from which rays reach out to the little towns. Scattered here and there in the rough, pine interior of our hall, were touches of refinement in the decorative that would have given a space at Kensington a distingue air. Mrs. Peters of Pembroke sent white satin medallions worked with floss silk. The portrayals were fine conceptions of the romantic. The subjects were scenes copied from amid the solitudes of reedy meadows or wooded ambuscades of tiny water-stretches. They were poems in color of pastoral haunts in our own Pembroke. One sees them often if they but step from the highway, — a shy pool which seems to try to hide its waters among moss}' roots of slender birches, or under bending, broad-leaved grasses, loved by the drooping brakes and giving back reflections of red-berried bushes ; a dense thicket for background ; broken bars spanning the fen, held still to duty by interlacing vines. Chef tVcenvres in a hand's breadth of space, were these Pembroke studies. Mr. Jones of Pembroke sent various exhibits of artistic attractions, conspicuous among which was a painting on a 6 shell, which was upheld by a rustic easel. One point about the painting was a happy thought — that of rendering the uneven parts of the shell as a rocky descent over which a cascade tumbled. Miss Gilford of Duxbury had a letter case of painted amber silk, rare in its beauty. All the articles entered by this lady were idealic, giving hints of a collection in reserve we would be gratified to see adorn our tables next year. ' A table cover, by Bebecca M. Cobb of Kingston, was among the excellencies of the exhibition. The embroidery upon the • corners was as real as if one had stepped into the fields and gathered bunches of marguerites and clover blossoms to embellish the corners with. Mrs. Dyer of Plymouth displayed lambrequins, holding for design the same wild favorites — daisies and the pink globes of clover. Miss Carrie Randall of Pembroke had a table-scarf border- ing on the unique, being a combination of cloth, velvet, and floss of every color ; also, lovely embroidery on flannel. Mrs. Abram Freeman of Duxbury displayed a banner-screen, , curtains, and decorated china, making a fine collection. The quantity denoted industry as well as taste. Mrs. J. H. Hollis of Plymouth again sent some of her beautiful lace-work. Mrs. E. H. Bonney of Scituate had an afghan of more than ordinary fineness of stitch, so that the flowers wrought upon it were very attractive, from being fine to a degree seldom seen upon these lap-robes. W. 0. Hathaway of Plymouth had three cases of stuffed birds — most excellent for taxidermist skill. The attitudes of the birds showed naturalness in arrangement, but the silent songsters called a dull grief to the heart. A slender note of bird-song calling from a wood ; a flock of quails, scarce dis- tinguishable from the brown leaf-mould, in timid flight across one's path ; a flash of a scarlet breast are infinitely more beautiful than poor, dead warblers, though having the semblance of life. We have mentioned some of the satellites of the Exhibition, about which were myriads of lesser stars, — the ubiquitous tidy, the eternal pin-cushion, the perennial lamp-mat, the much multiplied card-basket, the duplicated knit jacket, the pillow- shams, the whisk-holders, and other etcetera of a fair table, — little nicknacks that garnish our country homes, and give rustic simplicity of adornment often pleasing. The Domestic Department held her wonted prestige. How can every one make such, handsome rugs ? Where is found the patience to fabricate the patch quilt? How many hands ply the knitting needles? There is always a sense of comfort pervading this depart- ment that never becomes dulled by aesthetic flights of fancy elsewhere. A pair of blue ribbed hose always has this elo- quence about them : — busy wife ; a day of household duties ; butter has been made, cheeses turned, brasses scoured, rows of pies made, a patch sewed on boyish trousers, three hearty meals served, and then, in the dusky twilight, true hands have caught up the sock to knit a few rounds. The socks always grow in just such snatches of time, con- sidering which, their number is abnormal. There were one hundred and fifty entries by ninety-two persons. I am not, I am sure, open to the accusation of being too much of an optimist, when I look upon our Fair as showing no signs of decadence. FLOliENCE VIRGINIA R. BROWNE. 8 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Was our last Fair held so early, in the season that the children could not get their articles finished in time ? or, like older people, had they so much besides to do, that they could find no time to work for the Fair? or, didn't they know what to make ? or — can it be that they didn't feel interested enough to do anything? One little girl — a smart little girl, too — was heard to say that she didn't want to make any- thing,— that it was too much work. What should we do if all the children should say so? We shouldn't have any "Children's Department," should we? AVe don't mean by all this that nothing was done by the children for our last Fair, — far from it. We mean that forty- three contributors and about sixtj'-five articles fall rather short of half the number of five or six years ago, when the space allowed the children was filled to overflowing. We don't like to think that any lack of interest among the children is causing this steady decrease in the number of articles brought into their department, for our Fair would certainly lose one of its most attractive features if the children should fail us. Only think, children ! if at some of oar future Fairs, the space allowed you in the northwest corner of our hall should be vacant, or filled with other articles, and people who are accustomed to look in that direction for the children's work should look in vain, and exclaim : " Why, what has become of 9 the Children's Depaitment, which always used to be found in this part of the hall, and was such an interesting part of the Marshfield Fair ? " and the answer, perhaps, would be, " O, the children have become tired of it, and seem to have lost nearly all their interest, and so few articles are brought in that it isn't thought worth while to keep up the Children's Department any longer." Shouldn't we feel sorry to say that, and wouldn't you feel just a little bit ashamed to have it said of you? Some one asked if the children hadn't been sufficiently encouraged. Well, we hardly know what more could be done. We heartily .believe in praising children when they deserve it, and we have always been quite lavish of our words of praise and encouragement, — at least, we thought we had, referring always, of course, to defects, in a general way, so that they might be avoided in the next trial, and surely the Society does better by the children in the way of gratuities than by any others. Though at our last Fair there was a decrease in the number of articles, yet we think that never before has the work been of better quality, and as many of the articles were quite sizeable, the space was well covered, and no doubt the deficiency was not very noticeable to the observer. Several nice pieces of work were done by the older girls, with some of whom this is the last year in the Children's Depart- ment. We are sorry to lose them, but glad that they leave us so well fitted for work elsewhere. Since our last Fair we read an article in some paper about a children's fair, or exhibition of juvenile industry, held annually in a little village not far from the city of New York. The work displayed was both useful and ornamental, but mostly useful, as plain sewing, patching, darning, etc. It may be that here is a new idea for our girls; perhaps you have 2 1 10 i never thought of bringing to the Fair a specimen of your mending. Suppose some of you try it. No doubt, nicely mended rents, and patches nicely put on, would attract a full share of notice and praise, and it will be no small accomplish- ment when you have learned to do it well. To the few boys who work for this department we give due . credit, and hope they will continue to do as much ; but the boys have never taken hold as we would like to see them do. The general complaint is that there isn't as much work that they can do for the Fair as there is for girls ; perhaps not, but there are many things they might do. To the fair before referred to, the boys contributed scroll and jig sawing, hand- work, — one boy took the prize for a wheelbarrow, — little models of different kinds of farming implements, as a hand- rake, a harrow, etc. There was a log-house, a weather-vane, and a wooden-sawed bird-cage. There were specimens of hand-writing, drawing, and collections of minerals. It has before been suggested to you to bring collections of specimens of our native woods, and you never have tried that yet, have you? If you would make collections of woods, stones, min- erals, shells from our seashore, etc., you would learn to notice and observe many things that you never knew of before, and you would soon begin to know more than you do now about the wonderful world we live on. If the boys would take hold of this in earnest, they could find so much to do for the Fair that the girls might find themselves almost crowded out of the department, though we think we could find room for you all. We hope what has been said in former reports in regard to honesty and fairness in connection with work for this depart- ment has not given offence nor caused discouragement, — we certainly did not mean it to, — and we venture to repeat : Do your work yourself, after you have learned to do it well ; make something really worth bringing ; place your name ivith your 11 a^fe upon the article you exhibit, as long as you remain in the Children's Department, and when you reach the age beyond which you are not entitled to an award in our department, step out honorably into the next, and as you are growing up to be the men and women in whose hands the interests of this Society will some day be placed, make yourselves worthy of the trust, and remember that the world stands in need of honest and true men and women. r "The world wants men — true men — Who cannot be bought or sold ; Men who will scorn to violate trust, — Genuine gold. . The world wants men, — pure men, — Free from the taint of sin : Men whose lives are clean without, And pure within." Respectfully submitted, SUSIE B. STEVENS. 12 AWARDS OF COMMITTEE. Sadie J. Damon, East Marshfield, knit rug $0 75 Sadie J. Damon, East Marshfield, tidy 20 Ijucy P. Dorr, Marshfield, pair sheets. 25' Lucy P. Dorr, Marshfield, child's collar 20 Clara L. Dorr, Marshfield, drawers 25 Sarah M. Ewell, Marshfield, knit rug 75 Sarah M. Ewell, Marshfit4d, bedquilt 1 00 Louisa E. Hatch, Marshfield, toilet set 50 Emma E. Dorr, Marshfield, patchwork 15 Chester W. Kiley, Marshfield, frames 20 Chester W. Kiley, Marshfield, boat 20 Grace A. Turner, Pembroke, tidy 30 Grace A. Turner, Pembroke, skirt 50 Flora A. Hall, Marshfield, mat 30 Addie Williamson, Marshfield, pillow slips 25 Oscar W. Pratt, Hanson, patchwork 25 Emily A. Lapham, Marshfield, tidy 30 Anna D. Dwelley, Marshfield, napkin holder 10 Anna D. Dwelley, Marshfield, bedquilt 75 Amy W. Bates, Marshfield, patchwork 15 Lucy G. Partridge, Marshfield, card case 10 Nellie A. Howland, Duxbury, child's apron 20 Nellie A. Howland, Duxbury, tidy 20 Susie O. Turner, South Scituate, pillow slips 20 Susie O. Turner, South Scituate, chemise 25 Florence L. Keene, Marshfield, alphabet ............... 15 13 Georgianna Ventress, Marshfield, toilet set 30 Flora G. Kogers, Marshfield, quilt 75 Charlie D. Bonney, Pembroke, bracket saw work .... 40 Fred Lewis, Marshfield, cardboard bracket 30 Sadie F. Cole, Marshfield, patchwork 75 Sadie F. Cole, Marshfield, dried apples 05 Sophia T. Ripley, Duxbury, lamp mat 30 Etta R, Harrington, Marshfield, brackets 40 Lizzie C. Hatch, Marshfield, bracket 30 Lizzie C. Hatch, Marshfield, embroidered skirt. 75 Florence M. Chandler, Duxbury, tidy 25 Annie A. Howland, Duxbury, tidy 25 Nellie A. Simmons, Duxbury, toilet set 55 Nellie O. Clark, Marshfield, bracket 15 Edith G. Lewis, Duxbury, tidy 25 Mira E. Brown, Marshfield, tidies 55 Mary A. Wright, Marshfield, match safe 25 Mary A. Wright, Marshfield, scrap bags 40 Mary A. Wright, Marshfield, card basket and brackets, 35 Martha E. Taylor, Marshfield, cardboard pitcher 10 Mary A. Hatch, Marshfield, frames, comb case 80 Mary E. Walker, Marshfield, drawers and edging 30 Mary E. Walker, Marshfield, tidy 30 Lillie G. Walker, Marshfield, tidy 30 Lillie G. Walker, Marshfield, drawers and edging, .... 30 Ruby Sampson, Marshfield, tidy 20 Howard and Burton Baker, Pembroke, case of insects, 50 Emily W. Taylor, Marshfield, toilet set 25 Agnes M. Bates, Marshfield, air castle . . . . 40 Minnie G. Barstow, Duxbury, tidy 30 SUSIE B. STEVENS, Mrs. J. T. DAMON, )■ Committee. FANNIE W. OAKMAN, u VEGETABLES, GRAIN, AND SEEDS. The reputation of this department is sustained by an exhi- bition of vegetables and grain equal to former years. To enumerate all the varieties would be a difficult work, for a single wagon load contained thirty varieties, including new seedling potatoes, squashes, corn, with the minor products of the field and garden which make the household table pleasant and inviting. The severe drouth did not prevent good crops, and the rainy days at our Fair did not prevent an interesting assembly. All our staple crops are yielding better crops as we get more light, and open to the farmer the wonderful secrets of plant life and growth. The corn crop is a good example of the progress already made. It is affirmed that more than a hundred bushels have been produced near the grounds of the Society Hall the present season on one and one-quarter acres. A large number of our farmers remain in doubt. Mr. David Brown of Marshfield exhibited a specimen of his crop at a later Fair, which was pronounced by Mr. Eussell, our new Secretary, as good as can be grown on the continent. Your Committee have no reason to doubt the statement of the com- mittee who measured the field. The effort should continue in the direction of accuracy, both in measuring the field and in estimating the weight of corn. The skilful butcher will cor- rectly estimate the shrinkage of the animal when killed ; why cannot the farmer approximate to the truth when weighing his crop ? It is now admitted by every progressive farmer that 1 r corn cannot be grown with profit witliout toeding the plant in all its stages of growth. The yield has ruled small per acre in former years, and will continue so until we become convinced that more and better fertilizers should be applied. Mr. Brown thinks the hoise-hoe should do all the cultivating, and that level culture is the best. Mr. Turner of Scituate exhibited a specimen of early corn which received the first premium. The old question recurs : — which is the best, — the early or the late variety ? We wish to suggest a method of exhibiting specimens of corn which may help each farmer to answer the question for himself. Select two ears as near alike as possible. Shell one of them and tie the cob close to the side of its mate ; put in a small glass jar the corn shelled. These three speci- mens marked plainly show the relative values of the different varieties. Every member of the Society should bring with his corn some partial thought and local culture which elicits dis- cussion, which is, after all, the main benefit of our Fair. We should not forget the value of our vegetables and roots, and other grains, Vai'iety is not only called a kind of spice, it is more, and furnishes material for a good appetite, and other productions. Mr. Arnold, of Pembroke, raised four hundred and fifty bushels of turnips, grown in a season of severe drought, when it was difficult to germinate the seed until late in July. Martin Swift, of Bridgewater, brings excellent specimen of winter wheat. Herman Delano likewise, both early and late varieties. Beets were exhibited in perfection. Which is of the greatest benefit to stock, — a mangel weighing twenty pounds, or the turnip beet weighing ten ? This cannot be answered by looking on the surface, but by analysis and careful experiment. The dyked marsh has produced large crops of onions and corn, the latter costing not more than thirty cents per bushel, and produced without any special fertilizers. Very fine pota- toes, the second crop on the the lot, cost about twenty-five 16 cents per bushel. It is evident that a very large amount of plant food is stored up in these meadows, which the present generation cannot exhaust. Young men of limited capital "' would do well to examine these lands before taking their chances in the West. No better field exists for enterprise in this country, now the land is offered iu the market at reason- able prices. We hope to witness improvements in this department next year. The Society lives to instruct the community in better methods of agriculture and a better domestic life. When it has accomplished its mission, it may- well cease to exist. Next to the wise legislator who makes our national development possible, stands the farmer, nearest to Nature, working on a method of all for each and each for all. We have hoped for a better time for the farmer. It is coming ; it is here! Fellow farmers, appreciate your opportunity and improve it. During the active season, in the calm contem- plation of the workings of Nature, secure your best thoughts and store them for future use ; they pay good interest, and this is enterprise that never fails. And while the swift life culmi- nates, let into your households tranquillity and the loving ■ heart. Kespectfully submitted, GEORGE J. PETERSON, H. H. NORTHEY, )■ Committee. J. H. BAKER, I 17 POULTRY. The actual condition of this department is one of hope and progress. Finer specimens were on exhibiticm, and enclosed in better coops than on former years. Of all animals raised upon the farm none are so much neglected as the poultry, and we may add none are so sensitive to poor treatment, or will give us better returns if we give them a little more attention. Your committee were pleased to see the large collection brought in by the farmers in good condition, and the more rare and fancy varieties by the fanciers of Plymouth. The nicely placed feathers, the clean birds in the best condition, tell us that the merchant and business man finds freedom from care, and romance, even, in the poultry yard. Your committee visited one poultry house where there was no romance, no sunny side ; the manure was piled under the roosts and matted by a year's accumulations. The window had not been opened, and the air inhaled was well filled with ammonia and nitrogen. The flock was sick with cholera, and few eggs and few chickens were the result, and no profits. To correct this habit of our farmers should be the aim and efi'ort of our Society. Nobody visits these places of cruelty, but they should be brought to the light and better conditions demanded. All who keep poultry should study to make them comfortable in the early brood ; in the time when they are working for you and furnishing eggs ; in the critical period of moulting and maturity, when they are 3 18 expected to furnish food and cheer at the Thanksgiving table. Not only should the enemies to the chicks be watched, but the diseases should be attended with proper remedies. One of our earnest workers in this branch of industry found his fowls *' doing poorl}' " ; their " eggs were falling off." On looking into the condition of the flock, it was found that the formidable disease, " scaly leg," had so enfeebled the flock as to endanger their life. The skilful microscopist finds the beginning of this disease to consist in a minute insect lodging under the scale on the leg. If not disturbed, lie is secure in his home, and there propagates his kind. If not soon dislodged, the crust formed by the increase of numbers completely unfits the lowl for use, and the axe and block are brought to end the life no longer usefuL At a late meeting of the directors, it was voted to employ an expert to judge the fowl for the fair of 1881. It is hoped that every one who intends to exhibit fowls at that time will bring good specimens, in as good, clean, roomy coops as convenient, and that every contributor will labor to raise this department up to a better standard. Respectfully submitted, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Dr. J. HAGAR, )■ Committee. B. W. GOODING, 19 PEACHES. It is encouraging to all lovers of this luscious fruit to think that the cycle of success is coming. For a dozen years we have depended on the South for this fruit, which, like the orange, often reaches us in poor condition. Within two years, one of your committee put into the market early peaches in advance of the Delaware supply ; and last season our abun- dance checked the amount sent annually for the last decade. In this field of industry is room for much labor and study. Like all departments, there is much mystery, and your com- mittee cannot throw much light on it. One of your com- mittee lost by rot a fine lot of the Hale's Early, within forty- eight hours. The '' yellows " is another fearful disease to watch and combat. " Take them out as fast as it appears." Pile up around the tree sharp sand, and try the mulch in a larger circle. We hope to see a general interest in this fruit, and would sug- gest that every farmer set at least six trees for experiment the coming season. Give the subject care and study. We all can look back and see how much better it would have been for us if our fathers had planted fewer apple trees, and had attended to all their wants, and carefully thinned the fruit. It was one of the mistakes to which we are constantly liable. Let us not fall into like error in this branch of industry. Euripides says that "Zeus hates busy bodies and those who do too much." Respectfully submitted, GEORGE J. PETERSON, J. DAWES, 1^ Committee. JOSEPH WESTON, 20 ROOT CROPS. The Chairman of the Committee on Root Crops, Augustus^ CoUamore of Pembroke, died during the past jea.Y. His large and long experience in the cultivation of the land had given him such an intimate knowledge of all kinds of farm produce, as to have made him efficient on any committee of the Society. While we tender our sympathy to his family for their loss, we miss his services on this committee. Francis P. Arnold of Pembroke entered a field of turnips of about two acres, which were very excellent in quality, and yielded well. It is not often one sees such a field, being very uniform in its growth of smooth, nice turnips, all just about the right size for market and for eating. There was not upon the field a hat full of weeds; at least, the eyes of the committee did not see that amount. It gave evidence of thorough culture, with rows almost perfectly straight. It is a little remarkable that shoe manufacturers and people of other occupations, not farmers, often raise such crops that they put to shame some whose life's business has been the cultivation of the soil. Such a fact should serve as an incen- tive to farmers to raise their standard higher, and cultivate more thoroughly, applying what knowledge they have and giving more thought to their business. 21 One square rod of Mr. Araold's field gave 169 pounds, making 4o0| bushels per acre, or a little over thirteen and one- half tons. Not a remarkably large yield, but about as many as it is best to raise, provided the crop is to he sold to eat, and one owns a plenty of land suitable for turnips. By this, we mean that the labor of raising two acres of turnips, with the rows three feet apart, is not any more than in raising one acre with the rows eighteen inches apart. The horse and cultivator can do the work of several men, with very much less expense. Although Mr. Arnold's crop did not yield the amount given as a standard by this Society, yet we feel that the object for which premiums are offered has been reached, and that a premium is justly due to him ; therefore, we recommend that Francis P. Arnold be awai'ded the first premium of four dollars for the greatest crop of turnips on one-half acre. Respectfully submitted, JOHN H. BOURNE, ) Committee GEORGE J. PETERSON, V on J. H. WEST, ) Boot Crops. Marshfield, November 5, 1880. INDIAN CORN. There were three entries of corn for 1880 : , David Brown, Marshfield, one acre ; average yield, one hundred and four bushels to the acre. Award : first premium, $8.00. Ezra Smith, Marshfield, one acre ; average yield, ninety-one and three-sevenths bushels to the acre. Award : second premium, $4.00. William L. Gushing, Marshfield, one-half acre ; average yield, forty-five and five-sevenths bushels. Award : first premium, $ 5.00. 22 In the judgment of the committee, the several crops were well taken care of, and we would be pleased to have all these competitors also try vegetables another year. JAMES W. SAMPSON, ) .y ... JOSEPH US DAWES, j ^ommit^ec. statement of crop of coen raised on " clay pit " pasture, (so-called). Five-eighths of an acre ploughed, manured, and planted with corn in 1879 ; using about eight cords of manure. Ploughed one-half acre more, not manuring or cultivating. Spring of 1880, ploughed one and one-fourfch acres, putting on nine cords of manure. Planted to yellow corn, putting it in three and oue-half feet apart each way, Horse-hoed it three times and hand-hoed once. Cut top stalks about first of August. Think hand-hoeing did no good ; it was hilled up too much. Prefer using horse-hoe altogether. DAVID BROWN, Jr. STATEMENT OF EZRA SMITH. The ground on which I raised two acres of corn had been in grass seven years. Ploughed in spring, and manured with com- post of kelp and stable manure, at the rate of fifty horse loads per acre. Planted by the fifteenth of May ; cultivated with horse once ; hoed twice. Whole cost of raising, $25.00. EZRA SMITH. COST OF CULTIVATING ONE-HALF ACRE OF CORN, BY W. L. CUSHING. Three cords of manure, at $4.00 per cord $12 00 Ploughing, half acre 2 50 Planting corn 2 00 Hoeing corn, (once) 1 25 Ploughing out corn, (twice) 1 00 $18 75 W. L. CUSHING. 23 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To George 31. Balder, Esq, President of the Marslifield Agricultural and Horticultural Society : Sir : — The Committee have received five reports. Having three premiums at our disposal, we award the first to the report on " Domestic and Fancy Articles " ; the second to that on the " Children's Department " ; and the third to that on " Field and Garden Vegetables." The other reports, the one on " Poultry," and the one on " Peaches," deserve premiums, had we them at our disposal. The labor of preparing these reports has rested on Mr. Peterson, who never tires in his fidelity to the interests of the Society. We call the attention of our Committees to the regulation which requires them " to report previous to December." Respectfully submitted, N. H. WHITING, ) Committee on E. ALDEN, Jr., [ Reports. Marshfield, December 24, 1880. 24 BOYS' GARDENS. FIRST PREMIUM REPORT. The following is what was raised on three square rods of land by Harrie Damon, of Pembroke, eleven 3'ears of age : Peas, — ^ peck. Beans, string, — ^ bushel, 6 quarts. Beans, shell, — 65 pecks, in the pod. Corn — 99 ears. Beets — 1 peck. Cucumbers — 44. Watermelons — 13. Pumpkins — 28. Tomatoes — 2 pecks. Cabbages — 4. Potatoes — 23 pounds. The weather was so dry that my potatoes and peas did not do nearly as well as I expected. 2 rr BOYS' GARDENS. SECOND PREMIUM REPORT. The following is what w^as raised on three square rods of land by Percy Damon, of Pembroke, thirteen years of age : Peas — 1 peck, in the pod. String Beans — 2| pecks, in the pod. Beans — lOg pecks, in the pod. Potatoes — 43 pounds. Corn — 158 ears. Watermelons — 6. Tomatoes, ripe — 1 peck. Tomatoes, green — 1^ pecks. Cucumbers — 109. Cabbages — 8. Pumpkins — 24. Beets — J peck. 76 Sweet German Turnips, looking well at present time. Owing to the dry weather, my potatoes and peas were almost a failure. 26 TREASURER'S REPORT. Keceipts from November 17, 1879, to November 15, 1880. Cash on liand, November 17, 1879, . . $19 30 State allowance, 600 00 Eighteen new members, . . . . 90 00 James Ford, Ciish loaned, . . . 100 00 Pasture, ......'. 10 00 Eent of old hall, 47 80 Kent of new hall, 12 00 Storiug carriages, ..... 1 00 Reports sold, ...... 6 55 Net receipts of extra Fair, October 13th, 158 65 $1,045 30 Eeceipts of Exhibition. Rent of grounds and hall, . . . $55 42 Dinner tickets sold, .... 21 00 Entries for trotting, . . . . 70 10 Fruit sold, 3 52 Admittance to grounds, .... 869 25 Balance due Treasury, $2,064 59 213 01 $2,277 60 Payments from November 17, 1879, to November 15, 1880. Printing, . • $167 21 Interest on notes, .... 244 50 Salary of officers, . . . . 75 00 Expenses on halls and grounds, not named below, .... 178 14 27 Shingling old hall, Repairs on old hall, Painting new hall. . . . . $94 37 215 52 73 91 348 16 6 62 22 65 263 69 532 02 59 48 PostMge, stationery, and express. Travelling expenses. Premiums, 1879, Premiums, 1880, . Sundry bills, .... • • Expenses of Exhibition. Ticket offices and gates. Committees, Music, ... Entertainment, Care of stock, . Police, . . . . Liabilities are now as follows : Note to Plymouth Savings Bank, Nathaniel H. Whitiug, Luther Magouu, . Nancy S. Waterman, Thomas P. Ford, . James Ford, $1,897 47 $53 00 33 00 175 00 56 63 7 00 55 50 380 13 $2,277 60 $2,500 00 • • 1,000 00 100 00 100 00 100 00 • • 100 00 $3,900 00 Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer, I have examined the foregoing accounts of tlie Treasurer and find them to be correct. ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Auditor. Marshfield, November 15, 1880. 28 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN Made to the Board of Agriculture, i88a $600 00 90 00 1,274 59 1,964 59 1,101 00 853 97 795 71 1,481 90 2,277 61 4,100 00 Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, From all other sources, . Total amount of receipts for the year, . Premiums offered, .... Premiums and gratuities awarded, Premiums and gratuities paid out, Current expenses for the year, not including the premium^^ and gratuities paid. Total amount of disbursements for the year. Indebtedness of the Society, . Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, 11,856 92 Personal property belonging to the Society, 1,592 78 Farm Improvements. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, . $21 00 Most productive garden cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, .... 5 00 Total amount offered for farm improvements, . 52 00 Awarded for farm improvements, . 26 00 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, 26 00 29 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, Milch cows, . Heifers, . Calves, . Workiug oxen, Steers, . Fat cattle, Sheep, Swine, . • '• ' -■ Poultry, , . Total amouD-t offered for live, stock, Awarded for live stock, ■ Paid out for live stock, Farm Products. Awarded for collections of vegetables, Total amount offered for grain and root crops, Amount awarded for fruits, . . . . • Flowers, .... Butter, ..... Cheese, .... Amount awarded for preserved fruits and vegetables. Wheat bread, .... Rye and Indian bread. Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, ....... Miscellaneous. Amount awarded for agricultural implements, . Amount awarded for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber, $14 00 43 00 16 00 9 00 12 00 7 50 12 00 60 50 4 50 26 00 42 25 359 50 246 75 246 75 $G9 50 98 00 77 20 40 33 11 50 10 50 26 97 5 75 5 25 268 00 $4 75 50 00 80 Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, $164 00 Amount awarded for objects other tlian agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manufactures, etc., ...... 148 75 Number of persons who received premiums and gratuities, — six hundred and nine. Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed, and the Amount to Each. Marshfield, . Duxbury, . Pembroke, Kingston, . "South Abington, Plymouth, Hanover, Scituate, Hingham, Rockland, . South Scituate, Middleboro, Bridgewater, Hanson, Weymouth, . East Bridgewater, Boston, Halifax, Quincy, $340 57 153 20 40 45 30 15 1 00 39 60 4 00 35 00 25 25 15 8 55 25 19 85 32 55 40 2 60 49 10 1 25 50 00 31 West Bridgewater, .... $2 00 Abington, ...... 75 Dartmouth, ..... 50 Newton, ...... 40 Maplewood, 1 75 Dorchester, 40 Stoiighton, 25 Winthrop, 12 25 Holliston, 1 75 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1880. GEORGE M. BAKER, President FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Marshfield, January 1, 1881. LIST OF PREMIUMS OF TBS ^l:^]M^l^?HPIEIiD^:f^ Agricultural i Horticultural SOCIETY tea% IBSl OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1881. PRBSIDENT: GEORGE M. BAKEE, Marshfield. vice: PRElSIDElN-rS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SEICRETARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. XREASURBR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIREICTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxburj, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNE Y, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1881. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOREST TREES. For the best plantation of Forest trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thousand trees, a premium of i|30. For the best plantation of Forest trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20^. Premiums to be awarded in 1884:. Committee.— James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; W. T. Whiting, Marshfield, R. H. Moorehead, Marshfield. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple trees, set out in 1881, and in the most floarishiug condition in 188-1, two premiums — §8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear trees, set out in 1881, and in the best condition in 1884, two premiums, $8, i. Committee. — R. H. Moorehead, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. C Dunham, Marshfield, Lr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — $8, 4. Payable in 1884. ' Committee. — Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining Land, two premiums— 18, 4. To be paid in 1883. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman ; C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Frank Ford, Mar.shfield. Applications for the foregoing pi-emiums must be made to the Secretai-y on or before September 1, 1881. A full and careful statement in writing must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, dn one acre, not less than three tons at- one crop, a premium $8. For the nest largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Sam- uel Cushman, Kingston, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. GRAIN. For tlie greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, Samuel's Birds of New England. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums— $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — S5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — %o, 4, For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. Committee. — James W. Sampson, So. Scituate, Chairman ; David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury. ROOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one-fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets, on one-fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity . of Onions, on one-eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — S4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hun- dred bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — S4, 3, 2. Committee. — Francis P. Arnold, Pembroke, Chairman ; G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, J. H. Bourne, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1881, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality, and value of the manure applied, the amount of labor expended, with such' practical saggestious as they may be pleased to make. 6 CATTLE. COWS. All cattle must have been owued by the exhibitor three months. For the best herd of Cows (not less than five) of any breed, — SIO. None of the herd to bo entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cow of the Jersey breed, five premiums —16, Samuel's Birds of New England, $3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, five pre- raiums — $6, 4, B, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, five pi'emi- ums— $6, 1, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Native, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. Committee. — William Cushing, Marshfield, Chairman ; Har- vey D. Northey, Scituate, John F. Hatch, Marshfield. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer ot the Devon breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, three premiums — S4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Jersey Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — For the best Heifer of any other breed, three premiums — $3,2,1. Committee. — Isaac Nightingale, Scituate, Chairman ; Wendell Phillips, Marshfield, Mareellus W. Rogers, Marshfield. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums — S2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — S2, 1. Committee. — James E. Baker,- Marshfield, Chairman; Wales Rogers, Marshfield, James H. West, Jr., Pembroke. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — S2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — %% 1. I For the best Grade Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; John Baker, Marshfleld, Ezra Wright, Marshfield. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Dutch Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon, or Dutch breeds, each, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman ; Barnabas Hedge, Plymouth, Isaac M. Cox, Pembroke. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Isaac Nightingale, Scituate, Joshua Studley, Hanover. WOEKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old, and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — David S. Jenkins, Scituate, Chairman ; 9. B. Chandler, Marshfield, Nathaniel Phillips, Marshfield. 9 SHEEP. For the best flock of Sheep, fifteeu in number, two premi- ums— $5, 3. For the best flock of Sheep, not less than ten in number, two premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $3. Committee. — Hermon Kent, Marshfield, Chairman ; Israel Macomber, Marshfield, John W. Hatch, Pembroke. ( HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. Committee. — Thomas Aldeu, Duxbury, Chairman ; Hiram Randall, Ptmbroke, James W. Sampson, South Scituate. DRAFT HORSES. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — 14, 3. Committee. — Hiram Randall, Pembroke, Chairman; Levi Ford, Duxbury, S. C. Stetson, Marshfield. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $5, Samuel's Birds of New England, $2. Committee. — Frank Fuller, Kingston, Chairman ; Fred M. Harrub, Plympton, Fred Stetson, Hanson. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, two premiums — $4, 2. Committee.— Levi Ford, Duxbury, Chairman ; C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Walter Baker, Duxbury. 6 10 GENTS'. DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to entered in any other class, or for trotting, two premiums — $5, 2. Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman ; Judson Ewell, Marshfield, James H. West, Pembroke. WALKING HORSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Chairman; Alfred Rogers, Boston, D. H. Thompson, Marshfield. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Chairman ; Martin Chandler, Marshfield, Franklin Damon, Scituate. SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $5, 4, 3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums — $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four, or more than seven, months old, three premiums — %'d, 2, 1. Committee. — C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman; Gershom | Bradford, Duxbury, Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield. 11 PLOUGHING. For the best Ploughing, with oxen without driver, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with oxen with driver, three pre- miums— $3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses without driver, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with horses with driver, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. Committee. — Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman ; Frank Ford, Marshfield, Charles T. Hatch, Marshfield. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES, AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. Susan M. Brown, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. James E. Baker, Marshfield, Mrs. David Briggs, Scituate. BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four pre- miums— $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best plain Cheese, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For' the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the Committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors, to Butter and Cheese. Committee. — Mrs. Nathaniel Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Warren T. Whiting, Marshfield, Mrs. James H. West, Pembroke. • 12 BREAD. WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums — $2, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Mrs. Juclson Ewell, Marshfiehl, Chairman ; Mrs. Josephus Dawes, Duxburj, Mrs. James E. Baker, Marshfield. RYE, INDIAN, AND WHEAT. For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two pre- miums— $2, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. George M. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of contributors. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepa- ration is to be attached to each loaf. FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less tliau five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums--$1.25, 1, .75, .50. For tlje best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — S. C. Stetson, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, 'Marshfield, Jbsephus Dawes, Duxbury. I 13 PEAES. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1:1, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $150, 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee.— Alpheus Packard, Pembroke, Chairman; Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield, Nathaniel J. Damon, Marshfield. PEACHES. For the best display, six premiums ~$2.50, 2, 1.50, 1.25, 1.75. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee.— G. W. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Joseph Weston, Duxbury, Joseph A. Samson, Duxbury. QUINCES. For the best display, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — C. O. Ellms, Scituate, Chairman ; Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield, S. C. Stetson, Marshfield. GRAPES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, five premiums— $3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, six premiums — each twenty-five cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, 1 50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — twenty-five cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ; Washburu Weston, Winthrop, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury. 14 CRANBERRIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, three premi- ums—$2, 1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhibited, three premiums — $1, .50, .25. Committee. — Otis Standish, Pembroke, Chairman ; John Magoun, Marshfield, John A. Harlow, Marshfield. POULTRY. For the best trio of Light Brahmas, three premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. For the best trio of Plymouth Rocks, three premiums — 'Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. For the best trio of any other breed, three premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. Fifty dollars to be distributed. * To be judged by an expert. Committee. — G. J. Peterson and B. Gooding to distribute awards. HOME DEPARTMENT- One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Sixty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Louisa -J. Alden, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. John T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. J. E. Baker, Marshfield. 15 FANCY ARTICLES. Forty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. Florence V. E. Browne, Pembroke, Chair- man ; Miss Carrie Eandall, Pembroke, Mrs. Susan Sampson, Marsbfield. FLOWERS. Thiit}' dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Charles M. Lovett, Marsbfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Nathaniel Wright, Marsbfield, Mrs. Levi P. Simmons, Duxburj. CHILDREN S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufac- tured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marsbfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Clara H. Boijney, Pembroke, Miss Lulu Hitchcock Marsbfield. MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the Committee. Committee. — Francis P. Arnold, Pembroke, Chairman ; J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke, Edwin Reed, Marsbfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities as much as possible. 16 FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the Committee. For the best collection, live premiums — 16, 5, Samuel's Birds of New England, $3, 2. I Committee. — G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. H. Northey, Scituate, Josiali H. Baker, Pembroke. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRANBERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one-eighth of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums — $6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 1881. Premiums payable in the fall of 1884. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; Joseph Weston, Dusbury, Alden White, Duxbury. GARDENS. For the most productive garden, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mar- cellus Rogers, Marshfield, Francis Collamore, Pembroke. 17 STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums — 16, 4. Payable in 1882. Committee, — Hambleton E. Smith, Duxburj, Chairman ; Barnabas Eversou, Hanson, Clarence Taylor, Marshfield. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to aAvard premiums — four premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3. Committee.— N. H. Whiting, Marshfield, Chairman ; S. N. Giflford, Duxbury, Eev. E. Alden, Jr., Marshfield. GROUNDS, Committee — Albert T. Spragne, Marshfield. HALL. Committee. — Edward Sprague, Chairman; Mrs. J. G. Sprague, Mrs. E. AV. Crane. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose G. J. Peterson, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. 7 18 REGULATIONS. No member of the Committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily filled b}^ the other, members. All articles, products, flowers, fruit, and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Fair. Committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of Committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished Committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society may be awarded. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Exhibition. No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement liave been made according to the rules of the Society. 19 No animal will be errtitled to a premium unless it shall have been owned bj the claimant at least three months prior to the Exhibition. The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworth}', but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of Committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All Committees to report previous to December, 1881. Reports of Committees should contain : — l^ird. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of contributor. 'Tliird. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as i^ay be deemed instructive by the Committee. 35 TRANSACTIONS — OF THE- ►:|-M^^3HFIEIlD.f.^ Agricultural i Horticultural SOCIETY r>XJRI]VO Tlilt: ^^EA.It ISBL PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1882. TRANSACTIONS — OF THE- .n-M^^^PFIEIiD^ Agricultural i Horticultural SOCIETY T>JJJEtJ.lSG TliK ^^EAR, ISBL PLYMOUTH : Ayery & DoTEN, Book and Job Printers. 1882. NT m ■^u i.ijj^iiipi- MASSAraUSI StM HrX2iUsES53osru),: Jog < < or < T3. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1881 PRBSIDEINT : GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. vice: PRBSIDEINTS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SECREZ-TARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIREICTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. -o- MARSHFIELD : Tracie W. Hatch, E. M. C. Bates, Thomas Stevens, Miriam G. Richards. BOSTON : j Abigail F. Clapp, Charles H. Delano, Clift R. Clapp. PLYMOUTH : Benjamin W, Gooding, Edwin S. Damon. DUXBURY : Joseph A. Sampson. SOUTH SOITUATE : Henry A. Turner. SCITUATE : Charles F. Clapp, Fred. Cole. I I REPORT GRAINS, VEGETABLES AND SEEDS. Your Committee offer a few words of encouragement to the Plymouth County farmers, though judged by the number of entries to this department they have failed to fill the tables as on former years. The past season was exceptional ; marked by climatic changes, checking the growth of corn and vines of all kinds. Still there were some remarkable exhibitions of vegeta- bles from Messrs. Jenkins, Sampson and Kane of Scituate, reflecting credit on the growers and the farming community. Other towns in the vicinity have the means of making this department complete with a little more interest, as was seen in the collection of corn by Mr. J. F. Hatch ; the rye by S. C. Stetson, product seven bushels from one quart of seed ; and Willard Houghton of Marshfield, two boxes of Hebron and Burbank potatoes. Specimens of fifty-three bushels taken from twenty-seven .rods of land. Rockweed was put in the furrows the year previous, every weed was taken out and all the bugs were picked. L. S. Richards of Marshfield, contrib- utes a new bean from California, with a rich, cream-like color, and which proved very productive \x\ our soil. Nature is equal to Qwx oeeds, From the Town Farm is 9, oew plant ¥ 6 called the Prickley Ccmfrey, for feeclirg stock. Its ctaracter- istics are hardiness, deeply rooted, and from one acre one hundred tons have been gathered. Three crops in one season ensures thriving cows and plenty of milk. There were oats and onions grown without manure on the reclaimed marshes by Dr. Henry, and Mr. Estes of Duxbury. The season favored grass, oats and roots of various kinds, and the farmer as he steps on the threshold of the New Year, sees the old promise kept and the equilibrium restored. Surely better crops are commensurate with more interest ■ and intelligence, but with renewed effort, even in poor seasons, we may make our future exhibitions better than ever before. The farmer has poor reasons for grumbling ; the hardest worked farmer has more secured this winter than he is willing to speak of. He is in the habit of repeating the hackneyed phrase, "farming does not pay." Then nothing pays. This is the source of all wealth. To those who lack hope we commend the motto : Onward. Our Society has not only the example and inspiration of the past, it has preeminently the means to mark out fields for per- manent improvements. There will ever appear signs of decay and perils to encounter ; but in improved forms this movement will continue because it is a necessity. The adventurer who goes from one fair to another to secure the premiums, with little love for the Society or cause of Agriculture, is not the material for a healthy growth. The honest farmer should weed out parasites of this character. The state needs an experimental station from which will come careful investiga- tions into the nature of the soil and the plants from which we gain the food of life. These results will find their way to every farmer. The Farmers' Institute, like the field of actual experi- ment, is an educator. This department needs more perfect seeds. The loss and waste of labor from poor seeds amounts to many millions of dollars and many disappointments. Give statements of the methods of culture ; arrange all your contri- butions with neatness ; select with nice regard to qualities ; over and above all, fellow farmers, cultivate hope. A giant can cope with despair, but despair will get the better of you with- out hope. The late Thomas Carlyle is an illustration. Culti- vating a large farm, almost alone among the desolate hills of Scotland, he rose to the highest distinction by the hardest work. "He stood faithfully to what seemed to him his task," but he lacked hope in the melioration of the races, and his despair was inevitable. Mr. R. W. Emerson, on the other view, is the apostle of hope for the new world. This spirit seeks the ham- let of the obscure farmer and reflects a radiant light on all worthy enterprises. This makes life in New England lovely, and immortal joy is the rule, and a little anxiety, like a cloud casting a shadow across our pathway, the exception. Agassiz was a friend to the farmer and never to be forgotten. These men have mastered the lore of all the universities, and come to every man and woman in our land urging them to regard the "reverent art" of Agriculture as the foundation of all our material wealth, and as the means of intellectual and spiritual progress. Respectfully submitted. GEO. J. PETERSON H. H. NORTHEY, ' j- Committee, 8 POULTRY. This department was well filled with all the leading varieties, and generally in good condition. A large crowd of visitors, making it difficult for the Committee to attend to the feeding, attest the interest and value of poultry to the farming com- munity. In these sheds were arranged the Light Brahma and Cochins, Plymouth Rocks, Leghorns with the little Bantams, all surrounded by their favorites, and all seeking a solution of the poultry problem, and better results. This subject is full of mystery and the poultry-man finds that nature imparts her secrets very sparingly. This involves patience and the field of experiment. Hope is an element in this work, so is a discipline of all the faculties. It is a large industry. "Where one family keep a horse or cow, five keep poultry, and a large amount of food is produced for the people. At this time, (Nov. 21st) eggs are worth thirty-six cents per dozen ; at some other points in the State, fifty cents. Your Committee can impart very little that is new in the way of treatment. It must come by love and study. A quarter of a century ago our Asiatic fowl were coarse, ungainly and comparatively ugly. The New Englander has put on the polish, rearranged the plumage ; and more — he has told us how to keep them in health by feeding properly and keeping them clean. Now, with all that has been done, many would think that we could arrive at desired results, and WQ can if we do not desire too much or demand unreasonable 9 work from these feathered workers. Nature sets stern limits to avarice. I will illustrate this truth by relating a bit of per- sonal experience in our neighborhood. A family kept a flock of sixty hens which commenced laying the beginning of winter, and continued steadily uutil spring ; the net profits nearly sup- porting a family of four or five persons. This news spread rapidly and each family was earnestly inquiring the treatment and cause. The neighbor tells us that he gave the usual treat- ment, but can impart nothing further. His method was hap- hazzard, and he has not watched the conditions from the com- mencement. If he had kept all the figures he could only give us a hint, and he does not expect that he can repeat that experience again. We cannot produce eggs to the best result if we work for market chickens, or strong embryo chicks if our stock is in high condition. Your Committee would suggest that every material fact is related to law, quite as imperative as though it was fastened on the statute books ; and it is vio- lated with severe penalties. The impatience and vexation of the novice, or others who do not try to solve the problem, your Committee do not share. There are many other aspects of the industry besides eggs, which during the round year return rewards. A lot of Light Brahma chickens hatched the 20th of last May, weighed eight pounds each, dressed, the 20th of November. The fancier is doing his work well, and the average farmer reaps a share of the benefits. More light and more love for the work is needed ; we cannot expect much of our domestic animals while we have hardly emerged from primitive darkness ourselves. A fine exhibition of Guinea fowl were confined so close that the second day, when so many wanted to see, an axe and ham- mer were brought to enable the Committee to feed and water them and bring them to light. A few other fowl were shut up too close. Your Committee are patient, knowing that much of 10 our cruelty to animals is thoughtless and unconscious ; and in the march of progress the good treatment of today will be found to be poor treatment twenty-five years hence. Bring your fowl in smaller numbers, carefully weeding out poor speci- mens, put them in clean, roomy coops. As the winter draws to a close, bring your fowls together in perfect health for breed- ing good fowls, and give your attention to the progeny all through the season ; and when the exhibition of 1882 opens, favor the public with the result of your labors. We know a few farmers whose main object in keeping poultry is to fertilize and raise to good condition their farms. These are men who cannot afford to lose anything by the operation. Courage and perseverance in this department, as in all others, secures us the means of life forever. Respectfully submitted, GEO. J. PETERSON, ) ., .,, B. AV. GOODING, \ ^owmtfree. 11 HOME DEPARTMENT. " Will you not have to draw on your imagination this year in your report ?" This was an interrogatory to me at the Fair. I replied b}' iiegation. The descry was made by masculine eye which, at such times, encompasses with a sweep, and does not pierce the penetralia. The steady decline of exhibits that offer but display of dim- inutive skill, show how our taste is tending, though that effect of mass and high color may be wanting. Never has our Fair held bits of finer sentiment than this year. Mrs. Peters, of Pembroke, who embellished our tables last year, again lent her talent — a needle picture on satin, in black and gray. It was a night scene, of moon and star. The radiance of pale Luna sheened still waters, and solemnly from the edge of the land uprose a lonely spruce — weird and tall like a spectre. The beholder realized a sense of awe as if in the presence of the majesty of Nature. It delineated grandeur, solitude and the witchery of the silvery splendor of the empyrean. Miss Gifford, of Duxbury, had paintings on porcelain which were studies. There were five, of diverse sentiment. One por- trayed a castellated height, the sombre turrets and battlements recalling the days of feudal barons, lordly and imperious. In another, the frame and interior were blended, and separation would mar the beauty of each. Plump little yellow-birds, with I 12 wings of gray, fluttered in glee and seeming industry over a nest. The frame was as a hedge of golden-rod about the bird- home, and it seemed as if the flowers' anthers had shed their pollen over each swaying songster. Th'e idea was lavish with art. Miss Gifford's decorated china showed the delicate tracery of genius' touch. A painted pottery jar was another of hers that belonged to the unique— dim shades for background relieved by a branch of apple blossoms. Her wax-work was also ex- cellent. Miss Bessie Smith's work — a piano spread and lambrequin — was of the artistic olive green enlivened by rich colored silk em- broidery. A slipper case, of hers offered a very fine representa- tion of the head of a deer, in Berlin work. The subject might have been taken from an Adirondack thicket, where startled, bucks listen, panting from flight, branched antlers held with haughty toss, and great wondering eyes stirred from their mournful calm to alert expression. A portion of the collection of Mrs. xA.bram Freeman, of Dux- | bury, comprised table cover and paintings in oil, of her usual excellent quality. Mrs. George S. Adams, of Kingston, displayed an afghan of rich design and remarkable fineness of stitch. There were sev- eral others, all deserving mention, and their brilliancy swaying from lines over the flower table, expressed significantly their close following after Nature's models in the embroidered stretches of the robes. A numismatic collection by J. L. Rogers was somewhat exten- sive, showing the changes of styles to which our monies have been subjected. Some appeared antique enough to have helped make the legal tender of Julius Caesar's day. The Colonial scrip was a curiosity of printing, and manifested, by the coarseness of the paper, the distress of the times. The scrip of the date as late 9-s our Civil War, would have repaid a 1% {stwJy by our young friends — to learn what the people inter- changed instead of the gold and silver of our present medium of commerce. Eleanor Richards' napkin rings of bark was rusticity beauti- fied. Around the strips little painted blossoms wreathed them- selves over the silvery white and wood-brown stripes, that Nature's mysterious pencil gave as it bended in graceful sway among the slender delicate birches. There was a knit bed-spread contributed by Mrs. Mabel Cur- tis, of Mattapan. The number of stitches reached into a million. There was a diminutive deluge of macreme work — appearing in lambrequin and satchel. The nevef-to-be-repressed tidy came up again triumphant. No Fair will ever place the tidy hors des comhat. The lords of creation have hated it from its primary life ; the ladies of the household seem to have almost acquired perpetual Motion in readjusting it on the chair back after masculine occupancy. Still the women go on making them — for there is a fascination about it — and the Fair of 1900 will show the tidy multiplied into an infinitude of forms. In all due reverence for this mono- maniacal article of woman's skill, I will say many were pretty, as were also several toilette sets. A foot-rest, by Miss Susie A. Sampson, was a nice affair, being of taste and fine stitch. A lace apron, by Mrs. Chas. C. Jones, was too quaint and deli- cate to act in the capacity its name implies, but it was such as might have adorned royalty, when queen and court ladies appeared as shepherdesses at the rustic feasts of Fontainbleau. A. W. Josselyn exhibited a box of stones. One could hardly be convinced that all those tints were not from artificial decora- tion. The mosaics of Moorish temples have not more richness of color. There were all the tones of old ocean's green, flecked with grays, garnets, and broad dashes of black and white on various backgrounds. Yarnish had heightened the effect. We 14 may all find them — not counterparts, for they never repeat themselves — if we pause in our beach rambles. These beautiful contributions I have noted, rode to the fore, as the general of an army with his dash of staff and orderlies : as fancy battalions of zouaves and picked grenadiers : but steadily after, comes a martial tramp of foot and horse — men with scars of war on their bronzed faces — no gold lace or plumes, but serviceable dress that can lay in trenches or stand sentry duty. These men bear the brunt of battle, the smoke of the fray surrounds them. To them I liken the Domestic depart- ment. This is the solid part of our Fair : the useful, the every day comfort shows itself here. After all, is it not better to fashion a pair of hose than write a poem ? to braid a rug than to compose an essay ? to make a quilt than paint a picture ? You invite the love of your friends by the one : the criticism of everyone by the other. The exhibits numbered one hundred and twenty-three : the exhibitors seventy-five, exclusive of the Domestic tables. FLORENCE VIRGINIA R. BROWNE. Ig FLORAL DEPARTMENT. Tbe Gods all sent of their bounty To grace our annual Fair, And Flora culled from her gardens . Briyht blossouis both rich and rare. » With fifty-six sweet offerings, From six fair neighboring towns, She showed us Care, Love and Patience, Had lent beauty to their grounds. -tt- k Here twined a beautiful Ivy, With its leaves so large and green, Until in the heights above us Its end could hardly be seen. Our hopes are oft in their spring time Like this Ivy weak and frail, Then 'round God's pillow of promise Let us twine them e'er they fail. The grasses waving in beauty At head and sides of the hall, Displayed taste and variety, Drew notice and praise from all. "Our days are ever as the grass," And will quickly pass away ; Then fill them with acts of kindness. Rich blades for the Reaper's day. 16 The little anchor eternal On mossy pillow of green, Taught of the hope everlasting Though there be a veil between. The cross of Verbenas resting Near by with their brilliant hues, Were in their form and their beauty As perfect as one could choose. The Vases were filled with sweetness Culled from the garden's of home, Displaying taste in arrangement, Breathing fragrance through the room. The Star with its hues of beauty As if from Heaven's own blue, Like a planet bright and perfect Shone with luster deep and true. i The Baskets were ne'er so pretty We said as we looked them o'er, They were filled to overflowing I From out a bountiful store. Yes, one bright little green beauty Of Snowdrops waxy and white. Told us fruit of flowers lasteth The rough rugged wintei-'s blight. The Heliotrope spoke devotion ; The Pinks, of affection true ; And choice beautiful Roses Show'd what love and care can do. Cyprus with Zinnia blending Of the absent friends did mourn. Who their part of wit and wisdom At our fairs have yearly borne. It The Asters could not hide their grace But were praised by all around, And so were the Geraniutns, In baskets alone we found. The Balsams merited the praise They met in every eye, Their delicate petals keeping So fresh as the days went by. Here Lily buds ope'd in beauty Their white petals ev'ry day. And those lost none of their sweetness That were brought from far away. The Dahlias were not forgotten, The boquet, and large ones too, But choice in their selection Their prize with the rest they drew; Yes forming a brilliant anchor With cross of a darker hue. They taught us ever together To keep them, life's journey through. Our crosses are often heavy Like the one of velvet here, May we ever twine around them An unbroken wreath to cheer. Wild flowers were not forgotten That bloom all along our way, But show'd the beauty around us We pass by every day. Nor were leaves and blossoms only All in our lov'd fair that shone. Plants nodded to us their welcome In their little earthen home. 18 "We found the bright Amaryllis ; — The little Wandering Jew, — The Fuchsia ; — Lemon Verbena ; — And even Plumbago too ! We found : — Yes the Garden Eden With flowers so rich and rare ! And the serpent fierce and brilliant Just crawling out from his lair. The Trees here bended in richness, The Apple, Pear, Fig-tree, too, The Vine* with its heavy clusters In this Eden even grew. And here too the Uiker Lily For Adam and Eve to thread ; And plants from even the tropics Their sweetness and grace here shed. Let us view this garden over, And peep just behind the fall ; Here flowers in all their richness Were clustered both great and small. This rock had been rent asunder And close'd with curious seam. And trickling down from its summit A bright little stream was seen. The Happy Thought was here peeping ; The Daisy, on banks of green. And nearly every blossom Of our climate here was seen ! We cannot tell you of each one That in tins fair Eden grew, But hope in its taste and grandeur That you may have seen it too. *"I am the vine.' 19 And some thought did each one gathei For themselves to take away ? To help them resist the Tempter As they battle every day ? For ev'ry work has a lesson ; And every day its dream ; And ever in life's fair garden The lurking serpent is seen. The Fall gave a stream eternal, The Crystal River of Life, Where plunging our sin-stained garments We are washed fon^ver bright. The ser[)ent is hid forever, And only the Howers seen In their matchless lines of beauty, On banks of emerald green. Then let us gather the blossoms That grow in this world of oiu's, Help all to resist temptation And make Life's pillow of flowers. Respectfully submitted, Miss ANNIE E. WILLIAMSON, ) M Rs. A H B I E E . W R Id HT, } Committee. Miss LYDIA T. CHANDLER, ) 20 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. There were in this department about seventy entries, com- prising both useful and fancy articles, perhaps not as many as in former years, but what was lacking in quantity was, Ave think, fully made up in quality. One pair of doll's stockings was quite worthy of notice, espec- ially as they were knit wholly by a little girl only five years old ; few five times five could do as well. There were a number of bedquilts, both finished and unfin- ished ; some were made a great deal nicer than others. Two quilts were worthy of mention, — Miss Damon's and Miss Wright's, both of these were made and put together very nicely. The moss rug made by Miss Keen attracted considerable notice ; few would have thought old stockings ravelled would have made anything half as pretty, quite as pretty as a great many of the high-priced mats that we buy. Another thing that we should speak of were aprons made by Misses Brown and Lapham ; also a pair of drawers made by Miss Brown, — all were trimmed with lace, knit of very fine cot- ton, particularly Miss Brown's ; this shows what time and patience "can do, for it must have taken a great deal of both, and also shows that these girls, at least, think of something besides play, and are deserving of a great deal of credit. We hope in future years to see something quite as nice from their handiwork. 21 Masters Beal and Bobbins showed some very nice work in wood carving. Keep on boys and see what next year you can carry to show off your work. I might go on mentioning things that were made quite nicely and were also very prett}^, but time and space will not allow. Now children, a few words let me add. Try next year and see if you can't have your department the best, both in quality and quantity. Remember, that in a few years you will repre- sent the Domestic department and the department for fancy work ; — that those who represent them now will be gone, so next year have this in mind when you are making something for the Fair, and think, "I will try and do my very best," and also try and get so'me others to make something, so that they won't have to spread mats on the table to fill up the space set apart for this department, for those can just as well hang up, and in that way decorate the walls. CELIA J. OAKMAN. COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To George M. Baker, Esq., President of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society : Sir, — We have examined the various Reports presented to us, and recommend that six dollars be given to George J. Peterson, five to Mrs. Florence V. R. Browne, four to Annie E. Williamson, and three to Celia J. Oakman. Respectfully submitted, N. H. WHITING, ) Committee E. ALDEN, ] on Reports. Marshfield, December 19, 1881. 22 REPORT ON GRASS CROPS. ^ To the Secretary of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticul- tural Society : The Committee on Hay crop report two entries for premium this year. David S. Jenkins, of Scituate, reports four tons, three hundred and twenty pounds (8320) on one acre, which your Committee think entitles him to the first premium of $8.00. John J. Ford, of Scituate, reports on one and one-half acres, 9550 lbs. at the first crop, and 3220 lbs. of rowen hay, the first crop being equal to three tons, three hundred and sixty-six and two-thirds pounds, which entitles him to the second premium of $5.00. Respectfully submitted, HARVEY D. NORTHEY, CHAS. O. ELLMS. ' <^o^^^*^^«^- ■•[ Statement of David S. Jenkins, of Scituate. The acre of land which I entered for premium was rather heavy land, deep soil. It had been seeded down to grass for three years, and a top dressing of kelp, six to eight cords, applied each year. Two crops each year. The second crop this year about two tons. DAVID S. JENKINS, Scituate. 1 23 Statement of John J. Ford, of South Scituate. I enter for premium grass growing on one and one-half acres of land. This piece of land in 1880 was planted with squashes, and in August, the last time the squashes were hoed, herds grass and clover seeds were sown. The land in 1880 was manured with a light coating of sea manure and Bradley's XL Phosphate in the hill. This year (1881) the land has yielded 12770 lbs. of hay, 9550 lbs. at the first crop, and 3220 lbs. of rowen hay. The first crop was equal to 6366| lbs. per acre, or three tons, three hundred and sixty-six and two-thirds pounds. It was top dressed in the Spring of 1881, with 400 lbs. of Bradley's XL Phosphate on the one and one-half acres. Respectfully Yours, JOHN J. FORD, South Scituate, Mass. 24 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GRAIN. David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, greatest crop of corn on an acre, (88 bushels), first premium ; $8.00. Henry C. Dunham, Marshfield, second greatest crop of corn on an acre, (83 3-7 bushels), second premium : Samuel's Birds of New England. Charges O. Ellms, Scituate, greatest crop of corn on ^ acre, (49 5-7 bushels), first premium : $5.00. James W. Sampson, South Scituate, greatest crop of wheat on an acre, first premium : 15.00. James W. Sampson, greatest crop of barley on an acre, first premium : $5.00. Thomas B. Blackman, Marshfield, greatest crop of rye on an acre, first premium : $5.00. JAMES W. SAMPSON, DAVID BKOWN, Jr., )■ Committee. JOSEPHUS DAWES, Statement of David Brown, Jr., of Marshfield. Corn raised by David Brown, Jr. Ploughed up one and one quarter acres ; half of it cultivated two years, and half one year. Put on ten cords of barn yard manure ; cost fifty dollars. Paid four dollars for ploughing and harrowing ; one dollar and fifty cents for planting. Tenth of May, as soon 25 as I could see the rows comfortably, horse-hoed it both ways ; cost one dollar. Ten days after one way, fifty cents ; intending to go the other way the following week, but the corn was so stout abandoned the idea. It was not touched with hand hoe. Paid three dollars and fifty cents for cutting top stalks, which I put in the barn green. Cost of harvesting corn and fodder, eight dollars and twenty-five cents. Cost per bushel, thirty-six cents. Dr. Manure, allowiug three-fifths unused, . . .. $20 00 Ploughing and harrowing, *4 00 Planting, - 1 50 Horsehoeing, 1 50 Cutting stalks, ..... Harvesting, ..... Seed corn, . . Cost, $40 75 Cr. One hundred and twelve bushels of corn, One and one half tons stalks, Two and one half tons fodder, . 3 50 8 25 2 00 Deduct expenses, Profit on one and one-fourth acres. Marshfidd, November 26, 1881. • • • • . $89 60 15 00 . 15 00 • • $119 60 40 75 1 acres, $78 85 David Brown, Jr. Statement of Henry C. Dunham, of Marshfield. My cornfield was manured with four cords stable manure. Three barrels ashes and hen manure were mixed and put in the hill. The barn manure was spread before ploughing. As 26 to cost of labor I cannot state precisely. We hoed it over three times, to keep the dog grass down. Could not culti- vate but one way on account of the trees. I estimate full cost of crop at sixty cents per bushel, including all labor and dressing. H. C. Dunham. Marshfield, December, 10, 1881. Statement of C. O. Ellms, or South Scituate. The one half acre that I enter for premium was taken from one acre of corn. The field • is oblong in shape, which I consider best where one plants in drills, as much time is saved in cultivating with the horse, as less turning at the end of the rows is done. The field has been ten years in grass, was ploughed the middle of last May and planted the 28th day of that month by horse aod Billing's corn planter, in one hour, dropping seed twenty-two quarts and Bradley's phosphate two hundred pounds per acre. As soon as the corn could be seen in rows it was ploughed out, going twice in a row ; afterwards the horse and cultivator were used twice. ^ Then a man went through and pulled the weeds. Part of it was shooked; theremainder was cut down and carted to the barn. || Cost of Cultivating one half acre of Corn. Twelve cords of barn manure per acre, @ $4.00 per cord, $48 00 Ploughing one acre, ...... 5 00 Planting one hour, ....... 40 Ploughing out and cultivating four hours, . . 1 60 Weeding, 1 00 1 2)56 00 Cost of cultivating one half acre, . $28 00 Weight of corn per rod, 43| pounds. C. O. Ellms. 27 Statement of James "W. Sampson, of South Scituate, in regard to raising his crop of wheat and barley, the 2 acres and 115 rods that I enter for premium. Field in grass. Ploughed in 1879 ; planted potatoes in '79 and '80 ; ploughed in 1881, iu the spring, using Bradley's superphosphate, 1000 pounds, sowing wheat and barley about the 20th of April. Cost of cultivating the ground, 1000 pounds Brad- ley's XL phosphate, $21 00 Ploughing, harrowing and sowing, .... 12 00 Seed wheat,^ 1.^ bushels, . . . . . . 3 00 Barley, 4 bushels, 6 00 Harvesting, . . . . . . . . . 25 00 Cost, $67 00 Raised wheat, 34 bushels, @ $1.50, . barley, 65 bushels, @ S1.20 two tons barley straw, at $12.00, . one and one half tons wheat straw, Net value of crop, . Cost and raising. . $51 00 78 00 . 24 00 18 00 . $171 00 67 00 $104 00 Making the 2 acres 115 rods crop yield $104.00. James W. Sampson. South Scituate, December 15, 1881. • 28 Statement of T. B. Blackman, of Marshfield. BrancJis Island, December 12, 1881. To the Committee on Grain of the Marshfield Cattle Show : Gentlemen : — The field on which my rye was grown the present season, was in the Fall of 1877 covered with a heavy coating of kelp and stable manure ; three-fourths of the whole field was manured by kelp alone, the balance by stable manure. It was ploughed the same Fall about seven inches in depth, using a swivel plow. The Spring following the ground was worked first with the horse-hoe, loaded by filling a nail cask with stones and lashing the same to the top of the frame. The hoe thus loaded was operated by two horses to the depth of four to six inches, then with a harrow with raking teeth, called the dike harrow, (as it is used on those lands). The inventor's name I do not know. This, used after the horse-hoe, dragged out the dog-grass wonderfully | with which the ground was filled. These roots were picked up and carted off. We then furrowed the land four feet apart each way, and planted to corn, harvesting in the Fall 450 baskets of good sound corn. Then the field was again covered with a lighter coating of kelp and stable manure, and again planted with corn, harvesting a good crop. The next year- the field was planted with potatoes, using Bradley's phosphate. On one half of the field I sowed broad- cast 500 pounds, then I applied to the hills of the whole piece phosphate until I had used 1200 pounds, — or 1700 pounds in all, — harvesting a good crop of potatoes. In October 1880 a part . of the land was ploughed and har- rowed, and on the 15tli day a little more than half the piece was sown to rye. 29 Seventeen days later the remainder of the ground was ploughed, harrowed, and seed sown, using a brush harrow at the time of sowing. This Fall I threshed a hundred and ten bushels of handsome rye ; have also sold five tons of straw. I judge what I have used and what yet remains would make 1500 pounds more. The rye at $1.00 per bushel, and straw at $20.00 per ton, amounts to $225.00. It cost about $12.00 to plough for the rye ; $4.00 to harrow and brush ; $3.50 for seed ; $33.00 to thresh and winnow ; $30.00 to secure the crop ; and, being far from market, $25.00 to get it to market, leaving the sum of $117.50 margin in favor of the rye. No manure was used at the time of sowing, but where the greatest' amount of phosphate was used for potatoes the rye was the stoutest. This rye was grown on three acres of land, as near as we can measure it, using the best instru- ment I have, a pole twenty feet long. T. B. Blackman. 30 BOYS' GARDENS. \ FIEST PEEMIUM. The following is what was raised on three square rods of land by Percy Damon, of Pembroke, 14 years of age. Beans, bush, green, — 3. bushels. " dry,— 2.1 " " pole, green, — ^ bushel. I " " dry, — 1 peck. Potatoes — 54 pounds. Corn — 70 ears. Beets — 105. Pumpkins — 17. Watermelons— 16. Cucumbers — 190, more growing. Can not measure my beets as part are in the ground. SECOND PEEMIUM. The following is what was raised on three square rods of land by Elwin Damon, of Pembroke, 9 years of age. Beans — *2j pecks. Potatoes — lO.j pounds. Corn — 64 ears. Cucumbers — 52. Watermelon — 1. Squash — 1. Pumpkins — 2. My watermelon vines look well but the fruit is not there. I tried to have more pumpkins and squashes, but something killed the vines, and my beans blasted. Will try to do better when I am older. 31 TREASURER'S REPORT. Keceipts from November 15, 1880, TO November 21, 1881. State allo\vanc3, . . $600 00 Eleven new members, . 55 00 Pasture, ..... . 10 00 Bent of old hall, .... » • 35 30 Rent of new hall, . • 12 00 L. S. Richards, balance gate money, 1880, 1 15 Mrs. Wm. Hatch, i^atchwork, . • 50 $713 95 Receipts of Exhibition. Rent of ground and halls. • • $246 50 Dinner tickets sold, . • 15 00 Entries for trotting, • * 72 60 Admittance to grounds, . • 1,213 65 Admittance to seats, . • 81 25 Concert and dance, . • 83 75 • 1,712 75 Total receipts. $2,426 70 Payments from November 15, 1880, TO November 21, 1881. Balance due Treasurer Nov. 15, 1880, . $213 01 Printing, .... . 147 95 Interest on notes, . • • 262 50 Salary of officers. # ■ 75 00 Postaee. exuress and stationery % • • 6 63 32 Travelling expenses, .... 13 70 Expenses on halls and grounds, 362 72 Premiums, 1880, ..... 143 85 Premiums, 1881, .... 554 78 Sundry bills, 102 27 Expenses of Exhibition. Ticket offices and gates $53 00 Committees, . . . . ... 33 00 Music, 162 35 Entertainment, 33 00 Care of stock, 36 00 Police, 56 00 Sundries, ....... 3 75 Total expenses, Cash on hand, ....... L,882 41 i 377 10 2,259 51 167 19 $2,426 70 Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer. 1 I have examined the above account, and believe it to be correct. ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Auditor. $3 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN Made to the Board of Amculture, 1881. Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, From all other sources, . ... Total amount of receipts for the year, . Premiums offered. Premiums and gratuities awarded, Premiums and gratuities paid out, Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuities paid, Total amount of disbursements for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, Personal property belonging to the Society, . . . ' . . 1,592 78 Farm Improvements.. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, . $26 00 Most productive garden cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, .... 5 00 Total amount offered for farm improvements . 123 00 Awarded for farm improvements, . . 33 00 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, ...... 33 00 3 $G00 00 55 00 1,716 70 2,436 70 1,233 00 853 97 698 63 1,560 88 2,259 51 3,900 00 12,056 92 34 Fakm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, Milcli cows, . Heifers, Calves, . Working oxen, Steers, . Fat cattle, Horses, . ' . Swine, Poultry, Total amount offered for live stock, Awarded for live stock, . Paid out for live stock, $26 00 73 00 45 00 12 00 18 00 8 00 19 00 64 50 36 00 45 00 426 50 347 50 347 50 Farm Products. Awarded for collections of vegetables, . . . $55 75 Total amount offered for grain and root crops, . 94 00 Amount awarded for fruits, ..... 44 25 Flowers, .... 81 90 Butter, 10 00 Cheese, . . . . 13 00 Amount awarded for preserved fruits and vegetables, 9 15 . Wheat bread, .... 4 50 Rye and Indian bread, . 3 00 Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, ....... 268 00 Miscellaneous. Amount awarded for agricultural implements, . Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber, . . $50 00 35 Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, $164 00 Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manufactures, etc., ...... 122 02 Number of persons who received premiums and gratuities, — four hundred and sixty. Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed, and the Amount to Each. Marshfield, $283 87 Duxbury, 117 35 Pembroke, 37 60 Kingston, 24 25 South Abington, 20 00 Plymouth, 44 60 Hanover, 1 00 Scituate, 50 60 Hingham, . 50 Rockland, 1 45 South Scituate, 8 70 Bridgewater, 7 00 Hanson, . . . . . . 26 05 Weymouth, 75 East Bridgewater, .... 2 00 Boston, 6 80 West Bridgewater, . . . . . 1 40 Abington, 3 50 Milton, 49 00 Ravnham, 8 50 36 Taunton, Framingham, . Woonsocket, R. I., Winthrop, Mattapan, Wareham, Brockton, • • $ 50 • 60 ■ • 25 • 5 75 • • 1 50 • 1 00 • • 80 V »• CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1881. GEORGE M. BAKER, President. FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Marshfield, January 1, 1882. 37 ESSAY Written by Sarah E. Bosworth, of Pembroke, and read at Farmers' Institute, December 15, 1881. It would seem that a paper to be read before an Agricul- tural Society should be written upon the subject of Agricul- ture ; but as important as that subject is and worthy of great discussion and improvement ; there is, I think, a subject which comes before all others in our material life, and which it seems to me, men almost entirely overlook ; that is the relation of adults towards boys and girls. Almost every one appears to think they have done tJieir duty, when they draw down their faces and say with a sigh, "well, young folks didn't do so when I was young." Standing afar off as the Pharisee in prayer, thankful that they were not as the young folks are now ; but let us stop and carefully look at the mat- ter a few moments and we shall see that we are to blame today in a great measure for what we call the "Degeneracy of the Times." If the present boys and girls are not as good as the generation before them, we must admit that it is due in a great measure to our not having done our duty as well as the generation before us did theirs. "As ye sow, so shall ye reap," is a fixed law now and forever. Our present sys- tem of education seems to breed contempt for all manual labor, fostering the fatal poisonous idea "the world owes us a living," or one must live by one's wits. The various indus- tries of life are despised and left to foreigners, and we crowd our boys and girls into shops, stores and offices, dooming them to a life of temptation and often poverty. Most of the education that is given the young, especially girls, is of no real practical value, it will never stand the test of use and trial to place them on even the first round of the steep lad- 38 der that they will be obliged to mount to gain enough to live I and fill the place assigned them in this busy world. They " seem to be dipped slightly in a thin sokition of accomplish- -m ments, they are taught that that alone is necessary ; — not that they will one day be the men and women, and should be fitting themselves to take and carry on the work which the hands of their fathers and mothers have laid down. Education we make much effort for, both with time and money ; culture we leave almost entirely. The farmer who should manure and plough his ground, plant his seed, and leave the rest untouched cannot ' expect much of a crop except weeds ; — but when we feed, clothe, and educate, our children, leaving meanwhile, tlie cultivation to be picked up from street society, can we wonder at a crop of weeds. We write learned articles on the cidtivation of vegetables, to be read from the agricultural papers, and provide Paris green for potato bugs ; but our boys are found with oaths and cuds of tobacco in their mouths, cigars between their lips ; girls, whose chief talk is a series of slang ; and who provides a remedy ? Saloons are erected, licensed by law, and the smart boy considers it no disgrace to toss off his glass of beer, but he would not think it smart to go to Sabbath School. The remedy for this is to teach the useful to our children, that which will make the world better, and it can be taught in but one way, the earnestness of men and women in their intercourse with children. Plato taught that the successful Commonwealth should recognize the worth of labor, culture, music, poetry, and painting. The ornamental, useful and graceful should go together working for the same end, the greatest individual good and related life. The Emperor of Germany, after hav- ing been despoiled by a long war with Austria, in looking over their despoiled country and empty exchequer, and in trying to plan for future posterity and prosperity of the country, said his hope and salvation was in the boys, and by 39 law thej must be trained and educated to be able to fill their place when the time came ; and time has shown the wisdom of his plan. The old Rabbi's used to have a prov- erb "That he who neglected to teach his boy a trade, educa- ted him to be a thief." We have this illustrated forcibly in the late assassination ; there seems to be a erase among the older people to bring up their boys, not to be usetul citizens but to get into office, or, as I've heard it expressed, "get their living short of work." Under our government there are one hundred thousand offices to be given away, not to the most worthy man, but to the one who is the best politician in his district. The poison never works out of a young man who has onoe held office. A witness was asked in a suit in New York what had been his occupation ; "I was in the Custom House for seven years, but fifteen years ago was dis- charged." "What have you been doing since?" "Trying to get back," was the answer. Our young people are being inoculated with this poison of society. And it is our duty as older members of society to try both theory and practice to eradicate it ; unless we have the earnest practice, theory will do little good. I remember years ago when the old factory school house was standing, and the old time, never- to-be-forgotten Lyceum was held there, the question came up to be discussed : "The superiority of Moral Suasion over corporeal punishment," the affirmative was ably discussed by a then school teacher (who many of the present middle-aged men and women can rise up and testify to his fath fully per- formed duties and good influence for after life,) and the ques- tion was decided in favor of Moral Suasion. A few days after, this same teacher started for his school one morning with some fine birches, well filled with oil ; on his way he was met and accosted by a neighbor, and asked to what use the birches were to be put. Said the teacher, "a certain boy of my school is very unruly, and if he goes on he will break up tlie school, I've tried all I can do short of whipping, and now I'm going to whip him." "Why," said the neighbor, "I thought you was in favor of moral suasion, that it would certainly briug all things right." "Well," said the teacher, as he started up his horse, "that was Theory, this is Practice ;" the birches were used and order was restored in the school. Not long since I was talking with a member of the society of "Prevention of Cruelty to Animals"; he was telling me of the intelligence of different animals, and how highly they were capable of being trained, etc., etc/; after he had discoursed some time I turned the conversation to our boys and girls ; he hardly paid more than polite attention to my remarks, made answer with a far away absent look, "well, boys must work out their own salvation," and went immediately talking about how horses and dogs were abused. I like to see good cows and horses, but I think boys and girls come first, and claim our most earnest, honest attention, in regard to culture and practical education. Our need of honest, faithful, prac- tical and efficient men and women, is sore, and but one way have we to get them, is that our theory and practice agree, in training our boys and girls. Every child should be taught that they have a place to fill in this world, and to fill that place well should be the result of their education ; their place in life can be useful and noble as they choose to make it. "Life is real, life is earnest," should mean to men, and be taught to mean to children, something besides poetry ; should mean that life, useful, earnest, noble life, is a God-given right to every child, and whoever teaches by their life otherwise has sold his birthright for less than a mess of pottage, and is in great danger of teaching some little one to offend. A useful life is a happy, cheerful life, worth striving for and helping those who are to fill our places to take a yet firmer stand by the life we have lived, the example we have set for them to follow. LIST OF PREMIUMS — OP THE — ►n-M^^^KFIBLD-i^. Agricultural i Horticultural SOCIETY FOK 1SB2 OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 188: RREISIDBNT: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. vice: PREISIDEZNTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, LYSANDER 8. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SEICREIT-ARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TRBASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIREICXORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxburj, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxburj, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1882. ^FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOREST TREES. For tlie best plantation of Forest trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thou- sand trees, a premium of $80. For the best plantation of Forest trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20. Premiums to be awarded in 1885. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; W. T. Whiting, Marshfield, R. H. Moorehead, Marshfield. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple trees, set out in 1881, and in the most flourishing condition in 1885, two premiums — 18, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear trees, set out in 1882, and in the best condition in 1885, two premiums, $8, 4. Committee. — R. H. Moorehead, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Mai'shfield, Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — $8, 4. Payable in 1885. Committee. — Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining Land, two premiums — $8, 4. To be paid in 1884. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman ; C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Frank Ford, Marshfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1882, A full and careful statement in writing must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Sam- uel Cushman, Kingston, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. GRAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, Samuel's Birds of New England. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. 5. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than tweuty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 4. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums— $5, 3. Committee. — Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Chairman ; David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury. ROOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one- fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets on one fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one-eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hundred and twenty-five bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hun- dred bushels, on one half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Francis P. Arnold, Pembroke, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, J. H. Bourne, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1882, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality, and value of the manure applied, the amount of labor expended, with such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. CATTLE. cows. All cattle must have been owned by the exhibitor three months. For the best herd of Cows (not less than five) of any breed, — $10. None of the herd to be entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cow of the Jersey breed, five premi- ums—$6, Samuel's Birds of New England, $3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, five pre- miums—$6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, five premi- ums— $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, five premiums — 16, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Native, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. Committee. — William Cushing, Marshfield, Chairman ; Har- vey D. Northey, Scituate, John F. Hatch, Marshfield. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Devon breed, having had a calf, three premiums — 14, 3, 2, For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Jersey Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums — %3, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. Committee. — Wendell Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman ; Isaac Nightingale, Scituate, William L. Gushing, Marshfield. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — James E. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Charles M. Tilden, Marshfield, James H. West, Jr., Pembroke. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums, $2, 1. 8 For the best Grade Calf, not less tban four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. " Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; Henry Wright, Marshfield, Ezra Wright, Marshfield. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Dutch Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon, or Dutch breeds, each, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Charles O. Ellms, Soituate, Chairman ; Nahum P. Ciishman, Marshfield, Isaac M. Cox, Pembroke. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Daxbury, Chairman ; Isaac Nightingale, Scituate, Nathaniel Phillips, 2d, Marshfield. WORKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — 1.4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old, and accustomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — David S. Jenkins, Scituate, Chairman ; R. T. Randall, Duxbury, Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover. 9 SHEEP. For the best flock of Sheep, fifteen in number, two premi- ums— $5, 3. For the best flock of Sheep, not less tlian ten in number, two premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $3. Committee. — Hermon Kent, Marshfield, Chairman ; Israel Macomber, Marshfield, John W. Hatch, Pembroke. HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — 15, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Henry Vinal, Plymouth, James W. Sampson, South Scituate. DEAFT HORSES. For best pair Draft Horses, two premiums— .S4, 3. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — Levi Ford, Duxbury, Chairman ; S. C. Stetson, Marshfield, Barna. Everson, Hanson. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — 15, Samuel's Birds of New England, $2. Committee. — Daniel E. Damon, Plymouth, Chairman ; Fred M. Harrub, Plympton, Fred Stetson, Hanson. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, two premiums — $4, 2. Committee.- Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Chairman; C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Walter Baker, Duxbury. 10 • GENTS' DEIVING HOKSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, two premiums — 16, 2. Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman ; Judson Ewell, Marshfiekl, Hiram Randall, Pembroke. WALKING HORSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. Committee. — Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Chairman ; Alfred Rogers, Boston, D. H. Thompson, Marshfiekl. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — 13, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1 50, 1. Committee. — Howard Clapp, Boston, Chairman ; Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Martin Chandler, Marshfield, Franklin Damon, Scituate. SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $.5, 4, 3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums —14, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3 2. For the best Pig, not less than four, or more than seven months old, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. Committee. — Robert T. Randall, Duxbury, Chairman ; War- ren Hall, Marshfield, Ezra Ford, Marshfield. 11 PLOUGHING. For the best Plonghing, with oxen without driver, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with oxen with driver, three pre- miums—$3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses without driver, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, Avith horses with driver, three pre- miums—$3, 2, 1. Committee. — Charles T. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; James L. Kogers, Marshfield, Thomas B. Blackman, Marsh- field. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES, AND HONEY Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. John E. Ford, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. James E. Baker, Marshfield, Mrs. David Briggs, Scit- uate. BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four premi- ums—$4, 3, 2, 1. For the best plain Cheese, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuitie?. 12 A writtf^n statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the Committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors, to Butter and Cheese. Committee. — Mrs. Nathaniel Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Elijah Ames, Marshfield, Mrs. Hiram Barstow, Duxbury. BREAD. I WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums — 12, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee — Mrs. L. P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. A. T. Sprague, Marshfield, Miss Lydia T. Chandler, Marsh- field. RYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT. I For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two premi- ums— $2, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. George M. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marsh- field. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of con- tributors. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prep- aration is to be attached to each loaf. 18 FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee.— John Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Majshfield, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. PEARS. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, ].75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — $1.50, 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — George H. Ryder, Pembroke, Chairman ; Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield, Dr. Joseph Hagar, Marshfield. PEACHES. For the best display, six premiums — $2.50, 2, 1.50, 1.25, 1, .75. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — G. W. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; John E. Ford, Marshfield, Joseph A. Sampson, Duxbury. QUINCES. For the best display, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — C. O. Ellms, Scituate, Chairman ; Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield, S. C. Stetson, Marshfield. 14 GRAPES. For the best collection, four bundles each variety, five pre- miums—$3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, six premiums — each twenty-five cents. For the best collection, grown under gl iss, four premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — twenty-five cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — George H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, Chairman ; David Brown, Jr., Marshfield, James H. Dwelley, Pembroke. CRANBERRIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, three premiums — $2, 1.75, 1.50. I For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhibited, three premiums— $1, .50, .25. Committee. — John H. Bourne, Marshfield, Chairman ; Otis Standish, Pembroke, John Magoun, Marshfield, POULTRY. For the best trio of Light Brahmas, three premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. For the best trio of Plymouth Rocks, three premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. For the best trio of any other breed, three premiums — Samuel's Birds of New England, $2, 1. Fifty dollars to be distributed. To be judged by an expert. Committee. — G. J. Peterson and B. Gooding to distribute awards. 15 HOME DEPARTMENT. One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Sixty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. John T. Damon, Marslifield, Chairman ; Mrs. E. M. C. Bates, Marshfield, Mrs. J. H. Bourne, Marsh- field. FANCY ARTICLES. Forty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Susie A. Smith, Pembroke, Chairman ; Miss Carrie Randall, Pembroke, Mrs. Lydia B. Vinal, Ply- mouth. FLOWERS. Thirty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — G. H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Annie E. Williamson, Marslifield, Mrs. D. H. Thompson, Marshfield. CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufac- tured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Celia J. Oakman, Marshfield, Miss Agues Sherman, Marshfield. 16 MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the Committee. Committee. — J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke, Chairman ; Sam- uel C. Stetson, Marshfield, G. Herbert Chandler, Marshfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities as much as possible. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the Committee. For the best collection, five premiums — S6, 5, Samuel's Birds of New England, *3, 2. Committee. — H. H. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Josiah H. Baker, Pembroke, Mareellus Kogers, Marshfield. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRANBERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one-eighth of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums — $6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 18B2. Premiums pay- able in the fall of 1885. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; Joseph Weston, Duxbury, Alden White, Duxbury. 17 GARDENS. For the most productive gardeo, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — 13, 2. Committee. — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mar- cellus Rogers, Marshfield, Francis Collamore, Pembroke. STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums — $6, 4. Payable in 1883. Committee. — Hambleton E. Smith, Duxbury, Chairman ; Barnabas Everson, Hanson, Clarence Taylor, Marshfield. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to award premiums — four premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3. Committee.— N. H. Whiting, Marshfield, Chairman; S. N. Gifford, Duxbury, Rev. E. Alden, Jr., Marshfield. GROUNDS. Committee.— Albert T. Sprague, Marshfield. 5 18 HALL. Committee. — Edward Sprague, Chairman ; John G. Sprague, Mrs. J. G. Sprague, Mrs. E. W. Crane. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose G. J. Peterson, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. 19 REGULATIONS. No member of the Committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor ; but his phice shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles, products, flowers, fruit, and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person iu whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hal? on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Fair. Committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of Committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished Committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society may be awarded. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Exhibition. 20 No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full state- ment have been made according to the rules of the Society, No animal will be entitled to a premium unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three months prior to the Exhibition. The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals- deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of Committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All Committees to reportj^previous to December, 1882. Reports of Committees should contain : — First. — Whole number of entries. Stcond. -Description of articles or stock, with name of contributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. fourth. — Such remarks'as may be deemed instructive by the Committee. 35 TRANSACTION S -OF THE- MARSHFTELD AgTiciiltural I Horticultural SOCIETY FOR 1BS2. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book axd Job Printers. 1883. TRANSACTIONS -OF THE- MAliSlIFtELD Affilcultui'al i Horticultural & SOCIETY I3UKI1VG! TIIK YKAFt 1BS2, PLYMOUTH: AVRRY & DOTKN, BoOK AND Joli TkINTEUS. 188:3. !JJ h : 0.. O- ^ < <( o < u 105 < niSETTS OFFICI'RS OF TUB SOCIETY FOR 1882. PRESIDENT": ' GEORGE M. BAKER, Marshfield. VICE PRESIDENTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, LYSANDER S. RICHARDS, Marshfield. SECRETARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREASURER: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marshfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, SAMUEL C. STETSON, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. -o- SCITUATE : Charles F. Clapp, Caleb M. Jenkins, Feed Cole. MARSHFIELD : LiLLiE G. Walker, Mary E. Walker, Francis B. Devereux. DUXBURY : Thomas Alden, Jr. REPORTS. DEPARTMENT OP FANCY ARTICLES. It seems- to bo the custom, iu these times, to rake up the past and harrow up our feelings in regard to the quantity of work done by the Pilgrim mothers, so we wondered what they would have said if they had looked into the hall of the Agricultural Society, last September, and seen the display of fancy articles, so tastefully arranged. If the Plymouth Colony could have had the time for a "cattle show," the women would have brought home-spun yarn and "linsey-woolsey," or their linen and woolen blankets, with perhaps a sampler, with its letters, motto, and sometimes a house worked upon it, iu cross-stitch, as a specimen of their fancy work. Their ideas of home were well-sanded floors, brightly shining porringers, andirons and candlesticks, with festoons of dried apples, strings of red peppers, and crooked-neck squashes for interior decoration, but now the farmer's wife is urged to adorn her home with pictures and flowers, to make it attractive to her family. In the depart- ments of fruit and vegetables all were surprised to find such a display, in spite of late spring and dry summer, but the exhibitors of fancy articles can have neither weather nor sea- sou as an excuse for a poor exhibition, — only their own tastes aft'ect it. It would not have taken the old Pilgrims 'long to decide which were useful and which ornamental, but both classes were well represented. An ideal crayon head exhibited by Mr. Allston M. Sinnott, of Marshiield, was very much admired, and worthy of close attention, showing much talent ; he also had a panel and plaque. Miss A. L. Gitford, of Duxbury, had a painted mirror frame, porcelain plaque with bird's nest and apple blossoms very finely done, a painted easel and panel of pausies. There were five oil paintings of the suggestive school, shown by Mrs. Abram Freeman, of Duxbury, also a panel with poppies and daisies painted on the frame. A crayon portrait of a boy, which was a faithful copy of the photograph accompanying it, was executed by Miss Eleanor Kichards of Marshfield. Mrs. Emma E. Weston, of Chicago, 111., exhibited five plates belonging to a set of china, decorated by herself from original designs, which were lovely ; also an oil painting and photograph, colored by some new process. Miss Fannie Lewis, of East Marshfield, contributed a very pretty hand-painted satin lambrequin. These specimens of fine art, with several other contributions, seem to indicate that in time the Society may be called upon to furnish a special room where all the objects of art may be shown in their best light. Of course, there were tidies of all shapes and sizes, and there always will be, as long as dirt is such an enemy to the housekeepers, and in spite of the protesta- tions made against them by the occupants of the chairs, when they are found attached to their own backs ; worthy of great praise will be the one who invents some way of securely fast- ening them where they belong. A sofa pillow made by Mrs. Eden Weston, of Duxbury, when she was eighty-two years old, bore witness that her hand had not lost its cunning, even beyond the three score and ten years. Mrs. Arthur Peckham, of Campello, brought a table cover embroidered in Kensing- ton stitch, which was lovely. Miss Ciirrie A. Randall, of Pembroke, also showed a pretty olive green one, which was very neutly done in outline stitch. These with the one exhibited by Mrs. William Nash, of South Weymouth, Mrs. G. S. Dye)-, of Plymouth, Mrs. William O. Prior, of Marsh- tield, and Mrs. Freeman, would have puzzled the Committee had they been called to decide upon the one of greatest beauty. A mantle lambrequin was very neatly made by Miss Hannah Alden, of Duxbury, and showed much skill and taste. Scarfs were once considered as adapted to the neck, but now fashion decrees that they shall adorn furniture, so Miss Fannie Barstow, of North Pembroke, contributed a pianoforte scarf of olive-green, worked on the ends, in outline stitch, with old gold floss ; on one was the much talked of sunflower, on the other figures in various positions. Miss Alice Wliitman, of Pem- broke, also had a stand scarf, called, after the Japanese style, bits of silk applied without regard to shape. Miss V. E. Weston, of Island Creek, proved she had not been idle the past year, by producing two lambrequins for mantle and window, a tidy with very natural peacock's feathers in Kensington embroidery, a macreme bag and afghan. Mrs. S. L. Tildeu, of Scituate, made napkins, mats, and handkerchiefs ornamental with embroidery. An ottoman, knit- ted silk mittens, embroidered flannel, sofa pillows, lamp mats, pincushions of all styles, lace work, infant garments and shell frames were all represented. Nine afghans, made to combine beauty with comfort, were hung on the ropes in the centre of the hall, in close contact with the quilts of the domestic department, and shared with them, the honors of the Fair. It is hard to select those worthy of special commendation ; we look at the result ; only the contributors know Iioav many pleasant hours have been passed in making them ; a little piece of fancy work, though unfinished, receives new value 8 after the hand that made it can clasp ours no more, and becomes very pathetic. The women of "'93" knit vengeance into their red stockings day after day, but our friends have no need for any but noble thoughts as they design their pic- tures, or make articles for friends or home, for they look out on smiling fields, hills, valleys, rocks, or the sea made dear to them by associations, in a free country. It is said, as an excuse for the liberality of our public men, in giving from the Treasury of State or Country, that it is easy to give away " other people's money. This Committee, though giving the money of the Society, had to consider that the amount for gratuities had been por- tioned out, so hope that none will think they might have awarded differently. The sixty-five exhibitors of this depart- ment now have the advantage over the farmers, as they need not wait for what another summer may bring forth, and it is hoped that they are already designing and dreaming of more than one hundred and twenty-one beautiful things that shall make the Fair of 1883 far superior to this one. j| MARY H. ELLIOTT, ) " CARRIE A. RANDALL, y GommiUee. MRS. LYDIA G. YINAL, I CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. lu this departmeut the articles numbered over sixty, which were brought iu by forty different contributors. This number falls considerably short of that of a few years ago, but we think this may be owing more to a lack of children than to a lack of interest among them. Many of our schools are not more than half as largo as they were a few years ago, con- sequently we can hardly expect our Children's Department to rank where it once did among the departments of our Fair. Yet we think if the many little girls, and the many more little boys who have never placed any of their wo.ik on the chil- dren's table would each do even a little, it might be as well, and perhaps better, filled than it has ever yet been. Though the quantity of the work is less than it used to be, yet we think it is gaining year by year iu quality. The four rugs, braided, knit and drawn, showed that some of our older girls tried a hand at domestic articles, and very successfully, too. Tidies, once so common an article on our tables, seem more worthy of mention now that we have only about half a dozen specimens, and some of them of new and pretty patterns. The dozen napkins and dolls' suits were remarkably well made by Amy Bates, a little seven-years-old girl, and we expect her to bo a regular contributor now for the next seven years. 10 Making paper flowers is pretty work for little girls, and can be easily and well done, as was shown by a few specimens. If copied from nature, it will help the children to become observing in watching the nature and growth of plants and flowers. The scroll-saw work and water-color paintings done by Master Harry House, whom we are sorry to lose from our department, show taste in that direction which we hope he will continue to cultivate. Master Eaymond Robbins added to the attractiveness of our table by a nice collection of easels, frames, etc., and we hope he will continue to favor us during the two years that yet remain to him in this department. We always like to commend the plain sewing and knitting of which there was, this year, the usual quantity. We would like to see an increase. One little milliner of six years brought a specimen of her work in the shape of a doll's hat. We think it is a good idea for little girls to cut and make clothes for their dollies, as far as they can. If they learn to do that well, they will be all the better prepared for more useful work in the future. Let us have more work of this kind at our next Fair. Some pretty work in the form of collars, lace and edging deserve mention, and we remember seeing some very nice sewing among the patchwork brought by the very little ones. We heard it remarked that it made no difference whether the age of the child was put on the artiole with the name. It does make a great deal of diflerence to the Committee in deciding on gratuities, whether the article in question was made by a child of four or fourteen. Although this request has often been made by your Committee in former reports, yet it is still not complied with in every case, and we would 11 suggest that in future do uotice be taken of articles in this department that have not the age of the contributor with the name and place of residence placed upon them. We have often suggested ways in which the children's department may be made attractive and interesting, and we will not repeat them, but refer the childrtm to former re[)orts where they will find some hints in regard to various kinds of work that might be done, in which we hope they will yet become interested. Kespectfully submitted, SUSIE B. STEVENS. X2 POULTRY. This department is always interesting, and invites every- body who is anyway engaged in the breeding and rearing of poultry. The number of coops phiced on exhibition were less than last year ; the quality of the poultry very much improved. The docile and handsome Asiatics, the lively Leghorns and Hamburgs, the numerous varieties intermediate, reminded the visitor of tender roast chickens, and a profitable industry. The pigeons were a marked feature along the row of coops, all showing the neatness and care of the owners. We under- stand that this is a growiug industry. Very beautiful ducks* and geese were present. The most tender flesh is secured in the young of this variety. We congratulate our friends on the result of their labor the past year. They not only feed the community, but they work inevitably to moral ends as well. This department is of special value to the Society, and and those who gi.e it study and care are increasing the wealth of the community, and producing a literature of their own. There is no limit to the progress, though we soon find our limitations in the mystery of life which is ever before us. Your Committee are induced to enlarge on this subject, but a valuable paper from Lucius Dunbar, Judge of Poultry at our Fair, and a faithful worker, will be read by our Society with interest, and the statement of Mr. Rankin, which fol- lows, is of special value. \ Kespectfully submitted, GEO. J. PETERSON, ) .> .,, . B. W. GOODING, \ ^o'^^«f«««- 13 I^APER OF LUCIUS DUNBAR On pfige 178, of the tweutietli annual report of the Sec- retary of the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture, can be found a statement made by Lucius Dunbar, of West Bridge- water, who, in that year kept thirty-six hens for the purpose of raising chickens for market. At the close of the year the result was a net profit of $149.37, or about $4.50 per hen. This was done on an acre of land, with enclosures to accom- modate the various ages and conditions of the chicks. Here, in our town of Marshfield, with all its uncultivated acres, situated on the shore as it is, where the supply of shells and fish is unlimited, (which we know are very essential in poultry raising), why cannot this profit be increased in proportion to the acres devoted to this industry ? We know it can, and with an aggregate profit of more than $100 per acre. But this cannot be done without care and watchfulness in regard to food, the care of coops, houses and yards, wherein lies the success or failure of the poultry breeder. To give you an idea how to raise poultry for profit, I will say a scientific man in this business will take as good care of his poultry as a breeder of thorough -breds will of his horses. The houses, coops and yards will be kept scrupulously clean, the walls whitewashed often, the floors covered with fresh sand every day, and what is very necessary, all to be well ventilated. Without these precautions no man can raise poultry with profit. No matter how well you feed, these sanitary measures must be attended to. Feed poultry in winter with plenty of vegetables boiled with their meal for the warm breakfast, and whole grain with meat and bone for the late supper. In summer, when the yards get foul, just run the plough through and sow rye. They will pay you well for it. There is a man in Easton (Mr. Eankin) who keeps six cows, and carries their milk to market. He also raises small fruits of various kinds, 14 marketing forty boxes strawberries per day during the season. Outside of bis dairy, strawberries, and other farm produce, he cleared a net profit of 1600 on poultry last year, having no help but that of his son, the two doing all the work of the small farm. The census for 1870 informs us the hay crop was valued at three hundred and eighty-four million dollars ; the value of poultry and eggs sold v/as four hundred and fi.ve million dol- lars. When we take into consideration that this great industry is one of the few that is conducted on strictly cash princi- ples, and when properly conducted always yields good profits, it is an inducement for all of us, lovers of domestic animals, to devote a portion of our farms to the raising of poultry, in place of the crops we now cultivate, costing so much, and requiring so hard labor with so little profit. STATEMENT OF MR. RANKIN. Poultry Account for Year Ending Sept. 1st, 1882. Cb. To 813.^ dozen eggs sold, . . . $284 55 To 137 fowl sold, .... 136 23 To 571 chicks sold, 631 24 To 314 pullets and cockerels on hand, Sept. 1, 1882, @ $1.25, ... 392 50 $1,444 52 Sept. 1st, 1881. Dr. Stock on hand, 138 pullets and cockerels, @ $1.25, $172 50 To grain and food of all kinds, . • . 337 83 To 35 gallons kerosene, for incubator, @ .08, 2 80 $513 13 Net profits, . . . . . . $931 39 Taken from my books. JAMES RANKIN. 15 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To George M. Baker, Esq., President of the Marshjield Agricultural and Horticultural Society. Dear Sir : — There were but three Eeports prescntecl for premium. We recommend that tlie first premium be giveu for the Report on "Fancy Articles," the second for that on the "Children's Department," and the third for that on "Poultry." Respectfully submitted, N. H. WHITING, ) Committee E, ALDEN, J on Reports. Marshfield, December IG, 1882. 16 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GRAIN. AUngton, October 31, 1882. | Statement of George W. Whiting, of Abington. CORN. I .1- Plonglied up three and one half acres of greensward not been ploughed before for thirteen years ; ploughed it eight inches deep ; harrowed it three times with spring tooth har- row ; manured it in the hill with stable manure, about three cords per acre. The 8th, 9th and lOtli of June planted two and one-half acres to yellow Canada corn, one acre to little Dutton ; hoed twice ; cut the top stock the first of Septem- ber. I estimate cost of crop at fifty cents per bushel, includ- ing all labor and dressing. In just ninety days after planting the Canada corn was ready to harvest. I weighed one rod of the Dutton corn, and it weighed 44.^ pounds. g George. W. Whiting. Marshfield, October 29, 1882. Dear Sir : The following is a statement from Oscar Weston, of Marshfield. Corn Crop. One Acre. The land on which my corn was raised was pasture land, without any dressing whatever. 1? Dr. Ploughing, $4 00 Harrowiug, ........ 1 GO Plautiug unci seed, ....... 1 20 Hoise-hoeiug, 3 90 110 70 The land was ploughed and planted about the middle of June. Yours truly, Oscar Werto'n. INDIAN COEN. There were three entries of corn for 1882. George Whiting, Abington, one acre ; average yield, seventy- seven and five-sevenths bushels to the acre. Award ; first premium, $8.00. Oscar Weston, Marshfield, one acre ; average yield, sixty- eight and four-sevenths bushels to the acre. Award : second premium, Samuel's Birds of New England. Enoch Soule, Duxbury, one-half acre ; average yield, thirty- three and one-seventh bushels. He not having made a report of mode of culture is not entitled to a premium, but is awarded a gratuity of $4,00. Your Committee have allowed seventy pounds to the bushel, which they find is the usual amount, yet they think that a larger shrinkage should be allowed. We also recommend that all persons who desire to compete for premiums on grain, be required to enter their intention with the Secretary before the tenth of May. S. C. STETSON, ) BARKER SBRAGQE, V Commiftee. JOSEPHUS DAWES, ) 18 EYE. 3Iarshfield, Decemher 23, 1882. ^here was one entry of rye. Thomas B. Blackman, largest crop of rye on an acre, first premium, $5.00. S. C. STETSON, ) .y ... BAEKER SPEAGUE, [ ^^^''^^'^^^^e- MarsJifeld, December 12, 1882. Gentlemen : — The field of rye which I enter for premium contains two acres. This was ploughed, harrowed, and sown to rye about the middle of October, using one bushel to the acre. The rye was covered by using brush, and nothing more done to the field until the second week in May, when I sowed broadcast five hundred pounds of Bradley's Fertilizer's. I have threshed forty-seven bushels and twenty pounds of rye from the field, and judge there are five bushels yet to be threshed, making fifty-two bushels and twenty pounds. The straw I estimate to weigh from two and one-half to three tons. Yours very respectfully, T. B. BLACKMAN. | 19 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts fkom November 21, 1881, to November 20, 1882. Cash iu Treasury, 1167 19 Six new members, .... 30 00 Pasture, 9 00 Rent of old hall, 24 30 Rent of new hall, ..... 32 00 State bounty, COO 00 Donation in aid of Irack, . . ' . 2-5 00 Receipts of Exhibition Entries for trotting, .... Dinner tickets sold, .... A. T. Sprague, tent ground, etc., . Admission to grounds, Admission to seats, .... Concert and dance, . . ' . G. J. Peterson, balance grain not used. f. % TJRi3sra- the iteA-I^ 1884. PLYIVIOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1885. C f—"~"- — — — — ■ mm CF MAS^CHll lETTS < ^ < DC a. < 1 OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1884. PRBSIDELNT: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marsbfield. vice: PREISIDBNTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, EDWIN REED, Marsbfield. SBCRB-TARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUD|-rOR: ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marsbfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marsbfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marsbfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marsbfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marsbfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, J. DEAN BONNEY, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, Soutb Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate, , LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. MARSHFIELD : Albert Bates, Amy W. Bates, Mrs. Avery Rogers, Cornelius McCarty, Walton Hall, Mrs. Walton Hall, Mrs. Willlvm L. Gushing, Abbie T. Baker, George W. Worster, James H. Bent. QUINCY : George H. Hitchcock, Mrs. George H. Hitchcock. DUXBURY : B. G. Cahoon., PLYMOUTH : H. H. OoijE, REPORTS. FLORAL DEPARTMENT. With the promise proved once again that "seed-time and harvest shall not fail," we bring to you our floral offering ; thankful, that while the early and late frosts blighted so many of our hopes, they spared so many flowers. We rejoice that our tables were more bountifully and nicely filled than ever be- fore, and many were the unique designs wrought by our forty- one contributors, many bringing more than one collection, so that they numbered seventy-four entries. The display of eternal flowers far exceeded that of other years. Miss Lydia T. Chandler showed what skill and patience can accomplish in her choice collection of eternals, tastefully arranged in designs and fitted neatly into frames and basket. These received the first premium, and looking up with their never-fading tints seemed to speak to us of the patient toil in the sick-room which had accomplished the work. Who can fail to read the lesson God has written there as these brilliant blos- soms open amid their more fragile sisters. Are they not like our earthwork? Some of life's blossoms will wither and die, but let us hope we have planted some that are eternals. Eternal flowers, how truly They speak of the garden above, Where snow and frost never cometh, With l:>lossoms unfolding by love. An open book, richly wrought of white feverfew, with dark heliotrope for lines and edges, gilded with golden rod, was neatly arranged by Miss Helen M. Henry, and If upon its spotless pages One might trace a record there, It would be the taste and judgment Of the skilful artist fair. A vase of rare roses of six varieties, also from Miss Henry's garden were very fine specimens, showing that "quality not quantity," must be her floral motto, and teaching us we can always have roses blooming in our pathv/ay. Miss C. M. Bourne contributed a very beautiful pillow and wreath; the white boquet dahlias, like lace, edging the pillow, with more delicate flowers filling in, like a pattern, the inviting resting place. We have learned to expect elegance and taste from her skilful fingers and artistic judgment. Miss Emily Foster, also, had a very fine pillow of red gera- niums covered with a frost work of tiny white flowers. Mrs. H. S. Pratt's fairy bird cage attracted much attention, causing us to peep behind the blossoms for the mother bird, and listen in vain for the song of its mate. By the way, where are the song birds that should make music at our fairs ? We know of many being raised in town, will not some one favor us with a collection of them next year? There was also a design of a gypsy kettle, besides many beautiful anchors and crosses. Our baskets were all very pretty and filled with many rare and costly flowers, while the little blossoms we meet in almost every garden, lost none of their beauty beside their distant relations. We would like to portray each one, but space and time will not permit, yet we cannot refrain in passing from a word of praise, justly merited by Mrs. M. L. Alden and Mrs. S. J. Smith. They seem to know just what looks best in a basket of mixed specimens. Mrs. Abbie E. Wright's garden furnished us with a basket of very fine double and single fringed petunias. The basket differed from the others being neatly covered with sprays of asparagus. A little taste andrskill of this kind adds much to the beauty of a collection. Mrs. Charles Williamson presented some very fine blos- roms in basket and vase, also some nice looking pot plants. Mrs. Agnes E. Williamson received the first premium on two finely arranged dishes of cut flowers. These contained some fine dahlias, geraniums and shell flowers, arranged in a manner that showed the different varieties very nicely. Miss Lucy Stevens, Miss Nellie Clark, Mrs. E. N. Pratt and many others were creditably represented. Our Pembroke specimens seemed to bear the transporta- tion very well and looked as nicely as if arranged next door. It is one disadvantage of our department that many of the de* signs lose some of their beauty by being brought from a dis- tance. Great care is required in the preparation of the dishes for cut flowers. Sand and moss are excellent to fill recipients. They not only retain their moisture for a long time, but hold the flowers more flrmly in place. If those who brought flowers in dishes to be simply filled with water, would try one of these meth- ods they would find it to their advantage, and I would here add if you would avoid sprinkling your blossoms, but apply the jaoisture at the stems, they will retain their beauty much longer. Flowers are like the delicate wings of the butterfly, they will not bear to be treated rough. Our vases ranked well with the other collections this year. Mrs. Stephen Henry taking the first prize. Her vase contain- ing some fine gladiolus and double hollyhocks. Mrs. A. T. 8 Sprague presented some fine geraniums. Mrs. M. L. Alden tastefully arranged a choice collection of coleus. Among the pot plants Mrs. Luther Magoun presented a fine ambrosia and a little tuft of forget-me-not. These are two of the many dif- ficult plants that are hard to raise, and are only brought to such perfection as these displayed, by care and patience. Who shall say that the love of fiowers is not shared by the people generally, when we find from the four towns represented productions from every age and walk in life ? The rich and the poor here meet together. The children and those of mature years. We received offerings from the aged matron, bowed with the weight of three score and ten, to the little child of six years ! Yes, the children more than doubled their number of last year. We were very much pleased with their productions. They even cast some of the older ones in the shade. Miss Anna Dwelley arranged a fine variety of pressed flow- ers upon black velvet, fitted neatly into a frame, making a nice picture. These were pressed with care and in a manner that showed artistic skill. Little Florrie A. Lewis, and Susie Magoun, also exhibited some very fine specimens from their gardens. Miss Generva Bates bestowed two vases and a very pretty dish of cut flowers. Oscar Pratt reminded us that not only the cultivated flowers but those that spring beside our daily pathway are worthy of praise. Will not some other of the boys show us next year some of the blossoms they meet to and from school, or in our woods and lanes during the holidays ? Let us suggest | a collection of ferns neatly pressed or growing under glass. There are many kinds in our wild-wood and fields, and there is one place more where God has planted His blossoms — beneath the grand old ocean. There in the many grottoes are hidden 9 the little aqueous plants. These blossom and thrive though the tide rolls and swells above them. These are found brought to us by the waves all along your coast. Let some of our boys and girls sear ch them out, and the manner of pressing and arranging them, and they will find they are like the eternals in many respects. And let us who are older learn the lesson God has written in these as well as in all his flowers, that notwithstanding the frost, the storms of the wind and wave, of sorrow or of trial, amid and beside all these, we shall find if we but look and see, bud and blossom, as of old, the olive and the balm. Kespectfully submitted, ' Miss ANNIE E. WILLIAMSON, Mrs. ABBIE E. WEIGHT, }■ Committee. Miss HELEN M. HENRY, 2 10 REPORT ON FANCY ARTICLES. Once again, and for the eighteeth time in the annals of the Marshfield Agricultural Society, " the rain and summer sun- shine throve the fruits and grain which blessed the honest toil," of its members, but if a strict account had not been kept of the season, one might have supposed that a great mistake had been made by the Leader of the Grand March of Agricultural Fairs, which follow one after the other. The sun had been such an unusual visitor, at this time, that none complained if he rather overdid the business by making us think it was midsummer. It is quite the custom to compare the present with the past, but if we look for the good in every year, we shall forget all about the others. The array of Fancy Articles was very good, and included many novelties, though we ofter wonder what new things can be thought of each year. The walls and tables of the hall are shorn of their beauty, but we can look back on memory's hall and see the various pictures, afghans, etc. Miss C. A. Eandall, of West Duxbury, exhibited some very pleasing effects of her year's work. A thermometer-stand with some narcissus painted on satiu background, might cause us to forget the thermometer, and so " take the weather as it comes;" some wild roses, painted on tin, were very pretty ; also, an autumn scene, one of winter, a marine view, and view of schooner Headlight in Maine. We hope she will have as many more another year, at least. 11 Miss H. Hall, of East Marshjfield, contributed very much to the pleasure of the public by bringing so many pretty speci- mens of her handiwork ; a brass plaque with fleur-de-lis painted on it, was very effective ; another plaque had a lovely spray of Easter-lilies ; a plush banner; two china vases, one a black- berry design, the other a head; a pretty table scarf, and two paper lamp shades which were ornamental as well as useful. Miss F. A. Hall, of East Marshfield, had a screen panel of embossed plush outlined with tinsel which puzzled the casual observer,-by bringing out such a variety of shades in the mate- rial and was very striking in its effect. Miss Helen M. Henry exhibited three oil paintings of flow- ers, which claimed more than a passing glance ; pansies, azalias and asters were the subjects and were very natural. Two oil paintings of Miss Alice E. Alden, of Marshfield, Autumn scenes were lovely, as well as brilliant, and linger in the memory. Miss Jennie M. Carpenter, of Middleboro, also had two oil paintings, one of peaches, which were rivals of some in the fruit department; the other a view of mountains and valleys. Miss Eleanor A. Richards, of Marshfield, exhibited two crayon portraits, very finely done, and her charcoal of the roguish colored boy was true to life, . Miss Belle Sheldon, of Duxbury, had a pretty little study done in oil, of deer at the water's edge with hills beyond. Miss Mary Dyer, of Plymouth, had an oval plaque of tinted china. One of the most noticeable things was the screen painted *by Miss Mary C. Drew, of Plymouth. It showed she was more than an amateur — modestly claimed. The spray of magnolia blossoms, painted in water colors was very natural and pleasing. Miss O. R. Sampson, of Duxbury, also had magnolia blos- soms, done in oil, and Miss Mamie R. Sampson, of Duxbury, 12 some large California roses, of luxuriant growth, judging from the painting. Miss Mabel K. Wetherbee, of East Marshfield, contributed two pictures of pansies and golden rod, in oils, which were very natural, also two plaques, on one of which was painted a bird's nest and apple blossoms; the other, a marine view of rocks in the foreground and a ship beyond. Miss Hannah Alden, of West Duxbury, had a table scarf of plush, with lustra painting on the end of a design in the shades of bronze, which was very effective and novel. She also had an odd style of mantle lambrequin. Miss Mattie J. Chandler, of Marshfield, had a spray of Au- tumn leaves in water colors. The Kensington painting deceived a great many who looked on the back to convince themselves there were no stitch- es— as much as the painted curtain deceived the artist. Mrs. R. F. Pierce, of Brant Rock, showed two specimens of her skill in a table scarf with tulips painted on it, and a plush banner of dark shade with spray of wisteria. Mrs. A. D. Simmons had a hand bag with a bunch of daisies done in the same way; also a handkerchief of Mexican embroidery. Mrs. George Dyer, of Plymouth, showed a piano scarf on Kensington embroidery, of sumach, daisies, ferns and grasses, which was very nicely done. The afghans were very bright, and of different styles, some knit with the reversible stitch, others worked like the original ones. Miss Ella W. Davis, of Kingston, had a horse worked in the centre of one, in cross stitch, for carriage afghan. Mrs. T. Tilden, of So. Hanover, had a shaded striped knit afghan. Mrs. J. E. Ford, Miss Lizzie C. Hatch, Miss Alice Northey and Mrs. Thos. Tindall, and several others, exhibited very pretty ones. We know that the ladies enjoy making them, and hope many a good ride or nap has been enjoyed by the various owners, 13 There were several very pretty or useful toilet-sets. Miss Lyclia W. Collamore and Miss L. J. Goodwin, of North Pem- broke, exhibited two different styles, with various other articles to complete the list. Mrs. Fred R. Winsor, of Island Creek, contributed a pretty table scarf, with fuchsias in Kensington. Mrs. G. H. Carver also had a table cover, with sumach, golden rod and leaves, in the same stitch. Miss Ella Pliillips, of Brooklyn, N. Y., sent a shoulder cape, crocheted, with ribbon run in, which was very neat. A needle case from Mrs. Henry Turner, revived an old style. Mrs. R. T. Carver, of East Marshfield, had some very neatly done pillow shams, hemstitched. Mrs. Walton Hall contributed pillow shams of lace, and child's dress made of rick- rack, which were very pretty. Three baskets of paper flowers showed the skill and indus- try of Mrs. Nathan Howard, of North Pembroke. We missed the work of many who have contributed in the past, but trust they have only reserved their forces for another year. If the sixty -nine contributors, of the one hundred and four- teen articles, will consider how time flies, and how soon "Fair time" will come again, they will at once commence the speci- mens of their taste and skill. The success of 1884 must give fresh courage to the mem- bers of the Society, and if all will lend their aid, the display in Ihe Hall will lead from "better up to best." MARY H. ELLIOTT. 14 REPORT ON COWS. There were no entries of cows in herds, therefore your Committee had only to judge of them as they were presented to them singly. Of the Jerseys, there were some very fine ones, particularly those exhibited by Henry C. Dunham and John F. Hatch, the one belonging to the latter being a grand-daughter of Jersey Belle, of Scituate. It was somewhat hard for your committee to decide which of the two merited the first prize, but finally were unanimous in the opinion that it should be awarded to Mr. Dunham. In regard to the Ayrshires, there were but two entries, both fine looking, but the one owned by Mr. Bourne seemed to us to be much preferred to that of Mr. Hall's. Of the Devons there were but two eD tries, both owned by Mr. H. Delano, of Duxbury. They were very creditable looking animals, and we awarded them the first and second prizes. Of Grades there were some very nice ones ; the one en- tered by Mrs. Caleb Thomas seemed to take the lead, and the others following in the order we have placed them. There was but one entry of Holstein, a young cow owned by Mr. George J. Peterson. The question is often asked, "which breed is the best?" It depends for what the cow is wanted ; if for butter, no doubt the Jersey will give the best return ; if you wish to sell your milk and care more for quantity than quality, then perhaps the Ayrshire or some other breed would be the best. Some like a 15 cross, but probably to-day no cow is sought after more, or will bring a better price than the Jersey. After all, much, rery much, depends on the way they are fed and cared for. There are various ways of feeding ; one way is to keep them as our fathers and grandfathers used to. Who does not remember the old red cow (and there were some good ones) standing out all day in the cold of mid-winter cringing to the blast, on top of the manure heap, picking a few straws from the bedding mixed with it; after being out to toughen through the day, taken in at night and fed with coarse meadow hay, which she would eat only because she could get nothing else , turned out the next day, with perhaps a little of the same fresh hay thrown on the snow in the yard because, as they said, she would eat it better. And who does not remember how poor these cows would come out in the Spring ? To such farmers the saying of the boy would apply, who said that his father made money twice a year. He sold off his English hay in the Fall, and the hides of the cattle in the Spring. But thanks to progressive civilization very few are kept in that way now. That is one extreme, and it seems to us there is another, unnatural forcing, feeding them on highly concentrated food to increase the flow of milk. Who does not know of many cases of very superior cows who by being fed grain in too large quantities have become affected with garget, and been sold to the butcher, forced beyond all reason ? Now is there not a medium ground to take in regard to feeding ? We do not want to expose our cows to the cold too much, or keep them altogether on our coarse hay ; neither do we want to pamper them or make hot house plants of them; but rather give them good, warm shelter, nutritious food in reason- able quantities; in short, carry not the forcing process too far and we shall be the gainers in the long run. Respectfully submitted, HENEY A. TURNER, for the Committee, 16 DOMESTIC DEPARTMENT. We again present you with our report. There has never been a year when there was such a variety of articles in the Domestic Department as the present. The general opinion, expressed during the Fair, upon the articles contributed was, that they were of a better quality, i. e., that tha beauty, and work on a whole, were superior than is usual in such a display. Your Committee feel the delicacy of their situation far more this year than ever before. It is no small task to satisfy the wishes of contributors of one hundred and thirty-two articles ; all deserving in themselves, and very many of most excellent workmanship ; displaying an amount of beauty, ingenuity and patience, when we consider that very few are in affluent cir- cumstances. Wealth allows an almost unlimited means of beautifying every article, where one possesses the desire for ornamentation. It would seem that some have attributed to the committee power which devolved on the officers. Not that we for an in- stant think it is intentional. Simply a misunderstanding as regards our authority. The "regulations" are made by the officers of the Society, which is composed entirely of gentle- men, as they should be. All will acknowledge that these "reg- ulations" are for the greatest good of the Fair. All societies are governed by laws, which it is the duty of every member to ohey. Obedience is the first thing required of a soldier. I am 17 fully persuaded that it is because these "regulations" are not understood, that any imagine they have not received a just compensation. The regulations, clause first, read thus : ** No member of the committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members." This does not mean that the other two can decide upon the article. The disinterested committee shall appoint another person to take the place for the time being of the committee unable to act ; the committee being then full by the addition of the one chosen, these three shall decide upon such articles as may have been contributed by the committee whose place is temporarily filled. Many may think I mistake. If such will turn to page- eighteen of the report for 1883, they can easily convince themselves. One more important point, as it so inti- mately concerns the "contributor," as well as the committee, is the second clause, same page, which reads thus : " All articles, products, flowers, fruit and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited." If the latter clause had been understood, it would have saved the committee much trouble this year. If the " contributor " informs the committee at the time of entrance that a portion only is their work, of course for the amount done by themselves, they are entitled to such an award as the article or work merits. If an article contributed is entered by any one who did not do the whole work, and no statement to that effect is made, then the person is not entitled to any award, even though the greater part may have been done by the contributor ; according to the rules of the Society. It will be safe to say that all the committees would be heartily glad to bestow three times the amount they do, were they not limited. When one considers the number of contribu- tors worthy of so much more than is possible to bestow, we only say : dear friends, wait until our Society is free from debt. a 18 To show plainly how many we had, I have taken them in order as we awarded the premiums ; the largest number first ; each variety by itself. There were twenty-seven braided rugs. Mrs. Ruth Peterson, seventy-seven years of age, showed what patience with sldll, will perform, even with rags, in the display of three very finely braided and beautifully sewed rugs, which were of good size, too. Three by Mrs. Rebecca Turner, aged eighty-two, were so nearly like the others that it would only be repetition to enlarge on the subject. Three by Mrs. Oelia Bonney, eighty-two, were beautifully braided, and sewed so the upper and under sides wore so nearly alike, one would be obliged to take particular notice to know which was the right side. She certainly deserves a great deal of credit for such nice work. Two rugs by Mrs. Jane S. Oakman, aged eighty-one, ought to receive more than a passing notice. When one considers that age weakens the use of the fingers, which are especially brought into action in braiding, all the more honor is due these aged ones when their work is as nicely done as by younger hands, as in these just mentioned. We feel that all the commendation we can give will not be too much, where so much skill is displayed. Mrs. William 0. Oakman, over seventy, contributed one, with braid so evenly done and nicely sewed, we must mention it. Mrs. Sarah Low's three, although the centre pieces were some- what large, the braid was nice, and the colors, prettily blended, forming more than an ordinarily pretty mat, aside from their usefulness. The manner in which the loork is done is a very great deal. We might speak of others which merited praise, but younger hands performed the labor. We are glad to see thrift and indications of good housekeeping at any time. One elderly lady in our neighborhood said she always judged a woman to be a good housekeeper if she had plenty of rugs. She has always been honored by her neighbors for her thrift. 19 The kuit rugs were unusually handsome, all well clone, if we except one. They numbered twelve, — some very largo, others quite small. We remarked on the variety of colors and man- ner of their disposal ; contrasting so prettily one with the other, presenting a much more attractive appearance than when knit in " hit or miss," as it is called. There is nothing made, the beauty of which cannot be enhanced by a proper disposal of colors. It did seem, this year, the contributors had selected the best. The first on the list, a small one, by Miss Haldali H'atch, known all over town as "Aunt Huldah." She is eighty-five years old. The rags were cut so true, the knitting so firm, we could only wonder that a lady so old and feeble was able to perform so nice a piece of knitting. Those who know remember how difficult it is to pass the needle through the stitches, when it produces such a firm piece of knitting. The colors were really fine, the border particularly ; the sewing so hidden that not a stitch was to be seen. One by Abby A. Taylor, of East Pembroke, worthy of commendation, so pretty and nicely done. There were others, we can gladly say, that were nicely made and pretty ; but younger hands performed the work, and we have not room to say any more than that we were glad to have them. Fifteen drawn rugs claimed our attention. There wasn't a homely one among the number. We have never had such a variety, or any so handsome, as those this year by Miss Alice M. Bonney, South Hanson. One in blocks arranged diagonally each block shaded and sheared, so that the casual observer could never have detected their not being •'Axminister." Two with beautiful groups of flowers. They looked like worsted, in- stead of which they were entirely composed of old rags, which had been destined for the "rag-bag," except one purple pansy, for which the lady bought worsted. The shaded red border of the large mat was made entirely of old hoods. At the time 20 we remarked how beautiful, but did not learn these facts until after. If we had known at the time about the materials used in the making, we would certainly have contrived some way to betsow higher awards, which they richly merited. Many a Brussels mat has been purchased that did not begin to compare favorably with these three in beauty of coloring, design and velvety ap- pearance. We must say ive never saw their equal in any kind of drawn work. A mat by Mrs. James O. Hood was well done and pretty. Two by Miss Mary Hall were more than pretty, because we considered the materials used, and shading of the flowers. The groundwork of white was entirely composed of woolen undergarments, good for nothing but rags. It is most grati- fying to see handsome, useful articles made from useless materials. Mrs. Kate A. McLean, of Plymouth, had four rugs which deserve hearty commendation for the well done work, color, and size. Mrs. H. S. Pratt's, of Hanson, was very pretty. They are all worthy of mention ; there is not space. Twenty-three yards of rag carpet by Mrs. Ezra Wright, which looked as though it was made to wear, and for the comfort of the dear ones of home, reminded us of our homes in child- hood. Such articles are handsome, because of their usefulness and durability. There is no carpet that will wear and sweep so nicely as the old fashioned, home made, rag carpet. We con- gratulate her on the possession of such an one. One rug, called a button rug, made by M. Riordan, of Rockland, very large and very pretty ; composed of small circles, sewed one above the other in cross stitch, in every variety of color. To make such a rug must consume a great deal of time. It was certainly pretty enough to repay its owner. There were six patchwork quilts ready for lining, all well made, — one by Mrs. Rebecca Simmons, of Pembroke, aged eighty-nii^e. V^e yegret very much our inability to bestow 21 a gratuity iu proportion to its worth. It would be well for the children to imitate such work. Thirteen warm and useful comforters reminded us that their owners were not of the opinion concerning them, that the individual who was out in a severe rain was about the necessity of an umbrella. Some one suggested the usefulness of one ; ho replied, " I haven't one. When it is pleasant I do not need it ; now I'm as wet as I can be, so what is the use of buying one '? It will not always rain." Though the weather did not suggest comforters at the time, prudence and thrift suggested their usefulness at a future day. They were pretty, too ; not a poorly made one among them. One by Mrs. Caleb Thomas, aged eighty, so nicely made and as prettily combined as need be. We sometimes think that those who were taught to sew before the age of " sewing machines " far excel, as a rule, the younger people who are not obliged to use the fine stitching required in the " olden days." The twelve patchwork bed quilts show that some thought it worth while to save the pieces. Mrs. Jane S. Oakman contributed one ; the good needlework and nice matching, or fitting at the corners of the squares, spoke for itself. A "Lilly Quilt," by Mrs. William M. Taylor, aged sixty-nine, was very pretty and excellently made ; the first one ever presented for display in our Fair. Others are well worthy of mention ; but, like the lady who went to one of the minister's wives, once preaching in town, (who had appeared in a new bonnet the Sabbath before,) and suggested the removal of the feather from the new bonnet, the lady replied : " It was the most simple of anything ; more so than flowers." The caller replied, *' Well, one must draw the line somewhere, and I draw it at feathers." So with the quilts : one must stop " some- where," it takes so much time to speak of them separately. 22 f Three silk quilts lent their beauty to our display. One by Miss Mira Brown, of East Marshfielcl, only sixteen years old ; a very pretty quilt. We are glad our young girls are learning ^ to do such nice sewing. Work that all may do, and isn't for display alone. Sucli quilts are useful and very ornamental, and need not be expensive, composed as it is of such a variety of small pieces, which to the possessor are surrounded with pleasant T associations. The young lady is to be congratulated on such a successful piece of work, as a first attempt. The other two were by older persons, and very pretty. Three quilts con- tributed very much to the beauty of ' the display. A darned lace spread, by Mrs. Walton Hall, proved, by the attention it drew, its prettiuess. There were pillow shams to match, which were in the " Fancy Department." It would seem advisable that all articles, which are in sets, should be displayed in the same department. They are really one set of bed covering ; the separation detaches from the beauty. It is the first darned lace set we have seen displayed in our hall. Four knit spreads cannot be passed over lightly. One by Mrs. Elizabeth Merritt, of South Scituate : the finest cottou, the whitest, and the most beautiful design ; so excel- lently knit, the most beautiful knit quilt it has ever been our good fortune to behold. The next in beauty and finish was by Mrs. Walton Hall, of Marshfield. The others were very nice and pretty, all having nice borders, and well knit. Unless one understands knitting, they cannot know how very great a difference there can be in quality. So few people knit now, that they have a very erroneous idea of the time required to knit one small square of three inches : about forty minutes by a quick knitter. When one considers that it takes four of these small squares |)® form the figure, which only forms one large square ; and 23 it takes three hundred and sixty to make a quilt like those displayed, to say nothing of the tea yards of edging required for a border, one can very easily determine the amoirnt of time necessary to knit a spread, This does not include the sewing together, which must be done after the knitting. This is for No. 16 cotton. The one first mentioned was finer than this, being the finest used. We have been explicit in this, because so^many this year supposed there was more work in the silk quilts, than in those knitted, which is a great mistake. Miss Cora B. Tilden, of North Marshfield, had a fine crochet hood. There were four crochet hoods, all equally pretty, but the first was a little finer than the others. A knit skirt by Miss Lizzie Tucker, of Norwood, might well be the envy of all. It was nicely done. The design very pretty. Eleven pairs of mittens were disposed on one corner of the table. Mrs. Almira Merritt's silk ones took the palm for beauty. The warm wool ones will be decidedly more comfortable on a severe cold day. All are serviceable and deserve praise. Mrs. Merritt took the lead in the seventeen pairs of stockings, which were of unbleached sewing cotton, knit in sixteeen pat- terns or figures. They were very, very pretty. Knowing the amount of time and skillto knit such a pair, the committee made the award to the best of their ability. Miss Harriet Bourne, an invalid of eighty-one years, who for six years has not been able to leave her home, still remembers to take sufficient interest in our Fair as to send us each year specimens of her patience and skill, — in her home made-tape, perfect in its kind, and reminding us what once tape was. The thin article we purchase in our stores hardly deserves the name after we had seen hers. When we consider the difficnlties under which she labors, not being able for many years to raise her head erect, we feel that a great amount of praise is really her 24 due. Not perhaps because the article is handsome, but be- cause it is as well made as a piece of tape can be. In all the one hundred and thirty-two articles presepted, a pre- mium was awarded save in the case of a spread owned by Mrs. Abner C. Barrows, and made so many years ago, we felt we had no authority to make one, according to the "Regula- tions." As a family heirloom it was valuable. EMMA M. C. BATES, ) g^^^-f^^, SARAH T. BOURNE, j ^^ommiuee. 25 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. lu writing liis report, a certain school committee had only this to say : "We refer you to last year's report." So we refer you to former reports for much that we would say, had it not already been said in the way of suggestion and appeal. We will, however, add a little to that, and we are glad to report rather more favorably than last year. We can count thirty-three contributors, — a gain of eight over last year, and about half of these are Marshfield names, whereas only seven of our last year's contributors were from our own town. The number of articles was about the same, only three or four more. We saw stated in one of our papers giving an account of the Fair, something to this effect : that our Children's Depart- ment was actually done away with, or so merged in the other departments that it was not distinguishable. Our Children's Department is not yet altogether a thing of the past, but has a space allotted to it as heretofore, though it does not occupy as much room as formerly. We think the children may get alittle encouragement from the fact that their work is so well done that it cannot be distin- guished from the work of the older people. However, the space allowed this department should be in some way notice- ably designated, so that there can be no mistake as to its limits. We would call the attention of the children once more to the fact that this department includes all under fifteen years of age, and not Ji/teen and over. Please remember in future. In regard to the quality of the work, we think it was un- usually well done this year, perhaps as a whole better than ever before. 4: 26 The doll's bedspread, knit by Amy Bates, wlio though only nine years of age, had no other help than the printed direc- tions, was a piece of work which few little girls of her age could do. We think Amy does good, honest work, and is one who can be depended on to do her part in keeping up the interest in this department. A sofa pillow from Ella J. Brown was, perhaps, the most noticeable article on our table, and a rug by Hattie Briggs was a very good piece of work. Addie Williamson contributed a gent's shirt, an article, we think, ^seldom or never before seen in this department, and the neat, workmanlike way in which it was done promises well for Miss Addie' s future usefulness. The few specimens of work in Kensington stitch on tidies, etc., were done well, and we would suggest that some of our little girls try the work, at least in single outline, like the initials marked on towels by Florence Keene. .lu We were glad to see the pair of woolen stockings, brought in almost too late for mention, but better late than not at all. We have forgotten the name of the little girl, and do not find it on our paper. Other work might be specially mentioned, as the collection of saw work by Master Carlton Tilden; the very nicely painted picture book by Bertha Hall; the few articles of plain sewing, which we are always glad to see; the multitude of tiny stitches in patchwork by Clara Barstow, four years of age, our young- est contributor. Indeed, we feel that all deserve credit. This is the first time for a number of years that your com- mitte have been able to report an increase in the number of contributors to this department, and we only hope that another year will show a still greater increase, and that the children will not allow their department to be numbered among the things that were. SUSIE B. STEVENS, ) p^^-f.,, CELIA J. OAKMAN, j" ^omwtttee. 27 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. To George M. Baker, Esq., President of the Marshjield Agricultural and Horticultural Society: Sir : — The Committee on Reports do not see their way clear to award^^the premiums literally according to the rule marked out by the Hoard of Directors. There were five reports. They are all worthy of recognition and reward. This could not be given on the scale of the Directors, which provided for only four premiums in all. We do not feel justified in exceeding the aggregate sum appropriated by the Directors, but it seemed to us that equity could be secured if we could be allowed to make the division indicated below : That four dollars be given for each of the following reports, viz : for that on Flowers, on Fancy Articles and on Cows ; and three dollars for those on the Domestic and Children's Departments. We make this decision without hesitation, both because it is in accordance with the division provided in the case of a num- ber of other departments in the Fair, and also secures substan- tial justice to all, so far as our means will allow. Respectfully submitted, Marshfield, Dec. 18, 1884. 28 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GRAIN. Makshfield, October 30, 1884. Statement of C. P. Wright, of Marshfield. COKN. The crop of corn which I have entered for premium grew on land which was in corn last year, and M'as manured last year with kelp and barn manure, — about twenty-five one horse loads of kelp and twenty loads of manure to the acre. Had a fair crop for last year. This year used about thirty loads of kelp and twenty of manure. There are two and one-half acres in the field. I had two rods measured in different parts of the field, and there was not a pound of difference in the two rods. Cultivation of the corn : The field was ploughed and har- rowed, and marked off about three and one-half feet both ways, and planted with a corn planter. I had it cultivated twice both ways, and about four days' work with hoes, clearing out the weeds from the hills on the two and one-half acres. It was planted about the middle of May. I think the last year's crop did not, perhaps, get its share of the manure, as the season was so dry. I do give the kelp a great deal of the credit for the crop of corn this year, C. P. Wright, 29 Statement of David Brown, Jr., of Marshfield.' Ploughed the acre of old ground which I entered for pre- mium the first of May, ploughing under five cords of barn manure. Harrowed with an old fashioned harrow once ; marked with a horse marker three and one-half feet each way ; dropped hen manure, mixed with loam, in the hill, and planted with a hand planter about the tenth of the month. During the season horse-hoed it three times each way, which is all the cultivation it received. Estimated cost : Ploughing, $.t 00 Harrowing, 75 Planting, including marking, 1 50 Horse hoeing, 3 00 Manure, estimating one-third used, . . . . 10 GO Seed, 36 Cost, $19 61 Eighty-nine bushels of corn, at eighty-five cents a bushel, $75.65. Allowing the fodder for labor of harvesting, profit on acre, $56.04. Cost of corn per bushel, twenty-two cents. David Brown, Jr. There were two entries of corn for 1884 : C. P. Wright, greatest crop of corn on one acre ; average yield, one hundred and sixteen bushels ; awarded first premium, $8.00. David Brown, Jr., next greatest yield, eighty-nine and one-seventh bushels, second premium, $5.00. This corn was husked and weighed October 23, 1884. BAKKER SPRAGUE,) L. P. HATCH, V Committee. OSCAR WESTON, ) 30 BOYS' GARDENS. FIRST PREMIUM REPORT— Award $3.00. The following is what was raised on three square rods of land by ELWIN DAMON, of Pembroke, aged twelve years : Potatoes, 50 pounds. Cucumbers, 46 Radishes, 200 String beans, . . . .1 bushel, 3 quarts. Shell beans, green, .... 17 " Dry beans in pod, . . .2 bushels, 12 " Beets, ....... 6 Squashes, 2 Watermelons, ..... 3 Pumpkins, . , . . . .3 Tomatoes, 1 bushel. Cabbages, ...... 6 Musk melons, ..... 2 Peppers, 3 Corn, . 74 ears. ELWIN DAMON. I 4 31 SECOND PREMIUM REPORT— Award $2.00. The following is what was raised on three square rods of land by F. B. DAMON, aged eleven years : Peas, 3 quarts. Potatoes 51^ pounds. Corn, 63 ears. Cabbages, 6 Pumpkins, 1 Dry beans. String beans, Shell beans, green, , Watermelons, Beets, Peppers, Cucumbers, Radishes, Tomatoes, . 2 bushels, 6 quarts. 20 9 3 2 2 31 246 . 1 bushel. F. B. DAMON. 32 TREASURER'S REPORT. Eeceipts from November 19th, 1883, to November 17th, 1884. From Fourteen new members, . . $ 70 00 Rent of halls, . . . . . 43 50 State bounty, 600 00 Pasture, 15 00 Borrowed of E. Delano, . . .200 00 Donation, ..... 5 00 $933 50 1 I Receipts op Exhibition. Admission to grounds, $1,277 43 Admission to seats, .... 68 30 Admission to concert. 77 10 Entries for trotting, .... 77 00 Tents, rooms and peddlers. . 192 47 1,692 30 i Total Receipts, $2,625 80 33 t*AYMENTS FROM NOVEMBER 19tH, 1883, TO NOVEMBER 17tH, 1884. Due Treasurer, Nov. 19th, 1883, . . $651 96 Paid Printing, 219 00 Interest on notes, .... 296 00 Postage, express and stationery^ 14 06 Travelling expenses, < . * 13 00 Expense on halls and grounds, . 223 13 Salaries, 75 00 Premiums, 1883, .... 171 35 Premiums, 1884, . . • . 662 02 Policy of insurance ... 15 00 Sundries, 89 57 $2,434 03 Expenses of Exhibition Ticket ojBfices and gates. • $40 00 Committees, • 33 00 Music, • 170 20 Police and watching fences. • 43 35 Entertainment, ... § • 20 75 Care of stock, • 36 43 Attractions, • 154 50 498 23 Total Expenditures, .... $2,932 26 Deduct amount of Keceipts, . . 2,625 80 Leaving a balance due Treasurer of . $306 46 Respectfully submitted, FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer. Pembroke, November 17, 1884. % I have examined the foregoing account, and believe it to be correct. ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Auditor, 6 u SUGGESTIONS. It will be seen that the indebtedness to Treasurer has been diminished by the sum of $34:5.50, but a part of that has been done by borrowing $200, leaving a net gain of only $145.50, and this, too, after as successful a fair as we can reasonably expect to have. The lesson of this report is that close calculation and strict economy will be necessary to make both ends meet in the future. In 1872, $2,186.73 was taken for admission to grounds and $493.00 for rent of grounds and hall. In 1873, $2,195.33 was taken for admission to grounds, and $427.00 for rent of grounds and halls. This year $1,277.43 was taken for admission to grounds, and $192.47 for rent of grounds and halls. The inaugu- ration of the Brockton and JIanson fairs have conspired to re- duce the attendance and of course the receipts. Situated as we are in a thinly settled locality we are paying more for attrac- tions than we are warranted in doing by our receipts at the gates. Our attractions ought to be of the most inexpensive character, and we would recommend the closest scrutiny of every expense under this head, whether for music, rural sports or trot- ting horses. FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Treasurer. 35 LIST OF PREMIUMS AWARDED IN 1883 Not called for, and therefore considered as Donations to the Society. Thomas Bryant, Somerville, walking horse, G. A. Green, Diixbury, gent's driving horse, Fred. Stetson, Hanover, matched horses, Calvin Chandler, Duxbury, poultry, .... Eliza A. Ford, Marshfield, flowers, . . . . Lucy Partridge, Marshfield, flowers, N. H. Whiting, Marshfield, vegetables, pears, and grapes, L. S. Richards, Marshfield, vegetables and grapes, . Walter W. Estes, Marshfield, vegetables, H. H. Collamore, Pembroke, vegetables, . J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, grapes, vegetables, and pears, . . El. Sylvester, Jr., Hanover, vegetables, J. E. Baker, Marshfield, vegetables, Mrs. Webster, Marshfield, vegetables, I. H. Oakman, Marshfield, vegetables, T. P. Ford, Marshfield, vegetables, . Edward Baker, Duxbury, vegetables, . Susie Clift, Marshfield, preserves, Stephen Gardner, Marshfield, apples, . J. E. Baker, Marshfield, apples, G. H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, apples, B. L. Stetson, Hanover, apples, George Bailey, Duxbury, apples, . William L. Estes, Duxbury, apples, . , $3 00 3 00 4 00 50 75 20 1 00 2 00 25 25 12 50 25 25 25 75 25 25 10 25 25 25 25 25 25 36 Nath. Groce, Pembroke, pears, F. P. Arnold, Pembroke, pears, George E. Sprague, Marshfield, peaches, George H. Ryder, Pembroke, grapes, John S. Loring, Duxbury, cranberries, Hattie TY- Pratt, Brockton, card basket, . Etta J. McDonald, Duxbury, tidy, Mrs. J. C. Mann, Pembroke, skirt, Mrs. J. E. Corthell, South Scituate, rugs, Miss Hattie J. Ford, Duxbury, fancy articles, Stephen C. Heald, Lynn, fancy articles. Miss Eleanor P. Richards, Marshfield, fancy articles, Mrs. A. J. Peters, Pembroke, fancy articles, Mrs. Amelia Dwelley, Hanover, fancy articles, . Mrs. George Randall, Marshfield, fancy articles, Miss Josephine B. Ames, Boston, fancy articles, Mrs. S. W. Eastman, Marshfield, fancy articles, L. P. Hatch, Marshfield, manufactures, Randall Brothers, Marshfield, manufactures, W. H. Esterbrook, Marshfield, manufactures, . E. W. Crane, Marshfield, manufactures, W. H. Hilpert, Hill, N. H., manufactures, Susan B. Stevens, Marshfield, report, . 5 25 25 25 25 1 00 15 25 50 60 1 00 20 1 00 50 20 50 1 00 50 50 5 00 50 25 50 3 00 I I I 37 ABSTRACT OP THE ANNUAL RETURN. Made to the Board of Agriculture, 1884. Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, Donations, .... From all other sources. Total amount of receipts for the year. Premiums offered, Premiums and gratuities awarded Premiums and gratuities paid out Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuities paid, . Total amount of disbursements for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, Total value of real estate belonging to the Society Personal property belonging to the Society, .... Farm Impeovements. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, . Awarded gardens cultivated by boys, under fourteen years, ....... Cranberries, Total amount offered for farm improvements, . Awarded for farm improvements, Actually paid out for farm im- provements, . . . . $600 00 70 00 5 00 1.950 80 2,625 80 1,175 50 Dl") 82 837 37 2,09i 89 2,932 26 4,806 46 11,806 92 1,392 78 $19 00 5 00 1 75 73 00 25 75 25 75 I 38 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, .... $19 00 Milch cows, . 58 00 Heifers, .... 38 00 Calves, .... . 12 00 Workiuj^ oxen. 16 00 Steers, .... 7 00 Fat cattle, .... 12 00 Horses, .... . 53 00 Swine, ..... 16 00 Poultry, . . ' . . 64 75 Total amount offered for live stock, . 482 50 Awarded for live stock. . 295 75 Paid out for live stock, 251 75 Farm Products. Amount awarded for Indian corn, .... $13 00 Collections of vegetables, . . 57 25 Total amount offered for grain and root crops, . . 99 00 Awarded for grain and root crops, 70 25 Paid out for grain and root crops, . 47 50 Amount awarded for fruits, . . . . . 62 50 Flowers, . . . . . . 33 05 Butter, 9 00 Cheese, . . . . . . 10 00 Preserved fruit and vegetables, . 25 00 Wheat bread, . . . . . 4 50 Rye and Indian bread, ... 6 00 Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, . 150 00 39 Miscellaneous. Amount awarded for agricultural implements, . . $6 00 Amount oftered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber, Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, . Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manu- factures, etc., . . 143 02 Number of persons who received premiums and gratuities, — four hundred and fifty-three. 50 00 203 00 Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed and the Amount to Each. Marshfield, Duxbury, Pembroke, Hanover, South Abington, Boston, Plymouth, Rockland, Abington, South Scituate, Holbrook, Kingston, Quincy, . Sandwich, Brookline, New Bedford, Hyde Park, Brooklyn, N. Y., $318 07 146 80 29 10 13 35 42 00 67 75 15 05 32 25 8 90 27 30 29 00 7 25 5 00 45 75 78 00 30 30 40 Wintlirop, $10 00 Norwood, 25 Hanson, 53 90 Scituate, 18 50 Brockton, 3 50 Weymouth, 1 15 Milton, 1 50 Taunton, 5 00 Middleboro, 1 00 Syracuse, N. Y., 50 Cambridgeport, ...'... 45 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1884. GEOEGE M. BAKEE, President. FEANCIS COLLAMOEE, Secretary. Marshfield, January 1, 1885. LIST OF PREMIUMS -OF THE- MARSHFIELD AgriculturaU^^ Horticultural SOCIETY FOK.- 1885. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOK 1885. PRBSIDBNT: GEOKGE M. BAKEE, Marshfield. vice: PRElSIDBN-rS: FEANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, EDWIN EEED, Marshfield. SEZCRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfield. DIREZCTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield, ^ BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. dellbga-te: to statb board for thrbb YBARS : DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1885. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOKEST TEEES. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thou- sand trees, premium of $30. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20. Premiums to be awarded in 1888. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; Edward Sprague, Marshfield, John B. Chandler, Pembroke. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple Trees, set out in 1885, and in the most flourishing condition in 1888, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear Trees, set out in 1885, and in the best condition in 1888, two premiums — $8, 4. Committee. — Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, Chairman; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums, — $8, 4. Payable in 1887. Committee. — Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DEAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining Land, two premiums — 18, 4. To be paid in 1887. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman; C. T. Hatch, Marshfield, Frank Ford, Marshfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1885. A full and careful statement in writing, must be furnished the Committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums J will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; James H. West, Pembroke, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. GRAIN, For the greatest crop of white or yellow Cci-n, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, 5. For the greatest crop of white or yellow CorDj on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 8. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less tha^ fprty-five bushels, t^o prejpiums — $5, 3. All entries on grain, except corn, to be made to the Secretary before the first day of August, on corn before the first day of September. Committee. — Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Oscar Weston, Marshfield, Charles T. Peterson, Marshfield. KOOT CEOPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one-fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets, on one-fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums —$4,3,2. ' For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one-eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, (m one-half of an acre, thiee premiums -$4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hundred bushels, on one-half aa acr^, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — James H. West, Jr., Pembroke, Chairman ; Josepbus Dawes, Duxbury, J. H. Bourne, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the Committee, on or before November 1, 1885, a particular statement in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality and value of the manure applied, the amourt of labor expended, ■vyith such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. 6 CATTLE. cows. All cattle must have been owned by the exhibitor three months. For the best herd of cows (not less than five) ef any breed — $10. None of the herd to be entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cow of the Jersey breed, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Tevon breed, five premiums -16, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, five premiums — $6, 4, .3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Native, five premiums— $6, 4, 3,2, i. Committee. — Henry A. Turner, South Scituate, Chairman ; Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Hiram Barstow, Duxbury. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. i^or the best Heifer of the Devon breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Jersey Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, three premiums — $o, L, 1. Committee. — Wendell Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman; Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, William L. Cushiug, Marshfield. HEIFERS UNDEK TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — 12, 1. For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — James E. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Chas. M. Tilden, Marshfield, Josiah H. Baker, Pembroke. CALVES, For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. 8 For the best Grade Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Job H. Beal, Pembroke, Chairman ; Henry- Carver, Marshfield, Hermon Kent, Marshfield. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bulls, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Dutch Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Ayrshire bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon or Dutch Breeds, each, two premiums,— $2, 1. Committee. — Charles O. Ellms, Scituate, Chairman ; James L. Rogers, Marshfield, William Taylor, Pembroke. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Ephraim H. Walker, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman; J. H. Corthell, Scituate, Bailey Chandler, Duxbury. WORKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Workiug Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman; R. T. Randall, Duxbury, Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover. SHEEP. For the best flock ofjsheep, fifteen-in^number, two premiums — $0, o. For the best flock of Sheep, not less than ten in number, two premiums— $4, 3. Committee. — Hermon Kent, Marshfield, Chairman ; Israel Macomber, Marshfield, John W. Hatch, Pembroke. HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — $3, 2 . For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. Committee. — George Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, James W. Sampson, South Scituate. DRAFT HOESES. For best pair Draft Horses, two premiums — $4, 3. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — $4, 3. Draft Horses entered in one class not to be entered in the other. Committee. — S. B. Chandler, Marshfield, Chairman; Robert T. Randall, Duxbury, Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums— 15, 4, 2, Committee- — Daniel E. Damon, Plymouth, Chairman; Henry G. Viual, Plymouth, Warren Hall, Marshfield. MATCHED HORSES. For tho best pair of Matched Hjrses, two premiums, S4, 2. Committee. — Willie J. Wright, Duxbury, Chairman; C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Walter Baker, Duxbury. 7 10 GENT'S DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Walton Hall, Marshfield, Chairman; Judson Ewell, Marshfield, Hiram Randall, Pembroke . % WALKING HORSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, three premiums — $4, 3, 2 . Committee. — John Magoun, Marshfield, Chairman ; George Bradford, Duxbury, Fred Stetson, Hanover. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1 . For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — S2, 1 . For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1 .50, 1 . Committee — Howard Clapp, Boston, Chairman ; Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Martin Chandler, Marshfield. SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $5, 4, 3, 2 . For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums— $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four or more than seven months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. Committee. — Robert T. Randall, Duxbury, Chairman ; Charles T. Hatch.'Marshfield, Ezra Ford, Marshfield. 11 PLOUGHING. For the best Ploughing, with oxen without driver, three premiums — $4, 3, 2, . For the best Ploughing, with oxen with driver, three pre- miums—$3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses without driver, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with horses with driver, three pre- miums—$3, 2, 1 . Committee. — Charles T. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Barna. Everson, Hanson, Thomas B. Blackman, Marshfield. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. Frank Ford, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. J.J. McFarlin, Pembroke, Mrs. Ezra Smith, Marshfield. BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four premiums —$4,3,2,1. For the best Plain Cheese, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1 . Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the Committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors to Butter and Cheese . Committee.— Mrs. Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover, Chairman; Mrs . 0 ames H . West, Pembroke, Mrs . David Briggs, Scituate. 12 BREAD. WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums — $2, 1, .75, .50, .25. Committee. — Mrs. A. T. Sprague, Marshfielcl, Chairman; Mrs. Walton Hall, Marshfielcl, Mrs. S. E. Low, Marshfield. RYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT- For the best sample of Rje and Indian Bread, two premi- ums—12, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — S2, 1 . Committee — Mrs. J . Bean Bonuey, Pembroke, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of con- tributors . No saleratus, soda, or creara of tartar, is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepara^ tion is to be attached lo each loaf , FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — 13, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Israel H. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman; John Baker, Ma,rshfield, H . C . Dunham, Marshfield. 13 PEAKS. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.50,1, 75, 50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — Dr. G. W. Baker, Marshfiekl, Chairman ; Dr. Joseph Hagar, Marshfield, Charles T. Peterson, Marshfield. PEACHES, QUINCES AND PLUMS. For the best display of Peaches, six premiums — $2.50, 2, 1.50,1.25,1', .75. For the best display of Quinces, four premiums — "^1, .75, .50, .25. For the best display of Plums, four premiums — $1, .75 .50, .25. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — S. W. Eastman, Marshfield, Chairman; Samuel C Stetson, Marshfield, C. O. Ellms, Scituate. GR.^PES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, five pre- miums—$3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, six premiums — each twenty-five cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — twentj^-five cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — John H. Bourne, Marshfield, Chairman ; Geo. H. Ryder, Pembroke, Josephus Dawes, Duxbury, 14 CRANBERKIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, two premiums— $1.75,1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhibited, two premiums — .50, .25. Committee —John H. Bourne, Marshfield, Chairman; B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, John Magoun, Marshfield. I POULTRY. Number of entry to be attached to coop, instead of owner's I name. For the best trio of Light Brahmas, three premiums — $3,2,1 For the best trio of Plymouth Rocks, three premiums — $3, 2, 1 . For the best trio of White or Brown Leghorns, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. Fifty dollars to be distributed . On pigeons and pets not more than twenty dollars. Committee. — B. W. Gooding, Plymouth, Chairman ; H. G. Vinal, Plymouth, Alpheus Packard, Hanover. G.J. Peterson, Special Committee in care of Poultry. HOME DEPARTMENT. One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments, 18 DOMESTIC-ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed . Committee. — Mrs. E. M. C. Bates, Marslifield, Chairman; Mrs. E. W. Crane, Marshfield, Mrs. E. R. Tildeu, Marsbfield. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FANCY ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Mary H. Elliott, Pembroke, Chairman ; Miss Carrie Randall, Pembroke, Mrs. Lydia B. Viual, Plymouth. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FLOWERS. Thirty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — G. H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Annie E. Williamson, Marshfield, Mrs. Abbie E. Wright, Marshfield. CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured by children under fifteen, years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman; Miss Celia J. Oakman, Marshfield, Mary W. Baker, Marshfield. 16 IMANUFACTURESTAND AGRICULTURAL ■ IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the Committee. Committee. — J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, G. Herbert Chandler, Marshfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities as much as possible. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the Committee. For the best collection, five premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3, 2. Committee. — H. H. Northey, Scituate, Chairman; Marcellus Rogers, Marshfield, Fred Cole, Scituate. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRAN- BERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one-eighth of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums — $6, 4 . Entries to be made before July 1, 1885. Premiums payable in the fall of 1S88. Committee. — B. G. Cahoon, . Duxbury, Chairman; Joseph Weston, Duxbury, Alden White, Duxbury. 17 GARDENS. For the most productive garden, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mar- cellus Eogers, Marshfield, Francis Collamore, Pembroke. STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of Strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums — %Q, 4. Payable in 1885. Committee.— J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman; G, J. Peterson, Marshfield, William Holmes, Duxbury. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to award premiums, four premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3. Committee. — Kev. E. Alden, Marshfield, Chairman ; S. N. Gifford, Duxbury, John H. Bourne, Marshfield. GROUNDS. Committee. — Barker Sprague, Marshfield , 8 18 HALL Committee. — Edward Sprague, Chairman ; John G. Sprague, Mrs. J. G. Sprague, Miss M. H. Elliott. ' "^ Voted^Thal a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose G.J. Peterson, Marshfield. ■c;;T': .OAu d iiuiioi SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshfield . SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK,„.^,,_;'''' C. A. Walker, Marshfield. .2:1HTT! 0 HO ail'lO^'dH .8 ,J^ t5 (BiJ— 8m;jiaiQiq 'luoi .]^ .a ; ff/sffl-iiiidO JjIoSria-ifiM .trablA .S .vsH— .ari'rriMMoO Xlyada-ii^M ,oa7j;oa II adat /rir/dzr'a ,bioliO 8 19 REGULATIONS. No member of the Committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles^ products, flowers, fruits, and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary . Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock M . , on the first day of the Fair . Committees to be notified by circular of their duties . Chairmen of Committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall, at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished Committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society may be awarded . All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M . , on the first day of the Exhibition. I 20 No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society. No animal shall be entitled to a prejaium unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three months prior to the Exhibition . The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of Committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All Committees to report previous to December, 1885. Reports of Committees should contain : — First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of contributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the Committee. Agricultural ^^" Horticultural SOCIETY IDTJTlXlsr O- THE ^Z'JE -A- Tl PLYMOUTH : AVERY & DOTEN, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 1885. I i TRANSACTIONS -i)i- iiii: MAliRHFIEI.D Agricultural p>^' Horticultural SOCIETY JDTJUXJ^ G THCE "2'tE J^ Tl 1885. PLYMOUTH : AVEllY & DOTEN, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 1885. c ST4TE STATE JU CO mwm in U^, BOSTOtUfB I I OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1885. PRBSIDBNT: GEORGE M. BAKER, Marsblield. vice: PRBSIDENTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, EDWIN REED, Marslifield. SBCRB-TARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASURER: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDIXOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marslifield. DIREICTORS: FRANK FORD, Marsbfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marsbfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marsbfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marsbfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Dusbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxburj, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, HIRAM RANDALL, Pembroke, J. H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, Soutb Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. NEW MEMBERS. | SOUTH FRAMINGHAM: Virginia L. Spi!Ague. MAESHFIELD : Francis E. Carver, Augustus W. Oakman, EliEANOK R. ElCHAKDS, SOUTH SCITUATE: Charles Berry. PEMBROKE : Sarah E. Bosworth. REPORTS. REPORT ON FANCY ARTICLES. L " Oft expectation fails and most oft there where most it promises," has never been our experience at the Marshfield Fair, and the nineteenth anniversary of the Society exceeded our most sanguine hopes. Tlie exhibit of Fancy Articles was larger than ever before, there being ninety-one exhibitors and one hundred and fifty- one contributions. The tables were filled Avith work, showing much taste, industry and talent. Year by year we, as a people, are becoming to more thoroughly understand the theory of taste, the science of the beautiful in nature and art ; and nowhere is that fact more conspicuous than in an exhibition of this sort. Miss Olive R. Sampson, of Duxbury, whose magnolia blos- soms attracted attention last year, contributed two table €Overs, — one of green felt, with orchids painted in one corner. Lady Franklin geraniums in the opposite ; in a third were tulips, while the ever beautiful golden rod embellished the fourth; the second covering was of baltic blue, and was decorated by a spray of crab apples, Jacminot and Marshall Niel roses, and the Eose of Cassia, on which was perched a dainty Virginia red bird ; these were copied from nature and truthfullv delineated. Miss Richards, of Marsb field, brought to us three of her excellent crayons ; the portrait of Daniel Webster was especially pleasing and deserves much praise. From Miss H. Hall, of East Marshfield, came a painted jar, a study in itself : some yellow roses which were finely done ; an original design of pansies in oil, which, while excellent in mass, were still beautiful individually ; and a water color painting, representing the interior of a room, near a window was seated a young girl : the coloring was rich and the whole painting displayed a delicacy of touch only acquired by study and practice. Miss Weatherbee, of East Marshfield, had some charming clayoid vases ; and Miss Hunt, of Weymouth, sent a sachet of pansies painted on white satin. Miss Sara J. Damon, of East Marshfield, contributed an ocean scene taken off Nantasket, which showed strong lines and good work. Miss Carrie A. Randall, of Pembroke, displayed three win- dow lambrequins of velvet, done with the lustral painting, now so fashionable ; her Flower de Luce in oil was exquisite. Mrs. Vinal, of Plymouth, had two fans covered with tissue paper and adorned with roses made of the same material ; they were pretty and can be made useful as screens. The Jacminot roses painted on glass by Charles L. Savary, of Plymouth, were beautiful. It is almost incredible that this was his first attempt in oil ; we advise him to continue study, and trust we shall see more of his work in coming years. Miss Jennie Carpenter, of Middleboro, added to the pleasure of observers by bringing a lovely painting in black and white. The oil paintings by Miss A. E. Alden, of Marshfield, were one of the attractions of the Exhibition. One portrayed a river curving gracefully in and out among the rocks, winding and twisting as only a quiet, undisturbed river can ; it seemed to catch the eleams from the sun above and bear them alonir, so bright and cheery it was ; another, representing a fall of water, and her snow scene were gems. Miss NelHe Henry's paintings showed dehcate perception and close, accurate discrimination. We hope Marshfield appre- ciates the talent contained within her boundaries. Although Miss Florence Chandler's Japanese lilies in water colors were entered too late to be noticed in the way of a gratuity, we would not overlook them now ; they were as natural as if they had been gathered in the morning and deposited behind the glass. N. L. Damon's pen and ink sketches showed fine lines and clean, clear work, and the snow scene in water colors was a marvel of beauty. The Kensington embroidery, on a table cover, in the shape of flowers, both wild and cultivated, was noticeable as being neatly and carefully worked, and showed an extensive knowledge of the different varieties. From Miss Viola Weston, of Island Creek, we expected, and received, embroidery somewhat above the average quality ; the morning glories were suggestive of warmer days and the Autumn leaves were perfect in color and outline. There were notable samples of lustra painting by Miss Rebecca Cobb, of Kingston, and Mrs. H. G. Vinal, of Plymouth. The attention of the children was held by a most unique knitted tea set, very small, but faultless in form and detail. This was made by Miss Louisa A. Lowe, of Marshfield. The phantom flowers belonging to Mrs. B. Blanchard, of Marshfield, were really spectral in their unnatural beauty. From High Street, West Duxbury, we had ribbon work, embroidery and designs in arasene, the labor of Mrs. Le Forest Thayer and Miss Mary Baker. They were all eft'ective. 8 A silk quilt, from Mrs. F. W. Howland, of Plymouth, was replete with different kinds of artistic work ; stitches a wonder- ful variety, painting, embroidery and applique. The pillow shams owned by Miss Carrie Carver, of Brooklyn, N. Y., and the blanket worked by Mrs. C. Bates, of South Abington, were exceedingly ornamental pieces of needlework. An afghan crocheted by Miss "Nellie Harden, of Bridgewater, deserves mention, it being comfortable, durable and beautiful. The " old oaken bucket " was far eclipsed in our eyes by the blue pitcher, ornamented with canary and Virginia red birds, designed by Miss Mary S. Dyer, of Plymouth. A watch case made of a gilded horse shoe and cardinal satin was a lovely trifle, suitable for Christmas or New Year's gift, and was examined by several with a view to the coming holi- days. A crescent of old gold satin, on which was swinging an owl, was also an inexpensive, but expressive, bauble. There were, of course, tidies knit and tidies crocheted : tidies in outline and in solid embroidery ; tidies of felt, plush, and velvet ; one of pongee, worked io outline and darniug stitch, with the soft, dull colors, so much in vogue at present, was quite novel and pretty. The prevailing sentiment this year was : " The property by what it is should go, not by the title," and the public, generally, seemed pleased that it was so ordered. HANNAH M. ALDEN. REPORT ON COWS. Your committee on cows would submit the following report : The whole number entered for premium was twenty-six, divided into the following classes : — Jerseys, nine ; Grades, eight; Native, four; Devon, three; Holstein, one; Ayrshire, one. Of the Jerseys, the one entered by H. C. Dunham seemed to take the lead, though those of Bailey Chandler and Walton Hall followed close behind. Of Grades there were some ver}' fine oues, the one owned by Israel H. Macomber we selected as worthy of the first prize. Of the Ayrshires there was but one entry, and the animal being, to all appearance, a worthy one, we awarded her the first premium. She was entered by Warren Hall. Of the Holsteins, Walton Hall entered a fine looking and, by the statement, seeming to be an extra animal, we awarded her a first premium. Of the Natives, the one entered by O. N. Belknap seemed to merit the first prize, and we awarded it to her. Of the Devons there were three entries : two by H. H. Delano, of Duxbury, and the other by Warren Hall. We awarded the premiums to the former ; in regard to the latter, your committee were obliged, in justice to themselves and for the best interest of the Society, to say that we did not think the cow a pure-blood i'evon, and we therefore took the responsibility of taking her from that class and placing her with the Grades, where we thought she rightfully belonged. 10 And now right here, your committee would suggest the importance of contributors to this department being extremely careful to have their stock entered in the class to which they belong, for it is very unpleasant and distasteful to the com- mittee to rule out any from one class and place them in another, or rule them out altogether, which, perhaps, is the proper way, if the owner has not been careful to have them entered in the right class. The dairy question is a very important one for this region ;. is there anything that will pay better, in the way of farming in the Old Colony, than the keeping of cows, whether we sell the product in the shape of milk or butter? The constantly increasing demand for milk at the shore during the Summer affords us a good market ; five cents per quart was offered last Spring, and take it at the door. To be sure, it is only for a few months that it is wanted there ; but then, by getting the right class of customers in Rockland, Brockton and other large- places, thirty-five to forty cents per pound can be obtained for good butter through the year. And then, there is the question of keeping up the fertility of the farm. We often hear farmers, who keep but little stock, say they can't do much farming, for they have not much plant food to apply to the land. They buy a little of Bradley's phosphate or some other patent fertilizer, but think they only get the benefit of what they apply that year, leaviug in the soil but little for the next year's crops. It is very evident that, in order to farm successfully, we must keep stock of some kind. It will not do to sell our hay, and continue to crop our fields year after year, without putting something back ; feed our hay to stock, and thus sell it iu the shape of beef, butter, milk, etc. We can't get something for nothing : if we want our cows to give us good returns, we must feed them ; if we want oxir farms to produce well, we mu t feed them. We remember reading of a farmer who, going away for 11 a few clays, told his two boys to cart out a certain quantity of manure from the yard on to a field of an acre and a quarter. On his return he was disgusted to find that they had cleared the yard, and put on seventy-five ox loads ; but after a few years he found it had been a good investment, the field bearing more grass, for twelve years, than any other field of its size on the farm. Let us see to it that we select for our herds, good cows. A poor cow will eat as much as a good one, and not give half the return. Although it is important to feed well, it is equally as important to select good cows to feed. Let us hope that another year will witness an increased interest in this department. Respectfully submitted, HENRY A. TURNER, fiw the Committee. u KEPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON BULLS. The committee were pleased with the exhibition of bulls, especially the Jerseys belonging to George H. Hitchcock, of Quincy, and the Holsteins of Walton Hall, of Marshfield. We here see pedigree stock, the thing that is needed for the breeder, as in the breeding of stock it is very essential to look to the qualities of the male and his ancestry, — what their butter or milk qualities were. Darwin says : " The whole subject of inheritance is wonderful ; when a new character arises, what- ever its nature may be, it generally tends to be inherited." Again he says ; " Looking to the Old World, in the Sahara Desert, the Touareg is as careful in the selection' of his breed- ing Mahari (a fine race of the dromedary) as the Arab is in that of his horse. The pedigrees are handed down, and many a dromedary can boast a genealogy far longer than the descendants of the Darley Arabian." Moses says : " Thou shalt not breed thy cattle with a diverse kind." Pliny men- tions that King Phyrrus had an especially valuable breed of oxen, and he did not suffer the bulls and cows to come together till four years old, that they might not degenerate. Virgil, in his Georgics (lib. Ill) advises carefully to select the breeding stock, " to note the tribe, the lineage and the sire, whom to reserve for husband of the herd." We will follow Virgil's advice, although going back to one -who flourished two thousand years ago. We take that depart- ment of dairying, — butter : first, we note the tribe : Jersey — 13 no one will question but what tliey are best for that purpose. Then the lineage : we find the tribe of Jersey consists of many families noted for their butter qualities, whose pedigrees can be traced through many generations. As there were two bulls belonging to George H, Hitchcock, of Qnincyj on exhibition of the class mentioned, I will speak of them. They belonged to the Rioter Alphea and Stoke Pogis families, noted for butter productions. Oue versed in Jersey matters finds Mr. H.'s bull Burgos', 11,054, (which is his number on the American Jersey Cattle Club Herd Register,) sire was Black Prince of Hanover, 2,878, whose sire was Rioter, 2d, 469. The last named was the sire of Eurotas, 2,454, who made seven hundred and seventy-eight pounds of butter in one year. Black Prince of Hanover's dam was Leda, 799, who was the dam of Phaedra, 2,561, who made nineteen pounds of butter- in one week. Black Prince of Hanover was the sire of Lonice, 13,656, and Blossom of Hanover, 13,655, who made each seventeen pounds and eight ounces of butter in one week, on grass. Leda's, 799, sire was Jupiter, 93, and dam Europa, 176, the latter the dam of Eurotas, 2,454. Europa's dam was the great Alphea, 171, who made twenty-four pounds of batter in one week. We could go on with a lengthy account of this family, but it is unnecessary. We will just mention his other bull, who is of the Stoke Pogis blood. His grand-dam Nora of St. Lambert, 12,962, when three years old made in one week, in Winter,, fourteen pounds and seven ounces of butter. Her sire, Stoke Pogis, 3il, 2,238, was the sire of Mary Ann of St. Lambert, 9,770, who made eight hundred and sixty-seven pounds of butter in three hundred and forty days. He was the sire of twenty-three noted butter cows, and the accounts of the different branches of this family would fill manj' pages. There are also other Jersey families of renown which space forbids- us to mention. ft 14 If oue prefers to breed for milkiug purposes, we would rec- ommend the Holsteiu. Among the noted fiimilies of that breed are the Artis, Aaggie and Netherhiud. Lady Fay, of the last named family, gave 20,412 pounds of milk in one year, and many others have given near that amount. There is the Ayr- shire, noted for their milk and cheese qualities. The Devon as a hardy race, the Short Horns for beef, all have their books of registry for the breeder's benefit. Althouijh it is a law of nature that each animal differs in some slight degree from every other, still, by careful and con- tinued selection, we will effect wonderful results. Of the early care of the bull, I will say a few words. I take the calf from its dam in two days from its birth ; give it new milk for a week ; then warm skim milk with oat meal, the same kind we have on our table ; increase it as the animal grows, until six months old, with hay or grass. At two years I put a copper ring through his nose. (I prefer copper to iron, as the latter is apt to rust and make his nose sore.) I have him stand in the barn with cows on each side of him ; this is essential, as their company tends to make his disposition mild. Nothing makes a bull so surly as to be isolated ; they, like the human species, prefer company, and the more you are with your bull the milder he becomes. CHAELES O. ELLMS. 15 V ^ REPORT ON DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Another year Las come ; it was a most favorable coming as regards wind and weather. We hope we have made a step forward in every respect. The work of preparing the awards on the articles was never so easy as the present. One canndt be too grateful to Mrs. Crane for her timely sug- gestion of numbering each article as it is entered at the desk. Unless one lias performed the labor in previous years, they ■could hardly believe it would so lighten it. It is now quite easy to find, among a long list of articles, a particular number, because there are no two alike. Otherwise, where so many articles are so nearly alike, one may overturn the same one several times, looking for a certain name. There were one hundred articles, thirty less than last year. Of this number there were fifteen braided rugs, — large, small, coarse and fine braids. Those particularly nice in sewing and braiding we mention, as they occur on our list. Two by Mrs. Ruth Peterson, aged seventy-eight. The •design, — I say design; where the rags are sewed without regard to color, there isn't much design about it, — braid and sewing were nicely done. Such a mat is an ornament because of its real worth. It serves its purpose in a durable way. A finer braid, by Mrs. C. Bonuey, must have been the work of many days. Mrs. F. Barker, one : the words written next her number express enough, "beautifully braided." If there is anything 16 paiticularly nice about an article, at the time we take the- uum- bers, we write against the number what we think, so we may not forget when we make our report ; otherwise, we could not remember, among so many articles, their particular merits. Mrs. C. Stevens, Hanson, Mrs. A. Wliite, same place, very nice, firm braids. Mrs. C. W. Kichards, a very _fine braid sewed to look alike both sides. Mrs. Jane S. Oakman, a nice, large mat, which had no right or wrong side. We called it the " reversible" mat. Mrs. A. M. Bonney, Hanson, again brought a nice braid. Her rugs are always nice ! Mrs. H. S. Pratt's were nice and pretty ; we could only repeat our remarks concerning Mrs. Bonney. There were otlier, good, large rugs, and a credit to the makers. Just a " baker's dozen " of drawn rugs. Mrs. Benjamin Otis' is the first number. The border was in diamonds. Of course,, it requires more time to design a border than a plain ground ; by plain, is intended to convey the idea of simply filling around the flowers or figure, without regard to any figure outside the central one, — not even corners are included. The three beautifully designed, shaded and sheared rugs, by Miss Katie E. Winslow, are beyond our powers of description, as they must be seen, in order to be appreciated. I will, there- fore, give some of the remarks made to me. One lady said . "It isn't possible they are made by hand, they are woven." The only way she would be convinced was, by taking one and carefully showing — as well as we could in anything so firmly drawn — just how it was made. Another : " ihey were fit to adorn any parlor in the land." Everything of which they were made were old rags. They were continually being remarked about. I hope that none of us coveted them ; I am sure we would all like some like them. Miss Priscilla M. Hunt's drawn rugs were very pretty. Mrs. F. Barker, Mis. Mary C. Barker, Mary E. Walker, Bella 17 81u'lilon aud Miss Mary Hall showed pretty rugs, too well made to pa^s unnoticed. There were more fancy rugs than usual. The four "daisy mats" were so nearly alike, one could see no difference in workmanship, size, shape and material. The borders were the only difference. All were beautifully made. One with a pear- shaped border might be called a little prettier. They were made by Miss Susan W. Stetson, Marshfield ; Mrs. Walton Hall, Marshfield; Walter E. French, East Weymouth. The latter labored under a mistake in not informing the committee it was a lad's work. It was as nice as au}' of the others; we supposed it was a lady's work, until we tilled our cards after we had made the awards. If he was under fifteen, it should have been in the Children's Department, where he would have received a greater recompense for his labor. Had we known it was by a boy, we should have awarded him more money. As it is unusual for boys to be able to do so nice a piece of sewing, fitting and designing, there should be shown an appre- ciation of the effort. Girls are expected to be experts with the needle and scissors. The fourth name or owner of the other mat, we were unable to discover. The three knit rugs were by elderly ladies : Mrs Jane H. Ewell, aged seventy-three ; Mrs. H. S. Pratt, who also had a nice rug, made in diamond design. Mrs. Ruth Peterson, of Pembroke, had a pretty fancy rug with kid decorations. Rosa Chandler's fancy mat was a beauty. We think there are plenty of young fingers able to make such mats. They are useful, ornamental, and save pieces which would otherwise be thrown away. The committee were much puzzled over a pretty mat by Mrs. John Corthell, as to what name belonged to it. It was knit with shaded wools, in stripes, plain garter stitch, then sewed securely by the edge of each strip, in upright position, to a foundation. It presented a bright, lively appear- 2 18 ance. Mrs. 0. has set a good pattern before the young people, which may be easily followed. A figured rug by Miss Carrie Gardner elicited much commendation. The figures were so comical, yet so nicely sewed to the foundation. Among the knit silk articles, Mrs, J. D. Churchill, of Plymouth, contributed a pretty pair of openwork silk stock- ings, and a nice pair of gloves of the same material ; another pair of silk mittens, by Mrs. Charles Graves, of Greenbush, ornamented with a pretty bow of ribbon. That may hardly seem worth mentioning ; yet the effect of the ribbon with the J dark mittens added a new beauty. Miss Lucy M. Stevens, of Marshfield, had a smaller pair of mittens ; they were evenly knit. Mrs. R. S. Williams, three pairs of cotton stockings, showing a becoming industry. We venture to say they will outwear a dozen pair of woven ones. Mrs. H. S. Pratt, of Hanson, remembers to send several pairs of well-knit woolen stockings. This year there were seven. They will make the weiirer com- fortable. Imogeue McClellan, of South Hanson, sent a nice pair of mittens ; also, Mrs. A. White, of the same town. Mrs. I. H. Hatch, of North Marshfield, a pair of fancy knit mittens, with a pretty bow of ribbon. Mrs. Louisa A. Low, of Marsh- field, had a beautiful pair of knitted slippers. Those who are exceedingly weary, and long to rest their tired feet, will do well to knit themselves a pair. They are very warm, and perfectly loose and comfortable. Fewer knit spreads were displaj^ed than last year. Mrs. Julia Gleason, aged eighty-three, sent a large one, also a crib quilt. Our thought followed the aged knitter ; we could but think how such articles soon become heirlooms to future generations. Some, indeed, have been handed down for over a hundred years. Mrs. C. W. Richards sent one knit in shell. Shell quilts are always pretty, even though knit with quite 19 coarse cotton. Mrs. Ljdia Taylor also sent one ; Mrs. Samue Holmes, a nice knit skirt. I have one in mind now, knit some hundred and twenty-five years ago, also a shawl and hood ; all of "homespun" white yarn, they look as though they might last as long as they have. Of course they were yellow with age. Mrs. C. L. Damon sent two crocheted skirts, which looked very nicely : we've no doubt of their excellency. There were no silk quilts in our Department this year ; through a mistake they were transferred to the Fancy Depart- ment. There were a sufficient number of patchwork quilts to more than fill the space allotted. Susan W. Stetson had one with a border of very small squares, which were excellently sewed, as well as ornamentally arranged. They were perfectly fitted, and that makes a nice looking quilt. Miss Emma Stet- son and Miss Emily A. Ewell both sent nicely joined and sewed quilts. A quilt by Mrs. Harriet Bates, aged seventy-five, was beautifully made ; also Mrs. Ruth Peterson's, aged fifty, who brought a basket patchwork quilt. We are glad to have an opportunity to men' ion a mistake in her award, instead of thirty cents it should be eighty. She sent several others. Mrs. J. S. Oakman, eighty-one, whose interest has not abated, sent spreads and comforters ; both nicely made. Some patchwork excellently made, by a lady eighty-six, was very pretty. We did not know her age at the time of the award. Of all the articles sent to the Domestic Department, nothing was more deserving of notice than a nightdress, made by Mrs. Betsey Turner, of Hanson, aged eighty-one. The gathers were perfectly even, sewed to the bindings, a stitch to every gather. The back-stitching, so nicely done ; button holes evenly made, and of a size; the edging sewed overhand. If at eighty-one she can sew like that, what must it have been at sixteen ? It is ever to be remembered that eyes who use " helps to see" cannot do such nice work as those who have no such need. 20 A nice apron, bj Mrs. B. B. Bobbins, of South Boston, graced our table. Mrs. Betsey Turner's flag was something new. Our country's flag: we, one and all, cherish its folds. It is to us an emblem of liberty and, we hope, of just laws. A table cloth woven by a girl of twenty years, in our day, is worth seeing. It was very pretty, and was sent by Mrs. A. C. Bar- rows, of Pembroke. Some remarks we heard concerning it, reminded the writer of an old lady in our neighborhood, who, scorning " the present age of do nothing gals," said " ive wove our own sheets, pillow cases, towels, table cloths, and hatcheled the flax, too ; besides, bedspreads and blankets. I guess there wouldn't many on ye get married now if ye had to wait till ye did that." I guess not, either. Considering our new departure, we feel it has been a happy change. Of all the articles pre- sented, there was not owe shabbily made. EMMA M. C. BATES. 21 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS To George 31. Bal-er, Esq., President of tlie Marslifield Agricultural and Horticultural Society : Dear Sir : — We have received four reports in quite dif- ferent departments, all of which we think will be read with interest and profit. We recommend that of the four premiums, the first be given for the report on Fancy Articles ; the second for that on Cows ; the third for that on Bulls ; and the fourth for that on Domestic Articles. Respectfully submitted, T H ROTTRNF i Committee on Reports. Marshfield, December 18, 1885. 22 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from November 17th, 1884, to November 16th, 1885. From Six new members, .... $30 00 Bent of halls, 52 50 Grass, $2.00 ; steps, $0.50, . . 2 60 State bounty, 600 00 Donations, 95 Receipts of Exhibition. Gkatuities were Disbursed and the Amount to Each. Marshfield, ....... $445 74 Duxbury, Pembroke, . Hanover, South Abington, Boston, . Plymouth, . Rockland, Abington, South Scituate, Holbrook, Kingston, Quincy, Brooklyn, N. Y., Newton, Easton, . Braintree, Stoughton, 27 Hingham, ....... $1 00 Bridgewater, 16 00 Norwood, 40 Hanson, 60 22 Scituate, 29 65 Brockton, 4 75 Weymouth, 9 40 Taunton, 22 00 Middleboro, 90 Cambridgeport, 60 West Bridgewater, 7 80 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cnltural and Horticultural Society for the year 1885. GEOKGE M. BAKER, President FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Mabshfield, January 1, 1886. ] LIST OF PREMIUMS -OF THK- MARSHFIELD Agricultural p-^' Horticultural SOCIETY —FOR— 1886., PLYMOUTH : AVERY & DOTEN, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 1885. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1886. PREZSIDEIN-T: WILLIAM J. WRIGHT, Duxbury. vice: PREZSIDENTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, JOHN H. BOURNE, Marshfield. SBCREITARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfield. DIRBCTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield, JUDSON EWELL, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. DEIUEIGA-rE: TO STATE! BOARD FOR THREIEI YBARS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1886. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOREST TREES. For the best phmtation of Forest Trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thou- sand trees, premium of $30. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of |20. Premiums to be awarded in 1889. Committee.— James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman; Edward Sprague, Marshfield, John B. Chandler, Pembroke. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple Trees, set out in 1886, and in the most flouiishiDg condition in 1889, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear Trees, set out in 1886, and in the best condition in 1889, two premiums — $8, 4. Committee. — Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Dr. S. Heurj-, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — $8, 4. Payable in 1888. Committee. — Charles AVilliamson, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experimeut in Draining Land, two- premiums — $8, 4. To be paid in 1888. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman; B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Frank Ford, Marshfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to- the Secretary on or before September 1, 1886. A full and careful statement, in writing, must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Ha}-, on one acre, not less- than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, John Magoun, Marshfield. GRAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre^ and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — $8, 5. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 3. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 3. 5 All entiit's ou grain, except corn, to be niiide to the Secretary before the first day of Augnst ; ou corn before the first day of September. Committee. — T. B, Blackman, Murshfield, Chairman ; C. P. Wright, Marshfield, T. P. Ford, Marshfield. ROOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on uot less than one-fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets, ou one-fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one-eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, on one-half of an acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hundred bushels, on one-half of an acre — $4, 3, 2. Committee, — James H. West, Jr., Pembroke, Chairman; Josephus Dawes, Duxbury, C. H. Williamson, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1886, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for sead, its previous culture, the kind, quality and value of the manure applied, the amount of labor expended, with such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. 6 'A 1 CATTLE. cows. All cattle must Lave been owned by the exhibitor three months. , n For the best herd of cows (not lets than five) of any breed — $10. None of the herd to be entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cow of the Jersey breed, five premiums — S6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, five premiums — *6, 4, 3. 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For tbe best Milch Cow of the Grade, five premiums — $6, 4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Milch Cow of the Native, five premiums— 16, 4, 3, 2, 1. Committee.— Henry A. Turner, South Scituate, Chairman; Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, G. H. Hitchcock, Quincy. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HERDS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Devou breed, having had a calf three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having ha 1 a call', three premiums— $4, 3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Jers(iy Heifer, three jjremiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Devon Heifer, three premiums— 13, 2, 1. For the best Native or Grade Heifer, three premiums — $3, 2, I. For the best Heifer of any other breed, tliree premiums — <|pd, Z, 1. Committee. — Wendell Phillips, Marshfield, Chairman ; Elbridge H. Chandler, Duxbury, William L. Cushing, Marshfield. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devou Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Grade Heifer, two premiums— $2, 1. For the best Native Heifer, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee.— James E. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Fred. Cole, Scituate, Josiah H. Baker, Pembroke. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2. 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. 8 For the best Grade Calf, not less than four months old, two- premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Henry Carver, Marshfield, Chairman; Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield, Calvin S. West, Pembroke. BULLS. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than ififteen months old,, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Dutch Bull, not less than fifteen months old,, three premiums- $4, 3, 2. For the best Ayrshire bull, not less than fifteen months old,, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the best Devon bull, not less than fifteen months old,, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon or Dutch Breeds, each two premiums, |2, 1. Committee. — John K. Parker, Duxbury, Chairman ; Walton. Hall, Marshfield, William Taylor, Pembroke. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — 15, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3. 2. Committee. — Ephraim H. Walker, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ;. J. H. Corthell, Scituate, George Bradford, Duxbury. WORKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years> old, three premiums — 15, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four year& old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Henry Wright, Marshfield, Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover. 9 SHEBP. For the best flock of sheep, fifteen iu number, two premiums — <|p5, o. For the best flock of Sheep, not less th;in ten in number, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — Ephraim Walker, Jr., Marshfiekl, Chairman ; Daniel Pliillips, Marshfiekl, John W. Hatch, Pembroke. HORSES. Mr. William J. Wright, the new President of the Society, has generously contributed two hundred dollars, one hundred and fifty of which is to be spent as premiums for trotting horses or on the track, and the remaining fifty dollars for the following classes of horses, to be awarded according to the judgment of the difl'erent committees. For the best Stud Horse, two premiums — S3, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. Committee.— Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, Chairman ; Lewis H. Keith, Kingston, Fred. Stetson, Hanover. DRAFT HORSES. For the best pair of Draft Horses, two premiums — $4, 3. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — $4, 3. Draft Horses entered in one class not to be entered in the other. Committee. — S. B. Chandler, Marshfield, Chairman ; Robert T. Randall, Duxbury, Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield. 10 FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. CoMMiTTEE.-rA. C. Chandler, Plymouth, Chairman ; Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, I. G. Stetson, Hanover. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — Fred M. Harrub, Plympton, Chairman ; H. G. Crossley, Abington, Charles H. Taylor, Marshfield. GENT'S DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. —Walton Hall, Marshfield, Chairman; Dr. S. F. Ham, Marshfield, H. K. Keith, Kingston. WALKING HORSES. For the fastest Walking Horse, three premiums— $4, 3, 2. Committee. — John Magoun, Marshfield, Chairman ; George Bradford, Duxbury, G. Herbert Chandler, Marshfield. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, L For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Howard Clapp, Boston, Chairman ; AnsoB Hatch, Pembroke, Martin Chandler, Marshfield. 11 SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, four premiums — $5, 4, 3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, four premiums — f4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four or more than seven months old, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. Committee. — Gershom Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Ezra Ford, Marshfield. PLOUGHING. For the best Plough iug, with oxen without driver, three premiums — S4, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with oxen with driver, three pre- miums— S3, 2, 1. For the best Ploughing, with horses without driver, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best Ploughing, with horses with driver, three pre- miums—$3, 2, 1. Committee. — Thomas B. Blackman, Marshfield, Chairman; K T. Randall, Duxbur}-, Barna Everson, Hanson. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES, AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. Ezra Smith, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. Oscar Weston, Marshfield, Mrs. J. J. McFarlin, Pembroke. IJ BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four premiums — $4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Plain Cheese, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors to Butter and Cheese. Committee.— Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. James H. West, Pembroke, Mrs. David Briggs, Scituate. BREAD. WHITE BREAD. For the best sample of White Bread, five premiums— .f 2, 1, .75, ,50, .25. Committee. — Mrs. Walton Hall, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. Mary Gardner, Pembroke, Mrs. E. P. Sprague, Marshfield. RYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT. For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two premi- ums— $2, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. Caroline Sables, Scituate. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of con- tributors. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar, is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepara" tion is to be attached to each loaf. 13 FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — 13, 2.50, 2, 1 50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twentj'-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the committee. Committee. — Israel H. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman; Joseph Weston, Duxbury, H. C. Dunham, Marshfield. PEAES. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — 13, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — 11.50, 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — Dr. G. W. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman; Dr. Joseph Hagar, Marshfield, Edward W. Crane, Marshfield. PEACHES, QUINCES AND PLUMS. For the best display of Peaches, six premiums — $2.50, 2, 1.50, 1.25, 1, .75. For the best display of Quinces, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. For the best display- of Plums, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee.— S. W. Eastman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, G. H. Hitchcock, Quincy. 14 GRAPES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, five pre- miums—$3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, six premiums — each twenty-five cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — twenty-five cents each. . Four dollars may be distributed by the Committee. Committee.— John Baker, Marshfield, Chairman j Charles F. Randall, Pembroke, S. E. Low, Marshfield. CRANBERRIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, two premiums — $1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel ex- hibited, two premiums — .50, .25. Committee. — B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Chairman; Henry D. Northey, Scituate, John Magoun, Marshfield. POULTRY. Number of entry to be attached to coop, instead of owner's name. For the best trio of Light Brahmas, three premiums— $3, 2, 1. For the best trio of Plymouth Rocks, three premiums — •po, A, 1. For the best trio of White or Brown Leghorns, three pre- miums— S3, 2, 1. Fifty dollars to be distributed. On pigeons and pets not more than twenty dollars. I 1 r Committee. — Alpheus Packard, Hauover, Chairman; H. G. Vinal, Plymouth. H. C. Sampson, Pembroke. G. J. Peterson, Special Committee in care of Poultry. HOME DEPARTMEN'l One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee.— Mrs. E. M. C. Bates, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. J. S. Ford, Duxbury, Mrs. E. E. Tilden, Marshfield. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FANCY ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Hannah Alden, Duxbury, Chairman ; Miss Carrie Randall, Pembroke, Mrs. Lydia B. Vinal, Plymouth. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FLOWERS. Thirty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — G. H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Annie E. Williamson, Marshfield, Mrs. Gershom W. Witherell, Duxbury. 16 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Thirtj-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. Clara T. Prior, Marshfield, Mary W. Baker, Marshfield. MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Thirty dollars to be awarded by the committee. Committee.— J. Dean Bonney, Pembroke, Chairman, Samuel C Stetson, Marshfield, G. Herbert Chandler, Marshfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities as much as possible. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the committee. For the best collection, five premiums — 16, 6, 4, 3, 2. Committee.— H. H. Northey, Scituate, Chairman; Charles W. Berry, South Scituate. PREPARATION OF MEADOW FOR CRAN- BERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one-eight of an acre, and covering with cran- berry vines, two premiums — 16, 4. 1 17 Eutries to bo made before July 1, 1885. Premiums payable in the fall of 1888. Committee.- B. G. Calioou, Dnxbury, Chairman; Joseph Weston, Duxbnry, AKleu AYhite, Duxbury. GARDENS. For tlie most productive gard<^n, containing three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee.— Israel Oaknian, Marshfield, Chairman; Mar- cellus Rogers, Marshfield, Francis Merritt, Pembroke. STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of Strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums— -|6, 4. Payable in 1886. Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman; G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, William Holmes, Duxbury. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to award premiums, four premiums — 16, 5, 4, 3. Committee. — Eev. E. Aldeu, Marshfield, Chairman ; S. N, Gifford, Duxbury, John H. Bourne, Marshfield. GROUNDS. Committee. — Barker Sprague, Marshfield. 18 HALL Committee. — Edward Sprague, Cliairman; Jolm G. Sprague, Mrs. J. G. Sprague, Miss M. H. Elliot. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Chose G. J. Peterson, Matshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. Frank Ford, Marshtield. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. Judson Ewell, Marshfield. hi REGULATIONS. No member of the committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily tilled by the other members. All articles, products, flowers, fruits, and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the Hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock M., on the first day of the Fair. Committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall, at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc* Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society may be awarded. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Exhibition. 20 No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society. No animal shall be entitled to a premium unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three months prior to the Exhibition. The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has- taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of committees to indicate the premiums on- cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All committees to report previous to December, 1886. Reports of committees should contain : — First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of contributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the committee. I t-»«J X7 135 TRANSACTIONS -or TKE-- MARSHFIELD \griculturaU^" Horticultural SOCIETY IDTJUXISrcar THE -5rE-A.I^ 1886. PLYMOUTH r AVERY & DOTEN, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 1887. TRANSACTIONS -OF THE- MARSHFIELD A2;riculturaU'^" Horticultural SOCIETY 3D TJ 11 1 ]Sr a- THE ^STE-A-I^ 1886. PLYIMOUTH : AVERY & DOTEN, BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 18S7. ST4TE mm CP-MA3METTS, < ' CO < OFl-ICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1886. PRBSIDENT: WILLIAM J. WRIGHT, Dnxbury. vice PRESIDEINTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke, JOHN H. BOURNE, Marshfield. SEICRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. "TRBASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfield. DIRBCTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield, JUDSON EWELL, Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxbury, JOSEPH US DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. de:le:gat"e: to state: board for three: YEARS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth. Term Expires, 1887. List of Members of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society. REVISED JANUARY ist, 1887. MARSHFIELD. Allien, Ebenezer Aldeu, Mrs. Ebenezer Aldeij, EdDiuud K. Amos, Elijah Ames, Mis. Elijah Ames, Mrs. Calviu Baker, George M. Baker, Mrs. George M. Baker, George Baker, Frank Baker, Mary W. Baker, Stella B. Baker, Jobn Baker, Mrs. John Baker, James E. Baker, Mrs. James E. Blackmau, Thomas B. Blaokman, Mrs. Thomas B. Baker, Horace E. Baker, J. Florence Brown, George W. Bourne, George H. Brown, Henry S. Bonney, Henry B. Bonuey, Mrs. Henry B. Carver, Francis E. Chandler, Simeon B. Uhaodler, JVJrs. Sinaeou B, Ames, Mrs. Wallace Ames, George Ames, Mrs. George Ames, John Ames, George H. Brown, David, Jr. Brown, Mrs. David, Jr. Brown, David, 3d Brown, Mrs. David, 3d Bourne, John H. Bourne, Mrs. John H. Baker, Mary E. Bates, Albert Bates, Mrs. Albert Bates, Amy W. Baker, John, Jr. Baker, Abby T. Barstow, Augustus P. Barstow, Mrs. Augustus P. Bourne, Harriet Bourne, Eliza Beal, Mrs. Nancy T. Brown, Grace Earle Cud worth, Laban Gushing, William B. Cushing, Mrs. William B, 6 Cleft, Mrs. Eleanor Chandler, Martin Chandler, Mrs. Martin Carver, John Carver, William Carver, Henry Carver, David, Jr. Crane, Susan C. Cox, Ebenezer Chandler, Lydia T. Dingley, Mrs. I. P. Dorr, Nathan Dorr, Mrs. Nathan Damon, Nath. J. Delano, Henry C. Devereaux, Francis B. Dunham, Henry C. Dunham, Mrs. H. C. Emery, Maria J. Eastman, Stephen W. Eastman, Mrs. Stephen W. Ewell, Mary E. Ewell, Ezra D. Ford, Thomas P. Ford, Mrs. Thomas P. Ford, Frank Ford, Mrs. Frank Ford, Edwin Gardner, Stephen Gardner, Mrs. Stephen Cushing, William L. Cushing, Mrs. William L. Church, Nathaniel Church, Mrs. Nathaniel Cushman, Nahum P. Church, Mrs. John Carver, Hatch Chandler, George H. Churchill, George Damon, Almira Damon, Granville D. Damon, Eachel B. Delano, Mrs. Emma L. Dunham, Henry M. Dwelley, Frank C. Doane, Mrs. E. P. Ewell, Quincy A. Ewell, Judson Emery, Geoige W. Emery, Frank Hall Ford, Ezra Ford, Mrs. Ezra Ford, Eoscoe E. Ford, Clarissa Fish, Arzeal Goodsell, Curtis B. Goodsell, Mrs. Curtis B, Henry, Stephen Hatch, Tracie W. Henry, Mrs. Stephen Hatch, Frederic Henry, Nellie M. Hatch, Calvin 0. Hewitt, Hannah Hatch, Elisha C. Ham, Dr S. F. Hatch, William Hatch, S. Franklin Hatch, Luther P. Hatch, Mrs. C. Russell Hatch, Mrs. Luther P Hall, Walton Hatch, Luther Hall, Mrs. Walton Hatch, Abbie Heustis, Mrs. J. Fred. Hatch, John F. Hatch, H. Albion Hatch, Mrs. John F. Hatch, Mrs. Charles T. Hatch, Mercy E. Hatch, C. Russell Hatch, Mary E. Harlow, Charles M. Harlow, Mrs. Charles M Hagar, Joseph Hagar, Mrs. Joseph Hagar, Joseph C. Harlow, John A. Hatch, Jotham Hatch, Harris B. Hatch, Israel H. Hatch, Mrs. Israel H. Josselyn, Charles S. Keep, Samuel Kemp, Mrs. Alvira Kent, Elisha W. Kent, Peleg^. Kent, Abbie E. Kent, Warred Kent, Mrs. Warren Lapham, William C. Lapham, Sarah F. Little, Joanna W. Magouu, Lather Magoun, Mrs. Luther Moorehead, R. H. Moorehead, Mrs. R. H. Moorehead, John Mowry, Warren F. Nelson, Henry W. Oakman, Mrs. Constant Oak man, Israel Oakman, Mrs. Anstrus Oakman, Israel H. Oakman, Hiram A. Pratt, Bryant C. Prior, George Peterson, George J. Peterson, Mrs. George J. Peterson, Alice C. Peterson, Irving G. Peterson, George P. Peterson, Charles F. Hall, Elisha W. Hall, Mrs. Elisha W. Hall, Hattie G. Hall, Warren Hall, Henrietta Hall, Winthrop Hatch, Marcellus Hatch, Mrs. Marcellus Holman, William H. Josselyn, Henry W. Kent, Andrew Kent, M. Hermon Kent, Mrs. William Keen, Benj. F. H. Keen, Mrs. Benj. F. H. Keen, Nancy Keep, Mrs. Samuel Lapham, Mrs. Addie J. Little, Allen N. Low, Sarah K. McCarthy, Cornelius Magoun, Charles H. Magoun, Andrew T. Mitchell, Charles P. Magoun, John Magoun, Mrs. John Oakman, Mrs. Hiram A. Oakman, Otis B. Oakman, Martha L. Oakman, Edward H. Pratt, Mrs. Bryant C. PhiUips, Abbie R. Peterson, Walter S. Porter, William S. Paine, Ezekiel D. S. Phillips, Nathaniel Phillips Alfred Phillips, Matilda 8 Peterson, Charles S. Peterson, Charles E,. Peterson, William C. Peterson, Mary E. Porter, Nicholas Porter, Mrs. Nicholas Porter, Nathaniel Paine, Ezekiel Kogers, Wales Rogers, Clift Rogers, James L. Rogers, Marcellus Rogers, Avery- Rogers, Mrs. Avery Randall, W. W. Stetson, Lydia E. Sampson, Lucia Sampson, Charles, 2d Sampson, Harrison Sampson, Oscar F. Sampson, Joseph Stevens, Susan B. Stetson, Samuel C. Stetson, Mrs. Samuel C. Smith, Ezra Smith, Mrs. Ezra Smith, Persis Smith, Henry B. Smith, J. Bessie Stoddard, E. M. Sprague, John, 2d Sprague, Albert T., Jr. Sprague, Mrs. James Sprague, Barker Sprague, Harvey Sprague, Mrs. Harvey Stevens, Thomas Stetson, James H. Sprague, M. Louisa Thomas, Luther Thomas, Mrs. Luther Thomas, George H. Thomas, Lucius Thonlas, Mary A- Phillips, Adrian Phillips, Wendell A. Paine, Susan M. Paulding, Joshua Phillips, Sarah E. Prior, Clara T. Pratt, Edwin N. Reed, Edwin Richards, Lydander S. Ricliards, Mrs. Lysander S. Richards, Eleanor R. Randall, George S. Randall, Mrs. George S. Richards, Rogers C. • Stevens, Alonzo Stevens, Lucy M. Sherman, William Sherman, Leander Sherman, Mrs. Leander Sherman, Agnes L. Sprague, Elisha P. Sprague, Mrs. Elisha P. Sprague, Stephen C. Sprague, Mrs. Stephen Sprague, Edward Sprague, Mrs. Edward Sprague, John G. Sprague, Edward P. Sprague, Seth F, Sprague, Albert T. Sprague, Mrs. Albert T. Sprague, Rosie M. Sprague, Lydia S. Sampson, Mrs. George Stevens, Sophia M. Sprague, Seth F., 2d Sprague, Willard H. Trouant, Charles S. Tilden, Frederic A. Tilden, H. Atwood Tilden, Elliott R. Tilden, Mrs. Elliott R. 9 Taylor, Smith Taylor, Allen Taylor, Mrs. Smith Thompson, Daniel H. Thompson, Mrs. Daniel H. Tolman, Mrs. Wm. P. Ventress, George Walker, Henry Walker, Charles A. Walker, Mrs. Charles A. Walker, Ephraim H. Walker, Mrs. Ephraim H. Walker, Ephraim H., Jr. Walker, Frank A. White, Thomas F. White, Edward White, Mrs. Edward Wadsworth, Ichabod Wright, Mrs. Daniel Wright, Charles P. Wright, Mrs. Charles P. Waterman, Nancy Williamson, Peter Williamson, Mrs. Peter Williamson, William Williamson, Mrs. William Williamson, Angelia Williamson, Agenor W^illiamson, Charles Williamson, Mrs. Charles Williamson, Wendell P. Williamson, Charles H. Williamson, Alice A. Worster, George W. Tilden, Charles M. Thomas, Abbie F. Taylor, George A. Taylor, Charles H. Taylor, Mrs. Charles H. Tilden, Mrs. H. A. White, Mrs. Luther Walker, Mary E. Walker, Asa E. Wadsworth, Mary Wadsworth, Luke Webster, Mrs. Caroline Weston, Mrs. Seth Weston, Sarah T. Weston, Keziah Weston, Beulah Weston, Walter Wright, Mrs. Ezra Wright, Henry Wright, Nathaniel Williamson, Mrs. Elijah Williamson, Emma Weatherbee, Blanche G. Weatherbee, George H., Jr. Weatherbee, Mrs. G. H., Jr, Widdows, S. Jennie Whiting, Nath. H. Whiting, Mrs. Nath. H. Whiting, Mrs. Warren T. Williamson, Eunice Williamson, E. Mabel Wilson, Celia J. White, Luther DUXBUEY. Alden, Thomas Alden, Mrs. Elizabeth W. Alden, Peleg J. Alden, Mrs. Peleg J. Bailey, Louis M. Barstow, Hiram W. Barstow, Mrs. Hiram W. Alden, Thomas, Jr. Alden, James Alden, Samuel W. Atwell, Samuel Bemis, Benjamin C. Bradford, George Bradford, Mrs George 10 Barstow, Henry Barstow, Lewis Bailey, George H. Bailey, Mrs. George H. Bradford, Chester H. Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Chandler Florence M. Mrs. H. B. Ira Bailey Mrs. Bailey Mrs. Martin S. Judah Proctor Lncia J. El bridge Ijaura S. George Henry B. Nathaniel L. Horatio Delano, Herman H. Delano, Charles C. Dawes, Josephus Dawes, Mrs. Josephus Delano, Adelbert Ford, Benj. P. Ford, Levi Ford, Jonathan S. Ford, Mrs. Jonathan S. Ford, George W. Ford, Mrs. George W. Gorham, Thomas Gifford, Mrs. Stephen N. Goodwin, LeBarroa Hunt, W. Aldeu Hunt, Thomas G. Hunt, Mary R. Inglis, Artemas Keen, Isaac Keen, Mrs. Isaac Keen, Lydia Baker, Edward Boylston, Clarence Brewster, Melzar Baker, Walter Bradford, Gershom Chandler, Thaddeus W. Caswell, J. B. Chandler, Willard B. Chandler, Thomas, 2d Chandler, Charles H. Chandler, Mrs. Charles H. Chandler, Hiram W. Chandler, Mrs. George Chandler, Elwood B. Chandler, Ada J. Chandler, Nath. L., Jr. Chandler, David H. Cushing, Seth Cushiug, Levi Cahoon, B, G. Dorr, Eufus B. Dorr, Mrs. Rufus B. Dorr, Charles Dorr, Abbie Devereaux, Daniel D. Ford, Hattie J. Ford, Florence G. Freeman, Mrs. Abram Freeman, Joshua S. Ford, Joshua T. Foster, Hiram Green, George A. Geary, Mrs. Joseph B. Glass, Daniel P. Hunt, John T. Holmes, William L. Hollis, J. B. Keen, Nathan C Kingman, Ziba W. 11 Loving, Jolm S. Loring, Mrs. Jobu S. Loring, Perez Loring, Edgar Loring, Mrs. Perez Lewis, Mrs. Joseph Loring, Lillian Parker, John K. Parker, Mercy Peterson, Josiali Peterson, Mrs. Elisha Pierce, Leander J. Kandall, Eobert T. Eandall, Mrs. Robert T. Seaver, L. S. Shurtlefi, Gideon Sherman, Mrs. Luther Soule, Enoch Soule, Edward T. Soule, Mrs E. Sprague, Joseph Sampson, George E. Simmons, Abraham P. Snell, Charles H. Train, Gorham Weston, Bradford Weston, James M. Weston, George P. Weston, Joshua Witherell, Mrs. Gershom W. Whiting, George L. W^right, George W. W^right, Mrs George W. Wilde, James Loring, Loring, Loring, Loring, Loring, Loring, Samuel Laura A. Horace L. Arthur T. Walter D. Lucy A. Peterson, Charles A. Paine, I. Martin Paine, Harriet Prior, William Prior, Mrs. William Roberts, D. B. Randall, Josiah D. Sherman, Frederic P. Sherman, Mrs. Frederic P. Soule, Harvey Sampson, Sylvanus Smith, Hambleton E. Smith, Mrs. Hambleton E. Simmons, William Sampson, Alfred, Jr. Sampson, Mrs. Alfred, Jr. White, Otis White, Alden Winsor, Mrs. Eden Wadsworth, Heniy Wright, Anna B. Wright, John S. Wright, William J. Wright, G. B. White, Gideon PEMBROKE. Arnold, Francis P. Boylston, George W. Beal, Job H. Bourne, Josiah Baker, Josiah H. Baker, Francis A. Baker, M. Sidney Bryant, W. H. H. Bonney, James O. Bonney, J. Dean Bonney, Mrs. J. Dean Bourne, James Bosworth, Sarah E. 12 Cushman, Julius Collamore, Francis Collamore, Mrs. Francis Collamore, Francis, Jr. Collamore, Fiorina M. Clark, Charles H. Chandler, Simeon Damon, Bailey D. • Ford, Barnabas Ford, Mrs. Barnabas Ford, Albert J. Gardner, Mrs. Albert L. Gardner, Joseph S. Hatch, John W. Hatch, Anson Hatch, Mrs. Anson Keen, James Joyce, Isaac Litchfield, Lafayette McFarlin, John J. McFarlin, Mrs. John J. Nash, Zebulon T. Pool, Williard Randall, Lydia G. Randall, Hiram Randall, Mrs. Hiram Standish, Otis Sawin, Sullivan Sawin, Mrs. Sullivan Taylor, Samuel T. West, James H. West, James H. Jr., West, Calvin S. Chandler, John B. Chandler, Theodore S. Chandler, Wadsworth Chandler, Mrs. Wadsworth Cox, Isaac M. Church, Edward R. Dagan, James Flavin, Mrs. Lizzie C. Ford, Charles L. Ford, Elsie J. Gardner, Arthur L. Holmes, John Holmes, Joanna S. Holmes, Samuel Keen, Frank E. Merritt, Francis Merritt, Ellery L. Pool, Andrew E. Randall, Charles F. Ryder, George H. Randall, Carrie D. Sampson, George Simmons, Daniel W. Taylor, William Whiting, William Whiting, Mrs I^William Whitmarsh, William F. 13 SCITUATE. Briggs, Charlotto M. Brings, Albert K. Cole, Mrs. Joseph O. Cole, Augustus W. Clapp, Chandler Cole, Charles A. Damou, Franklin EUms, Charles O. Ellms, Mrs. Charles Ford, John J. Jenkins, Cabel M. Manson, John Mitchell, Chades H. Northey, Mrs. H. H. Northey, Harvey D. Otis, Job P. Otis, Henry T. Sables, Caroline F. Sables, Mable Torrey, Everett Turner, Mrs. J. N., Vinal, Mrs. Thomas Wade, Eliza V. Welch, E. Parker Young, Edwin Briggs, Caroline Barker, Samuel P. Clapp, Charles F. Cole, Frederic Clapp, Rufus Ellms, Melzar J. Jenkins, David S. Mitchell, Mrs. Charles H. Northey, Henry H. Newcomb, William J. Otis, Deborah T. Sherman, Israel H. Turner, Edwin A. Tilden, Joseph W. Webb, George H. Wade, Jetson SOUTH SCITUATE. Berry, Charles Cudworth, Samuel C. Corthell, Joseph H. Fogg, Ebenezer T. Groce, Ansel G. Corthell, John E. Corthell, Mrs. Emma Groce, Mrs. Ansel G. 14 Jacob, George E. Nash, Mrs. J. C. Sampson, James W. Tut-ner, Henry A. Adams, Horatio Bailey, Nahnm Bailey. Mrs. Nahum Bailey', CTaleb E. Bailey, Mrs. Catherine Chandler, Algernon S. Chandler, Mrs. Algernon S. Dawes, James H. Evans, Green Faunce, Albert A. Holmes, Richard E. Myrick, William H. Peterson, Lewis Eeed, Porter C. Stranger, Joseph A. Simmons, Francis C. Weston, A. T. Jacobs, Edward Sampson, Gamaliel D. Tnruer, Mrs. Mary J. KINGSTON. Barstow, B. Parker Purges, William Barstow, Daniel W. Cushman, Samuel E. Avery, W. W. Avery, Mrs. Mary A. Chandler, A. C. Chandler, Wm. C. Damon, Daniel E. Damon, Edwin S. Gooding, Benj. W. Gilmore, Charles A. Evans, Mrs. Green Holmes, Frank H. Peterson, Ichabod Randall, Robert F. Stetson, Kimball W. Stetson, Mrs. Kimball W. Whiting, Mrs, George W. PLYMOUTH. Barker, Abby Bates, Mrs. James Cole, H. H. Clark, Robert Danforth, William S. Doten, Charles C. Gilbert, D. H. 15 Hedge, Bjiruabas He(lp;e, Baruabas, Jr. Jackson, Thomas O. Porter, Mrs. Lillie G. Robbins, Leavitt T. Swift, H. K. Vinal, H. G. Wadswortb, W;iit Andrews, George F. Bryant, Thomas Clapp, Howard Clapp, Abigail Delano, Charles H. Eames, Edward E. Hall, Samuel, Jr. Lincoln, Beza Loring, Alden P. Parks, H. F. Rogers, Alfred Rogers, Mrs. Alfred Weston, Hiram Woodsome, R. Hohnes, Peter Vinal, Lydia B. BOSTON. Allen, Stephen M. Clapp, Clift R. Cook, James M. Hall, Walter S. Loring, Richard F. Rogers, Samuel W. Rogers, Willard A. Wright, Samuel C. WEYMOUTH. Bradford, Mrs. Ephraim Bradford, Edna Curtis, Samuel Ford, Henry G. Haskins, Eli Hobart, Elijah Barker, Mrs. W. W. Hobart, Mrs. Elijah Harrington, Lucetta R. IC Keen, NerProt. Randall, A. B. W. Smith, Caroline A. CrosKley, H. Gilbert Nash, J. O. Whiting, Franklin T. "Williamson, Henry Briggs, Elbridge B. Briggs, Charles B. Dwelley, Edwin B. Dwelley, Mrs. Edwin B. French, Dr. J. O. Hatch, George Inglis, Thomas Magoun, H. B. Packard, Alpheus Sweeney, E. M. Sweeney, Mrs. L. M. Sylvester, Robert, Jr. Turner, Samuel S. Vining, C. C. Beal, John Everson, Barnabas Josselyn, Julius McClellan, I. L. Stevens, Albert W. Thomas, Betsey B. Thomas, Tamar C. Sampson, Daniel ABINGTON. Crossley, Mrs. H. Gilbert Noyes, Eliab M. Williamson, Mrs. Henry HANOVER. Bigelqw, Horatio Dwelley, Amelia S. French, Mrs. F. V. R. Howard, Mrs. Franklin Magoun, Catherine Perry, Mary B. Studley, Joshua Stetson, Fred Tower, John HANSON. Everson, Deborah B. Thomas, Elijah C. 17 BRIDGE WATER. Edsoi), Mrs. Josiah W. Giirney, Charles Hall, Lysaiuler R. Lead), James F. Mitchell, William Pratt, Calviu Sprague, Waterman Ei!z, Eliza R. Keen, Nahum Ames, Frank Baker, William D. Ewell,_Emilj A. Gardner, James C. Ijewis, Frank P. Torrey, Charles W. Brewster, Mrs. Josh. Corthell, William P. Dyer, Samuel Ford, Mrs. Olive T. Weston, Seth Bates, Warren Ellms, Edward E. Stetson, Morgan B. Gnrney, Mrs. Charles DEDHAM. KOCKLAND. Ames, Mrs. Frank Baker, Henry A. WHITMAN. REVERE. Weston, Mrs. Seth COHASSET. Ellms, Mrs. Edward E. 18 NEW YORK. Baker, Capt. Dauie! D. Richardson, Parker RAYNHAM. Williams, John D. G. Williams, Mrs. John D. G. CHARLESTOWN. Little, Otis CHICAGO, ILL. Skeele, Mrs. J. H. MILDLEBORO'. Carpenter, Charles H. I'RAMINGHAM. Spragne, Francis B. Sprague, Virginia L. 8prague, Marshall P. Williams, Ada L. MILTCN. Stratton, Joel A. HALIFAX. Ford, Mrs. Peleg Washburn, Cephas ST. LOUIS, MO. Lopez, Antonio WOBURN. Hatch, Emmons, Jr. WORCESTER. Hazeltine, Esther S. CAMBRIDGE. Paine, F. I. WINTHROP. Soule, John A. Soule, Laura J. Beut, Jiimcs H. Hunt, George S. Noonan, James Sprague, Elisha C. Holbrook, Natliaa Oakman, Henry P. Bryant, Lemuel Ellis, Natl). . Harrul), F. M. Pratt, Joshua Gay, Eldon P.. Hodges, Samuel W. Southworth, Amasa Tilclen, E. F. Curtis, Asa F. Mitchell, Nahum Ames, Dr. Hazel, Jr. Geary, Joseph E. Perry, Sophrouia Y. Sampson, Mrs. Susan B. 19 HINGHAM. Hunt, Mrs. George S. Sprague, Mrs. Elisha C. NEPONSET. Holbrook, Mrs. Nathan PLYMPTON. Ellis, Mrs. Nath. STOUGHTON. Southworth, Mrs. Amasa CHELSEA. MEDFOED. WAKEFIELD. BROCKTON. 20 . QUINCY. Hitchcock, G. H. Hatch, Mrs. G. F. Hitchcock, Mrs. G. H. Plaifmau, Martin Plaffman, Mrs. Martin Rogers, Alvin NEWTON. Jenkins, Francis WOONSOCKET, K I. Kent, Williard Kent, Edmund Kent, Mrs. Willard EASTHAMPTON. Boyden, Mabel K EAST LEXINGTON. Hall, George H. Hall, Mrs. George H. BEAUFORT, S. C. Baker, Sidney S. BRAINTREE. Whitman, Henry B. CHINA. Moorehead, Theodore RESIDENCE UNKNOWN. Ames, Marcus F. Ames, Mrs. Marcus F. Bisbee, Benj. F. Bisbee, Joseph F. Crossley, Azro T. Gurdy, Samuel Gurdy, Mrs. Samuel 21 REPORTS. REPORT ON FANCY ARTICLES. The Tweutietli Exhibition of the Mavshfiekl Agricultural Society opened one misty morning in September with an array of ornamental, aitistic, and useful handiwork, which, though smaller iu number, was none the less choice than in former years. Without the hall, the skies were leaden, the air heavy with moisture, the grounds presented a dreary, desolate ap- pearance, and there were only a few stragglers to be seen. Withiu, however, it was bright and beautiful ; the numerous table-covers' scarfs and afghans, were tastefully draped, forming in many instances, aesthetic back grounds for the paintings. Mrs. Charles Randall, of Pembroke, sent an infant's robe, which was wrought by a Mexican uegress, and was a marvel of embroidery and fine linen, as it was also an example of patience, perseverance, and industry. From Mrs. Rufus Dorr, we received a veil, worked by her at the age of fourteen ; in 1832 it was worn as a bridal veil, and in 1882, graced her golden wedding. It was exquisite in texture and desigu, — a fit covering for a dainty, girlish bride. The etching on fungus, cut with a pen-knife, by Miss Theodora Turner, of South Diixbury, was unique and lovely. Half hidden by the ti-ees on the mountain-side, was a tiny Swiss cottage, perfect as regarded architecture and position. The 22 hills and valleys, the trees and shrubs, were clearly cut and finely proportioned. Altogether, it was a charming novelty, and attracted the attention of many. The carriage robe, belonging to Miss Alice Chandler, of Marshfield, and the afghan, from Miss Annie Alden, of West Dnxbury, contained thorough work, and were very handsome : one was shaded from brown, through the reds, to salmon, and the other was crocheted in stripes, upon which was worked roses, pond-lilies, and pansies. Miss Carrie Lapham contributed a drawn handkerchief, embroidered in Mexican stitch ; it was neatly done, and quite elaborate. A tablecover, displayed by Miss Nellie Damon, was exceed- ingly pretty, having, in each corner, roses of original design, no two sprays of which were alike. Her paintings of flowers were also particularly pleasing : each subject was a picture in itself, and each picture was a gem. There were two other tablecovers in Kensington ; one done by Mrs. George Simmons, and the other worked by Miss Belle Sheldon. The latter showed poppies and wheat, butter- cups, roses, and forget-me-nots,— all true to nature. She brought, too, paintings in oil, one with a few branches of lilac in a magnificent blue jar, and another portraying pond-lillies in clear water, under a clear sky, were especially fine. Miss R. W. Cobb's Paris tinting, in soft oriental colors, on thin oriental material, was something entirely new, and was a welcome addition to the table. Mrs. Nash, of South Weymouth, exhibited the Randall coat of arms in hammered brass, and a head framed in plush. She had, too, ribbon and arasene embroidery, and a reversable afghan. One of our firmest impressions after considering Mrs. F. V. R. French's collection of paintings, was the strong characterization of her subjects. She draws a leaf with the 23 same fidelity that she does her portraits, and the variety result- ing from this was a marked feature in this admirable exhibit. The largest painting was a broad sweep of beach, utterly devoid of all that usually marks the couveutional landscape, though endowed with a wilduess and grandeur of its own, which, with its sombre scene of color, was in singular harmony. It rep- resented Coffin Beach, Essex, Mass., after a storm. It was still raining in the distance, but nearer there were touches of light lingering, ready to break through the clouds. Another, totally different work, was a scene on Lake George On the right arose the mountains, surrounded by a peculiar green-tinted mist ; at the edge of the lake had come the cows to drink, and in the water, was shadowed the woodland and grasses, — a beautiful rendering of still life. There was one portrait, a fair young girl, with pure sweet face, surrounded by golden hair, framed within a pink bonnet. Then, there was a library study, only a stand with pen and ink resting on it ; an old, old letter, upon which some careless hand had thrown a few pansies, a simple thought, but beautifully arranged and perfectly blended. The browu cat, intent upon a prospective mouse, and the little white kitten, decorated with blue ribbons — a pampered pet, — as well as the brown and white Spaniel, and yellow and white doggie, spoke to all who saw them, and told their story better than can we. The two paintings, by Miss H. E. Alden, of Marshfield, were distinguished for exquisite refinement, and delicate poetic feeling. Each new work of hers shows to us her rare sympathy with nature, and reveals to us the inmost beauty of those moods which she interprets. Miss Olivia Sampson had six paintings in water colors, and one in oil. The most of them were of the simplest description as to motive, but lovely in color and handling. The one entitled "Barnstable marshes" was a weird tract of land, covered L 24 by scanty grasses and moist, dying vegetation. An inlet make up into the land, and seemed to save the whole from total . desolation. The corn, painted on wood, by Miss Ella Davee of Kingston, was perfect in detail and finish, and the apples from her over- thrown basket, were quite as real as those on the tables below. It " goes without saying" that Miss Richards' crayons were fine ; the subjects handled boldly and firmly, and with a vigor of touch most satisfying to the eye. Miss Carrie Arnold, of Duxbury, sent excellent work : a path through the woods, with the sunlight shining among the trees, and a woman bearing fagots slowly wending her way along, gave ample opportunity for light and dark effects unusually brilliant. The landscape of Miss Carrie A. Randall was a delicious bit of scenery, and with the one by Miss Oakman, was full of nice feeling. ^ The cat's head on felt, was well shaded ; the nasturtiums, l)y Miss Sprague, in water color, were charming, and the decorated china, owned by Miss Hattie Ford, was not wanting in origin- j| ality. I Miss H. Hall contributed paintings in oil, lustral and dye painting. Her screen of plush was, perhaps, the most showy article in the exhibition, and all her work was complete and ripe-toned. Since there were eighty contributors, and one hundred and thirty-five exhibits, there must necessarily be much that will remain unnoticed, and many who will not be mentioned, but we wish to thank all who aided in making the Fair successful, and urge continued help in coming j^ears. In closing, we would suggest to those in authorit) , that in addition to, and separate from, the Fancy and Domestic Articles, there be a department for "Art Effects." HANNAH M. ALDEN. 25 THE FLORAL DEPARTMENT. The mild autumnal breezes flitted among the branches, and scattered the many-hued leaves by my window, when a fairy- like elf lifted the casement and lighted upon the ink well on the table. He was dressed in a suit of Lincoln green, a large palm leaf tilted on one side of his head, a huge sunflower in his button hole, and lady slippers upon his tiny feet. Poising himself in an exquisite attitude, he slipped a cigar blossom from his rosebud lips, and holding it between his fingers winked his pansy eye at me, and remarked : " I was down at iihe Marshfield Agricultural Fair a month or two ago ! " " Indeed," I replied ; " and what did you see ? " " What did I see? Well, if yoa will give me your attention a few moments, I'll try to tell you." " Well," he continued, " you see a band of us fellows thought we'd take the whole thing in this year, do the work systemati- cally and see if everything was all right. We started early, in order to get ahead of the reporters, who are sure to be on hand on such occasions, and dividing the field they gave me the Floral Department. Slipping a quill out of the quiver of one of our company, I proceeded, in a most matter of fact way, to take notes. The display was just magnificent ! " The very best," I heard the committee say, " in design and merit exhibited for a number of years." I first noticed, arithmetically, that there were forty contributors from five cfiflferent towns ! First among the display was the design of Mr. Alfred Phillips, of Marshfield. This occupied a table five feet wide and fifteen in length, iu the centre aisle of the hall, near the head of this department. It pictured " The Old Oaken Bucket that Hung in the Well." The well was made of gold-colored marigolds, with a drippiug bucket of the same material. The staves were lined off with velvet marigolds, and downy purple 26 ageratums represented the water, while the cord was woven of smilax. In front of the well, a lawn was portrayed, composed of choice beds of beautiful roses, pinks, pansies and many other rare blossoms. These were fitted in place very artisti- cally and were very perfect specimens, and at a floral fair alone would have drawn a large premium. The old well sweep was also made of golden marigolds, and reached over a field of shrubbery. This field was composed of ferns, coleus and many other tropical plants that Mr. Phillips has been tenderly rear- ing for a number of years. The design was complete in every way, and reflected great credit upon the artist. Miss L. T. Chandler's collections ranked next. The basket of pansies were remarkably fine specimens, among which were some diamond pansies ; in fact, the whole collection was com- posed of novel beauties. I was just about to borroiu one for my' button hole, as I saw some people had done, when I glanced up and noticed a brilliant-hued wreath of eternal flowers. These were woven with just grasses enough to dis- play their tints to the best advantage ; by the way, the arrangement of a boquet or basket adds more to a collection of blossoms th;i,n some people suppose. Miss Chandler also exhibited a fine vase of cut flowers and a large star of choice verbenas. It would seem to a stranger that she must have some greenhouse advantages to enable her to present so fine a display, but I learned it was all home work. Most of her flowers were raised from seed, which added to their value, jis it requires more attention to grow from seeds than cuttings. Many of her seeds were planted in boxes before the snow left last Spring, and the temperature watched faithfully lest the fickle atmosphere should spoil all her work. It takes time and experience to perfect a garden from seeds, the art of which Miss Chandler seems to have mastered very satisfactorily. Among the novelties was a Rex begonia, with remarkably large leaves and healthy appearance, exhibited by Miss L. T, \ 27 Cliaudler ; a piuo applo plant staifcod from au apple top, and grown under the care of Mrs. Agenor E. Williamson ; some fine seedling dahlias by Mrs. Endora Williamson ; a storm king fuchsia with blossom by Mrs. E. N. Pratt, and some night blooming cereus blossoms by Mrs. Ezra Smith, who had ingeuiousl}' contrived a plan to keep them open in the day time. These were a beautiful creamy white, and must have been very fragrant the night before. Mrs. E. Alden had a very finely arranged boquet of cut Bowers and a vase of rare roses. Mrs. S. Henry also had a collection of beautiful roses and cut flowers. Mrs. H. S. Pratt and Mrs. A. A. White also had a fine display of flowers. The variety in each was great and the arrangement very tasty. Pausing to rest among Miss Fannio V. Hitchcock's grace- fully drooping ferns, I admired Mrs. F. N. C. Bates' bright- liued sweet peas, which were very fine indeed, — Miss Anna E. Magoun's choice asters, also those of Mary E. Baker, of Duxbury, and those of Misses Fannie K. and Anna B, Church. They were of almost every shade of color and retained their freshness finely. Mrs. George Bradford's red amarilla lilies were perfect beauties ; the full clusters contained from four to eight perfect blossoms ! while the green leaves were very bright and glossy. Just as I was contemplating on the exquisite display and marking the care and taste so many had exhibited, there was an unusual commotion, and along came the white-winged yacht Mayflower, and anchored among the first of the designs. This was as fine a little craft as ever graced the Floral Department. The perfect outline of sail and hull showed that the builder, Mr. Alpheus Packard, of West Hanover, was no stranger to the points required, while the symmetry of the 28 perfectly formed white dahlias that served as material could not be excelled. The whole department was very satisfactory to all flower lovers, and received merited attention. Later on in the day, I observed the meek-eyed visage of the committee puzzling their brains over the merits of each collection, and sighing because their means were limited, while they tucked the premium and gratuity cards among the blossoms, which had survived the heated atmosphere remarkably well. I noticed the committee were trying to console themselves with the reflection that they had done the best they could. One point worthy of commendation was, a few of those who presented designs, etc., retouched them with fresh flowers each morning during the protracted exhibition, showing they had the interest of the society at heart and took pleasure in its appearance." Suddenly, my strange messenger spread his wings, and e'er I could divine his purpose darted to the window and exclaimed, as he nodded back to me over his shoulder, " You just ought to have been there and seen it, that's all ! " Respectfully submitted. Miss ANNIE E. WILLIAMSON, for the Committee. 29 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Forty articles were contributed to this department by twenty-five children, fifteen of whom were residents of our own town. This is certainly encouraging, for we remember, two or three years ago, having to report all nnu-residents excepting six. Although this department is less attractive than in former years in the number of articles on exhibition, ;, et in some directions a steady improvement has been made. The con- tributors are more careful in entering their articles at the required time and in entering correctly ; and this year, in all but one or two cases, the age of the child was placed on the article with the name; the neglect to do which, in years past, has been quite an inconvenience to the committee in judging of the merit of the work. In regard to the quality of .the work, there has been a decided improvement. The character of the work changes from year to year. Outline stitch has taken the place of worsted work on canvas, which used to give our tables such a gay appearance, but which, on closer examination, did not always show neat and careful work, nor the best taste in the choice of colors, Bedquilts and rugs no longer fill all the available space allotted us. This year not one pieced quilt was seen in our department, although squares of patchwork sufficient for a 30 quilt were brought by each of two little girls, and oue rug by Miss Florrie Kuowles deserves special mention, on account of the excellent quality of the work. The outlined towel done by Clara Barstow, your committee did not hesitate to pronounce the best work on our table, considering the age of the little contributor, which was only six years. It was remarkably well done, and we think would compare favorably with any work of its kind in the Fancy Department. We hope little Clara will fill the place of Miss Addie Williamson, as she leaves our department, and whose excellent work, both useful and ornainental, has for so many years adorned our table. Among other little workers just entering this department, may be mentioned Welthea Ford and Edith Dorr, who, we expect, will continue to grace our tables with their own handiwork. Among our non-resident contributors, Maud E. Witherell, of Attleboro', brought several articles well done, and the paper flowers from Eoy Hayward, of Brockton, showed what a little lame boy can do with his hands. Lilian McClellan, of Hanson, also brought knit and crochet work deserving of mention. A pretty chair scarf, also knit and crochet skirts, by three misses from " Marshfield Hills," made us wish we could retain such workers as these in our department, but the passing years soon take them from our ranks, leaving vacant places to be filled by others. Plain sewing does not yet receive the attention that we would like to see, there being only two or three specimens exhibited this year. Among so many tidies and other articles of various designs and styles of work, we cannot make special mention of each, but we do not recall any work that was poorly done or that 31 deserves uut'avoijible criticisiii ; uiul if some of the dcpai'ttiicuts nl our Fair did not come up to the usual standard, we consider the Children's Departmeut as comparing favorably with, and indeed as excelling in some points, what it has been in the last few years ; and will not the children try to make it more attractive year by year, and let it be seen that their department is a growing one? Respectfully submitted, S. B. STEVENS. 82 (■"S??3P-V REPORT ON DOMESTIC ARTICLES. We thought that our nineteenth fair was one of our best, as regarded our domestic display ; the twentietli far exceeded it. Every article was well made. We alwajs expect one's best ! Eight-one ladies presented one hundred and two articles. As nearly as we remember they were as follows : Twenty-one braided mats, nine knit rugs, and four drawn rugs. Stockings and mittens, seventeen pairs. Comforters, knit spreads, bed quilts, and crib quilts, thirty- four sheets, aiid other articles, small and large, made the whole number. The braided mats, with three exceptions, were very fine braids. A few of this number we call to your attention : Mrs. Ruth Peterson, age seventy-eight; Mrs. Celia Bonney, Mrs. Betsey Turner, age eighty-two ; Mrs. Stella S. Gurney, age eighty-seven, and Mrs. E. W. Richards, were beautifully made. Not a stitch of sewing being visible. Mrs. Richard's was the finest braided mat shown this year. Mrs. N. Stevens' was made in stripes, and joined with fancy stitches. Mrs. Rebecca Turner of South Scituate, age eighty-four, con- tributed three mats. The rugs were dyed by herself in such delicate shades, and the colors so prettily arranged, that they were the prettiest mats shown. The braid, too, was perfectly even. Mrs. Welthia P. Sampson, age ninety-one, Duxbury, sent such a pretty knit rug, that we feel we can hardly do it justice. 33 It was of Berlin wool, in shades, and the work was excellent. There has never been a rug at our Fair knit by suck an aged person. A rug, knit of rags, by Miss Huldah Hatch, North Marshfield, who has reached the age of eighty-seven, was as nicely colored, knit and sewed, as any we have ever seen. She, too, dyed her rags, and the disposing of the colors was beautifully arranged. So carefully was it sewed, that no stitches were to be seen. This kind of rug is much more difficult to knit, than one of soft wool. We hope both these dear aged ladies may grace our Fair for many years with specimens of their handiwork. Mrs. Ruth Peterson sent the largest knit rug we have ever seen. The rugs knit of silk, by Mrs. F. R. Holton, Green Harbor were very nice and pretty ; they looked like feathers. A small drawn rug, by Mary E. Tilden, Marshfield, was prettily made. Our notes made at the time say, " very pretty." Mrs. Imogene McClellan, Hanover, sent two exceedingly pretty drawa rugs. She has for. several years sent some of the prettiest at our Fair. Mrs. S. S. Gurusey, age eighty-seven, Bridgewater, sent a large drawn rug, with nice knit border, also a braided rug, with same kind of border. All those rugs were unusually well made; they show a deal of patience and skill in their design. One nice crocheted skirt shows what small folks may do. These combine a great deal of use, with much beauty. Any little girl of eight or nine years, can spend a part of her time in no more useful way, than in knitting one, as they last for years. Three squares of patchwork, containing two hundred and thirty pieces, were particularly noticeable, on account of the very small pieces of which they were made. 34 A patchwork quilt, by Lj'dia F. Thnrston, age seventy-five, Sandwich in squares of one inch and a quarter, was a work of art. It is one of those things to last for generations. Mrs. A. A. White, Hanson, and Mrs N. Stevens' quilts had the nicest quilting around each square. That work looked like the work in our grandmother's days. Emily A. Ewell's quilt, with 2704 pieces, was pretty and well made. The notes say, the quilt, by Mrs. W. M. Tolman, Green Harbor, with 3892 pieces, was " a beautiful one." A crazy quilt, in calico, was a novelty, saving a great amount of tiresome cutting. It was made by Mrs. Josiah Warren, age seventy-five, Hanson ; very nicely made. Two logcabin quilts, by Mrs Josephine C. Thompson, with braids of calico, were unusually pretty. Mrs. William Taylor, age seventy-two, Marshfield, had a nice quilt, and beautifully made. The nice warm stockings were well knit. One pair of double mittens were particularly nice work. The other mittens were as well done as formerly. The silk quilts were nicer than ever ; there was so much embroidery on the squares. Two from Plymouth, by Mrs. K. E. Randall. One with a border of blue velvet ; the other, red silk border. Each were lined with silk, quilted on a machine. We think hand quilting more ornamental. Miss May Howland of Brockton, sent a silk quilt, with fifty- six squares, beautifully embroidered, and quite a number of painted designs in some small squares. It was excellently made, and elicited very many pleasant remarks. Miss Lydia Chandler, Marshfield, also had a very handsome silk quilt. Two knit spreads, one in stripes, the other in shell pattern, were very evenly knit. 35 The sheets made by Mrs. Betsey Turner, age eighty-seven, pleased us, and a great many others. They were something we have never had. The sewing was nicely done, and all seemed to notice particularly the nice hemming. We suggest that some nice darning, and other kinds of mending be sent. Excellent mending is as beautiful as em- broidery. A great many learn to embroider well, while com- paratively few are nice menders. Another suggestion we think timely : A great benefit to our artist friends would be to allow them the half of the table, facing the west windovvs. The oil paint- ings ai'e no small feature in our collection. Much dissatisfaction might be avoided, if it were understood that, that part of the table was for their special use ! Those at all conversant with oil painting, are perfectly aware that an unfavorable light ruins the effect of airy of these pictures; while a water-color is as well brought out in nearly any light. The screen, sent by Miss Hall, this year, would entirely have lost its beauty if it had been allowed to remain on the table near the windows, hack to tlie light. We cannot expect our young ladies to bring their best efforts, if some pains is not taken to show them to the best advantage. They are certainly the greatest ornaments on that side the hall. EMMA M. C. BATES. k 36 i REPORT ON COWS. I There was but one herd of five entered for premium ; the}^ were fine looking grades, owned and entered by John F. Hatch, and we awarded him the first premium. Of single entries there were thirteen. The following breeds were represented, viz. : — Jersey, Devon and Grade. Of the Jerseys, there were nine , of the Devon, two, and of the Grade, seven. There was also one animal entered as Ayrshire, but your committee did not think it a pure blood, and so classed it with the Grades. There was also for exhibition only, a nice cow, owned by Mr. H. H. Dunham, and some very fine animals on exhibition, by President Wright. Of the Jerseys, we awarded the first prenjium to Ezekiel Paine ; second, to John F. Hatch ; third to Bailey Chandler ; fourth, to Cornelius McCarty ; fifth, to John A. Harlow. Of the Devons, there were but two ; they were owned by H. H. Delano, of Duxbury ; they were small, and we did not think either of them merited a first premium, we accordingly gave them a second and third. Of the Grades, the one entered by O. N. Belknap, we thought entitled to the first premium ; the one by Charles M. Harlow, the second ; that by John A. Harlow, the third ; the fourth to Warren Hall, and John F. Hatch, the fifth. The great question with farmers at the present time is, how to improve their breed of cows. We have taken a great step forward by breeding from full blood Jersey stock. The Jersey cow of today is far superior to the native cow of the past, and 37 some think she has no equal, others think that the, coming cow will be the Holstein, and no doubt they have some points that are preferable to the Jersey's : their size, hardiness, etc., making them worth more to the butcher, after they have passed their usefulness as milkers, and there are exceptional cases of very great yield of butter, but we very much doubt if any one animal of that breed has ever equaled the one mentioned in a late number of the Massachusetts Ploughman, of the Jersey cow, Mary Anne, of St. Lambert, bred in Canada, now more than seven years old. She is a large animal for a Jersey, weighing 1,150 lbs. When four years old, her present owner tested her for a butter yield, and in seven days she gave the astonishing yield of 36 lbs. 12 j ounces. Her owner was soon afterwards offered 126,000 for her, which he unhesitatingly refused. But the common farmer cannot afford to pay even oue thousand dollars for a cow, or oue hundred for a Holstein calf, as some of the owners ask. What shall we do then? Let us be satisfied at present with a cross of the Jersey and Holstein, let us avail ourselves of the offer of such men as Walton Hall, and others, who offer to their neighbors, the service of their full blood Holstein animals, free. Such men are public benefactors, and deserve the thanks of the community, — and, perhaps, such a combination of the qualities of both breeds will give us a very desirable cow, ;iud perhaps better adapted to our Plymouth County farms and pasture, than any other. But let us re- member, that a good deal depends upon the way we feed and treat our cows, we must be kind and gentle in our treatment, and not expect great returns from any breed, if we give them nothing but a scanty pasture in the Summer, and poor hay, without grain, in Winter, for after all, much, very much, depends on the amount and quality of the food given them. Respectfully submitted, H. A. TURNER. 38 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. Four reports were received before the expiration of the time prescribed by the regulations of the Society, and we recommend that the first premium be given to that on Fancy Articles ; the second, to that on Flowers ; the third, to that on the Children's Department, and'-the fourth, to the report on Domestic Articles^ In recommending the printing of the reports of the Com- mitte on Cows, we take occasion to recommend the care and discrimination which it exhibits in the award of premiums. Respectfully submitted. E. ALDEN, ) Committee J. H. BOURNE, S on Reports. Marshfield, December 21, 1886. 39 REPORT OF GARDEN, CONTAINING THEEE SQUARE RODS, CULTIVATED BY CHARLIE EDGAR UPHAM, MARSHFIELD, AGED TEN YEARS. Peas, greeu — 9 qts., dry 1 pint ; beaus, string — 8 qts., dry 6 qts. and a few more on the vines not quite dry. Beans measured after shelling. Cucumbers, 15. Pumpkins, 5. Potatoes, 97 lbs. Cabbages, 40 heads. • Tomatoes, 22 qts. After he pulled his peas, he dug over the ground, put on more manure, and planted turnip seed, of the flat kind. These are not done growing, so they cannot be mentioned. The cabbages also are still growing, and salt has been sprinkled on them, to make them head better. This being the only entry, I think he is entitled to the first premium. Yours, etc., ISRAEL OAKMAN. 40 DONATIONS. William J. Wright, $200 00 Friend, $1 00 George W, Emery, 10 00 B. G. Cahoon, 3 00 A. M. Thayer, 5 00 Walton Hall, 20 00 F. C. Moore, 1 00 Premiums, 1885. F. H. Holmes, $2 00 R. H. Moorehead, $1 00 J. B. Chaiidler, 5 00 Edwin Clift, 25 J. B. Hollis, 3 00 C. A. Walker, 25 Joseph Weston, 2 00 Amos T(?wne, 25 Zeb. T. Nash, 3 00 D. W. Turner, 1 25 C. E. Ellms, 9 00 J. H. Baker, 30 H. A. Oakman, 25 E. C. Sprague, 50 J. \V. Samson, 12 25 Frank Lowell, 50 S. B. Peterson, 1 00 G. P. Harden, 2 75 H. W. Barstow, 1 00 S. C. Cohen, 1 00 N. H. Whiting, 75 L. Soule, 2 00 F. Ames, 25 G. W. Tilden, 50 G. E. Lane, 25 Mrs. Albert Merritt, 50 J. H. Dwelley, 25 Minnie Osborne, . 60 H. C. Samson, 50 Mrs. G. T. Adams, 80 Ed. Sprague, 25 A. E. Alden, 75 J. T. Baker, 25 L. P." Simmons, 1 15 W. L. Gushing, 60 Premiums, 1886. Mrs. Gershom Bradford, 10 40 J. Dawes, $2 00 Martha L. Oakman, 1 20, N. H. Whiting, 1 25 J. W. Samson, 14 25 L. Magoun, 25 Bailey Chandler, 1 50 G. W. Wright, 50 C. 0. Ellms, 6 75 H. A. Oakman, 1 00 H. W. Barstow, 1 50 H. H. Northey, 2 00 41 Money Subscribed for iMrKovEMENT of Track. Samuel Loring, J. B. Hollis, Jr., Horatio Adams, Dr. S. Stevens, G. G. Currell, S. E. Low, B. G. Cahoon, H. G. Vinal, Dr. Francis Collamore, Capt. J. Dawes, F. P. Arnold, C. M. Harlow, L. P. Hatch,' William J. Wright, George Bradford, Eden Soule, Enoch Soule, Henry Wright, H. W. Barstow, John E. Ford, James S. Weston, Thomas Alden, Samuel Stetson, Andrew Walker, Bailey Chandler, Calvin Chandler, Henry C. Dunham, Linnell, Joseph Weston, Frank Ford, $10 00 C. P. Dorr, 6 00 L. H. Keith, 5 00 Capt. James Dawes, 5 00 F. M. Harrub, 1 00 Dr. S. F. Ham, 1 00 C. F. Church, 5 00 E. W. Hall, 5 00 Fred. Stetson, 5 00 William Burgess, 5 00 Algernon Chandler, 3 00 Willie Chandler, 1 50 G. J. Peterson, 5 00 Labor Subscriptions. $1 50 5 00 5 00 10 00 10 00 2 00 2 00 5 00 2 00 2 00 10 00 5 00 man and team, 127 h ours at 15c., *19 05 (( <( 48 « (( 7 20 (( (( Iti << (( 2 40 (( (« 31 (( (< 4 65 (( (( 16 (( (( 2 40 i( (( 8 a (( 1 20 (< (( 24 (( (( 3 60 (( (( 24 a (( 3 60 K i( 52 (( u 7 80 <( (( 16 (( (( 2 40 (( «( 16 (( (( 2 40 (( (( 16 (( (( 2 40 (( i( 8 ti <1 1 20 (( (( 48 (C (( 7 20 (( <( 8 (( u 1 20 (( i( 8 (< (( 1 20 (C {( 26 (( tt 3 90 42 George S. Hatch, man and team, 8 h ours at 15c., $1 20 F. P. Arnold, (( <( 16 (( < 2 40 Edward Sprague, (( (I 8 (( ( 1 20 Nahum Cushman, (( (( 16 (( ( 2 40 Martin Chandler, (( (( 16 (( ( 2 40 Henry A. Baker, (( (( 45 (( ( 6 75 Henry Chandler, (< <( 8 << ( 1 20 S. B. Chandler, (( (( 32 (( ( 4 80 David Carver, (( (( 4 (( ( 60 David Riley, <( <( 8 (( i 1 20 Francis Randall, (( f( 16 iC ( 2 40 Joshua T. Ford, <( u 32 (( ( 4 80 R. T. Randall, (( (( 661 (( ( 10 00 Gideon Shurtleff, (( u 14 <( ( 2 10 George F. Peterson, (( (( 24 (( ( 3 60 Judson Ewell, (( <( 4 (( ( 60 Jesse Simmons, (( (( 16 ii i 2 40 George T. Whiting, (( ti 8 ii ( 1 20 William A. Hunt, (( << 32 (I i 4 80 Frank Hatch, (( u 71 i( i 10 65 C. H. Bradford, (( (( 16 H i 2 40 James Gould, (1 <( 8 (( ( 1 20 Edmund Winslow, i( (( 6 U ( 90 John H. Bourne, man and double te; im, 24 (( ( 3 60 David Brown, man an d tean: , 16 (( ( 2 40 Clarence Taylor, (< (( 8 (( - c 1 20 Russell Hatch," (( (( 22 (( ( 3 30 Lysander Walker, (( i< 8 « ( 1 20 1,044| $156 70 Thomas P. Ford, use of spreader, 10 hours, 5 00 $161 70 43 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from Novembek 16th, 1885, to November 15th, 1886. From Eighteen uew members, . $90 00 Rent of halls, . 45 50 State 'bounty, .... 600 00 Donations, .... . 243 50 $979 00 RECEirTs OF Exhibition. Admission to grounds, .... $1,684 73 Admission to seats, . . . . . 68 25 Entries for trotting, 133 25 Tents, rooms and peddlers, .... 249 20 New hall, . . . . • . . . 20 00 $2,105 43 Due Treasurer, 152 98 $3,237 41 44: Payments from November 16th, 1885, to November 15th, 1886. Balance due Treasurer, . Paid Priuting, Interest on notes, Postage, express and stationery, Expenses on halls and grounds. Expenses on track. Salaries, ..... Premiums, 1885, . . . Premiums, 1886, Farmers' Institutes, . Sundries, . . . . . Expenses of Exhibition Ticket offices and gates. Committees, Music, Police, .... Entertainment, Care of stock. Rural sports, Freight, $202 48 . 137 40 325 50 8 37 262 45 . 513 32 75 00 . 114 90 1,00'J 76 . 50 96 74 72 N. $56 00 . 36 00 120 00 . 47 00 53 22 . 96 03 37 50 . 16 80 5,774 86 1462 55 $3,237 41 I have this dny examined the foregoing accounts of the Treasurer, F. Collamore, and find them correct. LUTHEli P. HATCH, Auditor. Marshfield, November 15, 1886. 45 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RBTU Made to the Board of Agriculture, 1886. $600 00 90 00 243 50 2,250 93 3,084 43 1,175 50 1,136 80 1,124 60 '2,112 75 3,237 41 4,652 98 Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, Donations, ..... From all other sources, Total amount of receipts for the year, Premiums offered, Premiums and gratuities awarded, Premiums and gratuities paid out. Current expenses for the year, not including tho premiums and gratuities paid, .... Total amount of disbursements for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, . Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, 11,806 92 Personal property belonging to the Society, 1,392 78 Farm Improvements. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, . $29 00 Total amount offered for farm improvements, . 73 00 Awarded for farm improvements, . 29 00 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, 29 00 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, ..... $25 00 Milch cows, .... 49 00 Heifers, 20 00 Calves, . . . . • 7 00 46 Amount awarded for Working oxen. Steers, ..... Fat cattle, ..... Horses, ..... Swine, ...... Poultry, . . . Total amount offered for live stock, .... Awarded for live stock. Paid out for live stock, . Farm Products. Amount awarded for Indian corn, . ' . Collections of vegetables, . Total amount offered for grain and root crops, . Awarded for grain and root crops. Amount awarded for fruits, ..... Flowers, ..... Butter, ...... Cheese, ..... Preserved fruit and vegetables. Wheat bread, .... Rye and Indian bread. Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, ........ Miscellaneous. Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber. Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses. Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic man- ufactures, etc., ....... Number of persons who received premiums aud gra- tuities,— four hundred aud seventy-five. $19 00 5 00 17 00 86 25 28 00 70 00 482 50 326 25 326 25 63 75 99 00 64 45 32 15 10 00 6 00 25 00 6 50 6 00 1 I 213 85 150 00 412 00 143 90 47 Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and GUATUITIES WERE DISBURSED AND THE AMOUNT TO EaCH. Marsh fiekl, $341 33 Duxbuiy , . . 162 97 Pembroke, ....... 33 67 Hanover, . . . . . . . 29 62 Whitman, . . . . . . . 14 15 Boston, ........ 73 00 Plymouth, . 10 25 Ptockland, 104 40 Abington, ....... 9 15 South Scituate, . . . . . . 25 95 Holbrook, . . . . ■ . . . 27 50 Kingston, ....... 7 85 Quincy, ....... 1 05 Raynham, . . . . . . . 13 00 Newton Centre, 40 North Attleboro, . . . . . 1 30 Braintree, ....... 147 00 Sandwich, 25 Lawrence, Kansas, ..... 40 Bridge water, . . . . . . . 6 22 Plympton, 5 00 Hanson, . . . . . . . . 43 42 Scituate, 27 80 Brockton, 29 15 Weymouth, ....... 2 30 Taunton, 3 00 .Chicago, Illinois, . 15 Cambridge, ....... 65 West Bridgewater, 9 87 Somerville, 6 00 48 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1886. WILLIAM J. WRIGHT, President. FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Marshfield, January 1, 1887. 1 |Vt35 — \ r- — ^.-^==^_^ i TRANSACTIONS 1 OF THE MARSHJblELD 1 1 i Agricultural ►*" H orticultural 1 1 1 1 SOCl^'.'^ 1 ID TJ I?. I nsr Gt THE ^E-A.It i ! 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1887. i PLYMOUTH : Avert & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1888. TRANSACTIONS )F THE- MARSHFIELD Agricultural ^^' Horticultural SOCIETY r> xj It 1 2sr a- the tz'e-a.r. 1887. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1888. STATE L ST 2 ^ flQ S D: OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1887. PRBSIDENT: WILIJAM J. WEIGHT, Duxbury. vice: PRBSIDENTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. JOHN H. BOURNE, Marshfield. SBCREITARY: FRANCIS OOLLAMORE, Pembroke. TRBASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfield. DIRBCTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield, JUDSON EWELL. Marshfield, BAILEY CHANDLER, Duxburj, JOSEPHUS DAWES, Duxbury, THOMAS ALDEN, Duxbury, J.A^IES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. dellbga-te: to state: board for thre:[ YEIARS: DANIEL E. DAMON, Plymouth. Term Expires, 1887. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. E. Foster Bearce, Scituate. — P. O. Address, Egypt. Frank E. Chandler, Marshfield. Charles Dean Bonney, Pembroke. John H. Parks, Duxbury. John J. Russell, Plymouth. Gideon F. Holmes, Plymouth. REPORTS ON FANCY ARTICI^HS. The opeuiug of the Tweuty-lirst Exhibition oi' the Mai>;hhelil Agricultural Society, September 14, 1887, was oue of ihc most important events of the season. The weather had never been more auspicious, and the mass of people who surged through the gates andinto the hall proved there was no lack of interest in this helpful enterprise. There were fewer exhibits than in previous years, but many of these were of higher standard and greater value. Since the aim of the organization is mutual help, intercourse and improvement in every respect, we are pleased to note the above fact, but regret exceedingly tlie absence of work from some of Marshfield's well-known and best artists. We need the most correct effort as a means of education, and wish each of the members would yield something individually for the com- mon advancement, looking toward broader views, greater pro- fessional pride and spirit, and a fuller art culture. The taste with which each department was fitted, rellects irreat credit on the Committee of Arrangement. The bright coloring, odd shapes and delicate tracery formed oue grand mosaic, which immediately arrested the attention, The Fancy Department was a marvel of handiwork ; the silk quilts, belonging to Miss Abbie Hall, Mesclames White, Reed, Bates, Pratt, Wilder and Jenkins, were beautiful in design and very ornamental. The spread and shams of lace, darned by Miss Mattie Raymond, of Whitman, showed care, industry and skill. The afghans sent to us were less elaborate than in the past, but very pretty ones were shown by Mrs. D. W. Logan of Rockland, and Mrs. E. A. Hunt of Brockton. Miss S. A. Smith had an entirely new style of infant's hood, very handsome ; Mrs. Francis of Woburn knitted skirts and shields for the little ones, while Mrs. Little of Hanover con- tributed a baby's dress. There were six imperial paintings on plush and satin, done by Mrs. Smalley of Pembroke, which were greatly admired. Tidies of Kensington embroidery, oil and lustral painting were received from Miss Mary Hopkins, North Pembroke ; Ella Keeue, West Duxbury, and M. Louisa Perry, Salem. These were useful and artistic, besides being nicely done and neatly finished. Mrs. T. W. Lincoln's balm pillow reminded one of a summer's morning when all sweet odors abound, indeed, it was so redolent of forest scent as to diffuse a piney fragrance throughout the section of the hall in which it was placed. Miss Lucy Stevens of Marshfield displayed two plaques, one of apple blossoms and the other "Swallow's Cave at Nahant," both were extremely well done. A moonlight scene, with shades of gray and black, was very effective, as was also "A Winter's Afternoon," She brought also an excellently arranged panel of wild roses and ferns. Miss Williamson's "Lake Geneva," surrounded by moun- tains, which reflect the glory of the sun shining through a mist, giving a pinkish tinge to all around, was particularly strong and luminous. Her "waterfall" was beautifully rich in color, free in handling and very expressive. The whole collec- tion excelled in variety and unity of effect. We understand Miss Addie Chandler has studied alone ; her golden rod and sumach was the best in her group; the blue flag was also fine ; all wore skilfully d rawn. Miss Randall's " Twilight" represents the early evening with a broad stretch of ground sloping to the water's edge. On the pond is a man lounging idly in a boat, which is drifting with the tide. The farm-house is quiet, seemingly unoccupied, and the trees are reflected in the cool water. The picture has the coloring suggestive of the South, and has much of the tender feeling of the quiet, dreamful, evening hour. There were two vineyard 'scenes: one of the lighthouse at Gay Head, and the other a moonlight scene on the water. From Lover's Rock is a pathway of light leading, apparently, straight to Heaven. In the distance may be seen the "Volunteer." It is painted with great breadth and is characterized by a delicate and sympathetic fancy. A plate of fruit, showing an orange uncut, one halved and quartered, with napkin and knife, was well executed. Her brown and white spaniel, "Bruno," was of superior quality, and her sketch in black and whitu was a fine specimen of artistic work. Mr. Wilson, although not wishing a premium, kindly loaned two ol his paintings, both evincing thought and progressive- ness. There was character in the cow's head that redeemed its plainess and gave it a peculiar charm of interest, while the skull, glass and jug upon a table displayed an originality of conception and composition that few attempt. Miss Hattie Ford presented a decorated jar and plate, both very exquisite. A collection of six paintings, by Mis. F. V. R. French, w-as remarkably fine. Her "Twilight," treated in an altogether different manner from Miss Randall's, was equally powerful j 8 the quiet lake near lighted homes, and the wierd beauty of the trees tended to draw one's thoughts from the bustle and tumult of an agricultural fair. Her crayon, "In the Moonlight," was worthy of a place in an art exhibition ; and the large central oil painting of a vessel, nearing a buoy, while the waves dashed around her, was considered one of the strongest paintings ex- hibited this year. Her usual taste was shown in the distribu- tion of a handful of pansies. There was, too, a slide with the customary youth in toboggan suit, a solitary rock with waves breaking upon it, and a pet dog. The whole collection ex- celled in variety and unity of effect. It is almost unnecessary to say that Miss H. Hall's paintings were prettily composed, with that blending of sentiment with truth to nature which each observer understands and recog- nizes with pleasure. The snow-balls in vase of pompeian red were perfect, and the others were marked by grace in execu- tion and subtle harmony. Miss Davee exhibited a group of paintings which were ex- quisite in atmosphere, movement and color. One, presenting a morning scene at Revere Beach, a boy with seine at work, and back of him the small shanty with lobster perched above it, answering for vane and advertisement, was strong, solid, yet refined. The marsh land, with stacks of hay piled in rounded, pointed heaps, as is done in Holland, was produced by bold, sweeping lines. The snow scene was attractive in composition and color, the figure in bright clothing making a charming con- trast with the white snow. But the gem of the collection was a cow's head, with tender, soulful eyes, heavy hair, and small horns. It was a good representative of the intelligence of the brute creation, a creature of flesh and blood, and showed on her part acute observation, energy and realism. In delicate distribution of tones and values, in rich and original touch, she vies with the best artists, 9 We desire, most sincerely, that this may be the opportunity which awakens the dormant power of genius and affords a path of action to many. There were one hundred and thirty-six articles, and one hundred contributors to our Department this year. H. M. ALDEN. 10 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. We heard from one or two persons at our recent Fair, remarks to the etFect that the children were not as well represented in their Department as they usually are. If this impression was made, it must have been owing mainly to the fact that our space was somewhat contracted to make room for other exhibits ; for in reality, there was an increase over last year, of seventeen in the numbtr of contributors, aud about twenty more articles were on exhibition. This is pleasing to all who take a special interest in the Children's Department, no less to the children themselves. A few years ago this feature of our Fair threatened to become a thing of the past; but the increasing interest indi- cates that this Department may regain the important place it once occupied in the Fair. We j&nd each year less to criticise unfavorably, and we see evidence in the quality and kind of work done, as well as improvement in other respects, that our requests and suggestions have not been wholly unheeded. Out of the sixty or more articles exhibited we can make men- tion of only a few pieces of work, which on account of its quality, or the age of the exhibitor, we think deserve special notice. The half-dozen rugs, most of them made by the younger children, one by a little girl of five years, and another by a boy of eight, drew forth our sympathy for the little workers, whose patient fingers must have toiled many days, before so much rough material could be made into forms of use and beauty. We expect nice and pretty work from the older contributors to the Children's Department, as, indeed, we found in several 11 articles brought by misses of fourteen years. But a few squares of patchwork sewed by a tiny maiden of two and a half years, becomes a novelty on account of the quality of the work done by one so extremely youthful. Little Euthie has the honor, we think, of being the youngest contributor to the Fair. Miss Amy Bates has acted upon our suggestion in regad to bringing specimens of darning. This was neatly done, and quite as much of an accomplishment as many others so-called. We were not disappointed in expecting nothing but nice work from Clara Barstow, and what was said of her work last year will apply equally well to that of this year. The hand bag done by Welthia Ford was a very good piece of work, made for service as well as beauty, and would do credit to a more experienced hand. The tidies and splashers in outline appeared on our table in variety, and many of tUem were evidently the results of trying to do one's best. The Kindergarten work by Clara Freeman, was a new attrac- tion in our Department, and the bright and pretty colors formed a pleasing contrast with the work done in more sombre shades.. The few articles of plain sewing and knitting we do not fail to commend, and as one extreme follows another, we ma}^ expect" at no very distant day, to see the children's table covered with" a variety of plain sewinar, with here and there a bit of fancy work to brighten up the displa3\ In the meantime, let the children put their best endeavors into one or more pieces of work each year, and not forget to take it with them to the Fair. S. B. STEVENS. 12 ON COWS. Whole number of entries, twenty-eight. The following breeds were represented: — Jersey, eight; Ayrshire, four; Devon, three; Holstein, one ; Grade, ten. There were none of these entered as herds, and your committee passed upon them singly. Of the Jerseys we thought the one entered by Walton Hall a very superior animal, having a record of three pounds of butter per day, and we awarded her the first premium, and to the oues entered by J. F. Hatch and Bailey Chandler, the second and third. Of the Ayrshire, we thought the one entered by Walton Hall merited the first prize, and those owned by Warren Hall and Philo Leach, the second and third. There was but one entry of the Holstein breed, a very nice lookiug animal owned by Walton Hall, and we gave her a first premium. There were three Devons, one by H. H. Delano, and two by J. H. Leach of Bridgewater. We thought one of those entered by Mr. Leach entitled to the first prize, and the one by H. H. Delano, the second. The Grades were most largely represented, and there were some very fine ones. Of these the one entered by W. H. Holman, seeming to be the best, we awarded her the first prize, and to those entered by Ezekiel Payne and George M. Baker, the second and third. There were but two entries of Natives ; we awarded the first prize to the one owned by H. H. Delano, and the second to the one owned by Philo Leach. Your committee would suggest — as we did last year — the importance of owners of cows being very careful to have them entered in the class to which they belong ; if they have any 13 doubt about their being pure blood have them entered as Graded, and not put the committee in the very undesirable position of doubting whether they are pure, when they are entered as such. The time has come when we all find that it pays to breed from pure stock, instead of trusting to chance. Our cows are steadily improving, and the change has been great within the last twenty- five years. Formerly a cow was called extra that would make a pound of butter per day in the best of the season ; now there are many that will make two, and some even three or four. We are learning to care for them better, finding that it pays to feed them well, give them warm quarters in Winter, and extra feed at the barn in Summer, in addition to what grass they may get in the pasture. Formerly, farmers as a rule fed very little grain ; their cows were turned out in Summer to get what they could in a bush pasture, and fed on coarse hay in Winter, with perhaps a very little English at calving time, trying to get along with as little cost as possible, and the cows seemed to take that view of it, and gave them corresponding returns. But we are learning that as we cannot expect a field to bear a good crop without giving it plenty of plant food, neither can we expect good returns from our cows without giving them nourishing food and plenty of it. Your committee take pleasure in saying that most of the stock on exhibition looked as though it had been well cared for ; there were few exceptions. The danger among farmers is, not that they will overfeed, but underfeed, and thereby not get the best returns from their cows. Respectfully submitted, HENRY A. TURNER. 14 DOMESTIC DEPARTMENT. In our special department, only seventy-eight checks were issued, — one check including several articles, chough -we received ninety-five contributions. Of stockings and mittens, there were thirteen pairs. Mrs. M, S. Chandler of Marshfield, age ninety-one, a pair of white cotton stockings, very nicely knitted. A fact in knitting, not generally understood by younger people, is that one cannot be a good and rapid knitter who commences at an age later than four or five years. In our mother's day, girls as young as four years knit stockings and mittens, and sold them. In those days knitting and weaving were almost the sole occupations open to girls and women for money making. Mrs, H. S. Pratt of Hanson, seventy-eight years old, had several nicely knitted pairs of stockings, one of which was long, like those worn in the days of knee breeches. Mrs. Betsey Turner of Hanson, who is eighty-eight, sent nice yarn stockings. We could see no difference in the excel- lency of knitting to that of former years. One can hardly expect so good work at such advanced age as in the years gone by. She also sent a pair of double mittens, beautifully knitted. Only those who have knit such can appreciate the work. It requires constant attention, and the knitting is much harder than the single thread. At her age, it is surpris- ing she is able to do so well. By her efforts, she shows a degree of interest in the Fair it would be well for younger people Jo emulate. A beautifully made chemise by her hands was also contributed. We hope the work was examitied by the young people ! A pair of pillow cases and apron made by Mrs. Jane S. Oak- man of North Marshfield, aged eighty-four, won, by the excellency in workmanship, our hearty commendation. So far as nice sewing is concerned, I very much fear our modern sewing machine is not a helper to our young girls. A knit rug by Mrs. Caroline Oakman of the same part of the town, who has passed her threescore and ten, by seven years, is well worthy of notice, — so well knit, the colors so bright and clear. A rug knit of yarn in beautiful colors, and then ravelled and sewed to a foundation, was very pretty. The colors were beautifully shaded, — the work of Mrs. John Holmes of Pembroke. One knit in stripes by Mrs. Ruth Peterson, of eighty-eight, was very nicely done. What makes her work particularly meritorious, is the fact that she has not the natural use of her left hand. It is surprising she is able to do her work so well. The rug knit in squares or diamonds, by Mrs. William Conant of Marshfield, gives an opportunity for economy as well as variety, as no two squares need be alike ; and only a small quantity of material is required for each square. Miss F. M. Collamore of Pembroke displayed a knit rug of small silk pieces, very nice and pretty. A pretty crochet spread, unique in design, in squares, the squares in a variety of patterns. The size of the square about five inches across. A strip in pretty design, of two or more inches in width, united the squares. This is a new depart- ure in spread making, and well displayed the ingenuity of the contributor, A. E. Williamson of Marshfield. A timely suggestion for the girls is, they may obtain fine crochet cord in colors, which is to be had for a few cents a ball, and make squares in different colors, in similar design as the one shown, as there is now a craze for colored spreads. 16 The cotton is very durable, doubled and twisted, and of fine quality. These spreads should be of a size sufficient to cover both bed and pillows ; they are not intended oo be tucked in, but hang over the sides and end of the bed a few inches. The edge is finished with a fancy border of some kind. Another very pretty way in spread making, and some- thing new, is damask table linen, the figures beii>p outlined with either silk or flourishing thread. The latter comes in every variety of shade, and the colors are fast. As we have never had any curtains displayed, I suggest one of the new fashions. Take holland in any shade (though v/hite is the more fashionable) and paint a border at the bottom and sides. As this is an entirely new departure in home furnishing, and when purchased are very expensive, it seems as though our young ladies who are so much engaged in painting, might well avail themselves of this, and enjoy in their homes some of these beautiful curtains. Perhaps, too, some might like to try the table linen the new way ? Quite broad hems are made ; above the hems several rows of hemstitching, and embroidered monogram in one corner. These have napkins made from the same pattern of linen, also hemstitched to match the table cloths. Fine hand towels are also made in the same way. These, too, are expensive. A little time and patience, and one may enjoy them at little cost. There are, also, new designs in pillow cases. The pillows are nearly square ; the cases cut long enough for a good hem, above which are several rows of hemstitching. They may be of cotton or linen : lor beauty, linen ; for wear, cotton. We hope to see some of these at our next Fair. The spread by Mrs. H. HoUis of South Hanson attracted considerable attention by the excellency of the knitting. In our notes we find recorded, " beautifully done." Every stitch seemed perfect. The lady is seventy -four years old. 17 Mrs. H. R. Collaraore of Pembroke, a spread knit in stripes, very nice, very pretty. We like the change from a set pattern to the stripes. There is greater opportunity for variety in design. A crib quilt by Mrs. Franklin Howard of Hanover was the prettiest crib covering we have ever seen. Two large drawn rugs by Mrs. William H. Whiting of Duxbury were nicely made. One by Mrs. Allen Fletcher of Marshfield, equally well made ; as the children say, " it was real nice and pretty." The material was fine, like yarn ; there was a great amount in its construction. A worsted rug worked in star stitch on canvas was very pretty and nice. Two drawn rugs, one with a border in shells, the other with a border of oak leaves, were nicely made and very pretty. Mrs. Pratt, of seventy-eight years, sent a well- made drawn rug, in diamond design, which was very pretty. The prettiest drawn rug shown this year was by Mrs. John Holmes of Pembroke. At a little distance it resembled velvet. A comical design, by Mrs L. B. Barstow of West Duxbury, was a drawn rug which was very nicely made. As most of these rugs were stamped on the canvas, they are easily and rapidly made, compared with one drawn by hand, as was the one shown by Mrs. A. 8, Litchfield of Pembroke. The mat was pretty, and the drawing nicely done. Of the braided mats at the Fair, the nicest, finest, "best braid we ever saw," (our notes say) was by Mrs. G. Hacket of Marsh- field. The mat was nearly three yards long, oval ; the braid no larger than a lead pencil ; sewed beautifully. Mrs. 0. W. Richards and Mary B. Richards of West Bridge- water, had some very nice braided rugs. The whole were much prettier than Mrs. Hacket's, but the braid was not so fine. The design was in stripes, the braid perfectly even and nicely sewed. Mrs. A. White and Mrs. Celia Bonney brought several, which were well made and excellent braids. 18 A large rug, equally well made as any, with very prettily col- ored rags, by Mrs. Elisha Josselyn, is well worthy of notice. Mrs. C. Bates of Whitman, had a large, beautifully braided rug. Mrs. L. B. Barstow of West Duxbury, had very nice rugs ; excel- lent in every particular. Mrs. S. A. Rogers of East Marshfield, three beautiful rugs. They were braided in shades, or sewed so the colors shaded. Three braids formed a stripe. They were very handsome. Each braid was perfectly formed and well sewed, though the braids were not so fine as many others. There were other well-made mats, but time and space will not permit their mention. The patchwork spreads were unusually nice this year, though there were not so many as in former years. What was lacking in quantity was well made up in quality. A pink and white, and a blue and buff, were very pretty and beautifully made, the former by Mrs. C. W. Richards, the latter by Mary B. Richards. A new design, a bear's foot, by Mrs. C. E. Standish of Pem- broke, contained 2970 pieces, well made and perfectly joined. Susan W. Stetson of Marshfield displayed a beautiful quilt in compass pattern, blue and buff ; also a pink and blue, with excel- lent sewing. The corners were perfectly joined. The lining was of home coloring, the old-fashioned annotto color. They looked so very nice we could but remark them at the time. A crazy quilt by Mrs. Lucy Payne of Marshfield, seventy-seven years of age, very pretty, very nicely made. A very fine log cabin quilt, nicely cut and made by Mrs. Matilda Howl and of Hanson. Very nice articles come from Hanson. The nicest fancy work we have ever seen at any Fair was in their hall. A well-made red and white quilt by Abby L. Hall of Bridge- water, is worthy of mention. A bear's foot cover for a com- forter, beautifully made by Mrs. Nancy S. Keen of Marshfield, age eighty-three. A quilt with the smallest squares by Keziah D. White of South Marshfield, was as perfect as could be made. Id The sewing was nice. The cutest of all rugs, or the queerest, might be called a menagerie rag. There were birds, animals and insects, which were sewed on with very small stitches, which will probably wear as long as the cloth. They were by Mrs. G. Baker of North Pembroke. They were very pretty, and showed patience and ingenuit}'. Two button rugs,, one by Mrs. Henry Gardner of Salem, the other by Mrs. A. F. Litchfield of Pem- broke. They were very nice looking and nicely made. All the difference we could see, one had each piece worked around in fine button-hole stitch, while the other did not. A very nice cat-skin robe, from the skins of twenty-five pus- sies, by LeForrest Thayer of West Duxbury. Tt seemed a strange use for cat-skins. The robe showed a good deal of taste in the arrangement of the colors. Each skin was so entirely unlike the other there was great variety. It was beautifully made. We see no reason why cat-skins should not be utilized as well as the fur of other animals. Of course many good things have been omitted which we can- not in this report mention separately. Everything brought in was a credit to the contributor. With very earnest wishes for as much variety as is possible in the articles contributed another year, we respectfully submit the report for 1887. E. M. C. BATES. 20 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. The four reports submitted to us we award as follows : Fancy Articles, Children's Department, Cows, Domestic Articles. We call the attention of committees to the importance of conformity to the regulations of the Society, and of condensa- tion as well as comprehensiveness in the preparation of their reports. Respectfully submitted, E. ALDEN, ) Committee D. D. DEVEREUX, V on J. H. BOURNE, ) Repcyrts. Marshfield, December 29, 1887. 21 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STRAW- BERRIES. To the Secretary of the 3Iarsh/feld Agricultural and Horticul- tural Society : Tlie Committee ou Strawberries visited the plantation of Mr. Phillips and have received the enclosed statement. The committee recommend that the first premium be paid to Mr. Daniel Phillips for best acre of strawberries, measured by us, October, 1887. J. W. SAMPSON. G. J. PETERSON. Statement of Mr. Daniel Phillips. To the Committee ou Straivherries of the 3Iarshfeld Agricul- tural and Horticultural Society: Gentlemen :— At your request I send you an account of my strawben V l)ed as near as I can, as I did not keep a strict account of the cost the year that I set it out, but will try and give you the cost of raising as near as possible and also the way in which I raised them. My bed consists of one acre of good rich land which has been well manured for the last three or four years, and so did not put any on when setting the plants. I plowed the land the same as for any other crop ; gave it a good harrowing with the Acme harrow; then went 22 over it with the lump crusher; then mark it out with a marker which marks eight rows at a bout ; the teeth are three feet, apart. This makesa furrow deep enough to set the plants. I then dug up good healthy plants and set them about eighteen inches apart in the row, spreading the roots each way in the row, then pushed the earth around them and pressed down quite hard. I marked the rows three feet apart and set every other row, which brings the plants eighteen inches apart in the row, and the rows six feet apart. This bed run so as to form a solid mat, as your commiittee kuows, too thick I think, and so set them seven feet this year to give them more room. I did not cover them last Winter, but think it better to cover as the frost hove them some. This Spring I put on about 850 pounds of Bradley's phosphate, broadcast. Will now give you the cost of raising them as near as I can : Cost of getting the land ready to set plants $5 00 Setting plants 4 00 Care of bed after planting 60 00 350 lbs. Bradley's phosphate 7 00 Cost of bed $76 00 I sold $25.00 v/orth of beans from what I had planted be- tween the strawberries, which, taken from the cost of the bed, $76.00, leavfcis the cost of bed up to bearing, $51.00. There were 400U baskets of berries sold, which averaged 10 cents per basket, after paying for picking. It was a verj' bad season, the rain spoiling more than 1000 baskets, I think, many of the Iberries rotting before they ripened. PANIEL PHILLIPS, 23 REPORT OF GARDEN CONTAINING THREE 8QUARE RODS, CULTIVATED BY F. BURTON DAMON, PEMBROKE, AGED THIRTEEN YEAES. Striog beans, 1 bu. Shell peas, 1 pk. Radishes, 230. Cucumbers, 58. Corn, 6| doz. ears. Summer squashes, 43. Green shell beans, 1 bu. 6 qts. Potatoes, 39 lbs. Watermelons, 10. Tomatoes, 1 bu. and more. Prolific tree drj beans, 2 qts. shelled. Mohawk dry beans, 3^ qts. shelled, Turnips. < 24 AWARDS OF COMMITTEE ON TRACK. Society Race. Alfred Rogers, Boston, b. m. Kate Hazard, 2.55, . $8 00 H. A. B;Jier, b. g, Rockland, Emperor, ... 6 00 Running Race. Purse $50. Mortimer T. Downing, Boston, b. g. Butter Daly, 206^, 25 00 C. H. Briggs, Middleboro, b. g. War Cloud, . . 15 00 Henry Biiggs, Duxbury, s. m. Bo Peep, . . . 10 00 Three Minute Class. Purse $50. Judson Ewell, Marshfield, Maud Muller, 2.42, . . 25 00 H. A. Worthley, Lexington, Charles B., . . . 15 00 B. T. Wilkins, East Braintree, Gratz, . . . . 10 00 2.40 Class. Purse $75. Fred M. Harrub, Plympt<^, Prince, 2.43i, . . 30 00 E. R. Wilson, Boston, Harry, 20 00 Felix McNanie, Rockland, E. D. H., ... 15 00 M. McDevitt, Rockland, Rockland Chief, . . .10 00 Free to All. Purse $200. Fred Stetson, South Hanover, b. g. Capt. Gaines, 2.35^, 100 00 C. H. Hadley, b. g. Peter, 50 00 G. F. Harlow, Boston, b. g. Robert D 30 00 H. A. Baker, Rockland, b. g. Emperor, . . . 20 00 25 RURAL SPORTS. D. Shauuou, sack race, $2 00 Edward Green, do., 1 00 T. 'Gaines, 100 yards dash, 3 00 J. Tobin, do., 2 00 J. Tobin, :[ mile run, 4 00 T. Gaines, do., 2 00 J. Tobin, running liigb jump, . . . . . 1 00 Whelan, standing high jump, ..... 1 00 T. Gainee, running broad jump, . . . . . 1 50 Tobin, do., 75 Whelan, stamling broad jump, . . . . 1 00 F. R Douglass, Rockland, bicycle race, . . . 10 00 N. F. Foster, Kingston, do., . , . . . 5 00 Dailey and Feilen, three-legged race, ... 3 00 Dailey and mate, do., ....... 1 50 Federhen, East Marshfield, medal, . . . . 3 50 Federhen and mate, medal, 10 00 Nathaniel T. Hall, throwing base ball, ... 1 00 T. Gaines, hop, skip and jump, 2 00 Tennis equipment, ....... 22 47 Sacks and bandages, . . . . . . . 6 50 Sundries for sports, 14 00 Barrels, axe and sundries, . . . . . . 7 50 Throwing base ball, (see prize), .... 50 Obstacle race, ........ 3 00 Lines, 30 G. B. WRIGHT, Committee, 26 DONATIONS. William J. Wright, windmill, $100 00 William J. Wright, in aid of Farmers' Institute, . 30 00 William J. Wright, premiums for tiotting horses, . 175 00 $305 00 Sundry subscriptions at Institute, . . . . 44 25 Premiums, 1885. Fred Cole, part, not noticed in 188<"» report, . . $2 00 Premiums, 1887. Mrs. G. W. Wright, 13 00 N. H. Whiting, $1 25 W. J. Wright, 8 00 Josephus Dawes, 1 00 C. O. Films, 5 50 J. W. Samson, 8 00 R. H. Moorehead, 50 James E. Bakei , 25 27 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from November 15th, 1885, to November 21st, 1887. From seven new members, . . . $35 00 Rent of halls, . . . . 50 00 State bounty, . . . . 600 00 Donations, ..... 381 85 $1,066 85 Receipts of Exhibition. Admission to irroimrls, Admission to seats, .... Admission to concert, . . . Entries for trotting, .... Tents, rooms and peddlers, Due Treasurer. . $3,335 33 $1,526 45 99 70 93 41 153 25 304 39 $2,177 20 • • 91 28 28 Payments fkom November 15th, 1886, to November 21st, 1887. Balance due Treasurer, .... $152 98 Paid Print iiiGf, ..... 136 40 Interest ou notes, .... 325 00 Posta£T;e, express and stationery, 8 83 Expenses on grounds. 413 76 Expenses on track. 256 86 Salaries, ..... 75 00 Premiums, 1886, .... 74 96 Premiums, 1887, . . . ' 1,2-20 99 Farmsrs' Institutes, , ' . 99 45 Sundries, ..... 113 41 $2,878 14 Expenses of Exhibition. Ticket offices and gates, . . . ;;;44 00 Committees, ..... 23 00 Music, 196 25 Police, ...... 48 00 Entertainment, . . . . . 76 17 Care of stock, 66 92 Hurdles, 2 85 $457 19 13,335 33 I have this day examined the foregoing accounts of the Treasurer, F. Collamore, and find them correct. -• LUTHER P. HATCH, Auditor. Marshfield, November 19, 1887. 29 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN Made to the Board of Agriculture, 1887. $600 00 40 00 349 25 2,260 80 3,244 05 1,175 50 1,136 80 1,295 95 ],886 40 3,179 35 4,500 00 Amount received from the Commonwealth, Of new members, Donations, . . . ' . From all other sources, . Total amount of receipts for the year, . Premiums offered, Premiums and gratuities awarded, Premiums and gratuities paid out. Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuities paid, Total amount of disbursements for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, 11,806 92 Personal property belonging to the Society, .... 1,392 78 Farm Improvements. Amount awarded for ploughing at the Exhibition, 34 00 Total amount offered for farm improvements, . 73 00 Awarded for farm improvements, 34 00 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, . . . . 34 00 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, 26 00 Milch cows, .... 68 00 Heifers, 32 00 Calves, 15 00 30 Amount awarded for working oxen, Steers, Fat cattle, . . ... Horses, Swine, Poultry, Total amount offered for live stock, Awarded for live stock, Paid out for live stock, Faem Products. Amount awarded for Indian corn. Collections of vegetables, . Total amount offered for grain and root crops, . Awarded for grain and root crops, Amount awarded for fruits, Flowers, Butter, ..... Cheese, ..... Preserved fruit and vegetables, . Wheat bread, .... Rye and Indian bread, Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, Miscellaneous. Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in accordance with the law requiring societies to encourage the raising of ship timber. Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses. Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic man- ufactures, etc., ...... Number of persons who received premiums and gratuities — four hundred and eight. $21 00 5 00 12 00 71 00 12 00 119 50 482 50 376 50 ■656 50 60 75 99 00 66 50 30 50 10 00 9 00 26 75 4 50 6 75 240 90 50 00 414 00 147 12 31 Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed and the Amount to Each. Marsbfield, $354 97 Duxbury, 107 60 Pembroke, ....... 74 90 Hanover, 119 20 Whitman, 16 85 Boston, Ill 40 Plymouth, 7 00 Eockland, 78 75 Abington, . 14 00 South Scituate, 22 20 Holbrook, 18 50 Kingston, 19 55 Quincy, 70 Hingham, 8 00 Hyde Park, 60 Braintree, 10 00 Bridgewater, . . . . . . 29 30 Plympton, 34 00 Hanson, 47 90 Scituate, 11 55 Brockton, 6 25 Weymouth, 17 00 Taunton, 3 00 Dayton, Ohio, 50 Cambridge, 1 40 West Bridgewater, 6 45 Lexington, 18 00 32 East Brklgewater, $3 00 Middleboro, 18 00 Milton, ........ 2 00 Woburn, ....... 35 Salem, 80 Newton, . . . . . . . 10 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agri- cultural and Horticultural Society for the year 1887. WILLIAM J. WEIGHT, President. FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Makshfield, January 1, 1888. LIST OF PREMIUMS •OF THU- MARSHFIELD Agricultural ^^" H orticultural SOCIETY ID TJ li I IsT a- THE ^STE-fA-Pl 1888. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1888. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1888. PRESIDEINT: JOHN H. PARKS, Duxburj. VICE PREISIDEINTS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. WALTON HALL, Marshfield. SBCRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfield, GOY. G. W. EMERY, Marshfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield, WILLIAM J. WRIGHT, Duxbury. JOHN J. RUSSELL, Plymouth. GIDEON F. HOLMES, Plymouth. HORATIO ADAMS, Kingston. JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. DELEGATE TO STATE BOARD FOR THREE YEARS: GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfield. Term Expires, 1890. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1888. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOEEST TEEES. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three years, nor less than one thou- sand trees', premium of $30. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20. Premiums to be awarded in 1891. Committee. — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; Edward Sprague, Marshfield, John B. Chandler, Pembroke. FEUIT TEEES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple Trees, set out in 1888, and in the most flourishing condition in 1891, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear Trees, set out in 1888, and in the best condition in 1891, two premiums — $8, 4. Committee. — Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACEE OP GEOUND. For the most productive and profitable half acre of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — $8, 4. Payable in 1890. Committee.- Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman; Samuel C. Stetson, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining Laud, two premiums — $8, 4. To be paid in 1890. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Chairman ; B. G. Cahoon, Marshfield, Barker Sprague, Maishfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1888. A full and careful statement, in writing, must be furnished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of $8. For the next largest crop, $5. Committee. — Harvey D. Ncrthey, Scituate, Chairman ; Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, John Magoun, Marshfield. GEAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums — 18, 5. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. All entries on grain to be made to the Secretary, before the first day of June. Committee. — T. B Blackman, Marshfield, Chairman ; C. P. Wright, Marshfield, T. P. Ford, Marshfield. BOOT CHOPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one-fourth of an acre, and not less than five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the grea est crop of Beets, on one-fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one eighth of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, on one-half of an acre, three premiums — f4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hundred bushels, on one-half of an acre — $4, 3, 2. Committee.— James H. West, Jr., Pembroke, Chairman ; Josephus Dawes, Duxbury, C. H. Williamson, Marshfield. Competitors lor premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committe, on or before November 1, 1888, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the laud for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality and value of the manure tipplied, the amount of labor expended, with such practical suggestions as they maybe pleased to make. All entries to be made before the first day of June, 1888. 6 CATTLE. cows. All cattle must have been owned by the exhibitor three months. For the best herd of Cows (not less than five) of any breed — $10. None of the herd to be entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cows of the Jersey breed, three premiums —Diploma, $4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, three premiums —Diploma, 14, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, three premiums — Diploma, $4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, three premiums — Dip- loma, 14, 3. • For the best Milch Cow of the Holstein breed, three premiums — Diploma, $4, 3. For the best Cow not a competitor in any class, one premium — $5. Premiums to be awarded by an expert. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writing, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dry, the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past year. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Ayrshire breed, having had a calf, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Devon breed, having hail a calf, two premiaois — $3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Holstein Heifer, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums — $3, 2. Premiums to be awarded by an expert. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jers(^y Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Devon Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Holstein Heifer, one premium— 12. For the best Heifer of any other breed, one premium — 12. Premiums to be awarded by an expert. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, two premiums — 12, 1. For the best Holstein Calf, not less than four months old, two premiuns — $2, 1. Premiums to be awarded by an expert. BULLS. EXHIBITORS MUST BE ABLE TO PROVE PEDIGREE. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums ^Diploma, $3, 2. 8 For the best Holstein Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, $3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, 13, 2. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, $3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon or Dutch breeds, each two premiums, $2, 1. Premiums to be awarded by an expert. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. Committee. — Ephraim H. Walker, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ; Job P. Otis, Scituate ; George Bradford, Duxbury. WOKKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee. — Marcellus Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel H. Church, Hanover, Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover. SHEEP. For the best flock of Sheep, ten in number, two premiums — $5, 3. For the best flock of Sheep, not less than six in number, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — Ephraim Walker, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ; Daniel Phillips, Marshfield, John W. Hatch, Pembroke. 9 HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, three premiums — A special of $50 and 13, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — 13, 2, 1. Committee. — Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, Chairman ; Lewis H. Keith, Kingstan, Fred Stetson, Hanover. DKAFT HOKSES. For the best pair of Draft Horses, two premiums— 14, 3. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — $4, 3. Draft Horses entered in one class not to be entered in the other. CoMMiTiEE. — S.'B. Chandler, Marshfield, Chairman; Robert T. Randall, Duxbury, Marcellus Hatch, Mashfield. FAMILY HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — Judson Ewell, Marshfield, Chairman ; Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, L. P. Hatch, Marshfield. MATCHED HORSES. For the best pair of Matched Horses, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee, — Fred M. Harrub, Plympton, Chairman ; John E. Ford, Marshfield, Charles H. Taylor, Marshfield. GENTS' DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentleman's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — S4, 3, 2. Committee. — Alfred Rogers, Boston, Chairman ; Henry M. Dunham, Marshfield, H. K. Keith, Kingston. 10 COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums — $2, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Howard Clapp, Bostou, Chairman ; Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Martin Chandler, Marshfield. All Animals exhibited for premiums, including Oxen and Steers, and excepting Calves, Poultry, Sheep and Swine, are to be brought upon the track by exhibitors or their agents by classes in the order in which they are named in the above list, at eleven o'clock A. M., on the second day of the Fair, when the premiums will be awar.ed. No premiums awarded unless the animals are exhibited, unless specially excused for causes shown. No person allowed to lead more than one animal on the track. SWINB. For the best Fat Hog, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four or more than seven months old, two premiums— $3, 2. Committee. — Gershom Bradford, Duxbury, Chairman ; Sam- uel C. Stetson, Marshfield, Ezra Ford, Marshfield. PICKLES, PRESERVES, JELLIES AND HONEY. Twenty-five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee. — Mrs. Oscar Weston, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. J. J. McFarlin, Pembroke, Mrs, Wadsworth Chandler, Pembroke. 11 BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four premiums -$4, 3, 2, 1. For the best Plain Cheese, three premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — 13, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors to Butter and Cheese. Committee. — Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. James H. West, Pembroke, Mrs. David Briggs, Scituate. BREAD. WHITE BREA.D. For the best sample of White Bread, three premiums — a special of $25, and $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. E. P. Sprague, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Oscar Stevens, Marshfield, Mrs. D. H. Thompson, Marshfield. EYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT. For the best sample of Eye and Indian Bread, two premi- ums—$2, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs. Caroline Sables, Scituate. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of con- tributors. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar, is to be used it the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepara- tion is to be attached to each loaf. 12 FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums— $3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed by the committee. Committee. — Israel H. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; John S. Loring, Duxbury, H. C. Dunham, Marshfield. PEARS. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $3, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums— 11 5.), 1, .75, .50. For the best display of any one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — G. M. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; H. K. Keith, Kingston, Charles S. Josselyn, Marshfield. PEACHES, QUINCES AND PLUMS. For the best display of Peaches, six premiums— $2.50, 2, 1.50, 1.25, 1, .75. For the best display of Quinces, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. For the best display of Plums, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — S. W. Eastman, Marshfield, Chairman; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, H. W. Josselyn, MarsMel4, 13 GRAPES. For the best collection, four buuches each variety, five premi- ums-$3, 2, 1.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, six premiums — each twenty-five cents. For the best collection, grown under glass, four premiums — $2, i.50, 1, .50. For the best single dish of Grapes, grown under glass, six premiums — twenty-five cents each. Four dollars may be distributed by the committee. Committee. — John Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Charles F. Randall, Pembroke, S. E. Low, Marshfield. CRANBERRIES. For the best display, half-bushel exhibited, two premiums — $1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half-bushel exhib- ited, two premiums— .50, .25. Committee. — B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Chairman; Henry D. Northey, Scituate, John Magoun, Marshfield. POULTRY. Number of entry to be attached to coop, instead of owner's name. The committee are authorized to award not exceeding fifty dollars in premiums of two and one dollars each, for kinds and varieties of Poultry, not more than two premiums for each variety. On pigeons and pets not more than ten dollars. Premiums to be awarded bj an expert. Roscoe E. Ford, Special Committee in care of Poultry. 14 HOME DEPARTMENT. One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. E. M. C. Bates, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Carrie B. Hatch, Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FANCY ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Hannah Alden, Duxbury, Chairman ; Miss Carrie Randall, Pembroke, Mrs. Lydia B. Vinal, Plymouth. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FLOWERS. Thirty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — G. H. Weatherbee, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Gershom W. Witherell, Duxbury, Mrs. Adrian PhilHps, Marsh- field. CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured by children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Clara T. Prior, Marshfield, Mary W. Baker, Marshfield. 15 MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Committee. — J. Dean Bouuey, Pembroke, Chairman; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, G. Herbert Chandler, Marshfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the committee. For the best collection, five premiums — $6, 5, 4, 3, 2. Committee, — H. H. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Charles W. Berry, South Scituate, Fred Cole, Scituate. PREPARATION OF MEADOWS FOR CRAN- BERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one-eight of an acre, and covering with cranberry vines, two premiums — $6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 1888. Premiums payable in the fall of 1890. Committee. — B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Chairman ; D. E. Damon, Plymouth, John J. Russell, Plymouth. GARDENS. t For the most productive garden, containing tliree square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premi- ums—$3, 2. Committee. — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman ; Fred Cole, Scituate, Francis Merritt, Pembroke. 16 STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of Strawberries, not less than one-fourth of an acre, two premiums— 16, 4. Payal)le in 1888. ■ Committee. — J. W. Sampson, South Scituate, Chairman ; G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, William Holmes, Duxbury. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to award premiums, four premiums — 16, 5, 4, 3. Committee.— Rev. E. Alden, Marshfield, Chairman; Daniel D. Devereaux, Duxbury, John H. Bourne, Marshfield. GROUNDS. Committee. — Barker Sprague, Marshfield. HALL. Committee. — Job Williamson, Chairman, with power to choose his own assistants. Yoted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Choose G. J. Peterson, Marshfield. 17 SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. James M. Black, Marshfield. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. Barker Sprague, Marshfield. 18 REGULATIONS. No member of the committee shall decirle respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor ; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles, products, tiovvers, fruits and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Fair. Committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall, at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees wilh report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M., on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished committees. In lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society may be awarded. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M, on the first day of the Exhibition. No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society. If a competitor is dissatisfied with the award of a committee a protest may be made to the Secretary, in writing, not later than the day following the award, and the matter shall be ad- justed by the Directors. 19 No animal shall be entitled to a premium, unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three mouths prior to the Exhibition. The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall thiuk proper. It is the duty of committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All committees to report previous to December, 1888. Keports of committees should contain : First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of con- tributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the committee. IM AHNDAL EIHIBITION -WILL BE HELD- ON THE GROUNDS OF THE SOCIETY, IN MARSHFIELD. -ON- WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, SEPT. 12th, 13th AND 14th, 1888. V-''^' r>ist> MAliSHFIELD Agricultural p-^^ Horticultural SOCIETY ID TJ R I UNT C3- THE "YEA.R. TRANSACTIONS -OF THE- MARSHFIELD Agricultural p^^' Horticultural SOCIETY ID XJ JR, I KT a- XHE ^TE^^K, 1888. PLYMOUTH : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1889. .rVr OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1888. PREISIDEINT: JOHN H. PARKS, Dnxbury. VICE PRBSIDEIN-TS: FRANCIS P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. WALTON HALL, M-irshfield. SEICRBTARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREIASUREIR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marsbfield. DIRELCXORS: FRANK FORD, Mai^hlield, GOV. G. W. EMEPvY, Marsbfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marsbfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marsbfield, WM. J. WRIGHT, Duxburj, JOHN J. RUSSELL, Plymouth, GIDEON F. HOLMES, Plymoutb, HORATIO ADAMS, Kingston, JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, South Scituate, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. deileigate: to state: board for three: YEARS: GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marsbfield. Term Expires, 1890. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. Lillian B. Phillips, Marsbfield. Gilbert H. West, Pembroke. Henry A. Davenport, Pembroke. Samuel G. Brown, Lynn. Flora Hall Marsbfield. S. Bertha Hall, Marsbfield. Martha J, Chandler, Marsbfield. Marcia a. Lapham, Marsbfield. Horatio B. Sprague, Marsbfield. Foster T. Ewell, Marsbfield. George F. Wilson, Marsbfield. REPORTS. CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. The uufavoiable weather on the first day of the Fair was the cause of a little anxiety on the part of your committee, lest the children might not get their articles in, and in consequence their department fall far short of its usual attractiveness, if not prove almost a failure. But we were not a little surprised, and of course agreeably so, to Audits success fully equal to that of last year, the articles on the table numbering sixty-five, and the number of contributors, thirty-nine. There is now from year to year steady progress in the number of articles entered in this department, and we would suggest that a little more space be allowed the children, as the exhibi- tion of musical instruments now occupies so much of the room formerlj' given them that their articles are crowded and cannot be shown to advantage, and the Children's Department now seems to compare less favorably with former years than it really should. We would also suggest, as we have done before, that the space granted be marked in some noticeable way, so that peo- ple who are interested in children's work may easily tell where to find it, and how far its limits extend. We are glad to report the yearly increase in interest on the part of the children, and that so large a number of those who contribute are residents of our own town. Miss Grace Wales, however, of Newton, this year contribu- ted most largely to this department, and among her articles were a set of serviceable table mats, and several pretty paper orna- ments. Maude Witherell, another non-resident, and Clara Bar- stow, brought a good number of ar deles in plain sewing, and others, which although they might be called fancy articles, served for use as well as ornament. A very nicely made article for a little girl of eight years was the table scarf by Wealthea Ford. Among other work may be mentioned a quilt by Mary Prince, pretty and neatly made ; aprons by lola Parent of Providence, E. I., and Grace Peterson of New Bedford ; a knit rug by Florence Knowles, and three other rugs by Misses Baker, Williamson and Clift, the latter bringing also a very pretty crocheted hood. We were interested in our three youngest contributors, Helen Ford, Jennie Harris and Alice Phillips, who brought the small beginnings of their life's work, which spoke better things for the future. We remember the work of several other little contributors of from five to seven years of age, which we are glad to commend, as well as that of the boys whose work we would like to see much more of in this department. We feel like speaking words of praise, and encouragement, to each one of our young contributors ; and, in closing, say to you in the interest of the Society, while no doubt it is pleasing to you, (and we are glad that it is so), to bring to the Fair your little pieces of work over which your patient fiugers have toiled, and to receive for your work a gratuity according to its merit, and, perhaps, see it mentioned in our reports, as worthy of praise, yet do not think altogether of your own interests while you are working for the Fair. By and by you are to be the men and women of the Marsh- field Agricultural and Horticultural Society, and its success will then depend not so much upon the number of articles you may contribute to the various departments, for the sake of the prominence jou niay get, but upon the real interest you feel in the life an 1 growth of the Society and the unselfish ways you take of showing that interest. Don't grow up in the spirit of people who make remarks like these : "I've done all I ever shall do for that Society. I carried something two or three years, and didn't get anything, or not half as much as other people whose work was no better than mine." Such persons do not care much for the success of the Society beyond the advantage its success will be to them. You, of the Children's Department, will at no very distant day be serving as committees in the various departments of the Fair, and you will find the duty not any easy one, but often tiresome and perplexing, with not even the thought that when your work is done it will please and give satisfaction. AVhile you work for yourself, work for the Society as well, and "do your best, your very best," even if 30U do not always get what you expect, and what you think you deserve. You will always find the greatest pleasure and satisfaction in work- ing not for j^ourself alone, but for the good of something or somebody besides yourself. S. B. STEVENS. 8 FANCY ARTICLES. The Marshfield Agricultural Society may justly be proud of the Exhibition, held September 13, 14 and 15, 1888. Every department was filled to overflowing, and only the best was brought. There were 156 fancy articles contributed, and, had the weather been more favorable the opening day, doubtless many more would have been sent. Early the efficient Hall Committee were on hand draping and looping, adding a bright bit here and giving a more sombre effect there, touching and retouching until there was nothing more to be desired and all was pronounced perfect. There was on tlie tables this year some of the finest work ever presented, and the Committee realized the meagreness of the funds as never before. There was much knitting, crochet- ting, and darned work, upon which, remembering the caution of the Committee on Report !, we will not expatiate. Suffice it to say much of this was well done, was new in design, and made up into original and beautiful forms. Those friends who have not yet gotten over the craze for the ancient and antique, were gratified by the sight of a tidy, shown by Mrs. Holmgren, of Marshfield, which was made one hundred and twenty-five years ago. The slumber pillow, made by Mrs. Jane Oakman, of North Marshfield, who is eight-five years of age, was as nicely done as the work of our young girls. Miss Carrie Arnold displayed a great variety of painting on a sofa pillow which attracted much attention and was universal- ly admired. The specimen of drawn work in the shape of a linen bureau scarf, by Miss Mabel Fowle, of Duxbury, was lovely, and must have required much patience and perseverance in its accom- plishment. The handkerchiefs in Mexican work, drawn by Miss Hatch, were also very handsome. The bread cover and mats with wheat, and a Japanese pattern, in soft coloring, were a novelty and more like the work of fairies than mortals, so delicate and dainty they were. How- ever, we were assured that they were executed by Miss Mary Bassett, of Newton. The pond lilies, worked in Kensington, upon a chair, by Miss Addie Williamson, were very natural. The afghan in Roman stripes, from Miss Dwelley, and the one in seven stripes, each done in a different stitch, by Miss C. E. Russell, were faultless. It has long been said that no one in Plymouth County could compete with Mrs. Lydia Adams, of Kingston, in the line of fancy work. Certainly, we have never seen anything so magni- ficent as the silk spread exhibited by her. There were five strips worked on broad black cash ribbon, one decorated with trumpet flowers, on the second reposed poppies, a vine of passion flowers clambered over the third, while wild flowers and roses were strewn on the fourth and fifth. It was finished in the most elaborate manner. " A thing of beauty, and a joy for- ever." She also brought to us a drapery curtain, embroidered in bold lai'ge figures, with deep rich colors. From Miss Alice Weatherbee, of East Marshfield, wo received three cups and saucers; upon one was painted a landscape, on the others, wild flowers and nasturtiums. The painted va.se, cracker jar and tray, which came from Miss Olivia Sampson, of Duxbury, were simply delectable; the wise contrasts and subtile combinations of color were most satis- factory to all lovers of art. Mrs. Loud, of Whitman, hung some very creditable paintings, three horses with heads reaching far out from their mangers. 10 as if in search of food, was particularly good. The faces were painted with much detail, the flesh coloring, showing warm, reddish tones approaching brown. Two roads merging into one in a bare, dreary land without relief, may not seem a promising subject, but Mrs. Bates made out of this simple scene a picture not at all monotonous, but displaying a freedom of drawing not often seen in amateurs. Miss Williamson and Miss Watkins sent landscapes of un- common richness of tone and general merit, while Miss Augusta Sampson and Mrs. F. E. Chandler gave us superior gems of bright color. Miss H. Hall's jar of violets and bowl of pansies are painted with exquisite taste as regards arrangement, refinement of drawing and coloring. Her bold, strong landscape with only a fence, an open gate, some vivid green grass and bright yellow sun flowers, makes us recognize the artist's experience and power, besides quickening the imagination. It is a picture that grows upon one and becomes a fascination. Miss Ella Davie's collection are admirable examples of ex- pressive drawing and of the preservation of accurate values. Imagine a broad expanse of water, with only the sky for a back ground, veiled by the silvery mist of early morning. A little out from land is seen a fishing boat, and the figures of two men in oil coats are busily engaged in their work. Having seen this as we did, you will stand and watch for the sun to break through. In a second picture the water has taken on a delightfully warm hue, reflected from the setting sun ; from horizon to zenith this flood of color is perceptible. There was a charming scrap of still life and two other fine pieces. Miss Carrie Arnold sent only one landscape — a snow scene — but that was exceptionally well done. If our neighbors will continue as they have begun, do the best that in them lies, we shall never have cause to be ashamed of our Marshfield Fair. H. M. ALDEN 11 DOMESTIC DEPARTMENT. The display in the Hall in this department was not as large as in previous years. The number of entries was seventy-eight ; the different articles for gratuties were eight-seven. Quite a number of new designs were presented. Each was well made, pretty, and useful, doing the owners much credit. We feel that honorable mention should be made of the very nice sewing by Mrs. Jane S. Oakman of North Marshfield, who has nearly reached her four score and ten 3'ears. She sent beautifully made drawers and an apron. A night-dress and chemise by Mrs. H. S. Pratt of Hanson, nearly ninety years of age ; a chemise by Mrs. Betsey Tur- ner of Hanson, were beautifully sewed. Mrs. Caroline Oakman's nice pillow cases merit the same ap- prob^^^ Plymouth •< with Plymouth Base-Ball Club ) ( "Blues"— Penant, 6 00 J. E. Holmes, high kick, 1 00 Committee on rural sports, expenses, ... 5 17 S. L. PARKS, I (j^„^^,ift,, ROBERT W. CANDLER, \ ^^"'^^'^^^^' u DONATIONS. J. H. Parks, in part of parse for trotting, . . . $100 00 W. J. Wright, in part of purse for trotting, . . 25 00 W. J. Wright, special premium for stud horse, . . 50 00 W. J. Wright, balance due Treasurer, Nov. '87, . 91 28 Walton Hall, special premium on bread, . . . 25 00 Subscriptions at Institute, ..... 15 25 Premiums, 1887. Frank Ford, . . . . . . . . 1 00 G. J. Peterson, ........ 25 G. Bradford, .' . 50 Premiums, 1888. James W. Sampson, $5 00 E. H. Moorehead, 70 G. W. Wright, 1 00 C. O. Ellms, 5 50 Everett Torrej, 4 00 Walton Hall, 10 00 VOTE FO THANKS. At the Annual Meeting of the Society, Mr. F. P. Arnold, of Pembroke, having declined further service as one of the Ojfficers, it was voted : " That the thanks of the Society be given him for his long continued, earnest and zealous labors in behalf of the Society," F. COLLAMOEE, Secretary. 25 TREASURER'S REPORT. Receipts from November 21st, 1887, to November 19th, 1888. From thirteen new members, . Rent of halls, .... ClaiV, ...... Storage, . . . • . State bounty, .... Donations : J. H. Parks, . W. J. Wright, .... W. J. Wright, balance clue Treasurer Nov. '87, .... Walton Hall, premium on bread. Subscriptions at Institute, Provisions sold at Institute, Entry for race, unpaid in '87, $65 00 ^35 50 13 85 9 00 3 00 600 00 100 00 75 00 91 28 25- 00 15 25 8 66 2 50 $1,044 04 Receipts of Exhibition. Admittance to grounds, .... $1,702 88 Admittance to seats, 80 46 Admittance to concert, . . . . 58 90 Entries for trotting, 233 25 Tents, rooms and peddlers, . . . 305 80 Qne dinner ticket sold, . , , . 1 00 $2,382 29 $3,426 33 26 Payments fkom November 21st, 1887, to November 19th, 1888. Balance due Treasurer, .... $91 28 Paid Interest on notes, .... 335 13 Printing, ..... 126 55 Materials and labor on grounds and buildings, 710 89 Salaries, 75 00 Sundries, 136 96 Premiums, 1887, .... 85 00 Premiums, 1888, .... 1,172 91 5,733 72 Expenses of Exhibition. Ticket offices and gates, . . . $53 00 Committees, . . . . . . 48 25 Police, 61 75 Entertainment, 85 55 Care of stock, 106 39 Music, . . . . . . .204 72 Sundries, 18 97 568 63 $3,302 35 Cash on hand, 123 98 $3,426 33 Respectfully submitted. FRANCIS COi.LAMORE, Treasurer. I have this day exiimined the foregoing acts of F. Collamore, Treasurer of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society, and find them correct. LUTHER P. HATCH, Auditor. Marshfield, November 17, 1888. 27 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN Made to the Board of Agriculture, 1888, Amoiint received from the Commonwealth, . Of new members, Donations, ..... From all other sources, . Total amount of receipts for the year, . Premiums offered, . Premiums and gratuties awarded, Premiums and gratuities paid out, Current expenses for the year, not including the premiums and gratuties paid, Total amount of disbursements for the year, Indebtedness of the Society, Total value of real estate belonging to the Society, Personal property belonging to the Society,- 1,392 78 Farm Improvements. Total amount offered for farm improvements, . 67 00 Awarded for farm improvements, 3 25 Actually paid out for farm improve- ments, .... 3 25 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for bulls, . . . . . 20 00 Milch cows, . . . . 49 00 Heifers, 29 00 Calves, 7 50 $600 00 65 00 306 53 2,454 80 3,426 33 1,574 00 1,196 59 1,172 91 2,044 44 3,302 35 4,500 00 11,806 92 28 Amount awarded for working oxen, . . . $22 00 Steers, ..... 5 00 Fat cattle, 10 00 Horses, 128 50 Swine, 11 50 Poultry, 60 00 Total amount offered for live stock, .... 400 00 Awarded for live stock, . . 342 50 Paid out for live stock, . . . 342 50 Farm Products. Amount awarded for Indian corn, .... Collection of vegetables, . . 68 22 Total amount offered for grain and root crops, . 211 00 Awarded for grain and root crops, 68 22 Amount awarded for fruits, . . . . . 65 75 Flowers, 29 25 Butter, 10 00 Cheese, 10 00 Preserved fruit and vegetables, . 16 80 Wheat bread, .... 28 00 Rye and Indian bread, . . . 6 00 Total amount paid out under the head of Farm Products, . . . • . . . . 234 02 Miscellaneous. Amount offered for the raising of forest trees, in ac- cordance with the law requiring societies to en- courage the raising of ship timber, . . . 50 00 Amount awarded and paid out for same, . . 30 00 Amount awarded and paid out for trotting horses, . 457 00 Amount awarded for objects other than agricultural, including mechanical inventions, domestic manu- factures, etc., 129 82 Number of persons who received premiums and gra- tuties, 375 00 29 Names of Towns and Cities to which the Premiums and Gratuities were Disbursed and the Amount to Each. Marsbfield, $283 77 Duxbury, Pembroke, . Hanovf^r, Whitman, Boston, Plymouth, . Rockland, Abington, Nor well, Holbrook, Kingston, Quincy, Hingham, Hyde Park . Braintree, Bridgewater, Plympton, Hanson, Scituate, . Brockton, Weymouth, Lynn, . . Sandwich, Cambridge, Providence, B. I., Lexington, East Bridgewater, Plainville, Brighton, Natick, 63 32 92 24 19 25 11 65 48 05 13 25 85 60 5 00 13 70 12 00 63 50 12 70 10 00 5 00 5 50 33 00 3 00 50 54 50 90 200 75 15 15 41 50 45 50 20 00 8 20 1 60 15 85 30 New Bedford, $05 40 Newton, 2 60 Turner, Me., 90 Sumner, Me., 2 00 CERTIFICATE. These pages contain an account of the Marshfield Agricultu- ral and Horticultural Society for the year 1888. JOHN H. PARKS, President FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Secretary. Marshfield, January 1, 1889. LIST OF PREMIUMS -OF THB- MARSHFIELD Agricultural ^^^ Horticultural SOCIETY IDXJI?.I]Sra- THE -YE-A-I^ 1889. OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1889. PREISIDEIN-r: JOHN H. PARKS, Duxbury. vice: RRBSIDBN-rS: GOV. G. W. EMERY, Marsbfield. WALTON HALL, Marslifield. SEICREITARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. "TREASURER: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marsbfield. DIRECTORS: FRANK FORD, Marsbfield, ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marsbfield, CHARLES A. WALKER, Marsbfield, BARKER SPRAGUE, Marsbfield, WM. J. WRIGHT, Duxburj, JOHN J. RUSSELL, Plymoutb, GIDEON F. HOLMES, Plymoutb, HENRY H. NORTHEY, Scituate, JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke, JAMES W. SAMPSON, Norwell, CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. DELEGATE TO STATE BOARD FOR THREE YEARS: GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marsbfield. Term Expires, 1890. Iwenty-third Annual Eahihifion will he held on the nro'LUuh of the Society, in 2fa)\shjield, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, iSepitiuhtr il^A, 12th and loth, 1889. LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1889. FARM IMPROVEMENTS. FOREST TREES. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, of any kind, having been planted not less than three ^ears, nor less than one thou- sand trees, premium of $30. For the best plantation of Forest Trees, to contain not less than five hundred trees, a premium of $20. Premiums to be awarded in 1892. Committee — James H. West, Pembroke, Chairman ; Edward Sprague, Marshfield, John B. Chandler, Pembroke. FRUIT TREES. For orchards of not less than twenty-four Apple Trees, set out in 1889 and in the most flourishing condition in 1892, two premiums — $8, 4. For orchards of not less than twenty Pear Trees, set out in 1889, and in the best condition, in 1892, two premiums — $8, 4. Committee. — Josiah Bourne, Pembroke, Chairman ; H. C. Dunham, Marshfield, Dr. S. Henry, Marshfield. BEST HALF ACRE OF GROUND. For the most productive and profitable half acres of ground, cultivated for three years, two premiums — $8, 4. Payable in 1892. Committee. — Charles Williamson, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Jona. S. Ford, Duxbury. 3 DRAINING LAND. For the most successful experiment in Draining L.iU'i, two premiums — 18, 4. To be paid in 1892. Committee. — H. C. Dunham, MarshfieUl, Chairman ; B. G. Cahoon, Marshfield, Baler Sprague, Marshfield. Applications for the foregoing premiums must be made to the Secretary on or before September 1, 1889. A full and careful statement, in writing, must be famished the committee as to the soil, mode of cultivation, the whole method of planting, and expense connected therewith, or no premiums will be awarded. HAY. For the largest crop of English Hay, on one acre, not less than three tons at one crop, a premium of 18. For the next largest crop, 15. Committee. — Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, Chairman ; Josiali Bourne, Pembroke, John Magouu, Marslifield. GRAIN. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on one acre, and not less than sixty bushels, two premiums— $8, 5. For the greatest crop of white or yellow Corn, on half an acre, and not less than thirty bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Rye on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Wheat on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. For the greatest crop of Barley on an acre, and not less than twenty-five bushels, two premiums — 15, 3. For the greatest crop of Oats on an acre, and not less than forty-five bushels, two premiums — $5, 3. All entries on grain to be made to the Secretary, before iiid first day of June. Committee. — T. B. Blackraan, Marshfield, Chairman ; C. P. Wright, Marshfield, T. P. Ford, Marshfield. BOOT CROPS. For the greatest crop of Carrots, on not less than one-fourth of an acre, and not less thun five hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Beets, on one-fourth of an acre, and not less than six hundred bushels to the acre, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Onions, on one eight of an acre, and not less than sixty bushels, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the greatest quantity of Potatoes, not less than one hun- dred and twenty-five bushels, ctn one half of an acre, three pre- miums— $4, 3, 2. For the greatest crop of Turnips, not less than three hundred bushels, on one half of an acre — $4, 3, 2. Committee. —James H. West, Jr., Pembroke, Chairman ; Josephus Dawes, Duxbury, C. H. Williamson, Marshfield. Competitors for premiums on Grain and Root crops will be required to furnish the committee, on or before November 1, 1889, a particular statement, in writing, of the preparation of the land for seed, its previous culture, the kind, quality and value of the manure applied, the amount of labor expended, with such practical suggestions as they may be pleased to make. All entries to be made before the first day of June, 1889. 6 CATTLE. cows. All cattle must been owned by the exLibitor three months. For the best herd of Cows (not less than five) of any breed — $10. None of the herd to be entered in any other class. For the best Milch Cows of tlie Jersey breed, three mediums —Diploma, |4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Ayrshire breed, three premiums — Dip^.oma, $4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Devon breed, three premiums — Diploma, $4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Grade, three premiums — Di- ploma, $4, 3. For the best Milch Cow of the Holstein breed, three premiums — Diploma, $4, 3. For the best Cow not a competitor in any class, one premium -$5. Committee. — C. O. Ellms, Scituate, Chairman ; Henry A. Turner, Norwell, James H. West, Pembroke. Competitors to furnish a full statement, in writiug, of the feed, the time of dropping last calf, the length of time gone dr}', the quantity of milk given, and the quantity of butter or cheese made in any week during the past j-ear. HEIFERS UNDER THREE YEARS. For the best Heifer of the Jersey breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Aj'rshire breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the bjst Heifer of the Devon breed, having had a calf, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Heifer of the Native or Grade breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, having had a calf, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Jersey Heifer, two premiums — f3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Devon Heifer, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Holstein Heifer, two premiums— $3, 2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, two premiums— $3, 2. Committee. — Bailey Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman ; John F. Hatch, Marslifield, and Henry Carver, Marshfield. HEIFERS UNDER TWO YEARS. For the best Jersey Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Ayrshire Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Devon Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Holstein Heifer, one premium — $2. For the best Heifer of any other breed, one premium — $2. Committee.— James W. Sampson, Norwell, Chairman; Daniel Phillips, Marsbfield, and James H. West, Jr., Pembroke. CALVES. For the best Jersey Calf, not less than four months old, one premium — $2. For the best Ayrshire Calf, not less than four months old, one premium — $2. For the best Devon Calf, not less than four months old, one premium — $2. For the best Holstein Calf, not less than four mouths old, one premium — $2. Committee. — William L. Cashing, Chairman ; M. Herman Kent and I. H. Macomber, all of Marshfield. 8 BULLS. EXHIBITORS MUST BE ABLE TO PROVE PEDIGREE. For the best Jersey Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, 13, 2. For the best Holstein Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, $3, 2. For the best Ayrshire Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, $3, 2. For the best Devon Bull, not less than fifteen months old, three premiums — Diploma, $3, 2. For the best Bull Calf of the Jersey, Ayrshire, Devon or Dutch breeds, each two premiums, $2, L Committee.— Walton Hall, Chairman, Murshfield ; John H. Bourne, Marshfield, Wm. J. Wright, Duxbury. BEEF CATTLE. For the best Fat Ox, three premiums — 15, 3, 2. For the best Fat Cow, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. Committee. — Ephraim H. Walker, Jr., Marshfield, Chairman ; Joseph Corthell, Norwell, and Josiah H. Baker, Pembroke. WORKING OXEN AND STEERS. For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than six years old, three premiums — $5, 4, 3. For the best pair Working Oxen, not less than four years old, three premiums — $4, 3, 2. For the best pair of Steers, under four years old and accus- tomed to the yoke, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee, — Horatio Chandler, Duxbury, Chairman ; Wen- dell A, Phillips, Marshfield, Robert Sylvester, Jr., Hanover. SHBBP. For the best tlock of Sheep, ten in number, two premiums — !jpO, o. For the best flock of Sheep, not less than six in number, two premiums — $4, 3. Committee. — Ephraim Walker, Jr., Marshfiekl, Chair maa ; Daniel Phillips, Marshfield, John W. Hatch Pembroke. HORSES. For the best Stud Horse, three premiums — S5, 3, 2. For the best Breeding Mare, three premiums — $5, 3, 2. Committee. — Henry G. Vinal, Plymouth, Chairman ; James W. Sampson, Norwell, Wm. G. Chandler, Plymouth. DRAFT HORSES. For the best pair of Draft Horses, two premiums — $4, 3. For the best Draft Horse, two premiums — 14, 3. Draft Horses entered in one class not to be entered in the other. Committee.— Foster T. Elwell, Marshfield, Chairman; Robert T. Randall, Dusbury, Hc^nry M. Dunham, Marshfield. FAMIJ^Y HORSES. For the best Family Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — L. P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; C. Russell Hatch, Marshfield, H. H. Northey, Scituate. 10 MATCHED HORSES. For the best p"air of Matched Horses, three premiums — $5, 4, 2. Committee. — Fred. M. Harrub, Pljmpton, Chairman ; Marcel- his Hatch Marshfield, Gideon F. Holmes, Plymouth. GENTS' DRIVING HORSES. For the best Gentlemen's Driving Horse, not to be entered in any other class, or for trotting, three premiums — 14, 3, 2. Committee. — Alfred Rogers, Boston, Chairman ; Thomas Alden, Duxbury, Judson Ewell, Marshfield. COLTS. For the best Colt, four years old, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Colt, three years old, two premiums— $2, 1. For the best Colt, two years old, two premiums— 12, 1. For the best Colt, one year old, two premiums — $1.50, 1. Committee. — Fred. Cole, Scituate, Chairman; Anson Hatch, Pembroke, Martin Chandler, Marshfield. All Animals exhibited for premiums, including Oxen and Steers, and excepting Calves, Poultry, Sheep and Swine, are to be brought upon the track by exhibitors or their agents by classes in the order in which they are named in the above list, at eleven o'clock A. M., on the second day of the Fair when the premiums will be awarded. No premiums awarded unless the animals are exhibited, unless specially excused for causes shown. No person allowed to lead more than one animal on the track. SWINE. For the best Fat Hog, two premiums — $5, 3. For the best Litter of Pigs, not less than six in number, two premiums— $3, 2. 11 For the best Boar, two premiums — $3, 2. For the best Pig, not less than four or more than seven months ohi, two premiums — $3, 2. Committee.— Foster T. Ewell, Marshfield, Chairman ; Charles Williamson, Marshtield, Daniel H. Thompson, Marshfield. PICKIES, PKESERVESJELLIES, AND HONEY. Twenty- five dollars to be distributed by the Committee. Committee.— Mrs. Oscar Weston, Marshfield, Chairman; Mrs. J. J. McFarliu, Pembroke, Mrs. Wadsworth Chandler, Pembroke. BUTTER AND CHEESE. For the best Butter, not less than six pounds, four premiums -$1, 3, 2, 1. For the best Plain Cheese, throe premiums — $3, 2, 1. For the best Sage Cheese, two premiums — $3, 1. Three dollars additional may be distributed in gratuities. A written statement of the process of manufacturing must be handed to the Committee, or the premiums will be withheld. The number of entry to be attached, instead of names of contributors to Butter and Cheese. Committee.— Luther P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. James H. West, Pembroke, Mrs. Hannah W. Cole, Scituate. BREAD. WHITE BPtEAD. For the best sample of White Bread, four premiums — $5, 4, 3,2. Committee. — Mrs. L. P. Hatch, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. Oscar Stevens, Marshfield, Mrs. D. H. Thompson, Marshfield. 12 EYE, INDIAN AND WHEAT. For the best sample of Rye and Indian Bread, two premiums -$^^, 1. For the best sample of Wheat Bread, two premiums — $2, 1. Committee. — Mrs. C. A. Walker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Mrs. J. T. Damon, Marshfield, Mrs Caroline S ibles, Scituate. Number of entry to be attached instead of names of con- tributors. No saleratus, soda, or cream of tartar, is to be used in the preparation of Bread, and a recipe of the manner of prepara- tion is to be attached to each loaf. FRUIT. APPLES. For the best display of Apples, not less than ten varieties, five specimens each, four premiums — S3, 2.50, 2, 1.50. For the best display, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.25, 1, .75, .50. For the best display, of any variety, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Three dollars may be distributed l)y the Committee, Committee. — Israel H. Hatch. Marshfield, Chairman; S. C. Stetson, Marshfield, C. M. Harlow, Marshfield. ^EARS. JT. For the best collection, not less than ten varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $'d, 2.50, 2, 1.75. For the best collection, not less than five varieties, five speci- mens each, four premiums — $1.50, 1, .75, .'0. For the best display of an}^ one variety, five specimens each, twelve premiums of twenty-five cents each. Six dollars may be distiibuted iu gratuitits. Committee.- G. M. Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; L. S. Richards, Marshfield, Charles S. Josselyn, Marshfield. 13 PEACHES, QUINCES AND PLUMS. For the best display of .Peaches, six premiums— 12.50, 2, 1.50, 1.25, 1, .75. For the best dispUiy of Quinces, four premiums — $1, .75, .50, .25. For the best display of Plums, four premiums — 1, .75, .50, .25. Three dollars may be distributed in gratuities. Committee. — B. F. H. Keen, Marshfield, Chairman ; Joshua T. Baker, Marshfield, H. W. Josselyn, Marshfield. GRAPES. For the best collection, four bunches each variety, three premiums — 11.50, 1, .50. For the best collection, grown under glass, two premiums — $1. .50. Four dollars may be distributed b}'' the Committee. Committee. — John Baker, Marshfield, Chairman ; Charles F. Ptandall, Pembroke, E R. Tilden, Marshfield. CRANBERRIES. For the best display, half bushel exhibited, two premiums — $1.75, 1.50. For the best display, a less quantity than half bushel exhib- ited, two premiums — .50, .25. Committee. — B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Chairman ; Harvey D. Northey, Scituate, John Magoun, Marshfield. poui;rRY. • Number of entry to be attached to coop, instead of owner's name. The Committee are authorized to award not exceeding sixty dollars in premiums of $1.50 and 50 cents each, for kinds and 14 varieties of Poultry, uot more than four premiums for each variety. ^ On pigeons and pets not more than ten dollars. * Premiums to be awarded by an expert, to be employed by G. J. Peterson. Roscoe E. Ford, Special Committee in care of Poultr}'. HOME DEPARTMENT. One hundred dollars to be distributed in two departments. DOMESTIC ARTICLES. Fifty dollars to be distributed. Committee. — Mrs. E. M. Bates, Marshtield, Cliairniini ; Mrs. Carrie B. Hatch, Mis. J. T. Damon, Marsh field. Number of entry to be attached, iiistead of name of con- tributor. FANCY ARTICLES. Fifty dollais to be distributed. Committee. — Miss Haunali Aldeu, Dnxbury, Chairman ; Miss Carrie Randall, Pembroke, Mrs. Lydia B. Vinal, Plymouth. Number of entry to be attached, instead of name of con- tributor. FLOWERS. ' Thirty dollars to be distributed. « Committee. — G. H. We.itherbee, Marshfit^ld, Chairman; Mrs. Adrian Phillips, Marshfield, H. A. Oakman, Marshtield. 16 CHILDREN'S DEPARTMENT. Thirty-five dollars to be distributed for articles manufactured b}' children under fifteen years of age. Committee. — Miss Susie B. Stevens, Marshfield, Chairman ; Miss Sadie Damon, Marshfield, Mary W. Baker, Marshfield. MANUFACTURES AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. Committee.— Oscar E. Belknap, Marshfield, Chairman ; Samuel C. Stetson, Marshfield, David Brown, 3d, Marshfield. Committee to award diplomas in lieu of gratuities. FIELD AND GARDEN VEGETABLES, GRAIN AND SEEDS. Eighty dollars to be distributed by the Committee. For the best collection, five premiums — 18, 7, 6, 5, 4. Committee. — Fred Cole, Scituate, Chairman ; Charles W. Berry, South Scituate, G. J. Peterson, Marshfield. PREPARATION OF MEADOWS FOR CRAN- BERRIES. For the most satisfactory experiment in preparing meadow, not less than one -eight of an acre, and covering with cranberry vines, two premiums — $6, 4. Entries to be made before July 1, 1889. Premiums payable in the fall of 1891. Committee.— B. G. Cahoon, Duxbury, Chairman ; D. E. Damon, Plymouth, John J. Russell, Plymouth. GARDENS. For the most productive garden, coutaiuiDg three square rods, cultivated by a youth not over fifteen years of age, two premi- ums—^'3, 2. Committee — Israel Oakman, Marshfield, Chairman; Fred Cole, Scituate, Francis Merritt, Pembroke. STRAWBERRIES. For the most productive plantation of Strawberries, not less M than one fourth of an acre, two premiums — 16, 4. Payable in 1889. Committee. — J. W. Sampson, Norwell, Chairman ; G. J. Peterson, Marshfield, William Holmes, Duxbury. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. For the best report of any Committee to award premiums, four premiums — 16, 5, 4, 3. Committee. — Eev. E. Alden, Marshfield, Chairman ; Daniel D. Devereaux, Duxbury, John H. Bourne, Marshfield. GROUNDS. Committee. — Barker Sprague, Marshfield. HALL Committee. — Job Williamson, Chairman, with power to choose his own assistants. Voted — That a Committee of one have charge of articles in basement. Choose G. P. Peterson, Marshfield. 17 SUPERINTENDENT OF STOCK. WaUon Hall, Marshfleld. SUPERINTENDENT OF TRACK. Barker Sprague, Mar.sbfield. REGULATIONS. No member of the Committee shall decide respecting a premium for which he may be a competitor; but his place shall be temporarily filled by the other members. All articles, products, flowers, fruits and vegetables offered for premium must have been manufactured or produced by the person in whose name they are exhibited. Contributors are requested to hand a list of articles to the Secretary. Articles for exhibition will be received at the hall on the afternoon of the day previous, and until twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Fair. Committees to be notified by circular of their duties. Chairmen of committees are requested to be in attendance at the Committee-room in the Hall, at ten o'clock on the morning of the first day of the Fair, to receive badges, instructions, etc. Committees will report to the Secretary on or before ten o'clock, A. M , on the third day of the Exhibition. Blanks for this purpose will be furnished committees. 18 in lieu of cash premiums, diplomas of the Society, may be awarded. All entries for premiums must be made on or before twelve o'clock, M., on the first day of the Exhibition. No premium to be awarded unless entry and a full statement have been made according to the rules of the Society, If a competitor is dissatisfied with the award of a Committee, a protest may be made to the Secretary, in writing, not later than the day following the award, and the mat':er shall be ad- justed by the Directors. No animal shall be entitled to a premium, unless it shall have been owned by the claimant at least three months prior to the Exhibition. The best animal to receive a premium, even though it has taken a premium at a previous fair. Committees may withhold premiums from articles or animals deemed unworthy, but may award such gratuities as they shall think proper. It is the duty of committees to indicate the premiums on cards, and attach them to the articles as soon as awarded. Premiums will be payable by the Treasurer in ten days after the award, and if not called for in one year, will be added to the funds of the Society. All committees to report previous to December, 1889. Reports of committees should contain : First. — Whole number of entries. Second. — Description of articles or stock, with name of con- tributor. Third. — Names of successful competitors, and reasons for the awards. Fourth. — Such remarks as may be deemed instructive by the Committee. MARSHFIELl) Agricultural # Horticultural SOCIETY 1 ID"CJR,I3SrGi- TUB "STE-AIi 1889. iHlll PLYMOUI'H : Avery & Doten, Book and Job Printers. 1889. I TRANSACTIONS -OF TIIK- MARSHFIEI.D AgriciilturaU^" Horticultural SOCIETY IDXJTRIISrO THE "STE-A-I^ 1889. PLYMOUTH : AVKKY & DOTEN, BoOK AND JOB PRINTERS. 1889. 4 i i OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1889. PRESIDEINX: JOHN H. PARKS, Duxbury. vice: PREISIDEINTS: GOV. G. W. EMERY, Marsh field. WALTON HALL, Marshfiekl. SECREITARY: FRANCIS OOLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREASURBR: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marshfiekl. DIRBCmORS: FRANK FORD, Marshfiekl ALBERT T. S PRAGUE, Marshfiekl. CHARLES A. WALKER, Marshfiekl. T3ARKER SPRAGUE, Marshfield. WM. J. WRIGHT, Duxbury. JOHN J. RUSSELIj, Plymouth. GIDEON F. HOLMES, Plymouth. HENRY H. NORTHEY, Scituate. JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke. JAMES W. SAMPSON, Norwell. CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. DEILEIGA VEL TO STATE BOARD FOR THRBEl YEARS: GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marshfiekl. Term Expires 1890. LIST OF NEW MEMBERS. Lester D. West, Pembroke, Arthur Howland Baker, Marshfield. Alice M. Williamson, Marshfield. Anna D. Dwelley, Marslifield. Rodman T. Powers, Whitmau. P. Foster White, Worcester. Henry Norwell, Nor well. William F. Day, Boston. I REPORTS. CHlLDKliN'S DEPARTMENT. At noon of the second day of the Fair, up to which time, on account of the unfavorable weather, contributors were allowed to enter articles for exhibition, the names of thirty children were found upon the entering list of this department, and fifty articles upon the table, As we read over this list year by year, we miss one by one, the names with which we had become familiar, and welcome new names which we hope and expect will become, through annual contributions, equally familiar to those who may have this de- partment in charge. Among these new names is that of Annie L. Flavell, a younger contributor than whom we do not expect to find in any depart- ment of the Fair. We can almost fancy this wee maiden of two and a half years lisping " The Song of the Shirt," and, "With tiiigers weary and worn — I'lyinj;' her needle and thread," before all those little closely-set stitches were taken in the tiny squares of patchwork. Other little girls who brought patchwork (upon which most young children make their first attempts with the needle) were Gertrude Drew, Helen Ford, Hattie and Susie Morey ; and the paper flowers made by the two last named little girls showed unusual ability in children of four and six j-eai'S of age. Several articles in outline stitch were done by little girls six and seven years old. 6 We mention in particular these youngest contributors, to show them that we appreciate their first endeavors, and that we gladly welcome them into the department of little workers. Among the work of the older girls was a collection of paint- ings by Georgian A. Damon, several articles by Clara Barstow, comparing well with her former work, crocheted skirts by Em- eline W. Ewell and S. A. Damon, pillow shams by Amy Bates; also an excellent specimen of her darning ; tidies by Ella Baker, Maude Witherell and Belle Prescott, afghan by Agnes Hatch, table scarfs by Lilla Baker and Mabel Bates, and tray cloth by Susie Magoun. A beautiful sofa pillow by "Welthea Ford deserves mention ; also the useful articles, among which was a pair of knit hose, by Mabel Thomas. The quilt of about fifty outlined squares, by Alliston Barstow, some of the designs being drawn by himself, must have required man} days of steady, patient work, and the last stitch must have brought with it a feeling of satisfaction as well as relief. The fact that he brought to the Fair a report of a boy's garden, shows that he is skilled in more than one direction. We would like to see the boys taking more interest in this Children's Department. Boys, as well as girls, are children, and this department is designed for both. More boys' work would give variety and interest to the display. If they do not care to use the needle (although the knowledge of the use of that little tool, if no more than to enable one to sew on a button well, would be worth acquiring) they can use the knife, the saw, the hammer, the plane, in the manufacture of many pretty and useful things. In these days when boys are making collections of various kinds, how much more interesting our boys might make this department, if they would bring collections of stamps, coins, minerals, shells, woods, seeds, pressed leaves, flowers, ferns and mosses, And while we make these suggestions to the boys, we would also suggest to the parents that they encourage their children in anything of this nature, in which they show a special interest. We knew a little girl Avho had gathered a few relics, which, no doubt, were precious tilings to her, but which were thrown out of doors by her father, :i,s so nuich good-for nothing trash. It may be, with that, died out the little girl's love for, and interest in an innocent and healthful amusement, which would have given her a great deal of pleasure all through her life. No doubt there are thousands of children who might fill the place of an Agassiz, an Audubon, a Franklin or an Edison, if their childish experiments were encouraged, and that for which they show a special fondness in childhood were regarded with favor by their parents. " My mother's smile made me a painter," said Benjamin West. Are there not multitudes of people today living almost useless lives, who, if some endeavor or experiment in childhood had been met with a smile instead of a frown, would have lived to be a blessing and and a benefactor to the world ? Many parents regret that they have not the means to give their children an education. A smile, a word of encour- agement will often help a child to rise above difficulties to a place in life and in the world, to which money, without the word and the smile, never would have brought him. S. B. STEVENS. DOMESTIC DEPARTMENT. The morning of the twenty-third Exhibition of the Fair was anything but assuring. Yet those who gathered seemed to be in the best of spirits, and hopeful of better weather on the succeeding days. Our new committee in the Hall were very helpful, and the articles contributed were never hung to better advantage than this year. The whole arrangements moved like clock-work, to the entire satisfaction of all interested, but especially your committee. There was rather more uniformity in the contributions than usual. A number of spreads, braided rugs, and stockings were among the list. A greater number of beautiiul under-garments than in previous years. We recommend that our ladies send fine sewing or any kinds of garments, as much more variety may be obtained in such articles tli in in quilts and mats. There must necessarily bo much of the same design in the latter, although there can be difterent degrees of excellenc© in the workmanship. We also recommend our ladies who are known to do such nice darning and patching to give us some specimens, that such display may be an incentive to our younger people to exhibit their skill in so necessary a department. Every woman must be skilled in a greater or less degree in mending, or she must lack one of the qualities which make a good housekeeper, wife or mother. I well remember when a child, of a remark made by a woman, "she could tell by the looks of a man's clothes what kind of a wife he had." While this is not an absolute fact, there is much truth in it. 9 Those who have been privileged to visit the Brockton Fair, will appreciate the endeavor of the various committees who would yet like to make some change in the disposition of the contributions that better effect may be obtained. We hope these changes will take place a year later. Some very pretty nigs came to us this year. A particularly singular one contributed by Mrs. Sylvia Mitchell, of Marshfiold, was in fifty-six pieces, joined with great exactness and having a differeut design in each piece. One in cross-stitch by Mrs. Oscar Sampson, alsv> oi this place, was not only made in the best manner, but was beautifully I'ned. This work w^as done with only one hand. Two brtiided rugs by Mrs. L. B. Barstow, West Duxbury, were " perfect," our notes say. One by i\[rs A. White of Hanson, it would seem would "never wear out," while one by Mrs. Keziah Weston was as nice. One worthy of mention, because of the excellence in work and design, was by Mrs. Lucia Chandler, Duxbury. Two rugs, exceedingly nice, in braid and sewing, by Mrs. W. J. Baker, of Pembroke, deserve more than a passing notice. They were the largest of any, yet very nice in every way. Two by Mrs. Charles Williamson, of Marohfield, are worthy of notice, being pretty and well made. A pretty knit rug with a black border, through which ran a Greek design in scarlet, was noted as " pretty enough for any room." This was the work of Mrs. M. Chandler, Marshfield. Two knit rugs with variety of squares in the formation, were excellently made by Mrs. Ruth Peterson, of Pembroke, aged 83 ; also a braided rug with knit center, which was even better than the above. We are aware that it is more difficult to knit than to braid rugs, the latter being very hard for 3'oung hands — and for aged ones the work was excellent in every wiiy. Mrs. N. Porter's beautifully knit rugs were very ornamental ; the one with the fringed ends was especially pretty. Miss M. Ella Everson sent a little gem of a silk rug. Two drawn rugs nicely 10 sheared, by Mrs. A. White, Hanson, were exceedingly pretty, and one by Mrs. F. White, Brockton, had a beautiful border. Mrs. Freeman McNayr had the largest drawn rug, which was exceptionally well made. Mrs. Waldo S. Cole, of Kingston, gave us a beautifully designed and made crib-quilt, also a foot quilt of equal beauty. A white spread by Mrs. F. Whitten, Brockton, was very nice. One unusually well-knit, with a very pretty border, was contributed by Mrs. M. P. Hitchcock, East Marshfield. Mrs. S. C. Stetson's spreads were beautiful in all respects. A very large knit spread with border was, perhaps, the prettiest one this j^ear, as the design was a little more pronounced than is usual. It was the work of Mrs. S. W. Lincoln, Quincy. The firmest of all the spreads was one in crochet by Mrs. I. G. Stetson, South Hanson. The few com- forters were nicely made and very pretty, beside being rather more useful for Winter than the lighter bed-coverings. Some pretty patchwork covers were displayed. Mrs. W. J. Baker, of Pembroke, knit some very fine white stockings ; they were well shaped. Mrs. Betsey Turner of Hanson, age 90 years, sent three pairs of beautifully knit stockings. It is wonderful that at her age she is able to do any work. They were as well knit as any shown. Mrs. Imogene McClellen's stockings, with toes and heels of contrasting color, were very nicely done. Two pairs of crochet and two pairs of knit mittens were also very nice. Seven pairs of knit wristers in shaded wool, a beautiful crochet skirt, and two undervests were contributed by Mrs. Albert Damon, Hanson. They were truly exquisite. Mrs. Luther Magoun displayed four pairs of wristers very prettily knitted. From the same hand came a very pretty pair cf invalid shoes. We know of nothing more conducive to comfort than these feet coverings: Mrs. Caroline Oakman, of North Marshfield, age 79, gave us some beautifully made drawers, apron and pillow-cases, all 11 of which were trimmed with very fine knitted lace ; they were exquisitely made. Mrs. Jane S. Oakman, who is 86, made a hivge patchwork quilt, wliich attracted our attention by its neatness and beautiful sewing. The colors were modest and perfectly blended. Mrs. Belle B. Tucker's rag carpet was very nice. Every year we are glad to receive one, as it represents to us uo end of comforts in different ways. We have given you as good an idea as we are able of the eighty-six articles given us on which to decide, our number of contributors being sixty-seven, considerably less than ever before, although we found nearly the same number of articles as in other years. EMMA M. C. BATES. 12 FANCY ARTICLES. A short time ago a pupil iu one of the pubhc schools, upon being asked to name the important points of interest in Marsh- field, replied : " The most interesting thing in Marshfield is the Agricultural Fair." No one who was in town September 12th, 13tli and 14th of this year, would have doubted the child's statement. Although the weather was far from being perfect, the interest shown was all that could be desired. We, who have charge of the fancy goods, were at one time becoming discour- aged, but later our friends from Marshfield and the surrounding towns rallied and the exhibition was, as usual, fine. There were one hundred and twenty articles contributed by one hundred different persons. These came from near and from far, and proves that our influence extends wider than we had known. There was less, in the way of novelties, than there has been for many years ; but the work was well and neatly done, the color- ing was harmonious and the arrangement of silks, satins and muslins was, iu most instances, excellent. Miss Weatherbee, of East Marshfield, sent an easel scarf which was exquisite ; it was made of old gold surah silk, and the pointed ends were filled iu with a delicate design in crocheted silk of the same shade. There were some beautiful pieces of Mexican work, several pretty samples of crocheted and knitted edgings, the usual num- ber of afghans, silk quilts, sofa cushions, &c., but nothing notice- able as being new or specially well done. However, we wish our helpers to remember that "Small ser- vice is true while it lasts. The daisy, by the shadow it casts, protects the lingering dewdrops from the sun," and the articles in daily use are needed as a background for the more dainty, ornamental bits that we receive. 13 A group of eight paiutings from Miss AVilliamson, of Marsh- field, showed marked industry, patience and skill Her snow scene, with the house, the two large old trees, and the water so lovel}^ shadowy, soft and still, was the finest piece of work in tlie collection ; the others were excellent. Another Marshfield artist, Mrs. Damon, contributed five paint- ings, one of which was particularly attractive. It represented the figures of two l)03^s, delicate, blue-eyed blondes, with long, golden hair, which fell over garnet velvet doublets, and made a fine coiiti'.ist to the darker colors in the picture. This subject was treated most happily, and "the brothers of blue blood" were the principal theme of conversation for much time. From Miss Davie, of Kingston, came six oil paintings and three gems in china. Tlii» dog's head was far superior to work of that kind generall}' ; one could see intelligence in Bruno's eyes and almost expected him to express his joy at being recognized. Miss Davie is a thorough artist, and everything she undertakes is performed in the best possible manner. There was a painting of a deep, rocky chasm, with a swift, foaming stream at the bottom. Half way down the chasm a spring bul)bled from the rocks, and lower down the stream tumbled over a rocky declivity in a succession of cascades. Tliis scrap of nature was refreshing in its sim- plicity and beauty. Miss H. Hall, of E. Marshfield, displayed two oil paintings. One, a jar of roses, resting against heavy blue drapery, while two roses had fallen, was very effective. Her other flower-piece was likewise attractive. We continually hear complaints because we have no Art De- partment connected with our Fair. Would it not be wise to attempt it? Will not those in au thority consider this .^ Should we not equally encourage all ? H. M. A. 14 COMMITTEE ON REPORTS. Only three reports have been received, to which in the follow- ing order we unanimously award the first three premiums Children's Department, Domestic Articles, Fancy Articles. Respectfully submitted, E. ALDEN, D. D. DEVEREAUX, J. H. BOURNE, Marshfield, December 19, 1889. 15 REPORT OF GARDENS Containing Three Square Kods, Cultivated by Alliston S. Barstow, West Duxbury, Mass., Aged Eleven Years. Cucumbers, 197. Corn, 105 ears. Peas, 10 qt^., dry shelled. Improved yellow-eyed beans, 4 qts. Cal. Pea Beans, 51 qts. White Wax Beans, 1 pt. Potatoes, 25 lbs. Kipe Tomatoes, 1 pk. Cabbages, 14 heads. Tomatoes, 1 pk. French Turnips, 50 lbs. Ptound Turnips, 45 " When I pulled up my pea vines I sowed round turnip seed. I also have French turnips and green tomatoes. When I gather them I will let you know how many I have. Respectfully yours, A. S. BARSTOW. 16 Containing Three Square Kods, Cultivated by Charles E. Upham, East Marshfield, Mass., Aged Thirteen Years. East Marshfield, Nov. 17, 1889. Mr. Oakman — Sir: I wish to send you the report of my & garden. The following is what I raised on the three square rods of laud : Beans, string, 6 qts. Beans, shelled green, 7^ qts. Beans, bush, shelled dry, 2^ qts. Beans, pole, shelled dry, h pk. Beets, green, 3 pks. Beets, Summer, 1-5 bunches. Beets, Winter, 3 pks. Corn, popping, 70 ears. Cabbages, 14. Parsnips, 160. Peas, early, green, 7 qts. Peas, late, green, 12 qts. Peas, late, seed, 1^ pts. Potatoes, 52 lbs. Pumpkins, 15. Squashes, 15. Tomatoes, ripe, 20. Tomatoes, green, 30. Yours with respect, CHAKLES E. upham. AT Charles M. Tilden's. P. S. — I am thirteen years old. 17 AWARDS 01' COMMITTEE ON TRACK. Society Race. Puese $20. 111. T. Powers, Whitmau, b. s. Kylemar, 2.48.2, • H. A. Baker, Rocklautl, b. g. Rockland Boy, R. Woodsome, Boston, b. g. Robert, Farmers' Race. Purse 1 12. J. B. HoUis, Duxbury, b. g. Bob, 3.04.i Thomas Aldeu, Jr., Duxbury, b. g. Razzle Dazzle, . H. M. Beytes, Plymoutb, b. g. Dude, Three Minute Class. Purse $100. A. Jobusou, Brockton, b. g. Judge, 2.44.^, Jesse Smith, Brockton, b. g. Wiufield, F. A. McAnaruey, Abiugton, b. g. Dandy, A. D. Ryder, Boston, b. g. Livery Boy, Running Race. Purse $20. A. B. Reed, Abiugton, r. m. Amie, 2.12, E. Belcher, Abiugton, b. g. Bonnie, . B. W. Conant, Abiugton, br. s. Bennie B., . 2 40 Class. Purse $100. M. McDevitt, Rockland, br. g. Rocklaud Chief, 2.42, Edward Mahar, AThitman, br. g. luo, H. A.' Baker, Rocklaud, b. g. Ino, Jr., . ,C. H. Briggs, Brockton, ch. g. Archie B., . 2 1 8 00 6 00 4 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 50 00 25 00 15 00 10 00 10 00 5 00 3 00 50 00 25 00 15 00 10 00 f 18 Pacing Race. Purse $35. H. F. Williams, Lexington, g. g. Billy T., 2.46, . A. W. Miller, Midclleboro, ch. m. Maud Elmak, L. Paddock, Lynn, b. g. French Process, 2.50 Class. Purse $100. E. R. Wilson, S. Boston, b. m. Flossie S., 2.48, . F. A. McAnarney, AbingtoD, b. g. Daudy, W. A. Brown, Lynn, b. m. Fannie D., Henry Briggs, Duxbury, b. m. Mollie B., Free to All. Pujise $200. A. Johnson, Brockton, b. m. Baby Lambert, 2 36, A. E. Coville, New Bedford, ch. g. Little Dick, C. H. Briggs, Brockton, ch. g. Archie B. 20 00 10 00 5 00 50 00 25 00 15 00 10 00 .00 00 50 00 30 00 19 RURAL SPORTS. S. O. Eugstrom, Campello, tennis singles, first prize gold medal, 110 00 Harry R. Perkins, Bridgewater, S. O. Engstrom, Campello, tenuis doubles, first prize gold metlal, 6 50 George H. Wetlierbee, Ji-., E. Marslifield, bicycle race, first prize gold medal, . . . . . . 7 00 George Tangney, Rockland, bicycle race, second prize silver medal, . . . . . . . . 5 00 Mr. Tobin, putting the shot, first prize, . • . 1 00 Henry Smith, putting the shot, second prize, ... 50 James Fitzpatrick, sack race, first prize, . . . 1 00 Joseph Matthew, sack race, second prize, ... 50 James Fitzpatrick, one hundred yards dash, first prize, 2 00 Mr. Tobin, one hundred yards dash, second prize, . . 1 00 Mr. Tobin, standing broad jump, first prize, . . 1 00 James Fitzpatrick, standing broad jump, second prize, 50 Mr. Tobin, running broad jump, first prize, . . . 1 00 James Fitzpatrick, running broad jump, second prize, 50 Mr. Tobin, hop, step and jump, first prize, . . . 1 00 James Fitzpatrick, hop, step and jump, second prize, 50 John Matthews, Scituate, half mile run, first prize, . 3 00 James Fitzpatrick, half mile run, second prize, . . 1 50 Expenses while preparing grounds, . . $1 25 Tenuis balls used in tennis matches, . . . 2 15 Expressage ....... 30 3 70 $53 70 SAMUEL L. PARKS, ) Committee ROBERT AV. CHANDLER, j ^^mw^rfee, 20 DONATIONS. J. H. Parks, in part for trotting, .... $100 00 W. J. Wright, in part for trotting, ... 25 00 Ladies' Institute, ....... 8 90 Premiums, 1888. R H. Emery, 3 00 H. A. Baker, 3 00 Fred Stetson, . 2 00 Walter S. Weston, 5 00 Ira Chandler, 2 00 G. J. Peterson, 3 00 PlIEMIUMS, 1889. J. W. Sampson, , 12 00 Barker Sprague, 1 00 Everett Torrey, 4 75 C. O. Ellms, 6 00 J, H. Parks, ....,,,, 5 00 21 TREASURER'S REPORT. RECEirTS FROM NOVEMBER 10, 1888, TO NOVEMBER 18, 1889. Cash on band, $123 98 Eight new members, .... 40 00 Rent of old hall, 55 60 Rent of new hall, 5 TO Flag, 4 50 State bounty, 600 00 J. H. Parks, donation, . . . . 100 00 W. J. Wright, donation, ... 25 00 Ladies' Institute, ..... 8 90 Storage, $7 ; lumber, $2.50, . . 9 50 $972 38 Receipts of Exhibition. Admittance to grounds. Admittance t(i seats. Admittance to concert, . Entries for ti'otting, Tents, rooms and pedlers, Seventeen dinner tickets sold, Clothing checked, . $1 ,394 61 79 67 132 90 284 25 101 61 17 00 1 80 P2,071 84 Total receipts $3,044 22 Balance due Treasurer, .... 89 88 $3,134 10 22 Payments from November 19, 1888, to November 18, 1889. Interest on notes, . . . . . $292 50 Printing, 149 85 Labor and materials on gro^^nds, &c., . 566 65 Salaries of officers, .... 75 00 Sundries, . 124 81 Premiums, ...... 1,181 19 $2,390 00 Expenses or Exhibition. Ticket offices and gates, . . . . 63 80 Committees, ...... 50 20 Police, . . . . . . . 64 30 Entertainment, ..... 100 95 Care of stock, ...... 126 80 Music, 321 85 Sundries, 17 00 ._ $744 10 Total payments, $3,134 10 Respectfully submitted, F. COLLAMORE, Treasureo^ I have examined the accounts of F. Collamore, Treasurer of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society, and find them correct. LUTHER P. HATCH, Auditor. Marshfield, November 16, 1889. 23 ABSTRACT OF THE ANNUAL RETURN Made to the Board of Agriculture, 1889. Faems, etc. Total amouut offered under head of Farms, etc., $111 00 Farm Stock. Amount awarded for Bulls, ..... Milch Cows, Heifers, ..... Calves, .... Working Oxen, Steers, Fat Cattle, . . •. . Horses, .... Sheep, ..... Swine, ..... Poultry, ..... Total amount offered under head of Farm Stock, awarded under head of Farm Stock, paid out under head of Farm Stock, Field and Experimental Crops. Amount awarded for Cranberries, .... Total amount offered under head of F. and E. Crops, awarded under head of F. and E. Crops, paid out under head of F. and E. Crops, 10 00 47 50 24 00 5 00 19 00 5 00 9 00 65 50 7 00 13 00 46 95 304 50 251 95 251 95 3 25 102 00 3 25 3 25 24 Farm and Garden Products. Amouut jiwarded for Vegetables, .... Fruits, ..... Flowers, .... Total amouut offered uuder head of F. aud G. Products, awarded uuder head of F. aud G. Products, paid out uuder head of F. and G. Products, Dairy Products. Amount awarded for Butter, Cheese, ..... Total amount offered under head of Dairy Products, awarded under head of Dairy Products, paid out under head of Dairy Products, Domestic Manufactures. Amount awarded for Preserved Fruits and Vegetables, Bread, Cake, etc., Carpeting and Rugs, . . i Needlework, . . . j Total amount offered under head of Domestic Manu- factures, ...... Total amount awarded under head of Domestic Manu- factures, ..... Total amount paid out under head of Domestic Manu- factures, ...... Miscellaneous. Amount awtirded for Trotting, .... paid out for Trotting, ..... Number of persons who received premiums, . 127 Number of persons who received gratuities, . 285 61 75 60 45 18 05 171 50 140 25 111 50 10 50 10 50 28 00 21 00 21 00 24 00 20 00 123 34 202 00 168 14 168 14 565 00 565 00 25 Names of Toia' GllATUITIES Marshfield, Pembroke, Kingston, Cob asset, Duxburj, Rockland, Abington, Lexington, . Plymoutb, Whitman, Sandwich; Norwell, Medford, New Bedford, Ns AND Cities to which the Premiums and WERE Disbursed, and Amounts to Each. $155 57 Cambridge, 35 65 Boston, 14 05 Weymouth, 3 00 Middleboro, 89 15 Lynn, 70 00 Hanson, 58 00 Brockton, 20 00 Hanson, 4 80 Newton, 36 75 Quincy, 50 Worcester, 20 Bridgewater, 30 Scituate, 50 50 Membership. Number of male members, female members. Total present membership of Society, Institutes. $1 15 76 55 11 75 14 00 24 00 49 65 227 10 9 85 1 37 3 45 5 00 56 50 22 90 561 302 863 No. held. Three. Place where held. Marshfield, Marshfield, Marshfield, Date. February 8, 1889. March 8, 1889. In charge of ladies. March 22, 1889. LIST OF PREMIUMS -OF THE- MARSHFIELD AgriculturaU^^ Horticultural SOCIETY DXJjEiiisrG!- THE -y:eijk:r 1890 OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR i8qo. PRESIDENT: GOV. G. W. EMEEY, Marsbfiekl. VICE PRESIDENirS: H. A. OAKMAN, Marsbfiekl. F. P. ARNOLD, Pembroke. SECRETARY: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. TREASURER: FRANCIS COLLAMORE, Pembroke. AUDITOR: LUTHER P. HATCH, Marsbfiekl. DIRECTORS: JOHN H. PARKS, Plyraoutb. DANIEL D. DEVEREAUX, Duxbury. FRANK FORD, Marsbfiekl ALBERT T. SPRAGUE, Marsbfield. CHARLES A. WALKER, Marsbfiekl. BARKER SPRAGUE, Marsbfiekl. LYSANDER T. RICHARDS, Marsbfiekl. GRANVILLE D. DAMON, Marsbfiekl. JAMES H. WEST, Pembroke. JAMES W. SAMPSON, Norwell. CHARLES O. ELLMS, Scituate. DELEGA TE TO STATE BOARD FOR THREE YEARS: GEORGE J. PETERSON, Marsbfiekl. Term Expires 1890. 7wevtj/-t]iird Annual Bdiliibition will he held on the Grounds of the Societij, in Marslifield, on Wednesdtn/, Thursd