UMASS/AMHERST 31E0bb0D53T74flH P. Jt^ir^- ml."^ C^ **^Ss ^£KS-i-^* DATE DUE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY SB 1 W9 1 872-74 t,- 0 I t t I: SCHEDULE OF PRE OFFERED BY THE Worcester County Horticultural Society, FOR THE YEAR 1872. / WORCESTER: EDWARD R. FISKE, PRINTER, MECHANIC STREET. 1872, LIBRA MASSACHUSE17S AiVlHERST, MASS. Ws^ n 7 2 'H- rarticular attention is called to the Rules and Regulations on Pages 11, and 12, and especially to Nos. 2, and 14, respectively ; the one defining the limit of time for entries of Vegetables, and the other re- quiring lists of all entries to be tiled with the Secretary. Amount appropriated for Premiums at the Annual Autumnal Exhibition $1,000 00 Amount appropriated for other Exhibitions 500 00 $1,500 00 PROSPECTIVE PRIZES. For Fruits originated within the County of Worcester, and which after full trial, shall be decided equal in quality and other characteristics, to any now extant : For the best Seedling Strawberry, after a trial of three years. . . $25 00 For the best Seedling Raspberry, after a trial of three years, regard being had to hardiness as well as quality 25 00 For the best Seedling fruit, after a trial of three years 20 00 Committee. —President, Secretary, George Cruickshanks, of Whit- insville ; Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston ; O. B. Iladvven, James Draper, F. H. Kinney, and William H. Earle, of Worcester. COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS AND EXHIBITIONS. JOHN C. NEWTON, Chairmau, JAMES DRAPER, SAMUEL FLAGG, HENRY PHELPS, O. B. HADWEN, SAMUEL H. COLTON, GEORGE E. FRANCIS, President, EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary, Nos. 5 Oak and 16 Front Streets, Worcester. The Annual Autumnal Exliibition commences Tuesday evening, September 17th, at 6 P. M., and closes Friday evening, September 20th, at 9 P. M. COMMITTEES OF AWARD. APPLES. — William T. Harlow, Chairman ; James F. Allent, Samuel H. Colton, Stephej^ S. Foster, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. PiCKFORD, of IVorcester ; Cyrus White, of Mill- hury ; and Isaac B. Hart well, of Oxford. GRAPES PEACHES, &c.— Edwin Conant, Chairman; George Jaques, T. M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, William H. Ear^e, of Worcester ; Paul Whitin, of Whitinsville ; F. M. Marble, of Grafton, ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boijhto7i. PEARS. — Henry L. Parker, ChoArman ; Henry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, 0. B. Hadwen, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of MUllmrji : and John F. Johnson, of Northhorough. PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman ; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, D. S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, of Worcester ; and George Cruickshanks, of Whitinsville. VEGETABLES. — George A. Adams, Chairman ; Thomas R. Nor- CRoss, J. D. Lovell, 0. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, Alexander Marsh, and George G. Burbank, of Worcester. ^^ The Committees will meet at ten o'clock A. M., on Wednesday, September 28th. 4 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. JUNE. The opening Exhibition of the Summer season, will be held in the Library, on Thursday the Thirteenth day of June, from 3 to 5 o'clock, P. M. HARDY PLANTS AND SHRUBS. For the best display of named varieties 8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 3 00 ON THUESDAY, P. M., JUNE 20Ta. CUT FLOWERS. For the best display 5 00 For the second best 3 00 ROSE EXHIBITION. Tlie Annual Pose Exhibition will be held in the ITall of the Society, on Thursda}' tlie 27th day of June, commencing at 3 P. M., and closing at 5 P. M. All articles for competition must be entered with the Secretary, and be placed on the table before 3 o'clock. ROSES. For the best general display of named \arieties 8 00 For the second best .5 00 For the third best 3 00 For the best arranged vase 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 CUT FLOWERS. For the best collection 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. GREEN HOUSE PLANTS. For the best collection 8 00 For the second best 6 00 For the third best 4 00 TO FLOEISTS.— Special. On each successive Thursday, viz.: — July 4th, July 25th August 15th, July 11th, August 1st, August 22d, July 18th, August 8th, August 29th, Premiums of three dollars ($3.00) and two dollars will be offered for the best and next best Two Stands of Cut Flowers. September 5th, September 12th, ?2.00) respectively, [Gratuities will also be awarded for collections of Native Flowers, in their season, and for such other articles as may appear to merit pecun- iary encouragement. The Trustees have made liberal appropriations, and the Committee on Exhibitions are resolved that the reproach of meagre displays, or none at all, shall not attach to themselves, but to those Floriculturists who neglect their opportunities. E. W. L.] Premiums for Fruits at the Hose Sliow. ON THURSDAY, JUNE 27th. Entries must be made with the Secretary, and the articles be upon the tables before 3 o'clock, P. M. No person can compete for more than one premium with the same variety of berry ; single dishes excepted. STRAWBERRIES. CLASS 1. For the largest and best collection one quart of each variety ^8 00 For the 2d hirge^^t and best collection one quart of each variety 6 00 For the 3d largest and best collection one i|uart of each variety 4 00 CLASS 2. For the best six named varieties 5 00 For the 2d best six named varieties 3 00 For the 3d best six named varieties 2 00 CLASS 3. For the best 2 quarts of any named variety. ... 2 00 For the best quart of Agriculturist 1 00 For the best quart of Boyden's No. 30 1 00 For the best quart of Charles Downing 1 00 For the best quart of Downer's Prolific 1 00 For the best quart of Ilovey's Seedling 1 00 For the best quart of Ida 1 00 For the best quart of Jucunda 1 00 For the best quart of Kentucky 1 00 For the best quart of Lady of the Lake 1 00 For the best quart of Lennig's White 1 00 For the best quart of Napoleon Third 1 00 For the best quart of Nicanor 1 00 1872] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 7 For the best (part of President Wilder 1 00 For the best quart of Triomphe de Gand 1 00 For the best quart of Wilson 1 00 For the best quart of any other sort 1 00 ON THURSDAY, JULY 4th. CHERRIES. For the best four named varieties of one quart each. . 4 00 For the 2d best four named varieties of one quart each 2 00 For the best two quarts of any named variety 2 00 For the 2d best two quarts of any named variety .... 1 00 ON THURSDAY, JULY 11th. CURRANTS. For the best collection of not less than four varieties one quart each 4 00 For the 2d best as above 2 00 For the best quart of the Cherry 1 00 For the best quart of La Versaillaise 1 00 For the best quart of any other Red variety 1 00 For the best quart if any White variet}' 1 00 ON THURSDAY, JULY 18th. RASPBERRIES. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties of one quart each 6 00 For the 2d best For the best two quarts of any named variety For the best quart of Clarke For the best quart of Franconia For the best quart of Knevett's Giant For the best quart of Brinckle's Orange For the best quart of Northumberland Fillbasket. . . For the best quart of any other sort BLACK CAPS. For the best collection of not less than four varieties. . . For the 2d best 4 00 2 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 3 00 2 00 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. ON THURSDAY, JULY 23d. BLACKBER'RIES. For the best collection of not less than four varieties of one quart each 4 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the best quart of Wilson 1 00 For the best quart of Kittatinny 1 00 For the best quart of Dorchester 1 00 RASPBERRIES. For the best two quarts of an}^ named variety 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Doj^enne d' Ete .... 1 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 1 00 ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 1st. PEARS. For the best Beurre Giffard 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 1 00 POTATOES. For the best peck 1 00 TOMATOES. For the best twelve specimens ( open culture ) 2 00 For the 2d best do 1 00 ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 8th. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety . 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve of any named variety 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 9 ON THUESDAY, AUGUST 15th. APPLES. For the best twelve Early Bough 3P1 00 For the best twelve Williams' Eed 1 00 For the best twelve Eed Astrachan 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve Beurre Giffard 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve of any other named variety 1 00 ON THUESDAY, AUGUST 22d. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens .... 2 00 For the 2d best do 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety . 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 ON THUESDAY, AUGUST 29th. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of Early Harvest 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Duchess of Oldenburg 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite .... 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 VEGETABLES. For the best twelve Tomatoes 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 ON THUESDAY, SEPTEMBEE 5th. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 2 10 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite. . . $2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Bartlett 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 PEACHES. For the best dish of twelve specimeiis 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12xh. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of Gruvenstein . . . .' . . For the best twelve specimens of Porter For the best twelve specimens of Duchess of Oldenburg PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Bartlett For the best twelve specimens of Flemish Beauty. . . . For the best twelve specimens of Para lis d'Automne. For the best twelve specimens of St Ghislain For the best twelve specimens of Howell PEACHES. For the best dish of twelve specimens For tlie 2d best t;RAPES. For the best four ripe clusters of any early native variety 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 For the 3d best : 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 2 (»0 1 00 THE ANNUAL AUTUMNAL EXHIBITION. Will open in Mkchanics and Washbuhn Halls, on Tuesday evening, the ^Seventeenth of September at 6 P. M., and close on Fri- day, the Twentieth of September, at 9 P. M. i^' Exhibitors are notified that strict conformity to the Regulations and Rules will be expected and rerpiired for their own benefit as well as for the convenience of the officers of the Society. RULES AND REGULATIONS. 1. The A^TNUAL Exhibition, will commence on Tuesday, September 17, at 6 o'clock, P. M., and close on F'riday, September 20, at 9 o'clock, P. M. 2. Articles offered for Premiums at the Annual Exhibition must be entered with the Secretary before 9 o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday, Sep- tember 17th. Provided, That all entries of Vegetables must be made with the Secretary on or before the tenth day of September. 3. Competition for premiums is open to all ; but a discount of one- third of the amount will be made from the awards to persons who are not members of the Society ; and it is strictly required that all speci- mens ofiered for premiums shall have been grown by the competitors. 4. After the articles are arranged they will be under the exclusive cliarge of the Committees, and not even, the owners will have liberty to remove them, until the exhibition is closed, when they will be delivered as the contributors may direct. 5. No person shall be entitled to receive more than "one premium for the same specimen of fruit or vegetable. And no article for which a Premium has been once awarded can receive another during the 12 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. season. Nor shall any transfer be allowed from one class to another. of an article once entered upon the books of the Secretary. 6. No variety of which specimens have been entered in a class or collection shall be repeated in any other collection or class ; but speci- mens of that variet}' may bo duplicated among the single dishes. 7. A.11 Fruits offered for Premium must be composed of exactly the number or quantity of specimens named in the Schedule, and the names of all articles that axe offered for premiums must be such as are known and recognized by cultivators ; each variety being designated by name. 8. No Flowers, Fruits, or Vegi^tables, will be entitled to a premium unless they possess points of superiority ; and the Committees are strictly requii'ed to withhold premiums, if, in their opinion, the articles exhibited do not merit them. 9. Competitors will be required to furnish information as to their mode of cultivation, and to present specimens for trial and examina- tion if requested. 10. All premiums that are not claimed within three months after the Annual Exhibition, shall be forfeited to the Society. 11. The awards of the premiums will be declared at the Hall, on Thursday Evening, September 19th at 8 o'clock. 12. Adaiission to the Annual Exhibition, for those who are not members of tlie Society, 25 cents ; Children under 16 years of age, 15 cents. 13. On Saturday, September 21st, punctually at 10 o'clock, A. M., the Fruit, Vegetables, &c., belonging to the Society, will be sold at Public Auction, and all specimens which are not claimed at that time, will be considered as given to the Society, and will be sold for its benefit. 14. Contributors imll he required to furnish a list of their articles to the Secretary ! Special Notice ! By vote of the Trustees, the several Com- mittees will meet, on Wednesday, September 18th ; at 10 o'clock A. M., to make thefr awards. And the cards announcing such awards will be affixed to the successful articles as soon as completed. 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PEEMIUMS. IS I^HEM^ITJMIS SPECIAL PREMIUMS FOR PROFESSIONAL GARDENERS ONLY. For superiority in greatest number of departments, in the present Exhibition. 1st Premium ^15 00 2d Premium 10 00 [ Awai'ded by Committee on Exhibitions. ] APPLES. Committee. — William T. Harlow, Chairman ; James F. Allen ; Samuel H. Colton ; Stephen S. Foster ; Samuel A. Knox ; J. K. L. Pickford, of WorceMi'i' ; Cyrus White, of MiUJniri/ ; and Isaac B. Hartwell of Oxford. CLASS 1. For the best collection of not less than ten specimens of each variety $15 00 For the 2d best 12 00 For the 3d best 9 00 CLASS 2. For the best twenty named varieties, of ten specimens each 12 00 For the 2d best 10 00 For the 3d best 8 00 CLASS 3. For the best twelve named varieties, of ten specimens each 10 00 For the 2d best 8 00 For the 3d best 5 00 CLASS 4. For the best six named varieties of ten speci- mens each 6 00 For the 2d best 4 00 For the 3d best 2 00 14 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of ten speci- mens each $4 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the 3d best 2 00 SINGLE DISHES. For best twelve Baldwin 2 00 For best twelve Astrachan (Red) 2 00 For best twelve Duchess of Oldenburg 2 00 For best twelve Golden Sweet 2 00 For best twelve Gravenstein 2 00 For best twelve Holden Pippin 2 00 For best twelve Hubbardston Nonesuch 2 00 For best twelve Leicester Sweet 2 00 For best twelve Maiden's Blush 2 00 For best twelve Mother 2 00 For best twelve Nonesuch 2 00 For best twelve Northern Spy 2 00 For the best twelve Palmer, (Washington Ro3'al,) . . . 2 00 For best twelve Peck's Pleasant 2 00 For best twelve Porter 2 00 For best twelve Rhode Island Greening 2 00 For best twelve Roxbury Russett 2 00 For best twelve Sheppai-d's Sweet 2 00 For best twelve Tallman's Sweet 2 00 For best twelve Williams' Early Red 2 00 For best twelve of any other sort 2 00 GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. CoiiiiiTTEK. Edwin Gonant, Chiilniian ; George Jaques, Thon^.as M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, William H. Earle, Worcester; Paul Whitin, of Wliltliisoille ; F. M. Marble, of Grafton ; and Joseph C. Lovell. of WcM Boyhtnn. GRAPES. For the best collection, of named varieties, grown under glass ^12 00 For the 2d best 10 00 For the 3d best 0 00 For the best two clusters of Black Hamburg 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 15 For the best two clusters of any other Black grape For the 2d best For the best two clusters of any White Muscat For the 2d best For the best two clusters of any otiier variety of White .... For the 2d best For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes not less than six named varieties For the 2d best For the 3d best For the best four clusters of Concord For the best four clusters of Croton For the best four clusters of Delaware For the best four clusters of Diana For the best four clusters of Eunielan For the best four clusters of Hartford Prolitic For the best four clusters of lona For the best four clusters of Isabella For the best four clusters of Israella For the best four clusters of Martha For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 3, ( Massasoit, ) . . . . For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 4, ( Wilder, ) For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 7, For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 9, ( Lindley, ) For the best four cluster^ of Rogers No. 15, ( Agawaui ) . . . . For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 19, ( Merriniac ) . . . For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 43, ( Barry, ) For the best four clusters of Salem. . For the best four clusters of Senas(][ua For the best four clusters of Walter For the best four clusters of Worden's Seedling For the best four clusters of any other variety of superior quality PLUMS. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties. For the 2d best For the best three varieties For the 2d best For the best single plate For the 2d best i2 00 1 00 2 00 1 00 2 00 1 00 8 00 5 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 OiJ 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 1 00 16 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not l(jss than ten speci- mens each 18 00 For the 2d best 5 00 For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each 5 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the best one variety of twelve specimens 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 For the 3d best 1 00 QtTINCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties 5 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the best twelve Orange Quinces 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 PEARS. Committee. — Henry L. Parker, Chairman ; Henry Phelps, John C. Newton James Draper, 0. B. Hadwen, S. Harrison Knox, of Worces- ter ; Newell Wood, of Millhury ; and John F. Johnson, of NortU- horough. CLASS 1. For the best twenty named varieties of twelve specimens each $16 00 For the 2d best 12 00 For the 3d best 10 00 (JLASS 2. For the best fifteen nametl varieties of twelve specimens each 12 00 For the 2d best 9 00 For the 3d best 6 00 CLASS 3. For the best ten named varieties of twelve speci- mens each 8 00 For the 2d best 6 00 For the 3d best 4 00 CLASS 4. For the best five named varieties of twelve speci- mens each 6 00 For the 2d best 4 00 For the 3d best 2 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. It CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of twelve speci- mens each For the 2d best For the 3d best SINGLE DISHES. For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears on one dish For the 2d best For the best twelve Bartlett For the best twelve Belle Lucrative For the best twelve Beurre Bosc For the 2d best For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau For the best twelve Beurre d' Anjou For the 2d best For the best twelve Beurre d' Arenberg For the best twelve Beurre Diel For the best twelve Beurre Easter For the best twelve Beurre Hardy For the best twelve Beurre Langelier For the best twelve Beurre Superfin For the 2d best For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite For the best twelve Dana's Hovey For the best twelve Dix For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock For the best twelve Doyenne du Cornice For the 2d best For the best twelve Duchesse d' Angouleme For the 2d best For the best twelve Dumas For the best twelve Durandeau For the best twelve Flemish Beauty For the best twelve Goodale For the best twelve Glout Morceau For the 2d best For the best twelve Howell For the best twelve Josephine de Malines For the best twelve Lawrence 3 4 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 o 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 3 00 3 00 18 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey 3 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve Marie Louise 2 00 For the best twelve Mt. Vernon 2 00 For the best twelve Paradis d' Automne 2 00 For the best twelve Passe Colmar 2 00 For the best twelve Sheldon 2 00 For the best twelve St. Ghislain 2 00 For the best twelve St. Michel Archange 2 00 For the best twelve Onondaga, (Swan's Orange) 2 00 For the best twelve Urbaniste 2 00 For the best twelve Winter Nelis 3 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best twelve Winter Pound 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variet^y 2 00 PLANTS, FLOWEPS, &c., &c., Committee. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman; George Cruickshanks of Whitinsville ; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Mes- singer, Henry Woodward and Henry L. Shumway of Worcester. STOVE AND GREENHOUSE PLANTS. PLANTS WITH ORNAMENTAL FOLIAGE. For the best twelve '. |20 00 For the 2d best 12 00 For the best six 10 00 For the 2d best 6 00 For the best single 3 00 For t'.e 2d best 1 00 PLANTS IN BLOOM. For the best six 15 00 For the 2d best . 10 00 For the 3d best 5 00 For the best single 3 00 For the 2d best 1 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 19 EAEE AXD NEW PLANTS. For the best collection. . For the 2d best FERNS AND LYCOPODS. For the best collection For the 2d best HANGING BASKET. For the best For the 2d best '. For the 3d best PARLOR PLANTS. From Amateurs. For the best collection For the 2d best For the 3d best SINGLE PLANT. For the best For the 2d best For the 3d best HANGING BASKET. For the best For the 2d best For the 3d best FERNERY OE WARDIAN CASE, from any source. For the best For the 2d best For the 3d best CUT FLOWERS. [Variety and arrangement will be con- sidered, as well as rarity and quantity.] For the best collection and best kept during the exhi- bition, not exceeding 5 stands 6 00 For the 2d best For the 3d best For the best stand For the 2d best For the 3d best For the best arranged basket or dish For the 2d best PAELOE BOUQUETS. For the best pair For the 2d best For the 3d best HAND BOUQUETS. For the best pair For the 2d best 8 00 4 00 10 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 6 00 4 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 6 00 4 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 4 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 20 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. FLORAL DESIGN. For the best For the 2d best ASTERS. For tlie best display For the 2d best For the 3d best For the 4th best CARNATIONS & PICOTEES. For the best display of named varieties, For the 2d best CHINA PINKS. For the best display DAHLIAS. Class 1. For the best twelve named varieties For the 2d best Class 2. For the best twelve liliputian varieties GLADIOLUS. For the best collection, named or unnamed varieties, from any source For the 2d best Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties For the 2d best Class 2. For the best ten named varieties. . . For the 2d best For the best specimen spike For the best seedling HOLLYHOCKS. For the best collection For the 2d best collection .„ IMMORTELLES. For the best collection of named varieties For the 2d best ORNAMENTAL GRASSES. For best display For the 2d best PANSIES. For the best display For the 2d best For the 3d best PETUNIAS. For the best display ROSES. Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties . . . For the 2d best Class 2. For the best ten named varieties For the 2d best 6 00 4 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 2 00 4 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF TREMIUMS. 21 SWEET PEAS. For the best display 2 00 VERBENAS. For the best display 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 For the best disjjlay of Seedlings ; 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 ZIKNIAS For the best display 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 VEGETABLES. All entries in this Department must be made with the Secretary, on or before the tenth (10) day of September. And all vegetables exhibited for Premiums, must be iu Washbukn Hall, by 10 o'clock, A. M., on Wednesdajf, the eighteenth day of September. Committee: — George A. Adams, Chairman; Thomas R. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, 0. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, Alexander Marsh, and William H. Hackett, of Worcester. COLLECTION. For the best general collection of vegeta- bles $20 00 For the 2d best 15 00 For the 3d best 10 00 BEETS. For the best twelve Long Blood 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano 2 00 For the best twelve Egyptian 2 00 For the best twelve Sugar 2 00 For the best twelve Turnip 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel 2 00 CABBAGES. For the best collection of not less than five varieties 5 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the best three Large Flat Brunswick 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Drumhead 3 00 For the best single specimen Drumhead, weight not less than 30 lbs 1 00 22 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. For tlie best three Dniinhead Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Early Sweinfurtli 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Red 2 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 For the best three Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 CAEROTS. For the best twelve Earl}' Horn or Short Scar- let 2 00 For the best twelve Long Orange 2 00 For the best twelve Red 2 00 For the best twelve White 2 00 CAULIFLOWERS. For the best three specimens 3 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 CELERY. For the best six roots 4 00 For the 2d best 2 00 CORN. For the best collection of Sweet not less than live varieties 5 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the best twelve ears of Sweet 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best Yellow or Field, of twenty ears traced. . 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 CRANBERRIES. For the best peck 1 00 EGG PLANT. For the best four specimens 1 00 HORSE RADISH. For the best Six Roots 1 00 MELONS. For best two Water 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 For the best Green Flesli three specimens 1 00 For the best YeWow Flesh " " 1 00 ONIONS. For the best four varieties a half peck of each . . 3 00 For the 2d best 2 00 For the best half peck of Red 1 00 For the best half peck of Silver Skin 1 00 For the best half peck of White Portugal 2 00 1872.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 23 PARSNEPS. For the best twelve Guernsey 2 00 For the best twelve Hollow Crown 2 00 For the best twelve Student 2 00 For the best twelve Short 2 00 POTATOES. For the best fifteen named varieties, a half peck of each 12 00 For the 2d best 8 00 For the 3d best 4 00 [And the Committee may award Ten Dollars, ($10.00) in gratuities to such named varieties, as in their opinion merit them.] PUMPKINS. For the best three, weight not less than 20 lbs., each 2 00 For the 2d best 1 00 PEPPERS. For the best half peck 1 00 SALSIFY. For the best twelve specimens 1 00 SQUASHES. For the best three pure Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Canada Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Plubbard 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow 2 00 For the best three pure Turban 2 00 For the best three pure Yokohama 2 00 TOMATOES. For the best collection, not less than six varieties, and not less than twelve of each variety 5 00 For the 2d best 3 00 For the 3d best 2 00 For the best twelve Boston Market 2 00 For the best twelve Lester's Perfected 2 00 For the best twelve Tilden 2 00 For the best twelve Trophy 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 2 00 TURNIPS. For the best twelve English or Flat 2 00 For the best twelve French White 2 00 For the best twelve Ruta Baga or Swedes 2 00 TBAIVTSACTIONS Worcester County Horticultural Society, FOR THE YEAR 1S71, coMriMSixn: AN ACCOUNT OF THE FESTIVAL OF THE SOCIETY; THE REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES AT THE ANXUAL EXHIBITION ; THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY AND LmRARIAN FOR THE YEAR 1871 : AND THE LIST OF FRUITS SELECTED RY THE SOCIETY. EDITED BY EDWARD W. LINCOL.N^. PREFACE. In preparing the present issue of the " Transactions, " it has been thought advisable to follow the precedents of the past and to include in the publication some account of the latest Festival of the Society. For the accomplishment of this task, in any tolerable measure, recourse to the columns of the Gazette and the Spy was indispensable. The meagreness of the details, notwithstanding such effective aid, is greatly to be regreted. The poverty of the Reports at the Annual Autumnal Exhibition, w'ith the single exception of that upon Vegetables, is also to be deplored. " The short crop of Apples afforded a fine opportunity for broad generalization if not for definite conclusions. The abundance of Pears and their average excellence, merited elaborate notice. But of these as of the superior contributions in the Floral departments, all that will be known for future instruction or comparison, must be deduced from the bare fact that one or another specimen was adjudged worthy of a premium. Is it unreasonable to hope that the future publications of the Society may be enriched by a portion at least of those fruits of close observa- tion that are annually gathered in by the skillful Horticulturists of Worcester County ? E. W. L. Horticultural Hall, Worcester, Massachusetts, March 4th, A. D., 1872. FESTIVAL OF COMMEMORATION. At a special meeting of the Trustees of the Corporation, holden on the Fifth day of April, A. D., 1871, it was unanimously voted to com- memorate the Thirty Second Anniversary of the organization, and the final release of the Society from every form of pecuniary obligation, hap- pening, as both events quite felicitously would, almost simultaneously. To provide for the more perfect accomplishment of this project, a Com- mittee was at once constituted, of which Hon. George W. Richardson, President of the Society, was Chairman, and Messrs. Samuel Flagg, O. B. Hadwen, George E. Francis, George Jaques, and Henry Wood- ward were associate members. How faithfully and well the duties of that Committee were discharged, the appearance of the Hall, on the evening of Friday, September 29th, the precise date selected, and the success of the entertainment there given, amply attested. The Hall itself was put in gala dress for the occasion. Dishes of specimen Pears, victors in keen competition at the so recent Autumiial Exhibi- tion, crowned with green house grapes, beautifully distributed along the tables, as they were, were rivalled in number by vases of tastefully arranged bouquets. From the center of the ceiling hung a basket of ferns — '' a thing of beauty " that was the cynosure of every eye. The table of the President, upon the platform received the most particular attention. Seven choice bouquets in the centre were flanked on either hand by two mammoth ones arranged in tall vases ; great pots of salvia, in bloom, glorified each corner, and displays of colors were so made as to heighten the general good eftect, while choice hanging baskets of plants graced the windows in rear of the platform. Four long tables extending the entire length of the Hall, and set oft' with a rare selection of flowers and fruit, were spread as the board at a Horticultural Banquet should be, by Mr. Augustus Marrs, caterer. 28 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. The whole arrangement was tasteful in the extreme, reflecting great credit upon Dr. Samuel Flagg, whose labors of love are so untiringly- rendered to the Society. The company was conducted to the tables at 8 o'clock, — Messrs. Barnard & Richardson's full orchestra furnishing a musical welcome as it tiled into the hall. Col. Geo. W. Richardson, President of the Societ}', occupied the seat of lionor, while on his right and left were Hon. Marshall P. Wilder of Boston, President of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and Dr. George B. Loring, President of the New England Agricultural Society. Past and present officers of the Worcester Society, most of them seated at the table on the platforin, showed their interest by being present, among them Mayor Earle, one of the Trustees, and Ex-Presidents Stephen SaUsbury, John Milton Earle, D. Waldo Lincoln, Francis H. Dewey, J. Henry Hill, and George Jaques, Ex-Secretarj^ Samuel F. Haven, Samuel H. Colton, the Treasurer, George E. Francis the Secretary, and the venerable Anthony Chase, one of the original corporators. The assembly included a general representation of the Horticultural and Agricul- tural interests in tliis vicinity, as well as of the wealth and character of Worcester. In this respect the gathering was indeed remarkable. A noticeable charm, one indeed which has always crowned the Festivals of this society, was the conspicuous and welcome presence of ladies. In extending an official and formal welcome to the assembled guests, Col. Richardson spoke Jis follows : — ADDRESS OF HON. GEO. W. RICHARDSON. Ladles and Gentlemen of the Worcester County Horticultural Society : — It is my pleasant duty, surrounded as I am by these mag- nates of Horticulture and distinguished citizens, to welcome you to this banquet and to this hall wliich is empliatically your own. This Society, incorporated in 1842 by the Legislature of Massachusetts, with the right to hold real estate to the amount of $1500, is now the owner of this valuable hall in which we are assembled, and stores under it, wliich are worth at least $50,000, and owes no man (and I must say in these days) or woman, a dollar. Surely, it is a time for rejoicing ; surely, it is a suitable time for a banquet. The four original corporators mentioned in the act were John Green, Anthony Cliase, F. W. Paine and G. W. Richardson. John Green was the first president, Anthony Chase was the first librarian, and F. W. Paine the first treasurer. Mr. Paine was a constant and 1871.] FESTIVAL OP COMMEMORATION. 29 devoted friend, having done as luuch for this society as any member, not forgetting the munificent Waldo, Salisbiuy, Butraan, and many others who have often lent a helping hand. How nobly has this society repaid its benefactors ; how nobly has it kept pace with this flourishing city. When blocks, houses and streets have taken posses- sion of some of our best gardens and nurseries, immediately the horticulturist is found busily at work preparing new grounds, so that our annual exhibitions have not diminished but increased, to such an extent that this hall, which when it was built was thought large enough for all time, has proved insufficient for our last exhibitions, aud we have f )r this year and the last occupied Mechanics Hall with great success, one of the hirgest in this Commonwealth. If we look back to the time when we were in Waldo Hall, we shall find that we had not fruit enough to fill the tables even in that small hall, and the duties were performed b^^ two committees. In those days we had recourse to works of art, for the purpose of creating an interest in our exhibitions. Pictures and statuary from the houses of members were sent to decorate the hall In the year 1840 we had a report on paintings from the accomplished chairman of the committee, Sauniel F. Haven, Es(|., the first secretary of this society. In looking through the records and transactions of this society we find it foremost also in all progress, and even as early as 1849 it con- ceded the rights of woman, that she had talent both to act and advise independentlv. The Committee on flowers that vear contained the names of Mrs. M. D. Phillips, Mrs. P. S. Canfielil and Mrs. G. W. Richardson. In 1851, this society held its first meeting in this hall, and did not ofter any premiums. Such was the condition of its finances that an honorable mention was all the contributors received. This year our exhibition has been in Mechanics Hall, and our premiums $1,000. We must not stop here ; it is not wisdom to sit down and do noth- ing but talk over our success, and count up our wealth. We must go on, and with our annual income, which is considerable, offer larger premiums to cultivators and producers, and after we have done this, save enough from our yearly rentals to create a fund which shall enable us to build, in after days, a spacious and magnificent hall. I think we can look forward to this achievement with much less doubt and anxiet}'' than we did at the beginning to accomplish what we have at the present daJ^ Keej) what you have, and make it earn for you what you want. In conclusion let me say, as I do not wish to inflict upon you a long address in this presence, that this society is in every respect in a most flourishing condition. 30 WORCESTER COUNTY HOUTICULTUHAL SOCIETY. [1871. The tables having been relieved in a measure of their abundance, Col. Richardson asked the attention of the audience to the following letter from an honored meml)er of the society, ex-Gov. Bullock : GOV. bullock's lettek. Elm Street, Sept. 25, 1871. My Dear Sir : — I much regret that I cannot be in town at the time of the Horticultural Banquet to which you kindly invite me, and that I therefore shall lose the high enjoyments of that occasion. I con- gratulate you and all the members that at the end of a period about eijual to that which is usually assigned to a whole generation of men, our society can survey such a tield of l)eneficence and beauty, grown up under the culture of its hand, and that it can look hopefullj^ forward to yet richer fruit of its labors in the future years. 1 especially wish 1 might be with you at the feast, to express there how profoundly in my judgment the whole country is under obliga- tions to the distinguished gentleman who has consented to honor our tables b}'' his presence. Of course I allude to the Hon. Marshall P. Wilder. For him, and for his remarkable labors in this field of culture, I ma}' safely bespeak your cordial plaudits. Four years ago it was my opportunity to express this sense of a common gratitude in the presence of a thousand ladies and gentlemen in the county of Suftblk, over whom he presided, and who manifested their enthusiastic accord with the sentiment. I would say now, as then, tliat Mr. Wilder has applied the results of well-earned commercial fortune to the development of the capacities of the earth and sky, so wisely and so liberally, that in every household and at every fireside in America, where the golden fruit of summer and autumn gladdens the side- board or hearthstone, his name, his generosity, and his services are known and honored. With great respect and esteem, I remain your obedient servant. ALEX. H. BULLOCK. The Hon. G. W. Richardson, President, &c. Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, having been called up by a complimen- tary speech from Col. Richardson, was received with applause as he rose to speak, and listened to with interest through the course of his remarks, which were very brief. He began by saying that the AVor- cester County Horticultural Society, might justly be called a compeer 1871.] FESTIVAL OF COMMEMORATION. 31 of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, which he was present to represent, although they are not quite coeval. He spoke of the won- derful improvements in agriculture and horticulture within the last hundred years, and attributed it mainly to the eftbrts of Agricultural and Horticultural Societies. He dated the reform from 1785, in which year the First Agricultural Society was formed in the country, in Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, with Timothy Pickering as its first president, which was followed in 1792 by the formation of a similar society in Massachusetts. It was not until 1806 that the first Horticultural Society was founded in London. In 1827 the interests of horticulture were afliliated with those of agriculture in Pennsylvania ; in Massachusetts, a horticul- tural society was formed in 1819, in New Haven in 1832, and here in the city of Worcester, in 1840, the society, whose independence the company was then celebrating, was formed. Since then the interest has continued to increase, and also the varieties of various kinds of of fruit. At this last date, he said but few fruits had names, there being only the Isabella and Catawba grapes in place of the long list now introduced. Onlj^ a few pears were known by name, which are all now obsolete, while from 800 to 1,000 new varieties have since been originated. The same is true of strawberries, peaches and other fruits. But these progressive achievements had not been confined to horticul- ture alone, he said ; agriculture had gone forward still more wonder- fully, from the old wooden plow, with which our grandfathers endea- vored to pulverize the soil, to the wonderful steam plow, which moves like a thing of life over the broad acres of the west. He spoke of the advantages of educating the taste, rejoiced at being present, and closed by saj'ing that he had passed the summit of the hill of life and was descending on the other side ; that if he had done aught to promote the comfort and enjoyment of mankind, it was comfort enough to sus- tain him in his declining years. Dr. George B. Loring was next introduced by the President as the "foremost advocate and champion of Agriculture.'' He was received with general applause and spoke as follows : — REMARKS OF DR. LORING. Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen : — I recognize in the senti- ment to which we have just listened the warm-hearted generosity and 32 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. kindness of the President of this Society. He knew well that my return to Worcester at this time was attended with embarrassment and feelings of an indescribable nature, which his kindness led him to endeavor to soothe and soften. [Applause.] He knew well that when the storm had burst over my head, or at my feet — and I never have found out exactly which — I took myself immediately to the rural districts, and from that time to this, from Barre to Bridgewater, I have been engaged in advocating the great and peaceful pursuits of agriculture. [Applause.] I have no doubt he thought my mind was running con- tinually in that direction, and that it would be a kind and generous thing to put me upon the old beat, so that I could travel it without difficulty. ISow, my friends, while I am grateful to him for that I do not pro- pose to accept the temptation. I know well that there is a hand- maiden to agriculture which deserves the attention and consideration of every gallant advocate, at least of the first great lousiness. I know well that while agriculture lies at the foundation, it is really the mas- culine side of human life, and I am disposed to refresh myself for a few moments with the other side, and take her by the hand and soothe my feelings in a way in which your chairman has yet failed to do. Now, my friends, Lord Bacon tells us that " God Almighty first planted a garden, and indeed, it is the foremost of pleasures ; it is the greatest refreshment to the spirit of man, without which buildings and palaces are but gross handiwork." How true that is ! Why, we learn that man was placed in a garden, not on a farm. It was but little comfort that he could find amid the severe cares and duties of the farm (applause) for himself or his lineal descendants. There might have been profit, tliere might have been substantial eftbrt, but not that charm of culti- vated nature which one finds when lie returns to that spot in which his ancestors were placed. It is gardens too that are classical. We indeed read in the old writers, accounts of the details of farm life, and Virgil tells us how a swarm of bees can be obtained from the carcass of a steer, and informs us of the structure of the plough and modes of cultivation in his day ; but it is to gardens that we are brought for the most poetic illustra- tions, and it is only when we are brought into the garden that we feel that we are thoroughly refreshed. Now that is in accordance with one great law of our nature. We educate ouselves to the business of life by hard endeavor. We desire to be good merchants, good lavi^yers, good clerg3'men, good farmers, good benefactors, good business men of every description, and one part of the business of life is to strengthen our muscle and our brain for the service which is assigned us here in the world. But there is one side of our nature which we should never forget, and it is that which finds expression in poetry, in art, in a gar- den. It is the fEsthetic culture, it is that side which is so nearly allied to the best side within u^, that it almost forms a part of the divinity 1871.] FESTIVAL OF COMMEMORATION. 33 that is within man, the finest sentiment which he possesses, and which draws him with kindly affections toward his family and his friends, and that finds expression in every form of art, the work of the poet, the paintex*, the sculptor and every artist. But that taste is so developed by esthetic culture that power is given us to convert an acre of ground into the most charming picture, and that material which is ordinarily used as an external protection to our dwellings is converted by the hand of man into that which seems to come from the hand of God. And it is the cultivation of this power which has given man so much of his immortality. In Greece it wrote the history of great men and great deeds in enduring marble, inspired all with the highest thoughts of beauty, and everywiiere, and in all times it has brought forth the work of our poets and our artists. Now it is one part, an important part of education, that this faculty called taste should be given a proper direction in our earliest days, and I think too great care cannot be taken that all should be accustomed in early life to those objects which will give a proper direction to our tastes hereafter. The young man brought up among the scenes and objects of the farm goes to the city, acquires a fortune, and instantly begins to exercise those tastes, which he acquired in his childhood. It is his horse and his dog that are his favorites — but there is danger in horses and dogs. I am not entirely in favor of what are called agri- cultural horse trots. I only desire that the people should find recrea- tion to relieve the burden and monotony of life; and I would substi- tute for these tastes so common among us, were it possible, those finer tastes which come with our early associations, with horticulture and poetry and art, and I would rejoice to see every man as he acquires his fortune, gratifying his tastes by devotion to his garden, instead of to other forms of amusement less refined and less elevating. I would also rejoice to see every laboring man so educated and so situ- ated that his house and his garden would be his favorite objects of care and culture in his hours of leisure. I join hands therefore with my venerable friend in the work of developing agriculture. Like Vir- gil I find no other business than that of teaching the best modes of conducting what may be called the masculine side of the question, and so I discuss the best modes of cultivation, the best implements of hus- bandry, and the best animals to be placed upon our farms. I have no other work to do, and I am sorry to say that I am allowed to do no other. [Laughter.] He proceeded to speak of his interest in practical farming and alluded to several points in which much j-et remains to be accom- plished, before perfection is reached. One of these points was the construction of ploughs : he considered the present implement as wrong in its principle of construction, and said it must be and ought to be supplanted by something better. He considered even Knox's line " g f 4 " a failure. (This allusion to the elementary line in the 5 34 WORCESTER COUNTY HOliTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. diagrams of the Knox plough, which is deservedly popular, was received by some of the audience as a facetious reflection on Hon. G. F. Hoar,* who was present, and they applauded accordingly.) He lauded agricidture as his chosen pursuit but would unite with Col. Wilder hand in hand as he devotes himself to the feminine side of this question and In-ings to the work all the taste and all the beauty that go with the art of horticulture. Thanking you for your attention, and congratulating you that the lateness of the hour and the necessity of my return to Boston must cut short my speech, I congratulate you upon the success of j^our societ}^ and wish it all prosperity in the future. [Applause.] Hon. Stephen Salisbury was called upon to speak in response to a sentiment alluding to the city of Worcester, and made a short and entertaining speech. He had enjoyed the good things of Worcester a long time, he said, and had good reason to rejoice in its prosperity, and in the prosperity of the Worcester County Horticultural Society, for which he considered himself entitled to some credit, inasmuch as he had alwa_ys brought to its fairs large contributions of fruit, flowers and vegetables, for other people to beat. He gave an interesting sketch of the manner in which the early exhibitions of the society were managed, and paid a high tribute to the zeal and interest of the late F. W. Paine, in the society. Samuel F. Haven, Esq., Secretary of the American Antiquarian Society, and the first Secretary of the Horticultural Society after its incorporation by the General Court, in response to the call of the President, made an interesting speech in the course of which he indulged in pleasant reminiscences of old days — of the years preceding or immediately following 1840, which he styled the Augustan j-ear of Worcester. He described the Worcester of old times, when she almost incarnated herself in the annual Agricultural and Horticultural exhibition. It was a small town then, liut he believed that in political and social position and importance, in standing and influence in the Commonwealth, and in its men of enterprise, intellect and ability, it was then comparatively greater than to-day. He closed with an apprecia- tive tribute to the memory of William Lincoln, saying that the place he occupied a quarter of a century ago here is still vacant. He here -■Note. — Hon George F. Hoar was President of the Republican State Convention, which, Just a weeli previous, failed to nominate Dr. liOrlng as its candidate for (invernor. At this same convention, as stated lugubriously by himself, Stephen S. Foster attended the ohsequies of his hutlcr. 1871.] FESTIVAL OF COMMEMORATION. 35 read a letter from Col. T. W. Higgiuson, of Newport, regretting his inal)ility to be present, and congratulating the members of the society on tlie fact that they found time to give attention to a more agreeable apple than the apple of political discord. Hon. John Miltox Eakle, being hailed as the " great Nomencla- tor " of the Society, spoke briefly in pleasant reminiscence of its early days, giving some interesting statements relative to its growth. Mr. Stkphen S. Foster reluctantly rose in response to a call from the President, and made one of the best speeches of the evening. He said he was not in a mood for speaking, for he had just buried his Butler and was still in mourning ; and, more than that, his mind was not at all relieved by all the cheering he heard. He congratulated the society on what it has done for the community as well as for itself, and, raising a dish of fruit in his hand, said that he remembered the time when all the wealth of Worcester could not procure such fruit as was seen on the tables in abundance — money could not buy it. Much has been accomplished by Horticultural Societies in the way of driving second and third rate fruit from farms and markets, and still more must yet be done. Speaking of flowers, he said he regarded them as having a salutar}' moral effect; he considered them preachers of the gospel of Jesus Christ ; in all his travels he had never failed to find a welcome, cleanliness and comfort where there were flowers in tlie window ; they were the product of refinement, and had a refining influence. He said that he was compelled from a sense of duty to abstain from the delightful task of cultivating flowers ; they capti- vated and absorbed his mind, which he could not allow to be done, for his thoughts were engaged in solving that great problem which will only be sohed when every man can sit under his own vine and fig tree and not under those of another. He was happ_y in the owner- ship of land and a home ; and his religion, he said, consisted in endeavoring to give to every other man what he himself prized and enjoyed. Hon. George F. Hoar, who was the next speaker, indulged in a humorous account of his early horticultural associations. He alluded to Dr. Loring's remark in regard to the line " g f 4, " and said that in view of the results of the recent convention, with which he, the speaker, had something to do, the Doctor might perhaps be justified in 36 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. considering him a failure, but lie was glad to know that a gentleman living at the other end of the State, thought ditierently, a reply which was received with applause. He took issue with Mr. Haven in regard to the standing of the Worcester of to-day and that of 1840, and spoke spiritedly of its growth and development, in all the elements of power and greatness, forty years ago. What business man of that day could manage the Boston and Albany Railroad like Mr. Waldo Lincoln, or take charge with success of an institution like Mr. Cromp- ton's shop or Mr. Moen's. As to professions, he did not undertake to judge of others, but in his own, he did not believe the man could have been found in Worcester forty years ago, or could be found else- where in Massachusetts to-day, who in that highest form of intellect- ual capacity — the power of persuading intelligent minds by cogent and persuasive argument, could surpass Mr. Aldrich ; or for exhaust- less and profound legal learning was the equal of Mr. Bacon. He would be amused to have the Worcester bar of forty years ago put together their intellects on one side of a complicated equity cause, with Mr. T. L. Nelson on the other, and see where they would prob- ably land. But, he said, it has been always thus ; even in the days of Homer, the men of the past were greater than those of the present : — "A ponderous stone bold Hector heaved to throw, Pointed above and rough and gross below ; Not two strong men the enormous weight could raise, Such men that live in these degenerate days; Yet this, as easy as the swain could bear The snowy fleece, he tossed and shook in air. " Hon. Henry Chapin made a characteristic speech, and read a poem, which he said he found while moving his house ; it was a moving poem. Mr. Stephen S. Foster spoke again briefly in support of Mr. Hoar's estimate of Worcester, and of his individual opinion that Tatnuck is the model centre of this model city. Mayor Earle followed in reply to a sentiment touching his official position. Remarks complimentary to Edward W. Lincoln, Esq., Secretary from 1861 to 1871, brought out Dr. Francis, the present Secretary, with a note from Mr. Lincoln in which that gentleman explained the cause of his absence to be chills and fever, a visitation of which did not 1871.] FESTIVAL OF COMMEMORATION. 37 leave liim in a mood to " dwell in marble " or even horticultural halls. He regretted that he was not to be present to greet the father of Amer- ican pomology (Col. Wilder,) and sent in a sentiment — "The President of our Society ! One of the original corporators I After the lapse of an entire generation, we present him, this day, among our ' single specimens, ' — ' primus inter 2^ai'tis / ' " Col. Wilder here supplemented his former remarks with a short but feeling allusion to his love, from boyhood, of fruits and Howers and everything pertaining to rural life. Henky H. Chamberlin", Esq., spoke briefly, concluding with the facetious opinion that the talk about improvement in fruit was all gam- mon, for after all the attempts made to improve the wild strawberry, we had only succeeded in producing one that is still Wilder. At a late hour the Orchestra, which had enlivened the eveninsr with choice selections, played a retiring march, bringing to a seasonable close the pleasures of a Festival which had been very agreeable to all who were present. BEPORTS REPORT OX APPLES. Elijah B. Stoddard, Cltairman: S. H. Coltox, S. A. Gushing, J. Frank Allen, S. S. Foster, S. A. King, J. K. L. Pickford, Joseph Boyden, of Worcester ; Cyrus White, of Millhury, Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. The Committee on Apples submit the following report : CLASS 1. For the best collection of not less than six speci- mens of each variety, no entry. CLASS 2. For the best twenty varieties, of twelve specimens each, no entry. CLASS 3. For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, Stephen S. Foster ,$10 00 For the second best, E. M. Banning 8 00 For the third best, no entry. CLASS 4. For the best six varieties of twelve specimens each, O. B. Hadwen. 6 00 For the second best, Henry Marble, of Millbnry 4 00 For the third best, Cyrns White, of Millbnry 2 00 CLASS 5. For the best three varieties, no entry. SINGLE DISHES. For the best twelve Baldwin, Eri Saun- ders 2 00 For the best twelve Cogswell, no entry. For the best twelve Duchess of Oldenburg, no entry. For the best twelve Golden Sweet, no entry. 40 -WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. For the best twelve Gravenstein, Addison Lovell, of West Boylston 2 00 For the best twelve Holdeii Pippin, no award. For the best twelve Hubbardston Xonesnch, Joseph E. Phelps 2 00 For the best twelve Ladies' Sweeting, no entry. For the best twelve Leicester Sweet, J. K. L. Pickford. . . 2 00 For the best twelve Maiden's Blush, no award. For the best twelve Mother, no award. For the best twelve Northern Spy, no award. For the best twelve Porter, Eri Saunders 2 00 For the best twelve Rhode Island Greening, Eri Saunders 2 00 For the best twelve Roxbury Russett, John Hillard 2 00 For the best twelve Sheppard's Sweet, S. S. Foster 2 00 For the best twelve Williams' Earl}^ Red, no entr^^ For the best twelve of any other sort, no award. (iRATUITIES. Pumpkin Sweet, William Y. Holman 2 00 Porter, William Howe, of Millbury 2 00 Porter, George J. MoCracken, of Millbury 2 00 Fall Harvey, Warren Harris, of Millbur^^, 2 00 Baldwin, D. B. Comins 2 00 Baldwin, Joseph E. Phelps 2 00 Baldwin, Warren Harris, of Millbury 2 00 REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. Edwin Coxant, Chainnan ; Georgk Jaques, S. V. Stoxe, T. M. Lamh, Horatio Pheli's, of Worcester, Paul Whitix, George (Jruickshanks, of W/iiti7isville, F. M. Marble, of Grafton., and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. For the best collection, grown under glass, P. L. Moen...$12 00 For the second best, S. Salisbury 10 00 For the third best, W. T. Merri field 6 00 1871.] REPORT ON GRAPES AND OTHER FRUITS. 41 For the best two clusters of Black Hamburg, W. T. Merrifield. 2 00 For the second best, S. Salisbury 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other black grape, P. L. Moen. 2 00 For the second best, no award. For the best two clusters of any White Muscat, S. Salisbury. . 2 00 For the second bett, P. L. Moen 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other variety of white, S. Salisbury 2 00 For the second best, no award. For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes, not less than six varieties, Joseph C. Lovell, West Bo3dston. . 8 00 For the second best, Charles Nash 5 00 For the third best, D. S. Goddard 3 00 For the best four clusters of Concord, Thos. A. Dawson ... 3 00 For the best four clusters of Delaware, J. E. Phelps 3 00 For the best four clusters of Diana, J. C. Whitin, of Whitins- ville 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eumelan, F. J. Kinney, 3 00 For the best four clusters of Hartford Prolific, State Lunatic Hospital, 3 00 For the best four clusters of Zona, J. C. Whitin, Whitinsville. . 3 00 For the best four clusters, of Isabella, State Lunatic Hospital, 3 00 For the best four clusters of Kogers No. 3 (Massasoit), Joseph C. Lovell, West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 4, (Wilder), J. C. Whitin, Whitinsville 3 00 For tlie best four clusters of Rogers No. 9 (Linlley), Joseph C. Lovell, West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 15 (Agawarn), Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 19 (Merrimac), Joseph C. Lovell, West Boylston 3 00 For the best clusters of Rogers No. 43 (Barry), Joseph C. Lovell, West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Salem, Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 6 42 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. PLUMS. [There was i)ot a Plum to be seen in the Hall. So much more industrious are his insect enemies than man. Sec.^ PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not less than ten speci- mens each, no entry. For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each, no entry. For the best one variety of twelve specimens, H. F. Loomis. . . 3 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the third best, D. S. Goddard 1 00 QUINCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties, no entry. For the best twelve Orange Quinces, Newell Wood, Millbury. . o 00 For the second best, Adams Foster 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, no entry. PEARS. E. W. Lincoln, Clutirvian ; J. Henry Hill, Henry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, Francis B. Rice, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester, Xewell Wood, of Millbury, and John F. Johnson, of Northhoromjli. CLASS 1. For the best twenty varieties of twelve specimens each, S. S. Foster $16 00 For the second best, V. P. Townsend 12 00 For the third best, Wm. H. Earle, ' 10 00 CLASS 2. For the best fifteen varieties of twelve specimens each, James Draper, 12 00 For the second best, F. M. Marble, of Grafton 0 00 For the third best, no award. CLASS 3. For the best ten varieties of twelve specimens each, Alfred Davis 8 00 For the second best, James F. Allen 6 00 For the third best, Joseph E. Phelps 4 00 1871.] REPORT ON PEARS. 43 CLASS 4. For the best tiv^e varieties of twelve specimens each, James Robinson G 00 For the second best, Edward W. Lincoln 3 00 CLASS 5. For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each, George A. Adams 3 00 For the second best, Thomas A. Dawson 2 00 SINGLE DISHES. For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears on one dish, George A. Brown 2 00 For the best twelve Bartlett, weight 0 lbs. 13 oz., Thomas A. Dawson 2 00 For the best twelve Belle Lucrative, Alfred Davis 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Bosc. James M. Scholield 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau, Y. P. Towusend. . . 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre d'Aujou, V. P. Townsend 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre d'Arenberg, no entry. For the best twelve Beurre Hardy, Julius E. Tucker 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Langelier, no entry. For the best twelve Beurre Supertin, W. D. Holbrook .... 2 00 For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite, no entry. For the best twelve Dana's Hovey, no award. For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock, Newell Wood, of Millbury 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne du Comiee, S. H. Colton .... 3 00 For the best twelve Duchesse d' Angouleme, Gerry Hutch- inson 3 00 For the best twelve Durandeau, F. M. Marble, Grafton ... 2 00 For the best twelve Flemish Beauty, James Draper 2 00 For the best twelve Glout Morceau, Edward W. Lincoln. . 2 00 For the best twelve Howell, no award. For the best twelve Lawrence, Alfred Davis 3 00 For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey, W. D. Hol- brook 2 00 For the best twelve Marie Louise, S. S. Foster 2 00 For the best twelve Paradis d' Automne, V. P. Townsend. 2 00 For the best twelve Sheldon, Edward Earle 2 00 For the best twelve St. Ghislain, R. N. Merriam 2 00 For the best twelve Onondaga (Swan's Orange,) Charles H. Morgan 2 00 For the best twelve Urbaniste, Jonathan Grout 2 00 44 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. For the best twelve Winter Nelis, 3 lbs. 6 oz., Alfred Davis 3 00 For the best twelve of auj'^ other variety, Beurre Diel, Mrs. H. Willis, of Leicester 2 00 Gratuity, to Mrs. Geo. A. Chamberlain, Worcester for collec- tion in Class 4 2 00 [The Chairman of the Committee on Pears, pleads in excuse for failing to make a detailed Keport, that he was compelled to assume the duties of the chairman of tlie committee on Exhibitions, in the enforced absence of Mr. Xewton. He regrets this the more because of the signal excellence of many varieties, particularly among the single plates, wliicli deserved extended notice. k. \v. l.] EEPORT OX PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c. J. S. KoGERS, Chairman ; John Milton Earle, Clarendon Harris, Charles Richardson, D. S. Messinger, Henry Wood- ward, C. Willard Hamilton, and Henry A. Marsh, of Wor- cester. For the best twelve specimens variegated-leaved plants, W. T. Merrilield f 20 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 15 00 For the third best, P. L. iMoen 10 00 For the best twelve s2)ecimoiis of greenhouse plants, Stephen Salisbury 15 00 For the second I>est, W. T. Merrilield 10 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 0 00 For the best spei'imen plant not having previously received a pi'emiuni, W. T. MciiiHeld. 5 00 For the second best, S. Salisbury 3 00 For the third best, P. L Moen 2 00 FLORAL DESIGN. For the best Mrs. Daniel Tainter 6 00 For the second best, Miss S. E. Chamber! in 4 00 ORNAMENTAL AND BEDDING PLANTS. For the be.st collection, W. T. Merrilield 5 00 For the .second 'best, S. Salisbury 3 00 RARE AND NEW PLANTS. For the ])est collection, S. Salisbury 8 00 For the second best, \\. T. Merrilield 4 00 1871.] REPORT ON PLANTS AND FLOWERS. 45 FERNS AND LYCOPODS. For the best collection, E. B. Hamilton 5 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbu.x}' 3 00 For the best collection in ferneiy, E. B. Hamilton 5 00 For the second best, C. D. Thayer 3 00 PARLOR PLANTS. For the best collection (amateur), Mrs. W. Y. Holman 6 00 For the second best, Mrs. J. S. Rogers 4 00 For the third best, no award. For the best single plant, (Passiflora var.) Miss S. E. Cham- berlin 2 00 For the second best, H. L. Bancroft, (Millbury,) Lemon tree 1 00 CUT FLOWERS. For the best collection, Mrs. Daniel Tainter 6 00 For the second best, Mrs. A. D. Foster 4 00 For the third best, Mrs. S. M. Smith 2 00 For the best stand, C. D. Thayer 3 00 For the second best, C. W. Hamilton 2 00 For the third best, Mrs. J. L. Burbank 1 00 For the best arranged basket or dish, Mrs. J. S. Baldwin 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. Daniel Tainter 2 00 For the best hanging basket, plants to have been growing therein at least one month, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the third best,-C. D. Thayer 1 00 For the best hanging basket, (amateur), E. B. Hamilton 3 00 For the second best, E. B. Hamilton 2 00 For the third best, no award. PARLOR BOUQUETS.. For tlie best pair, Mrs. G. W. Rich- ardson 4 00 For the second best, Mrs. A. D.^Foster 2 00 For tlie third best. Miss L. G. Allen 1 00 HAND BOUQUETS. For tlie best pair. Miss Maria Fox. . . 3 00 For the second best, C. D. Thayer 1 00 ROSES. Class 1. For tlie best fifteen named varieties, C. W. Hamilton 4 00 For the second best, 01m Bros., (Sptingfield,) 2 00 46 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. Class 2. For the best ten named varieties, no award. For the second best, no award. GLADIOLUS. For the best collection, named or unnamed varieties, from any source, J. M. Earle 5 00 For the second best, Mrs. M. B. Green 3 00 Class 1. For the best twelve named varieties, J .M. Earle 5 00 For the second best, AV. W. Cook 3 00 Class 2. For the best eight named varieties, J. M. Earle 2 00 For the second best, no awanl. For the best specimen spike, J. M. Earle 1 00 For the best seedling, J. M. Earle 1 00 DAHLIAS. Class 1. For the best twelve named varieties, 01m Bros., (Springfield) 3 00 For the second best, C. D. Thayer 1 00 Class 2. For the best ten liliputian varieties, C. D. Thayer 3 00 ASTERS. For the best display, Mrs. G. H. Estabrook 4 00 For the second best, John G. Hey wood 2 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 1 00 VERBEISrAS. For the best display of named varieties, C. W. Hamilton 3 00 For the second best, C. D. Thayer 2 00 For the best display of Seedlings, J. G. Hey wood 2 00 For the second best, C. W. Hamilton 1 00 PANSIES. For the best display, C. W. Hamilton 3 00 For the second best, C. D. Thayer 2 00 For the third best, Mrs. G. H. Estabrook 1 00 CHINA PINKS. For the best display, P. L. Moen 2 00 HOLLYHOCKS. For the best collection, no award. For the second best, no award. IMMORTELLES. For the best, collection of named varieties no award becaiise none were named. For the second best, no awai-d. 1871.] REPORT ON PLANTS AND FLOWERS. 47 CAKNATIONS AND PICOTEES. For the best display, no award. For the second best, no award. PETUNIAS. For the best display, Miss A. M. Lovell 2 00 SWEET PEAS. For the best display, Mrs. J. S. Baldwin. . . 2 00 ORNAMENTAL GRASSES. For the best display, no award. For the second best, no award. FERNERY. For the best Model. Clinton Wire Works 10 00 For the second best, no award. ('iKATUITIES. Floral Design, to Mrs. L. Morey ^2 00 Plants for Ferneries, to W. W. Cook 2 00 Ferns and Lycopods, to W. T. Merritield 2 00 Best Collection of Lj'copods in Fernery, to Mrs. D. Tainter... . 2 00 Gut Flowers, to W. T. Merrifield 2 00 Cut Flowers, to Miss S. E. Chamberlin 1 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Miss Maria Fox '2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Miss Mary W. Martin 2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Miss L. G. Allen 2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Miss Annie R. Fo.x 2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Mrs. L. Morey 2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Mrs. C. W. Gilbert 2 00 Basket or Dish of Cut Flowers, to Miss Amy B. Hadwen 2 00 Wreath of Cut Flowers, to Mrs. J. Fitts 1 00 Hanging Basket, to W. T. Merrifield 2 00 This basket was iujured b_v falling, caused bj^ the breaking of a wire used for suspending it, and the committee recommending a gratuity equal to the second premium, would refer the claim for dam- ages to the *""ecretary. Pair of Parlor Bouquets, to S. Salisliury 1 00 Pair of Parlor Bouquets, to P. L. Moen 1 00 Single Bouquet, to Mrs. C. A. Fitts 1 00 Wild Flowers, to Messrs. H. R. & L. F. Kinney 2 00 Roses, to J. Draper 2 00 Seedling Gladiolus, to Miss A. M. Lovell 1 00 Verbenas, Mrs, A- P, Foster , 1 00 48 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICl'LTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. Pansies, to J. C. Whitin, of Whitin^ville 1 00 Immortelles, to P. L. Moen 2 00 Immortelles, to Mrs. S. E. Fisher 1 00 Petunias, to Mrs. D. Tainter 1 00 Petunias, to Mrs. G. H. Estabrook. . . .• 1 00 Salvias, to Mrs. G. H. Estabrook 1 00 Pansies, to Mrs. E. Morse 1 00 Hj'drangea, to Mrs. R. Ball 1 00 Hydrangea, to Mrs. G. W. Richardson 1 00 Phlox, to Mrs. J. S. Baldwin . 1 00 Zinnias, to Mrs. J. S. Baldwin 1 00 Zinnias, to Mrs. Ida C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 1 00 Zinnias, to Mrs. G. H. Estabrook 1 00 Japan Lilies, to J. Draper 1 00 Floral Design, to W. T. Merrifield 1 00 REPORT ON VEGETABLES. Committee. Henky L. Parker, Chalrinan ; Gkor(;e A. Adams, Thomas R. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, Rufus Carter, 0. B. Hadwen, Sylvaxus Sears, Charles Belcher, Alex- ander Marsh, and George G. Burbaxk, of Worcester. While the Society in creating this Department have acted regard- less of Goethe's Maxim, " Study the beautiful and let the useful take care of itself, " the wisdom of its course has been demonstrated in thef increased interest a-'d livelier competition maiiiffstcd from year to year in the exhibition of Vegetables, culminating at tlie present exhi- bition in a display so great as to overflow its natural boundaries, and unparalleled by that of any former year in tlic size, variety, and excel- lence of the specimens exhibited. The roots and squashes in the several displays of tlie brotliers Sears and of P. L. Moen, should lu; noted for their fairness, smoothness and general excellence, reflecting great credit on these contributors for the care manifested liy them in preserving the purity of seed. 1871.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 49 The State Lunatic Hospital also deserves honorable mention for their large and valuable collection of vegetables and their excellent tomatoes.* The entries of Potatoes were larger in number and comprised a greater variety tlian any previous year. Many of these entries were of unusual excellence. Some of the varieties however which contrib- uted to the making up of individual entries were not such as potato growers would recommend for cultivation. Nor were the specimens of many of these varieties such as to reflect credit upon those exhibiting them. Inasmuch as the really valuable varieties might be narrowed down to a dozen or lifteen, the Committee would respectfully recom- mend that in making the premium list for the next annual exhibition, the varieties for the largest and best collection of potatoes should be limited so as not to exceed about that number. The display of Tomatoes in both the general collections and the entries for special premiums were unusually fine. The display for special premiums embracing twenty-seven different varieties. The history of this vegetable as regards its rapid and wonderful growth in public favor is somewhat remarkable. Prior to the year 1830 it was hardly recognized as an eatable plant. If cultivated at all it was rather for ornament than use, and was known as the "love apple, " or " golden apple, " names which it still retains in France and Italy. To-day in the United States especially, it has become an almost universal article of diet, and though belonging to the same order as some of the most noxious of plants, as the deadly nightshade, it is regarded by the faculty as one of the most wholesome of escu- lents. It is said that a species called the Humboldt and thought to be a perennial was introduced into Europe some years since, but it does not seem as yet to have made its way into this country. The qualities most to be desired in seeking improved varieties are earliness, produc- tiveness, freedom from a tendency to decay, solidity or thick meated- ness (though on this point tastes differ, some preferring a medium thickness of meat) and evenness in ripening. Several varieties have more or less of these qualities. For earliness the Wilcott can hardly be excelled and it is also very productive. The Trophy is solid, large * In justice to the State Lunatic Hospital it should be said that owing to a misunder- standing, the Committee did not learn that this Institution was on the list of competi- tors until after the award of premiums. 50 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. and of excellent flavor. The Gen. Grant ripens evenly and is also solid and of good flavor. A late variety called the Charter Oak is said by those who have tested it to combine more of these qualities than any other variety. The attainment of the highest success in kitchen gardening requires the exercise of the soundest judgment, wliile a knowledge more or less extensive of almost the whole round of the sciences, if not essen- tial, is of the utmost advantage. A practical knowledge of many of them is at least indispensable — a knowledge of the composition of soils and to wliat particular crops different soils are adapted. The value and strength of this or that fertilizer and the best method of application — kAowledge of the habits of the arch enemies of all plant life and the most effectual tactics to employ in the warfare against the whole tribe of insects. But as in the moral law the whole essence of the decalogue is epitomized in two commandments on whicli " hang all the law and the prophets," so may the principles of the gardener's art be reduced to two simple ]>ropositions viz : quick germination and rapid (jrowth. How these two results may be best obtained is the problem to be solved. Good soil deeply ploughed and well pulverized and good fer- tilizers properly aj^plied are important items. Much depends also on the right selection of seed and a choice of proper time for planting. Every Horticulturist who believes that " success is a duty " will of course so far as practicable rely upon home productions for his seed, and for this purpose he will select from the product of each plant as Ihey successively mature the earliest, largest and fairest specimens. The smaller the seeds planted, the finer should be the pulverization of the soil and this for two reasons, — they must be jilanted near the surface or they will not germinate or will do so out of season, and the mould should be of sufficient fineness to admit the warmth of the sun and yet retain sufficient moisture. A difference must be made however among the smaller seeds as to depth in planting. The hard coated seeds require more moisture and consequently more depth. The lettuce could hardly germinate at the depth required by the beet. It would be interesting and instructive if the contributors to this department, or to any of the several departments who have met with success in the culture of any particular crop, would prepare state- ments giving the result of their experience and observation. These 1871.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. \5^ ^^K^i t^ statements might be used by the several committees in the makiri^^Up •v ^* of their rejiorts to which they would add great value, or by the encou^ agement of premiums they might take the form of papers (to be read at stated meetings of the society), treating exhaustively of the history and culture of the fruit, flower, or vegetable under discussion. The Committee respectfully submit the following list of premiums. For the best collection, Alden H. Sears $20 00 For the second best, Sylvanus Sears 15 00 For the third best, Stephen Salisbury 10 00 SQUASHES. For the best three pure Canada Crook-neck, S. E. Fisher 2 00 For the best three Hubbard, Joab Hapgood, of Shrewsbury 2 00 For the best three pure Large Crook-neck, S. E. Fisher. . . 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow, Joab Hapgood, of Shrews- bury 2 00 For the best three pure Turban, John C. Whitin, of Whi- tinsville 2 00 PUMPKINS. For the best three not less than 20 lbs., weight each, E. M. Banning 2 00 For the second best, no award. CELERY. For the best six roots, John C. Whitin, of Whitins- ville, (Boston Market) 4 00 For the second best, John G. Hey wood 2 00 CABBAGES. For the best collection, not less than five varie- ties, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 For the best three Drumhead Savoy, John G. Hey wood. .. 3 00 For the best single specimen, no award. For the best three Savoy of any other variety, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 3 00 For the best smgle specimen, no award. For the best three Drumhead, V. P. Townsend 3 00 For the best single specimen, weighing not less than 30 lbs., no award. For the best three Early Sweinfurth, Sylvanus Sears 3 00 For the best single specimen, no award. For the best three Large Flat Brunswick, Sylvanus Sears. 3 00 5*2 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. For the best three Ked, Thomas A. Dawsoii 2 00 For the best single specimen, no award. . CAULIFLOWERS. For the best three, no award. For the best single specimen, no award. SWEET CORN. For the best collection of not less than live varieties, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 For the best twelve ears, Alden H. Sears 2 00 For the second best, Joab Hapgood, of Slirewsbury 1 00 PARSNEPS. For the best twelve Guernsey, or Long Parsneps, no award. For the best twelve Hollow Crowned, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best Short Parsneps, John C. Whitin, of Whitins- ville 2 00 CARROTS. For the best twelve Early Short, or Half Long Scarlet, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Long Red, no award. For the best twelve Long Orange, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Long White, no award. BEETS. For the best twelve Long Blood, P. L, Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Sugar, no award. For the best twelve Turnip, A. H. Drury 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano, Thomas A. Dawson. .. 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel, O. B. Hadwen 2 00 TURNIP. For the best twelve Rnta Baga, or Swedish, no award. For the best twelve White French, Whitin Machine Works 2 00 For the best twelve Flat or English, S. E. Fisher 2 00 ONIONS. For the best half-peck Red, F. J. Kinney 2 00 For the best half-peck White Silver Skin, Wm. Y. Holman 2 00 For the best four varieties, half-peck of each, F. J. Kinney 3 00 POTATOES. For the best collection, of not less than a half- peck of each variety, F. J. Kinney 12 00 For the second best, James Draper 8 00 For the third best, Stephen Salisbury 4 00 For the best half-peck of Climax, F. ,7. Kinney 2 00 1871.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 53 For the best half-peck of Early Ro.se, V. P. Townseiid .... 2 00 For the best half-peck of King of the Earlies, F. J. Kinney 2 00 For the best half-peck of Prolific, F. J. Kinney 2 00 TOMATOES. For the best collection of not less than six varieties, and not less than twelve of each variety, Alden H. Sears 5 00 For the second best, Geo. A. Adams 3 00 For the third best, Sylvanus Sears 2 00 For the best dish of twelve of General Grant variety, V. P. Townsend 2 00 For the best iish of twelve of Maupay's Superior, no award. For the best dish of twelve of Trophy, John C. Whitin. . . 2 00 For the best dish of twelve specimens other than above, P. L .Moen, (Wilcott) 2 00 CRANBERRIES. For the best peck, no award. WATERMELONS. For the best two specimens, Thos. A. Dawson 2 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 1 00 GRATUITIES. S. H. Allen, three Cauliflowers, (Shrewsbury) $2 00 0. B. Hadwen, three Hybrid Squashes 2 00 H. W. Baldwin, Mammoth Squash, 2 00 0. B. Hadwen, plate of Tomatoes, name unknown 2 00 Mrs. A. A. Partridge, Trophy Tomato, weighing 25 ounces 1 00 Wm. Y. Holman, three Yokohama Squashes 1 00 H. R. & L. F. Kinney, Display of Vegetables, each 2 00 State Lunatic Hospital, Display of Vegetables 10 00 HENRY L. PARKER, Chairman. ANNUAL REPORT OF GEORGE E. FRANCIS, Secretaey and Librarian, OF The Worcester County Horticultural Society. To the Members of the Worcester County Horticultural Society : At the close of his hrief term of service, 3'our .Secretary is gratified to be able to report the usual prosperity in all departments of the Society. The Annual Exhibition, like so many before it, needs no praise from official pens; under the energetic superintendence of the accomplished Chairman, the Committee of Arrangements again made Mechanics Hall the scene of a triumphant success. The following tabular statement contains the number of contributors and entries of this Exhibition, and of the previous one, which was also held in Mechanics Hall. Apples Grapes, itc, Ac Pears Plants, Flowers, Ac. Vejietahles 1870. Contri- butors. 55 46 77 .S2 3.3 242 6:^2 392 1346 1235 836 4441 1871. Contri- butors. 2ir~ 44 111 46 33 254 Articles. 444 642 2600 20(16 1401 7093 From these figures it appears that in every section except that of Apples, the magnitude of the display was unprecedented. 56 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1871. Upon the printed Schedule of Premiums, the Committee on Exhi- bitions gave notice that ''about a month hiter than tlie Annual Exhibi- tion" there would be again offered premiums for small collections and single dishes of Pears Mter, perhaps, a too hasty consultation with such members of the Committee as he met, the Secretary' gave notice through the newspapers that these premiums would be offered on Oct. lUth, this early date being selected on account of the unusually rapid ripening of the late Fall pears. This experimental Exhibition aroused an unexpected degree of interest, and well deserves repetition. The weekly Exhibitions have been generally interesting and about as well attended as in former years. The following table contains the figures for the past year, in connection with my predecessor's compara- tive statement of the ten i^receding years : C O M P A R A J' 1 V^ E S T A f E M E NT. Auno Domini. 6 i"^ •a &s s s § 1 i -s «^ Oj .Q 0) « £ i (^ S§5^ a * o CO KOOo 1;Y the Worcester County Horticultural Society, FOR THE YEAR 1873. WORCESTEK, MA88 : Idwaiu) Pi. Fiskk & Co., Printeks 1«7:5. ^= Particular attention is called to the Rules and Regulations on Pages 13 and 14, and especially to ]S-os. 2, and 15, resjiectively ; the one defining tlie limit of time for entries of Vegetables, and the other requir- ing lists of all entries to be filed with the Secretary. Amount appropriated for Premiums at the Exhibitions in 1873, !$1,500 00 PROSPECTIVE PRIZES. For Fruits originated within the County of Worcester, and which after full trial, shall be decided equal in quality and other characteristics, to any now extant : _For the best Seedling Strawberry, after a trial of three years, $25 00 For the best Seedling RaspbeiTy, after a trial of three years, regard being had to hardiness as well as quality, . . . . 25 00 For the best Seedling Fruit,'after a trial of three years, • . 20 00 Committee. — President; Secretary; George Cruickshanks, of Whitins- ville ; Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston ; O. B. Hadwen, James Draper, F. H. Kinney and William H. Earlc, of Worcester. B Y-L A^TV^S OF THE Worcester County Hovticultural Society. ANNUAL MEETING. Article 1. There shall be an Annual Meeting of the Society, to be held on the tirst Wednesday in November of each year. MEMBERSHIP. Article "2. Any male person may become a Member of the Society on i)ayment of the sum of Five Dollars ; females upou'-the payment of Three Dollars. Honorary Members may be admitted by vote of the Society or of the Trustees, but shall not have the right to vote at any Business-Meeting. OFFICEES. Article. 3. The officers of the Society shall consist of a President, thi-ee (3) Vice Presidents, a Secretary and Librarian, and a Treasurer — (all of whom shall be Trustees ex-offidis) — and the Trustees hy election. The officers are to be elected by ballot, to hold their offices until the next annual election, 'or until others are chosen in their places, and to dis- charge the duties of their respective offices. MEETINGS OF THE SOCIETY. Article 4. All meetings of the Society shall be called by giving not less than one (1) week's notice in at least one newspaper published in the City of Worcester. Special Meetings of the Society shall be called at any time, on the application of five (5) members therefor. And at all meetings of the Society, seven (7) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. SECRETARY. Article 5. His Duties : The Secretary shall keep records of all business transacted at the meetings of the Society and of the Trustees, 4 WORCESTER COITNTV HORTICULTIUIAL SOCIETY. [1878. and also of the ailinissiou of Members, aud lie sluill call and notify meet- ings of the Society and of tlio Trustees, and shall notify persons chosen to office in the Society of their election and the Committees of their appointment, and shall attend to the correspondence of the Society. TREASURER Article fi. His Duteis : The Treasurer shall, at each Annual Meetin.ij of the Society, make a Report of his Receipts aud Expendi- tures on account of the Society, and the condition of his finances, and exhibit his accounts. And a committee shall ])e annually appointed by the Trustees to examine and audit his accounts and to report thereon. The Treasm-er shall give bonds to the acceptance of the Trustees of the Society for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office. TRUSTEES. Article 7. Thkik Numbeii : The Trustees shall consist of any numl)er not less than Twenty-Five (25) exclusive of the officers, who are Trustees ex. officiis — and the exact number of Trustees for the year ensuing, shall be determined at each Annual Meeting. Their Powers : The Trustees shall have the general charge and direction of the affairs and business of the Society, its funds and prop- erty, so far as not otherwise provided for in the By-Laws or at the meet- ings of the Society : and ma}- ajipoint one or moi-e Exhibitions of Flowers, Fniit or Vegetables in each year, and make all arrangements therefor and for conducting the same, including the appointment of Committees ; and may establish Premiums and provide for awarding the same, and shall direct the disposal of all articles of a vegetable; growth which may be presented to the Society, including the distribution of Seeds, Scions and Cuttings, Layers and Roots. Their Meetings — Quorum : At all meetings of the Tru,stees seven (7) shall constitute a (quorum for the transaction of business ; and a meeting of the Trustees may at any time be called, on the application of three (3) members of the Board to the President of the Society : and all meetings of the Trustees shall be called by the Secretary. There shall be stated meetings of the Trustees, to be held once in three (H) months. AMENDMENTS. Article 8. The By-Laws may be altered or amended at the Annual Meeting of the Society, by a vote of two-thirds (|) of the members pres- ent ; provided that previous notice shall have been given in the call for the Annual Meeting that the subject of an alteration of the By-Laws is to come before the Societj' at that meeting. 1873.] COMMITTEES, COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS AND EXHIBITIONS. JOHN C. NEWTON, Chmrman. JAMES DRAPER, SAMUEL FLAGG, HENRY PHELPS, O. B. HADWEN, SAMUEL H. COLTON, GEO. E. FRANCIS, President. EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary, Nos. 5 Oak and IS Front Streets, Worcester. The Annual Autumnal Exhibition commences Tuesday evening, Sep- tember Kith, at () P. M., and closes Friday evening, September 19th, at 9 P. M. COMMITTEES OF AWARD. APPLES. — WiLLiA^M T. Hai!low, Chairman ; James F. Allek, Samuel H. Coltox, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickfokb, of Worcester ; Cyrus White, Henry Marble, of MilJhury ; and IsAAi' B. Hartwell, of Oxford. GRAPES, PEACHES, &c.— William H. Earle, Chairman ; T. M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, Horatio Phelps, of Worcester ; Favl Whitin, of Whitinsville ; F. M. Marble, of Grafton ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. PEARS.— Henry L. Parker, Chairman ; Henry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, O. B. Hadwen, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of MilJhury ;- and John F. Johnson, of Northhorough. PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c.— Samuel Flagg, Chairman; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, D. S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, Lyman J. Taft, of Worcester ; and George Cruickshanks, of Whitinsville. VEGETABLES.— George A. Adams, Chairman ; Thomas R. Nor- CROss, J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, Alexander Marsh, Geo. G. Burbank and Wm. H. Hackett, of Worcester. ^^ The Committees will meet at ten o'clock, A. M., on Wednesday, September 17th. 6 WORCESTER COINTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. .lUNE. The opeuini; Exliibilion of the Summer season, will be held iu the Libraiy, on Thursday the Twelfth day of June, from ?> to 5 o'clock, P. ^r. ^ SPECIAL NOTICE. 1st. All named varieties of Plants or Flowers exhibited for premium must have Ihe name htjihly and correctly written on stiff card, wood, or some other permanent substance ; and each separate plant or flower must liave its name attached. 2d. Detailed reports of exhibitions cannot be expected, unless a writ- ten list is handed to the Secretary. 3d. The Committees will not feel themselves oliliged to award the Premiums merely because jjlants and flowers are exhibited in competi- tion ; and unless they possess decided marks of superiority, Premiums will be withheld. 4th. All exhibitors not strictly complying with the above rules will be excluded from competition for premium. Attention is also called to the Rules and Eegulations of the Society. IIAKDY PLANTS AND SHRUBS. For the best display of named varieties $8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best :'. 00 ON THURSDAY, P. M., .TUNE IDtil ( UT FLOAVERS. For the best display o 00 For the second best ."5 00 ROSE EXHIBITION. The Annual Rose Exhibition will be held in the Hall of the Society, on Thursday, the 2Gth day of June, commencing at .■) P. M., and closing at 5 P. M. All articles for competition must be entered with the Secretary, and be placed on the table before .") o'clock. ROSES. For the best general display of named varieties iifS 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 3 00 For the best arranged vase •'*> 00 1873.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 7 For the second best $2 00 For the third best 1 00 CUT FLOWEnS. For the best collection 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 GO GKEEN HOUSE PLANTS. For the best collection of named specimens 8 00 For the second best 6 00 For the third best 4 00 TO FLORISTS.— Special. On each successive Thursday, viz : — July 3d, July 24th, August 14th, September 4th, July 10th, July 31st, August 21st, September 11th, July 17th, August 7th, August 28th, Premiums of three dollars (.^3.00) and two dollars (S2.00) respectively, will be offered for the best and next best Two Stands of Cut Flowers. To A3IA.TEUKS. — At each of such exhibitions a Premium of two dol- lars (:|2.00) and one dollar (.Ifl.OO) will also be offered for the best and second best Stands of Cut Flowers, yrowa hy amateurs. [Gratuities will also be awarded for collections of Native Flowers, in their season, and for such other articles as may appear to merit pecuniary encouragement. The trustees have made liberal appi'opriations, and the Committee on Exhibitions are resolved that the reproach of meagre displays, or none at all, shall not attach to themselves, but to those Flori- culturists who neglect their opportunities. E. ^v. L.] Premiums for Fruits during the Season. The Season is understood to extend from the opening in June to the Annual Exhibition in September, during which there will be an exhi- bition every Thursday, and Premiums will be awarded as enumerated in the Schedule. AT THE ROSE SHOW— ON THURSDAY, JUNE 26th. Entries must be made with the Secretary, and the articles be upon the tallies before 3 o'clock, P. M. No person can compete for more than one ])remium with the same variet}- of berry, or varieties of fruit, except that a single dish may be the same as in a collection. S'l'UAWl!KI!i;iKS. CLASS 1. For the largest and best collection, one quart of each named variety .'*8 00 For the second largest and best collection, one quart of each named variety 6 00 For the third largest and best collection, one quart of each named variety 4 00 CLASS 2. For the best six named varieties 5 00 For the second best six named varieties 3 00 For the third best six named vaileties 2 00 CLASS 3. For the best two quarts of anv named variety 2. 00 For the best quart of Agriculturist 1 00 For the best quart of Boyden's No. 30 1 00 For the best quart of Charles Downing 1 00 For the best quart of Downer's Prolific 1 00 For the best quart of Hovey's Seedling 1 00 For the best quart of Ida 1 00 For the best quart of Jucunda 1 00 For the best quart of Kentucky 1 00 187o.] • SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 9 For the best quart of Lady of the Lake .Ifl 00 For the best quart of Lenuig's White 1 00 For the best quart of IN'apoleon Third 1 00 For the best quart of N'icanor 1 00 For the best quart of President Wilder 1 00 For the best quart of Trioniphe de Grand 1 00 For the best quart of Wilson 1 00 For the best (luarl of any other sort 1 00 ON THUKSDAY, JULY .k). ( IIKKKIKS. For the best four named varieties of one quart each 4 00 For the second best four named varieties of one quart each 2 00 For the best two ([uarts of any named variety 2 00 For the second best two ([uarts of any named variety- 1 00 ON THURSDAY, JULY 10th (•UEKAKT8. For the best collection of not less than four varieties, one TO:\L4TOES. For the best twelve specimens (open culture) 2 00 For the second best do. 100 ON THUKSDAY, AUGUST Ttpl APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of Early Sweet Bough 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Williams's Early Red 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Red Astrachan 1 00 PEARS. Foi- the best twelve of any named variety 2 00 For the second best '. 1 00 iSTo.] SCHEDl^LE OP PREMIUMS. 11 ON THUKSDAr, AUGUST 14tii. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety ^1 UO For the best twelve specimens of any other named variety i 00 For the best twelve specimens of any other named variety 1 OU J'KARS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Eostiezer 1 00 ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 21st. APPLES. For the best collection of not less than fonr varieties, of ten speci- mens each ■i 00 For the second best 2 00 PKARS. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety 2 00 For the second best 1 00 ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 2.Stu. APPLKS. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety 1 00 For the best twelve speciniens of any other named variety 1 00 PEAKS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite 2 00 For the second best 1 00 PEAC HES. For the best twelve specimens of Crawford's Early 2 00 VEGETABLES. For the best tAvelve Tomatoes 2 00 For the second best 1 00 ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4th. APPLES. For the best twelve specimens of any named variety 2 00 For the best twelve specimens of any other named variety 1 00 12 WORCKSTKK COrNTY HORTICULTUUAL SOCJKTY. [187^^. PKAltS. For the best twelve speciiiKMis of Clapp's Favoritt; .'''•i 00 For the second liest 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Jiartlett 2 00 For the second ])est 1 00 PKA( IIKS. For the best dish of twelve s])eciniens 2 00 For the second Ix-st 1 00 ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBFPi llrii. Al'l'LES. For the best twelve specimens of Gravenstein 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Porter 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Duchess of Oldenbuvir 1 00 I'KARS. For the best twelve si)ecimens of Bartlett 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Flemish Beauty 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Paradis d' Automne 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of St. (rhislain 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Howell i 00 I'KACUKS. For the best collection of at least tive varieties, twelve specimens of each variety 5 00 Vnv llie second best : 3 00 For the best dish of twelve specimens 2 00 For the second best 1 00 otrAi'Ks. For the best four ripe clusters of any early native variety.... 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 THE ANNUAL AUTUMNAL EXHIBITION. Will ojieii in Mechanics and Washbt UN Halls, ou Tuesday even- ing, the .Sixteenth of September at 0 P. M., and close on Friday, the Nineteenth of September, at 'J P. M. ^= Exliibitors are notified that strict confoimity to the Kegulations and Rules will be expected and required, for their own benetit as well as for tlie convenience of the offtcers of tlie Society. RI LF.S AND REGULATIONS. 1. The Anxual Exiiiiutiox will commence on Tuesday, September IGth, at (1 o'clock, P. M., and close on Friday, September 10th, at !> o'clock P.M. 2. Aiticles offered for Premiums at the Annual Exhibition must be entered with the Secretary before 9 o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday, Septem- ber 16th. Provided, That all entries of Vegetables must be made with the Secretary on or before the ninth (Uth) day of September. 3. Competition for jiremiums is open to all ; but a discount of one- third of the amount will be made from the awards to persons who are not members of the Society ; and it is strictly required that all specimens offered for premiums shall have been grown by the competitors. 4. After the articles are arranged they will be under the exclusive charge of the Committees, and not even the owners will have the liberty to remove them, until the exhibition is closed, when they will be delivered as the contributors may direct. 5. No person shall be entitled to receive more than one premium for the same specimen of fruit or vegetable. And no article for which a Premium has l)een once awarded can receive another during the season. 14 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [IST^i. Nor shall any tiaustVr be allowed fioiii one class to another, of an article once entered uj)on the books of the Secretary. (i. No variety of which specimens have been entered in a class oi- collection shall be repeated in any other collection or class ; but specimens of that variety may be duplicated among the single dishes. 7. All Fruits offered for Premium must lie composed of exactly the number or quantity of specimens named in the Schedule, the several Committees being instructed to remove all excess or exclude for deti- ciency ; each variety being designated by name. 8. All articles offered for Premiums must be correctly named. Indeti- nite appellations, such as ' 'Pippin," " Sweeting," " Greening," etc., will not be considered as names. 9. No Plowers, Fruits, or Vegetables, will be entitled to a premium unless they possess points of superiority ; and the Committees are strictly required to withhold premiums, if, in their opinion, the articles exhibited do not merit them. 10. Competitors will be required to furnish information as to their mode of cultivation, and to present specimens for trial and examination if requested. 11. All pnMuiums that are not claimed within three months after the Annual Exhibition, shall be forfeited to the Society. 12. The awards of the premiums will ))e made known as soon as the premium cards can be filled out and ])laced upon the tables. 13. Admi.ssion to the Annual Exhibition, for those who are not mem- bers of the Society, 25 cent^ ; Children under IG years of age, 15 cents. 14. On Saturday, September 20th, punctually at 10 o'clock, A. M., the Fruit, Vegetables, &c., belonging to the Society, will be sold at Public Auction, and all specimens which are not claimed at that time, will be considered as given to the Society, and will be sold for its benefit. 15. Contributors vill hr required to furnish a list of their articles to the Secretary ! 1^^ Downing's Fruits of America, Revised Edition, will guide the Committees in their decisions. Si'ECTAL Notice ! By vote of the Trustees, the several Committees will meet, on Wednesday, September 17th, at 10 o'clock, A. M., to make their awards. 1873.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 15 P R E :M I XJ ]V£ s . SPECIAL PREMIUMS FOR PKOFESSIOKAL GARDENERS ONLY. For superiority in greatest nuni])er of departments, in the present Exhibition : First Premium $10 00 Second Premium 8 00 Third Premium 5 00 Fourth Premium 3 00 [xlwarded by Committee on Exhibitions.] APPLES. Committee. — William T. Harlow, Chairman ; James F. Allen, Sam- uel H. Colton, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickford, of Worcester ; Cyrus White, Henry Marble of Millhwy ; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. CLASS 1. For the best collection of not less than twenty-five nor more than thirty- Ave varieties, ten specimens of each variety ,115 00 For the second best 12 00 For the third best 9 00 CLASS "2. For the best twenty named varieties, of ten specimens each 12 00 For the second best 10 00 For the third best , 8 00 CLASS ii. For the best twelve named varieties, of ten specimens each 10 00 For the second best 8 00 For the thiid best ,5 00 CLASS 4. For the best six named varieties of ten specimens each R 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 16 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of ten specimens each S4 00 For the second best ."5 00 For the third best 2 00 CLASS 6. For the best collection, of not Jess than four new vari- eties, not previously exhibited 5 00 For the next best 3 00 SINGLE DISHES. For the best ten Baldwin 2 00 For best ten Astrachan (Eed ) 2 00 For best ten Cogswell 2 00 For best ten Duchess of Oldenburg 2 00 For best ten Golden Sweet 2 00 For best ten Gravensteiu 2 00 For best ten Holden Pippin 2 00 For best ten Hubbardston Nonesuch 2 00 For best ten Leicester Sweet 2 00 For best ten Maiden's Blush 2 (10 For best ten Mother 2 00 For best ten Northern Spy 2 00 For best ten Palmer, (Washington Royal) 2 00 For best ten Peck's Pleasant 2 00 For best ten Porter 2 00 For best ten Rhode Island Greening 2 00 For best ten Roxbury Rus>ett 2 00 For best ten Sheppard's Sweet 2 00 For best ten Tallman's Sweet 2 OO For best ten Sweet Apples of any variety 2 00 For best ten Williams' Early Red 2 00 For best ten Twenty Ounce 2 00 For best ten Washington Strawberry 2 00 For best ten of any other sort 2 00 GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. COMMIT'IKK. William H. Earle, Chalnnati ; Thomas M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, Horatio Phelps, of Wo raster; Paul Whitin, of Whitinsvilk ; F. M. Marble, of (ira/foii ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Bot/lston. <;I{APKS. For the best coIlectir)n, of not exceeding eight named varieties, thrown under glass, two clusters of each varietv $12 00 1873.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 17 For the second best 10 00 • For the third best 6 00 For the best two ckisters of Black Hamburg $2 00 For the second l)est 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other other Black grape 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best two clusters of any White Muscat 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other variety of White 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes, not less than six nor exceeding fifteen named varieties, of four clusters each 8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 3 00 For the best four clusters of Concord 3 00 For the best four clusters of Croton 3 00 For the best four clusters of Delaware 3 00 For the best four clusters of Diana..: 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eumelan 3 00 For the best four clusters of Hartford Prolific 3 00 For the best four clusters of lona 3 00 For the best four clusters of Israella 3 00 For the best four clusters of Martha 3 00 For the best four clusters of Kogers Ko 3, (Massasoit,) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 4, (Wilder) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 7 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 9, (Lindley,) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 15, (Agawam) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 19, (Merrimac) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 43, (Barry) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Salem 3 00 For the best four clusters of Senasqua 3 00 For the best four clusters of Walter 3 00 For the best four clusters of Worden's Seedling 3 00 For the best four clusters of any other variety of superior quality, 3 00 PLUMS. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties 5 00 For the second best 3 CO For the best thi'ee varieties 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best single plate 3 00 For the second best 1 00 B 18 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not less than ten specimens each 8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each. o 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best one variety of twelve specimens 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 (JUIXCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best twelve Orange Quinces 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 2 (0 For the second best 1 00 PEARS. CoiMiTTJCE. — Henry L. l^arker. Chairman ; Henry Phelps, John C. Xewtou, James Draper, O. B. Hadwen, S. Harrison Knox, Alfred Davis, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of Millhury; and John F. John- son, of If orthho rough. CLASS 1. For the best twenty named varieties of twelve speci- mens each $10 00 For the second best 12 00 For the third best 10 00 CLASS 2. For the best flfteen named varieties of twelve speci- mens each 12 00 For the second best 0 00 For the the third best 6 00 CLASS 3. For the best ten named varieties of twelve specimens each 8 00 For the second best G 00 For the third best 4 00 1873.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 19 CLASS 4. For the best five named varieties of twelve specimens each For the second best For the third best CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of twelve speci- mens each For the second best For the third best CLASS 6. For the best collection, of not less than three new varieties not previously exhibited For the next best SINGLE DISHES. For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears on one dish For the second best For the best twelve Bartlett. For the best twelve Belle Lucrative For the best twelve Beurre Bosc For the second best .... For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau For the best twelve Beurre d' Anjou For the second best For the best twelve Beurre d' Arenberg For the best twelve Beurre Diel For the best twelve Beurre Easter For the best twelve Beurre Hardy For the best twelve Beurre Langelier For the best twelve Beurre Supertin For the second best For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite For the best twelve Dana's Hovey For the best twelve Dix For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock For the best twelve Doyenne du Cornice For tlie second best For the best twelve Duchesse d' Angouleme... For the second best For the best twelve Dumas.. For the best twelve Durandiau... For the best twelve Flemish Beauty For the best twelve Goodale For the best twelve Glout Morceau 3 oo For the second best 1 00 6 00 4 GO 2 00 4 00 •> 'J 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 •> •> 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 Oj 2 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 3 CO 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 ^0 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. For Ihe best twelve Howell 2 00 For the best twelve Josephine De Malines 3 00 For the best twelve Lawrence '■> 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey ,... 3 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Marie Louise 2 00 For the best twelve Mt. Vernon 2 00 For the best twelve Paradis d' Automne 2 00 For the best twelve Passe Colmar 2 00 For the best twelve Sheldon 2 00 For the best twelve St. CJhislain 2 00 For the best twelve St. Michel Archangc 2 00 For the best twelve Onondaga (Swan's Orange) 2 00 For the best twelve Urbaniste 2 00 For the best twelve Winter Nelis 3 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Winter Pound 2 00 For th e best twelve of an v oth er varietv 2 00 PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c., &c. Committee. — Samuel Flagir, Chairman ; George Cruickshanks of Wldf- insville ; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Messinger, Henry Woodward and Henry L. Shuniway of Worcester. [Rule : All Pot-Plants shall have been grown in the Pots in which they are exhibited.] STOVE AND GREEXnOrSE PLAXTS. PLANTS WITH ORNAMENTAL FOLIAGE. For the best twelve .^20 00 For the second best 12 00 For the best six 10 (0 For the second best 6 00 For the best single 3 00 For the second best 1 00 1873.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 21 PLANTS m BLOOM. For the best six 15 00 For the second best 10 00 For the third best 5 00 For the best single 3 00 For the second best 1 00 EAEE AND NEW PLANTS. For the best collection 8 00 For the second best 4 00 FERNS AND LYCOPODS. For the best collection 10 00 For the second best 5 UO HANGING BASKET. For the best, grown at least one month iu the basket ' 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 PARLOR PLANTS IN POTS. From Amateurs For the best collection, not exceeding twelve varieties 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 SINGLE PLANT. For the best 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 FERNERY OR WARDIAN CASE from any source For the best 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 CUT FLOWERS. [Variety and arrangement will be considered as w^ell as rarity and quantity-] For the best collection and best kept during the exhibition, of not less than two, nor exceeding five stands 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 For the best stand , 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best arranged basket or dish 3 00 For the 'second best 2 00 PARLOR BOUQUETS. For the best pair 4 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 HAND BOUQUETS. For the best pair 3 00 For the second best 2 00 22 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. FLOKAL DESIGI^. For the best For the second best ASTERS. For the best display For the second best For the third best For the fourth best CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. For the best display of named varieties For the second best CHINA PINKS. For the best display DAHLIAS. Class 1. For the best twelve named varieties .... For the second best Class 2. For the best twelve liliputian varieties .... GLADIOLUS. For the best collection, named or minamed vari- eties, from any source For the second best Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties For the second best Class 2. For the best ten named varieties For the second best For the best si^ecimen spike For the best seedling HOLLYHOCKS. For the best collection For the second best collection IMMORTELLES. For the best collection of named varieties. . . For the second best ORNAMENTAL GRASSES. For the best display For the second best PANSIES. For the best display For the second best For the third best PETUNIAS. For the best display ROSES. Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties For the second best Class 2. For the best ten named varieties For the second best SCABIOSA } For the best display, not less than three colors NA>i A. I For the best display (5 00 4 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 3 GO 2 00 1 00 1 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 3 (10 2 CO 3 00 2 00 1 00 2 00 4 00 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 CO 2 00 SWEET PEAS. For the best display 2 00 1873.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 23 VERBEI^AS. For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best display of seedlings 2 00 For the second best 1 00 ZINNIAS. For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 SPECIAL PRE3IIIJM. (Offered by the President.) For the best two plants of Zonale Geraniums, single or double, of any color, in bloom, — to be awarded by George Cruickshanks, — a Cup, valued at $10.00. VEGETABLES. g@= All entries in this Department must be made with the Secretary, on or before the ninth (Uth) day of September. And all vegetables exhibited for Premiums, must be in Washburn Hall, by 10 o'clock, A.M., on Wednesday, the seventeenth day of September. CoM^nTTEE : — George A. Adams, Chairman ; Thomas E. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belch- er, Alexander Marsh, and William H. Hackett, of M^orcester. COLLECTION. For the best general collection of vegetables.. .$20 (0 For the second best 15 00 For the third best 10 00 BEETS. For the best twelve Long Blood 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano 2 00 For the best twelve Egyptian 2 OO For the best twelve Sugar 2 CO For the best twelve Turnip 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel 2 00 CABBAGES. For the best collection of not less than five varie- ties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best three Large Flat Brunswick 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Drumhead 3 00 For the best single specimen Drumhead, weight not less than 30 lbs 1 00 24 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. For the l)est three Drumhead Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen ,.... 2 00 For the best three Earl}- Sweiufurtli 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Bed. , 2 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 For the best three Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 CAEROTS. For the best twelve Early Horn or Short Scarlet 2 00 For the best twelve Long Orange 2 00 For the best twelve Eed 2 00 For the best twelve White 2 00 CAULIFLOWEES. For the best three specimens 3 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 CELEEY. For the best six roots 4 00 For the second best 2 00 COEN. For the best collection of Sweet not less than Ave vari- eties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best twelve ears of Sweet 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best Yellow or Field, of twenty ears traced 2 00 For the second best 1 00 CEA:N:BEEEIES. For the best peck 1 00 EGGPLANT. For the best four specimens 1 00 HOESE EADISH. For the best six roots 100 MELON'S. For best two Water 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best Green Flesh, three specimens 1 00 For the best Yellow Flesh, three specimens 1 00 ONIONS. For the best four varieties a half peck of each 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best half peck of Eed 1 00 For the best half peck of Silver Skin 1 00 For the best half peck of White Portugal 2 00 PAESNEPS. For the best twelve Guernsey 2 00 For the best twelve Hollow Crown 2 00 For the best twelve Student 2 00 For the best twelve Short 2 00 L873.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 25 POTATOES. For the best fifteen named varieties, a half peck of each - 12 00 For tlie second best 8 00 For the third best 4 00 [And tlie Committee may award Ten Dollars (.flO.OO) in gratuities to such named varieties, as in their opinion merit them."' PUMPKINS. For the best three, weight not less than 20 lbs. each 2 00 For the second best 1 00 PEPPERS. For the best half peck 1 00 SALSIFY. For the best twelve specimens 1 00 SQUASHES. For the best three pure Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Canada Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Hubbard 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth 2 00 For the best three pure Marblehead 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow 2 00 For the best three pure Turban 2 00 For the best three pure Yokohoma 2 00 TOMATOES. For the best collection, not less than six varieties and not less than twelve of each variety 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 2 00 For the best Boston Market 2 00 For the best twelve Lester's Perfected 2 00 For the best twelve Tilden 2 00 For the best twelve Trophy 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety , 2 00 TUElSriPS. For the best twelve English or Flat 2 00 For the best twelve French White 2 00 For the best tAvelve Ruta Baga or Swedes 2 00 4 26 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. A, D., 1874— March 19. SPECIAL EXHIBITION OF CHINESE AND OTHER PRIMROSES, CYCLA- MENS, HYACINTHS, AND OTHER SPRING-BLOOMING PLANTS. PLANTS IN BLOOM. F. r the best general display So <0 For the 2d best general display 3 00 PRIMllOSES. For the best six in bloom 3(0 For the 2d best 2 00 For the best single plant 2 (0 For the 2d best single plant 1 00 CYCLAMENS. For the best six in bloom 3 00 For the 2d best six in bloom 2 00 For the best single plant 2 00 For the 2d best single plant 1 00 Gratuities -will be awarded to other Plants that may be adjudged worthy. SPECIAL PREMIUM. (Offered by the Secretary.) Foi the best collection of Indiax Azaleas, not less than six (6), nor exceeding twelve (12), specially entered for this prize, a Crystal Vase, valued at S 10.00, to be awarded by a Connnittee to he selected by the Secretary. TRANSACTIONS OF THE Worcester County Horticultural Society. FOR THE YEAR 1872, COMPKISIKO THE REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBITION ; THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN FOR THE YEAR 1872; AND THE LIST OP FRUITS SELECTED BY THE SOCIETY. JREPORTS EEPORT ON APPLES. AYiLLiAM T. Hakloav, Chairman; James F. Allen; Samuel H. CoLTON: Stkphex S. Foster; Samuel A. Knox; J. K. L. Pickford, of Worcester; Cyrts White, of Millhury; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. Tlie Committee on Apples sulnnit the followini^ report : The whole number of competitors for the iiremiums offered b}' the society for apples was sixty-four. The whole nunilKn- of articles entered to compete for these premiums was 1201. "Whether considered as a whole, or with reference to individual entries, it was a splendid collection of fruit. Finding little to criticise in our de])artment as regards matters of substance, we are the 'more free to find fault with a few matters of form. In a few instances the names of varieties did not accompany the plates on which they were exhibited, and in a few others the names were in- correctly given. In most of the larger collections we noticed varieties tliat, although the specimens exhibited appeared well enough to the superficial eye, are notoriously unworthy of culture or encouragement. Who would think of exhibiting such varieties as the Gilly-flower for instance, or the Ham- burg, so-called, excejit as counters to swell a number : Probably it would be a sufficient remedy against offering fruit for ])remiuni without giving the name, or under a false na)ne, to exclude the same from competition, and as a check upon including unworthy varieties for the purpose of exhibiting a nominal su])eriority, hniitation in respect to the maximum number of entries for premiums offered for best col- lections would doubtless be effectual. 1872.] REPORT ON APPLES. 29 Much excellent fruit was entered to compete (for the premiums offered for single plates), and the duty of deciding between different com- petitors was one of no small difficulty. The following is the award made by the Committee : CLASS 1. For the best collection of not less than ten specimens of each variety, O. B. Hadwen S15 00 For the 2d best, S S. Foster 12 00 For the 3d best, Sylvanus Sears 9 00 CLASS 2. For the best twenty named varieties, of ten speci- mens each, Adams Foster, of Holden 12 00 For the 2d best, E. M. Banning 10 00 For the 3d best, Jos. A. Denny, of Leicester 8 00 CLASS 3. For the best twelve named varieties, of ten speci- mens each, Henry Marble, of Millbury 10 00 For the 2d best, Ashley Moore 8 00 For the 3d best, Wm. Fames..... 5 00 CLASS 4. For the best six named varieties of ten specimens each, Joseph Boyden 6 00 For the 2d best, Eri Saunders 4 00 For the 3d best, F. M. Marble, of Grafton 2 00 CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of ten specimens each, O. B. Hadwen 4 00 For the 2d best, D. B. Comius 3 00 For the 3d best, S. H. Colton 2 00 SINGLE DISHES. For best twelve Baldwin, Jas. R. Pierce 2 00 For best twelve Astrachan (Red) no entry 2 00 For best twelve Duchess of Oldenburg, no entry 2 00 For best twelve Golden Sweet, Addison Lovell, of W. Boyls- ton 2 00 For best twelve Gravenstein, Addison Lovell, W. Boylston... 2 00 For best twelve Holden Pippin, WiUiam Fames 2 00 For best twelve Hubbardston Nonesuch, J. R. Pierce 2 00 For best twelve Leicester Sweet, Joab Hapgood, of Shrews- bury 2 00 For best twelve Maiden's Blush, Charles E. St. John 2 00 For best twelve Mother, D. B. Comins 2 00 For best twelve Nonesuch, O. B. Hadwen 2 ('0 For best twelve Northern Spy, Chas. H. Smith, of Millbury... 2 00 For the best twelve Palmer, (Washington Royal,) no entry... 2 00 For best twelve Peck's Pleasant, no entry 2 00 30 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. For best twelve Porter, Mrs. H. E. Hapgood, 2 00 For best twelve Ehode Island Greening, Eli Johnson 2 00 For best twelve Eoxbiuy Eussett, O. B. Iladwcn 2 00 For best twelve Sheppard's Sweet, S. S. Foster 2 00 For best twelve Tallraan's Sweet, Alfred Davis 2 00 For best twelve Williams' Early Eed, S. S. Foster 2 00 For best twelve of any other sort, S. S. Foster, (Juniata) 2 00 GEATUITIES. For collection entered in Class 2, Cyrus White, of Millbury 3 00 For collection entered in Class 2, A. II. Sears 3 00 For collection entered in Class 3, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For collection informally entered in Class 3, Newell Wood, of Millbury 3 00 For collection entered in class 4, J. C. LoAJ^ell, of West Boylston.. 1 00 For collection entered in class 4, J. K. L. Pickford 1 00 For collection entered in class 4, Wm. Howe, of Millbury 1 00 For collection entered in class 4, Charles H. Smith, of Millbury... 1 00 For collection, Amos Batcheller 2 00 For Lyscoms, Joab Hapgood, of Shrewsbur}' 1 00 For collection, Chas. Morse, Jr., 2 00 For collection, E. S. & L Howes, 2 00 For collection, B. F. Mclntyre ^ 1 00 For Belleflower, Wm. Howe, of Millbury 1 00 For King of Tompkins County, Charles H. Smith, of Millbury... 1 00 For collection, Wm. Y. Holman 2 CO The Committee may perhaps be pardoned if, as a result of their expe- rience, they venture to suggest two practical questions for consideration by the Society. 1. Should not this Society take more pains to advertise its exhibitions and premiums ? 2. Should not this Society postpone its Annual Exhibition till after the harvest of late Fall and Winter fruit ? Excellent as was our exhibition of Apples this year, it fell far short of what Worcester County is capable. Our exhibition was this year, and so far as remembered, always has been held on the same days as that of the Worcester County Agricultural Society. Years ago, when that society held its cattle shows on the Old Common, and before the compe- tition of four incorporate and divers unincorporate rivals had diminished attendance upon its shows, and transformed it into a jockey club, there 1872.] RRPORT OP APPLES. 31 might have been an advantage to this Society in holding its annual exhi- bition at the same time with that. That society annually offers and awards premiums for fruits and vegetables, and extensively advertises them by posting them up, printed on large handbills, in the post offices and other conspicuous places in the country towns throughout the county. Now the i)eople of the county outside of this cit}^ know very little of this Society, and many conceive it to be identical with the Agricultural Society — a misconception that gathers strength from the two societies holding exhibitions on the same days. To correct this misconception should not this Society hold its annual exhibition at a different time, and to meet the competition of that society should not this Society advertise its premiums in the same manner which that society does V And there is another reason for selecting a different time for holding our annual exhibition. The more valuable portion of the Apple crop of Worcester County, the winter and late fall fruit, ought not to be and will not be harvested, no matter what premiums are offered or how well known they are, till at least two or three weeks later than the Annual Exhibition was held this year. And there are not three weeks of the whole season, of more importance to the growth and perfection of the fruit than the last three. The chairman of your Committee attending a town fair in one of the adjoining towns — where, by the way, he saw an exhibition of apples not much, if any, inferior in substantial qualities to ours — asked several farmers whom he met there and knew to be large growers of apples for the market, why they did not enter their fruits at our exhibition. One replied that he belonged to our Society and that one year it gave him a premium on his apples. Further inquiry revealed the fact that he meant the Worcester County Agricultural Society. This man is a good farmer, skilled in apple culture, and to use his own language has " slathers of apples this year." Others made replies that showed a like misconception. Others who knew of our exhibition and ( f our separate existence, knew nothing of our premiums, and all with one accord said that our exhibition was too early for them. It was impracticable to go over large orchards hunting best specimens. Such could only be selected at the harvest of the whole, and they would not for any premiums or exhibition harvest winter apples in the middle of September. Without further discussing these questions here let us add that if they shall be thought worthy of further consideration, they ought always to be viewed in the light of the facts that Worcester Count}- is the proper territorial jurisdiction of this Society and that winter apples are the most valuable horticultural product of the county. Repeated failure of the Apple crop for some years past has been the subject of much speculation and the favorite theory of Mr. Andrew 32 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. Knight, President of the London Horticultural Society, an eminent practical horticulturist and writer upon horticultural subjects, that a variety of fruit, as, for instance, the Russett or Greening Apple, propa- gated by grafting could not at the farthest outlive the tree with which the variety originated, has been evoked from the obscurity into which it had fallen, to explain the failure of Apples. It has been said that our grafted apples were, in accordance Avith this theory, running out and dis- appearing by exhaustion. But while the Apple crop of this year has Uttle tendency to support this theory, and although it has been proved by experiment that grafted trees will continue to live and thrive and bear fruit long after the death from old age of the original tree from which the grafts were taken, still it seems to me not improbable that this theory of Mr. Knight may turn out like many other theories when fully sub- jected to the experimentum crucis, to be at least a half-truth. A view of this question — as to the permanence of varieties — based upon certain physiological facts relative to the general subject of organic reproduction, has occurred to me, which I will offer for what it is worth. There are two methods of reproduction in the animal as well as the vegetable kingdoms of nature — sexual union and budding, technically called gemmation from (jemma, a bud, or Jlssion from fissio, to divide. The two important discoveries that there is distinction of sex in plants as well as animals, and that many of the lower forms of animals reproduce like plants, by budding, proves the intimate relationship of the two grand divisions of organic being. It is true of plants as well as animals that from the union of male and female results an embi-yonic germ or ovule, (rudimentary seed or egg), which developes into a new individual. It is also true that certain animals of the invertebrate sub-kingdoms, as the oyster, for instance, may reproduce by budding or the natural fission of one individual into two or more. And nearly all plants, perhaps all, can l)e reproduced in both method:^, that is, either from the seed or fi'om buds. We are accustomed to regard the apple tree as of the singular number, an individual, and such is not only the popular opinion, but there is for it the authority, not only of all our grammarians, logicians and dictionary makers, but even of the botanists, who, though they know better, yet for the sake of convenience in classification treat a tree as an individual just as the astronomers adopt the popular phrases in regard to the sun's rising and setting. Logically speaking, however, an individual is that which cannot be divided without ceasing to be, and the term is applied to organic beings animal or vegetable as distinguished from inorganic matter which is divisible ad libitum. But a tree can be divided. Every bud upon it is an individual, can be separated from the parent stock and is capable of becoming itself another tree. And a tree with many buds upon it is as much a colony or community as a bee-hive or a coral-reef. 1872.] REPORT ON APPLES. 33 Now in the vegetable kingdom and in most of the invertebrate orders of animals — all perhaps, except insects — the two methods of reproduction, sexual union and budding, regularly alternate with each other. Thus the polyps, coral animals permanently attached to rocks in the bottom of the «ea, commence the process of reproduction by forming buds which at length detach themselves, and floating away become jelly-fishes which lay eggs, from which arise the young polyps which after swimming about for a while, either attach themselves to the parent reef and assist in its construction or start a new colony upon another rock. This is called ■alternate generation, and though limited in the animal kingdom to the lower forms of life, is i^robably universal among i:)lants. And it is a well established fact in natural history that no animal at least can be perma- nently reproduced hj the process of budding alone. There must be regular recurrence to the other method, the union of sexes. In some cases of animal reproduction there are several intermediate generations produced by budding, allways followed however b}^ sexual union and recurrence to the original form. Nor does it make any difference that in most of the low forms of ani- mal life the individuals are hermaphrodite or both male and female. Such is the case to a large extent, though not universally, among plants. Such is the case with the apple tree, which produces its stamens and pistils both in the same flower or to use the technical term is androgynous. The wondei-ful facts of alternate generation, though our familiarity with them excites less wonder, are as true of the apple tree as they are of the oyster or the polyp. Its generations go on alternating in an endless and ever recurring cycle from seeds to buds and from buds to seeds. Propagation from the seed reproduces the species ; from buds, the indi- vidual. By the artificial transfer of buds from one stock to another, called grafting or budding, we for a time perpetuate a variety. The question we are attempting to answer, is, whether a variety can be per- manently reproduced in this way. Can nature be compelled by art to abandon her cycle of alternating generations and follow one of her methods to the exclusion of the other ? Looking at this question in the light of the physiological facts above referred to, reasoning from analog}'^, we should be led to the conclu- sion that varieties cannot be permanently reproduced by grafting. Of course it might be replied that " analogy is an unsafe guide," that in nat- ural historjr no question can be positively determined by a deductive argument, and that experiment is the only true test. The verdict of experience, it is true, is not yet fully made up, but a considerate view of all known facts as to the permanence of varieties seems also to indicate the negative answer. All our existing varieties of the apple are compar- 5 34 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. ativel}' recent and modern. Take up any modern author, like Downing, for instance, who professes to classify, describe and give the history of all existing varieties that have been named and you shall search in vain for any that can be traced back more than two or three generations of men. One may read in the younger Pliny, who wrote about the begin- ning of the Christian era, glowing eulogies of twenty-nine kinds of apples then cultivated in Ital}-, together with his prediction that " the best of them would immortalize their first grafters forever — such as took their names from Manlius, Cestius Matus and Claudius." Where are these immortal apples now V AVHiere have they been for eighteen cen- turies last past ? If we look at, the facts we shall see that nothing is more certain than that for some reason, varieties of the apple have been as 3'et ouh^ temporaiil}' reproduced. Such is also the case with other vegetable products — notably so with the potato — which are all except the small grains propagated by some form of budding, as strawberries from runners, potatoes from tubers, the lily from bulblets, onions from prolif- erous bulbs, grapes from cuttings, etc. The doctrine of Mr. Knight stated in its narrow and literal form — that grafted fruits cannot outlive the trees from which the grafts were taken — is now universally admitted to be untenable. But as regards the wider question, as to the permanence of vaiieties, the preponderance of argument and evidence seems to be against it. '■'■ Naturam exjjelles furca, iamen usque recurret." The apple crop of the present year is eiicellent and abundant and will doubtless have the effect to restore some of the lost confidence in apple culture. If any one havmg an apple orchard has ever felt an inclination to follow the bad advice of those who advised cutting down apple trees, witnessing and enjoying the present crop, let him realize how bad such advice really was, and forever abandon thought of such vandalism. Why is the apple crop of this year so alnmdant as compared with that of most others of the past decade V Before attempting to suggest an entire answer to this question let us first notice what has been often said and is currently believed, that the Baldwin apple tree bears only in alter- nate years, that is, the even years of our era. There is no doubt that this is substantially true. The product of Baldwin apjjles in the even years, does greatly exceed that of the odd years. A very large percentage of apples grown in the Xew England States for the market are Baldwins, and the alternation of this variety of fruit has been extensively noticed and is well known. But the fact of more abundant crops alternating with less abundant, is just as true of other varieties of grafted apples as it is of the Baldwin. Grafting dwarfs a tree and causes it to produce more fruit than it otiiervvise would produce, diverting its energies from growth IHTii.] REPOirr ox apples. S;') to reproduction. The graft, hospitably received by the native stock as a guest, directly becomes a jjarasite and makes so severe a draught upon its host, that it is unable to respond fully to it oftener than once in twu years. If other vai'ieties of the apple were as common as the IJaldwin the alternation of their crops would have been as much noticed. The present is the even or bearing year of the Baldwin, and all other varieties are abundant also. I believe the apple crop of the present year, will, though that of 1870 was large, exceed that of any year since 1862. Be- tween the years 1803 and 1809 inclusive, there was not any large crop of apples in the ISTew England States. Careful observers, however, will remember that in the even 3-ears there was profusion of apple bloom in the spring, which according to Mehan's theory is even more exhaustive of vegetative life and energy than actual reproduction. That all varieties of grafted apples should have the same bearing year, should be greatly more ijroductive in the even than in the odd years, is indeed a singular fact, liut no more singular than that all Bald- wins, no matter in what year planted, transplanted or grafted, should all have the same bearing year. That there are occasional exceptions is true — true of the Baldwin and of all other varieties. But I believe it can be laid down as a fact to be recognized in apple culture of all varieties that the greater crops have been in the past and ma}^ lie expected in the future, in the even years. Now as regards the repeated failure of the apple crop in years pant, if I am not mistaken in my theory the cause is not far to seek. -Severity of cold in winter has been assigned as the cause. Every winter doubtless all trees in this latitude are completely frozen, root, body and branch, and a diminvition of temperature to that of the arctic regions or of the inter-stellar spaces would have no further effect upon them. In Spring, however, as soon as the frost comes out of the ground around the roots, the tree awakes from its hibernation and resumes its active vegetative life. The sap ascends, in due time the fruit buds bloom, and the embiyonic fruit is formed or "sets." Now is the critical time when frost is fatal. While no degree of cold in -Tanuary would have done the slightest harm, the tender embryo that jiromises a future apple cannot endure the slightest freezing. Now so long as the root of a tree is frozen, Ihere is no possibility that the fruit buds should " start," and if the frost can be kept, either by nature or art, from coming out of ground around the trees till danger of late frosts is past, then the fruit buds ma}' safely bloom. Years ago, the snow falling after the roots of trees and the ground around them had frozen, and remaining till late in Spring, afforded the natural protection to the fruit buds against too early development. More recently our climate seems to be undergoing some changes — has 36 WORCESTER COUiNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. changed to some extent within the memory of the generation still living. There is less snow in Winter, and consequentl}- it disappears earlier in Spring. Periods of alternate warmth and cold, frequently succeed each other in March, April and May, and yet our seasons are obviously growing^ later and later. The past season in respect to the permanence of cold in the Spring months was exceptional. It will be remembered that Win- ter was prolonged with unusual severity into and even through the month of April, and the frost did not wholly come out of the ground till far into May. The effect of this was to keep back vegetation, and, as regards the fruit buds of the apple, to retard their swelling and development till danger of late frosts had past.* Another fact having an important bearing upon the apple crop of the present year is that with the exception of the ravages of the canker worm, the operations of insect enemies of the apple have been less de- structive than usual. The abundant rains have evidently interfered with the summer campaigns of the codling moth and the curculio, and early compelled the caterpillar to " Fold hi.s tent like the Ar.ab and .silently steal away." And now the true answer to the question we have been considering — as to the abundance of the present apjile crop as compared with some others — I conceive to be : 1. That the present is the even or bearing year for grafted apples. 2. There were no frosts in Sjiring after the flowering of the trees. 3. Insect injuries to the apple tree and its fruit (those of the canker worm excepted) have been comparatively few. In certain portions of this State, during the past season, the ravages of the canker worni upon apple ti'ees have been severe. Those, however, who have api)lied the proper remedies and preventives, have had, as they alwa3s will, the satisfaction of victory over this worst enemy of the *Since the above was written my attention has been called to some remarks by a veteran fanner at the last November meeting of the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture, at Fall River, as reported by Mr. Secretary Flint in his Report for 1872, illustrating from an experience and observation of " three score years and ten and upwards,"' the eflfeot of late frosts upon the apple crop. After alluding to the enormous crops of apples fifty or sixty years ago, when the snow lay much later upon the ground than it usually does now, and particularly to the crop of 1815, when the great September gale left apples piled on top of each other under the trees, and contrasting those seasons with more recent ones, in re- gard to snow in Winter and frost in Spring, he related the case of the owner of a large orchard, who artificially, though unintentionally kept back his trees from blossoming until very late in Spring. This orchard had always blossomed profusely, but for many years bore no fruit. One winter, after the ground had frozen hard, the owner turned his sheep into this orchard and carrie of cider, about 4 per cent, above the United States average. Average of United States, . . . 1 to 10.75, or .093 per cent. " " Sth District, . . . . 1 to 9.42, or .105 " Kussetx in Southbridge, . . . 1 to 7.50, or .133 " 1872.] REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES, &C. 39 For the best two clusters of any other variety of White, Y. M. Marble, (White Frontignan) 2 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen, (White Nice) 1 GO For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes not less than six named varieties, Frank J. Kinney 8 00 For the second best, Joseph C. Lovell 5 00 For the third best, Lewis S. Carpenter 3 00 For the best four clusters of Concord, Stephen S. Foster 3 00 For the best four clusters of Croton, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of Delaware, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of Diana, John C. Whitin 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eumelan, Frank J. Kinney 3 00 For the best four clusters of Hartford Prolitlc, S. V. Stone 3 00 For the best four clusters of lona, John C. Whitin 3 00 For the best four clusters of Isabella, Geo. H. Estabrook 3 00 For the best four clusters of Israella, Frank J. Kinney 3 00 For the best four clusters of Martha, Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of Kogers ISTo. 4, (Wilder), Frank J. Kinney 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers Ko. 7, Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of Sogers No. 9, (Lindley), Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 15, (Agawam), no entry... 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 19, (Merrimac), no entry. 2 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 43, (Barry), Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of Salem 3 00 For the best four clusters of Senasqua, no entry 2 00 For the best four clusters of Walter, Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of Worden's Seedling, Joseph C. Lovell 3 00 For the best four clusters of any other variety of superior quality, Joseph C. Lovell ,..'. 3 00 Of the Seedling presented by Frank J. Kinney, the committee speak approvingly — bunches small, well ripened and good quality. PLUMS. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties, no entry 5 00 For the second best, no entry 3 00 For the best three varieties, no entry 3 OO For the second best, no entry 2 00 40 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. For the best single plate, (Purple Gage) Stephen S. Foster 1 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not less than ten specimens each, Wm. Howe, of Millbury 8 00 For the second best, no entry 5 00 For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each, John B. Pratt 5 00 For the second best, Joseph C. Lovell, West Boylstou 3 00 For the best one variety of twelve siDCcimens, Alonzo Whitcomb, (Early Crawford) 3 00 For the second best, C. Morse, Jr 2 00 For the third best, C. Needham, 1 00 For one plate of Seedlings, H. F. Loomis, gratuity 1 00 (JUINCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties, no entry ... 5 00 For the second best, no entry 3 00 For the best twelve Orange Quinces, Adams Foster of Holdeu 3 00 For the second best, Kewell Wood, of Millbury 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, no entry 2 00 For the second best, no entry 2 00 Foi' fine specimens of La Versaillais Currants, Joseph E. Phelps, gratuity 1 00 REPOKT ON PEAES. Hexry L. Pai:kI':Fv, Chairman ; Henry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, O. B. Hadwen, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of Millbury ; and John F. Johnson, of Nortliboj'ough. CLASS 1. For the best twenty named varieties of twelve speci- mens each, Wm. H. Earle $16 00 For the second best, V. P. Townsend 12 00 For the third best, S. S. Foster 10 00 1872,] REPORT ON PEARS. 41 CLASS 2. For the best fifteen named varieties of twelve speci- mens each, Alfred Davis, 12 00 For the second best, James Draper 9 00 For the third best, F. M. Marble, of Grafton 6 00 CLASS 3. For the best ten named varieties of twelve specimens each, James F. Allen 8 00 For the second besst, Adams Foster, of Holden. 6 00 For the third best, Stephen Salisbury 4 00 CLASS 4. For the best Ave named varieties of twelve specimens each, E. W. Lincoln 0 00 For the second best, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 4 00 For the third best, Wm. G. Maynard 2 00 CLASS 5. For the best three named varieties of twelve speci- mens each, L. S. Carpenter 4 00 For the second best, Eri Saunders 3 00 For the third best, no award 2 00 SINGLE DISHES. For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears on one dish, John C Whitin, of Whitinsville, 4 lbs. 14 oz. 2 00 For the second best, S. V. Stone, 4 lbs. 2 oz 1 00 For the best twelve Bartlett, AVm E. Desper, (3 lbs. 9 oz 2 00 For the best twelve Belle Lucrative, James Draper, 4 lbs. 9 oz. 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Bosc, Mrs. J. M. Sohofield 3 00 For the second best, James F. Allen, 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau. Mrs. A. D. Foster 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre d'xVnjou, Chas. D. Thayer, 5 lbs. 5oz 3 00 For the second best, Alfred Davis 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre d' Arenberg, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Diel, John C. Newton 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Easter, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Hardy, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Langelier, Fredk. G. Stiles 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Superfin, Samuel H. Colton 3 CO For the second best, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville, 4 lbs. 3 oz 1 00 For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Dana's Hovey, Samuel H. Colton 3 00 For the best twelve Dix, John C. Newton 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne du Cornice, Samuel H. Colton 3 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 6 •12 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. For the best twelve Diichesse d'Angouleme, John C. New- ton, 7 lbs 3 00 For the second best, Alfred Davis, 6 lbs. 15 oz 1 00 For the best twelve Dumas, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Durandeau, James F. Allen 2 00 For the best twelve Flemish Beaut}^, Mrs. A. D. Foster 2 00 For the best twelve Goodale, Joseph C. Lovell, West Boyl- ston 2 00 For the best twelve Glout Morceau, Committee doubted^ genuineness of the onh' entr}- for this premium > F'or the second best, ) For the best twelve Howell, Fred G, Stiles For the best twelve Josephine de Malines, no entry For the best twelve Lawrence, Alfred Davis For the second best, P. L. Moen For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey, D. W. Bemis,4 lbs. 4 oz... For the second best, Alfred Davis, 4 lbs. 2 oz For the best twelve Marie Louise, V. P. Townsend For the best twelve Mt. Vernon, no entry For the best twelve Paradis d'Automne, John C. Newton.... For the best twelve Passe Colmar, James Draper For the best twelve Sheldon, Alfred Davis For the best twelve St. Ghislain, John C.Wliitin, of Whitins- ville For the best twelve St. Michel Archange, John C. Newton... For the best twelve Onondaga, (Swan's Orange), Wra. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Urbaniste, Horatio Phelps 2 00 For the best twelve Winter Nelis, Alfred Davis, 3 lbs. 2 oz.. 3 00 For the second best, E. "W. Lincoln, 3 lbs. 2 oz 1 00 For the best twelve Winter Pound, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, S. V. Stone, (An- drews) 2 00 GRATUITIES. For Bartlett Pears, M. O. Whittier 50 For Canned Fruit, H. C. Mascroft 1 00 For collection of pears, Joseph E. Phelps 2 00 For twenty varieties of pears which came in too late for competi- tion, Edward Earle 5 00 For collection in Class 4, Daniel S. Burgess ; 2 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 3 00 3 00 1 00 3 00 1 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 1873.] EEPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &C. 43 REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c. Sa:mttel Flagg, Chairman; George Cruickshanks, of Whitinsville ; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Messinger, Henry Wood- ward and Heniy L. Shumway of Worcester. From the special care of the Committee of Arrangements in classitica- tion and specification in the department of Plants and Flowers, it was hoped that the duty of awarding the premiums would prove light as com- pared with that of previous years, but when they found an entire re-ar- rangement was required in several classes, their duties proved not only onerous, but in some instances perplexing. No premium could l)e recom- mended unless the article or class was deserving, and how could this be 'effected unless the contributions accorded with the rules and regulations of the Society b}^ which the Committee were strictly governed ? Contributors should bear in mind that in case any class is deficient either in quantity, quality or arrangement, the Committee have the power to set aside an}^ such as unqualified, as could have been done in the col- lections of two of the largest contributors of plants with ornamental foliage, and which the Committee felt obliged to do in the first and second class of plants in bloom. It is not what the contributor happens to have in bloom at the time of the exhibition that is required, but what- ever is specified must have been under cultivation during the season and for the special purpose of exhibiting, and not only should this apply to the plants, but also to the pots in which they are grown. If a plant is worthy of an exhibition, is it not worthy of a proper receptacle ? If not for the plant, it would speak better for the contributor. In the depart- ment of Fruits it may be generous of the contributor to over-reach in the number required, but in the depart ment of Plants it onlj^ adds trouble and labor. In order that our exhibitions may compare well with those of our large cities a more strict adherence to the quality of the articles con- tributed must be enforced. Already do we surpass them in the number of entries and also in variety, and with proper care we can easily come up to their standard in every respect. The entries in this department amounted to nearly double those of the previous year. In every respect the exhibition was superior to any ever held by the Society. Premiums have been awarded to such articles and classes as the Committee deemed strictly deserving, and gratuities to such as merited more than special notice. The following list of premiums etc., is respectfully submitted. 44 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. STOVE AND GREENHOUSE PLANTS. PLAJ^TS WITH ORXAMENTAL FOLIAGE. For the best twelve, William T. Merrifield .§20 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 12 CO For the best six, William T. Merrifield 10 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbiuy 6 00 For the best single, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 1 00 PLANTS IN BLOOM. For the best six, no award 15 00 For the second best, no award 10 00 For the third best, P. L, Moen 5 00 For the best single, Mrs. David Scott i? 00 For the second best, Mrs. David Fitts, Leicester 1 00 RARE AND NEW PLANTS. For the best collection, ^V. W. Cook, 8 00 For the second best, no award 4 00 FERNS AND LYCOPODS. For the best collection, Wm. T. Merrifield .' 10 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 5 00 HANGING BASKET. For the best, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the second best. Dr. Geo. E. Francis 2 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 1 00 PARLOR PLANTS. From Amateurs. For the best collection, Mrs. Wm. Y. Holman 0 00 For the second best, no award 4 00 For the third best, no award 2 00 SINGLE PLANT. For the best 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 FERNERY OR WARDIAN CASE, from any source. For the best, P. L. Moen 0 00 For the second best, Mrs. Daniel Tainter 4 00 For the third best, Charles D. Thayer 2 00 CUT FLOWERS. [Variety and arrangement considered, as well as rarity and quantity.] For the best collection and best kept during the exhibition, not exceeding five stands, Mrs. Daniel Tainter 0 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 4 00 For the third best, Chas. D. Thayer 2 00 For the best stand, Mrs. David Scott, 3 00 For the second best, Herman A. Lange 2 00 For the third best, Charles D. Thayer 1 00 1872.] REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &C. 45 For the best arranged basket or dish, W. W. Cook 3 00 For the second best, Henry S. Eice 2 00 PAELOK BOUQUETS. For the best pair, Mrs. C. Willard Hamilton 4 00 For the second best, Mrs. A. D. Foster 2 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 1 00 HAND BOUQUETS. For the best pair, Charles D. Thayer .3 00 For the second best, Mrs. C. E. Brooks 2 00 FLOEAL DESIGN. For the best, W. W. Cook 6 00 For the second best, Charles Tainter 4 00 ASTEES. For the best display, Mrs. Geo. H. Estabrook 4 00 For the second best, W. W. Cook 3 00 For the third best, Herman A. Lange 2 00 For the fourth best, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 CAENATIONS AND PICOTEES. For the best display of named varieties, no entry 3 00 For the second best, no entry 2 00 CHINA PINKS. For the best display, Miss Abbie M. Lovell, of West Boylston 2 00 DAHLIAS. Class 1. For the best twelve named varieties, Harry Ballard 3 00 For the second best, Charles D. Thayer 1 00 Class 2. For the best twelve lilliputian varieties, no award.. 3 00 GLADIOLUS. For the best collection, named or unnamed varie- ties, from any source, J. Milton Earle 5 00 For the second best, Charles D Thayer 3 00 Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties, J, Milton Earle o 00 For the second best, no award 3 00 Class 2 For the best ten named varieties, J. Milton Earle.. 2 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 For the best specimen spike, W. W. Cook 1 00 For the best seedling, Mrs. A. D. Foster 1 00 HOLLYHOCKS. For the best collection, no entry 3 00 For the second best collection, no entry 2 00 IMMOETELLES. For the best collection of named varieties, P. L. Moen 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. S. E. Fislier 2 00 OENAMENTAL GEASSES. For best display, no award 8 00 For the second, no award 2 00 46 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.. [1872. PANSIES. For the best display, Mrs. Geo. H. Estabrook .'5 00 For the second best, Herman A. Lange li 00 For the third best, Charles D. Thayer 1 00 PETUKIAS. For the best display, Mrs. Woodbury Smith 2 00 ROSES. Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties, ^Nlrs. C. Willard Hamilton 4 00 For the second best, no entry 2 00 Class 2. For the best ten named varieties, Charles T). Thayer 3 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 SWEET PEAS. For the best display, Mrs. C. Willard Hamilton 2 00 VERBEXAS. For the best display, Herman A. Lange 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. C. Willard Hamilton 2 00 For the best display of Seedlings, no award 2 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 ZINNIAS. For the best display, Mrs. S. H. Parsons 3 00 For the second best, Geo. Cruickshanks 2 00 GRATUITIES. For Canna, P. L. Moen 1 00 For Humea Ellegans, Geo. Cruickshanks 1 00 For Collection of Ferns, W. W. Cook 2 00 For Stand of Japan Lillies, Mrs. James Draper 1 00 For Floral Design, Miss H. A. Rand, Shrewsbury 2 00 For Bouquet of Wild Flowers, Mrs. Theo. Brown 1 00 For Basket of Wild Berries and Flowers, Mrs. Geo. E. Francis 1 00 For Pansies and Asters, Miss F. A. Richardson 1 00 For Collection, Miss T. M.Smith 1 00 For Collection, Mrs. Fitts, Rochdale 1 00 For Collection, Miss J. A. Weston. 2 00 For two Dishes Cut Flowers, Herman A. Lange 1 00 For Collection of Petunias and Bouquets, Mrs. Shaff, Leicester.... 2 00 For Display of Gladiolus, Miss Abbie Lovell, West Boylston 1 00 For Floral Design, Mrs. A. Fawcett 1 00 For Dish of Cut Flowers, Mrs. T. L. Nelson 1 00 For Bouquet of Flowers, Harry Ballard 1 00 For Hand Bouquets and Dish, Mrs. Geo. H. Estabrook 1 00 Special mention should be made of the stand of Zinnias contributed by Mrs. Geo II. Estabrook ; also, of the Floral Design by Mrs. L. Mowry, of Shrewsbury ; of the Collection by Miss Annie M. Newell ; of the 1872.] EEPORT ON VEGETABLES. 47 fine display of Gladiolus and Zinnias by Mrs. J. S. Baldwin ; a basket of Immortelles by Miss J. A. Weston ; two Hand Bouquets by Miss Susan Chamberlain ; of Seedling Gladiolus by Miss Abbie Lovell of West Boylston ; of a wreath of China Pinks by Miss C. A. Pitts ; of the dish of Cut Flowers and Sweet Peas, by Miss Grapie Whiting and a stand of Puschias by Miss Fannie M. Hamilton. REPOllT ON VEGETABLES. Geo. a. Adams, Chairman ; Thomas E. Norcross, .J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, Alexander Marsh, and William H. Hackett, of Worcester. COLLECTION". For the best general collection of vegetables, Daniel W. Bemis, (State Lunatic Hospital) SSO 00 For the second best, Alden H. Sears 15 00 For the third best, Sylvanus Sears. 10 00 BEETS. For the best twelve J.ong Blood, P. L. Moeu 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano, Henry L. Parker 2 00 For the best twelve Egyptian, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Sugar, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Turnip, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel, Stephen Salisbury 2 00 CABBAGES. For the best collection of not less than five varie- ties, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 For the second best, S. E. Fisher 3 00 For the best three Large Flat Brunswick, Sylvanus Sears.... .3 00 For the be.st single specimen, F. J. Kinney 2 00 For the best three Drumhead, S. E. Fisher 3 00 For the best single specimen Drumhead, weight not less than 30 lbs., no award 1 00 For the best three Drumhead Savoy, no award 3 00 For the best single specimen, no award 2 00 For the best three Early Sweinfurth, no award 3 00 For the best single specimen, F. J. Kinney 2 00 For the best three Red, P. J. Kinney 2 00 For the best single specimen, S. E. Fisher 1 00 For the best three Savoy, no award 3 00 For the best single specimen, no award 2 00 48 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. CARKOTS. For the best twelve Early Horn or Short Scarlet, J. C. Whitin, of VVhitiiis^ville 2 00 For the best twelve Long Orange, S. E. Fisher 2 00 For the best twelve Eed, no award 2 00 For the best twelve White, no award, 2 00 CAULIFLOWERS. For the best three specimens, Thomas Dawson 3 00 For the best single specimen, no award 1 00 CELERY. For the best six roots, Herbert and Louis F. Kinney.. 4 00 For the sscandbest, no award 1 00 CORN. For the best collection of Sweet, not less than five varie- ries, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 For the second best, A. H. Sears 3 00 For the best twelve ears of Sweet, F. J. Kinney 2 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 For the best Yellow or Field, of twenty ears traced, no award 2 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 CRANBERRIES. For the best peck, C. Morse, Jr 1 00 EGG PLANT. For the best four specimens, Stephen Salisbury... 1 00 HORSE RADISH. For the best Six Roots, no award 1 00 MELONS. For best two Water, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the second best, S. E. Fisher 1 00 For the best Green Flesh, three specimens, S. E. Fisher. ... 1 00 For the best Yellow Flesh, three specimens, Stephen Salis- bury 1 00 ONIONS. For the best four varieties, a half peck of each, S. E. Fisher 3 00 For the second best, no award 2 00 For the best half peck of Red, F. J. Kinney 1 00 For the best half peck of Silver Skin, F. J. Kinney 1 00 For the best half peck of White Portugal, no award 2 00 PARSNEPS. For the best twelve Guernsey, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Hollow Crown, Stephen Salisbury 2 00 For the best twelve Student, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Short, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville. 2 00 POTATOES. For the best fifteen named varieties, a half peck of each, no award 12 00 For the second best, no award 8 00 For the third best, no award 4 00 1872,] EEPORT ON VEGETABLES. 49 GiiATUiTiEs. To H. & L. r. Kinney 5 00 To S. E. Fisher 4 00 To F. J. Kinney 3 00 To V. P. Townsend 3 00 PUMPKIN'S. For tlie best three, weight not less than 20 lbs. each, 8. E. Fisher 2 00 For the second-best, no award 1 00 PEPPERS. For the l)est half peck, A. H. Sears 1 00 SALSIFY. For the best twelve specimens, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 SQUASHES. For the best three pure Crookneck, S. E. Fisher,.... 2 00 For the best three pure Canada Crookneck, (^'has. Nash 2 00 For the best three i)ure Hubbard, Joali Hapgood, of Shrews- Iniry 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow, A. H. Sears 2 00 For the best three pure Turban, Nathan F. Foster 2 00 For the. best three pure Yokohama, no award 2 00 TOMATOES. For the best collection, not less than six varieties, and not less than twelve of each A'ariety, Sylvanus Sears,.. 5 00 For the 2d best, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the 3d best, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Boston Market, V. P. Townsend,... 2 00 For the best twelve Lester's Perfected, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Tilden, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Trophy , F. xi. Dawson 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, P. L. Moen for Wilcott 2 00 TURNIPS. For the best twelve English or Flat, no award . . . . 2 00 For the best twelve French "White, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Rata Baga or Swedes, no award 2 00 GRATUITIES. For collection of Vegetables, Stephen Salisbury '.... 5 GO For collection of Vegetables, Thomas A.Dawson o 00 For collection of Vegetables, Joseph Pratt 2 00 GEO. A. ADAMS, Chairynan. T ANNUAL REPORT OF EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary and Librarian OF The Worcester County Horticultural Society. To the Memhers of the IVorccsler Counft/ Horticultural Socu'tj/ : By a singular felicity, during the Thirty-Two Years of its existence, the Worcester County Horflcultural Society has been called to mourn the loss of but two (2) of the ten (10) Presidents, to whose disinterested labor and bright example so much of its past prosperity may be justly attributed. In the recent death of George Jaques a very great misfor- tune has befallen us. Associated with our aims and pursuits from the. hrst, alike from natural inclination and the bent of his cultivated taste, he never swerved from his pomological devotion. By precept and prac- tice ; — through the columns of the newspaper j^ress, as in the pages of the concise, but valuable treatise of which he was the author ; — he labored assiduously to inspire others with a portion, however minute, of his own zeal, — instructing them, at the same time, as to the most probable methods of success. With almost unexampled patience he ransacked the files of ancient journals, to extract therefrom the obsolete Reports of our Committees, the sole record of our development from the feeblest inception ; collating and editing the whole with rare enthusiasm, and thereafter publishing, at his own expense, the ripe fruit of his unselfish toil. How he served you for years in the office of Seci'etary, and subse- <[uently as President, for a term rendered all too short by his own nervous diffidence, it needs not here to detail. Always ready at your behest, his time and facile pen were constantly put in requisition for the incessant and seasonable discharge of the onerous and responsible work of Chair- 52 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. mail of Comiuiltees. Xor was this duty, wIilmi once assumed, ever slighted b}- him, as the vohime of your publislied Transactions amply attests. He invariably found time to make personal inspection of all articles within his especial jurisdiction, esteeming it a just, if inade([uate, return for the effort of the contributors that they should at least receive honor- able mention. His interest was esjiccially manifested in the original preparation of our " Select List of Fruits." Constant in attendance upon all of those earlier discussions that did so much to revive the dor- mant interest of the community, his mature experience was of essential benetit in helping toward the formation of definite conclusions upon a multitude of disputed (piestions. You all recall the active part taken by him, in the Spring of this very year, while that " Select List of Fruits " was in process of revision. He never failed to express to your Secretary, whenever they chanced to meet, his gratification at the renewal of those discussions, emphasizing his purpose to do all within his power to render them popular and useful. Cut short in the meridian of his days, with faculties unimpaired, and energies fairly directed to the benefaction of his fellow creatures, — may it not be his decisive as it is his just epitaph, "i^mt.s curvnaf opus.'''' The city of his nativity, through its constituded authorities, attended his obsequies ; the officers of yt)ur Society aided in bt-ariiig iiis mortal remains to the grave. " Afterlife's (itful fever, he sleep? well." The Library is in its usual good condition and has continued, through- out the past year, to supply entertainment combined with exact instruc- tion to such of the members as wished to consult its volumes. But few elaborate works, exclusively devoted to Horticultural science remain to l)e acquired ; nor is it likely that many will be published hereafter, of value as containing the mature results of original and exhaustive research. The worth of Libraries devoted to a special branch of human speculation, or knowledge, is not to be measured by the greater or less array upon their shelves. A single sentence of " What I Know about Farming," if in point of fact I do know it, may be of vastly more benetit to humanity than whole pages of "All Toil Irksome" or " How to Live Without Labor." In the judgment of the Librarian, the richest fruits of contem- poraneous inquiry and culture, will be gathered from the serial publica- 1872.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 53 tious of our own and foreign countries. Thus persuaded, he has not hesitated in affixing your subscription to the list of patrons of several of the choicer English Magazines. Of these, " The GakdeiN," established and edited by the accomplished author of the " Parks, Gardens and Promenades of Paris," is especially noteworthy, whether from the excel- lence of its letter-press or the charm of its illustrations. The " Yilla- G-ARDEKER ; " the "Floral World;" and the "Gardeker" are also recent and desirable acquisitions. But surpassing them all in intrin- sic value ; and constituting perhaps, all things considered, the most precious series in oiu- entire collection ; must be named the eighteen (18) volumes of the " Flore des Seijres,'' alike the envy and despair of its rivals. To aid you in its proper appreciation, listen to the words of our learned associate, Thomas Meehan ; " M. Van Houtte's Flore des Serres " is one of the most beautiful works on new flowers published in the " world. Many wiio care nothing about cultivating flowers themselves, " subscribe for the magazine for the mere beauty of the work as an orna- " ment to their drawing-room tables." Such jjublications, once out of print, are never re-issued. It should furnish cause for sincere congratu- lation that we were able to procure the set, complete from its com- mencement. Each successive volume will be obtained as soon as may be after publication. The use of the Lil)rary, by circulation, throughout the past year, has been somewhat less than usual. Bixt an explanation of this fact, other- wise discouraging, is found in the opportunity of perusal and consultation afforded by the more constant attendance of the Librarian throughout the season. The interest that centred so strongly in the Weekly Exhibi- tions was, however, the chief reason for this apparent diminution of interest. Having before them the jierfected specimen of Flower or Fruit, in its prime, there was less need for beginners to seek for the why or wherefore of what was not plainly visible, in the printed page. When- ever such authority was desired for consultation, it was easily accessible. The customary Catalogue of Additions to the Library, during the Official Year 1871-2, is herewith submitted, for your more precise information : Department of Agriculture, Eeport of, 1870, 1 vol. 8vo ; Hon. Geo. F. Hoai-. New England Farmer, 1870 ; Society. Alpine Plants, Loudon, 1 vol. 8vo ; Society. Every Woman Her Own Gardener, pamphlet, 1 vol. 4to ; Society. Eighth Annual Report, Board of State Charities, 1 vol. 8vo ; Hon. Edward Earle. Fourteenth Annual Report, Commissioners of New York Central Park, pamphlet ; Hon. A. H. Green. 54 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETV. [IST^J. Small Pruit Kecordei , 1871, vol. 3 ; Society. Fruit Garden, Barry, Revised and Enlarged Edition, l.S7'2, 1 vol. Svo ; Society. First Annual Report, Department of Public Parks, New York, 1871, l)amphlet, 8vo ; Hon. A. H. Green. Villa-Gardener, 1 vol. Svo., Loudon, cloth ; Society. Villa-Gardener, vol.2, 8vo, London, cloth ; Society. Journal of Horticulture, vol. 20, Svo., London, 1871 ; Society. Journal of Horticulture, vol. 21, Svo., London, 1871 ; Society. Hogg's Gardener's Year Book, 1872, 1 vol. 12mo. ; Society. Annual Register of Rural Atl'airs, 1872, ])amphlet, 12mo.; Society. Transactions of Massachusetts Horticultural Society, 1871, pamphlet, Svo.; E. W. Buswell. Transactions of Massachusetts Horticultural Society, 1871, ])amphlet, 8vo.; Clarendon Harris. Forest Trees, by Arthur Bryant, Jr., 1 vol. 12mo.; Society. Florist and Pomologist, 1872, 1 vol. Svo., London ; Society. Annual Register of Rural Affairs, 1867-8-9, 12mo. ; Society. Annual Register of Rural Affairs, 1870-1-2, 12mo.; Society. Kew England Farmer, 1S71, 1 vol. Svo.; Society. American Naturalist, 1871, vol. 5, Svo.; Society. Tilton's Journal of Horticulture, vol. 9, 1871 ; Society. Horticulturist, vol. 26, 1871 ; Society. The Ivy, by Shirley Hibbard, 1 vol. -Ito, London ; Society. Gardener's Monthly, vol. 13, Svo.; Society. American Agriculturist, vol. 30, 4to ; Society. Gardener's Chronicle, 1 vol. 4to, 1S71 ; Society. The Floral World, vol. 6, London ; Society. Flore des Serres, Ghent, Belgium, vols. 1 to L^ inclusive, 8vo., half calf ; Society. The Window Gardener, by E. S. Rand, Jr., 1 vol. 12mo.; Society. My Garden, its Plan and Culture, by Alfred Smee, F. R. S., 1 vol. Svo. London ; Society. The Summer Exhibitions of the Society have achieved an unexampled success. This is undoubtedly owing, in great measure, to the early pro- mulgation of the Schedule of Premiums, whereby cultivators were in- formed in advance of the particular display of Flower or Fruit invited upon a given date, as also of the amount assigned for prizes. The assur- ance that the Society would make reasonable provision for such Ex- hibitions was enough to provoke competition ; while the equal certainty of beholding something deserving close observation i^roved amply 1872.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 55 sufficient to attract a continually increasing attendance. It is believed that the objects of the Society can in no way be better promoted than liy fostering, to every reasonable extent, these primary scliools of Horti- cultural instruction. The sums devoted to their use should be steadily, if gradually, augmented; for although it would not be possible to fully re- munerate contributors for their time and trouble, it is at least within our ability, as it should be our fixed purpose, to ensure them against positive loss No expenditure of the funds that are entrusted to us can be wiser or more legitimate. The character and magnitude of our Exhibitions have been seriously affected bj^ recent climatic peculiarities. The fierce and unrelenting Drought of 1870, followed by one almost as parching, if not so con- tinuous, in J 871, was sternly supplemented by the late extreme of an almost Arctic Winter. Deprived for so long of moisture, and almost sap- less, the hardiest shrubs and trees, which did not absolutely succumb to the cutting gales and intense frost of March, were yet robbed of height^ mass and symmetry. If some with a deeper tap-root survived the exces- sive drain upon their vital energies, it was almost invariably at the expense of that majestic altitude which it had required years of developement to attain. Fruit-trees escaped by reason of the higher cultivation bestowed upon them. Manure, and mulching, and occasional tillage, did much to counteract the baneful tendencies of an uninterrupted aridity. The lowlier plants fared worse. With its thread-like roots spread out upon the surface, or at the utmost, penetrating the earth but a few inches, the Strawberry M'as signally exposed to every destructive influence. Greedy of water, it went a- thirst for months. Eequiring protection from the alternations of frost and thaw, it was exposed, unprotected by its natural covering of snow, save when wrapped in the fatal eml trace of ice and sleet, so that, at length, after '' the flowers appear on the earth; the time " of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in " our land;" the grower, in too many instances, found that his prospect of swelling crown and prolific bud has vanished in a bleak monotony of empty hills and frozen plants. Varieties were served so nearly alike that it will be idle for any one to claim exemption from the common mortality for his exceptionally-favored lot. Wilson and Jucunda; Triomphe and Charles Downing; theii most zealous champions must concede their several and absolute need of protection. And the berry is worth that trouble and more. Costly as its cultivation is, however, and irksome as is the toil of gathering the crop, a scanty yield has been attended with one compensation. The grower has obtained a price per quart more closely approximating remuneration. Still, it is very questionable if, in the average of a series of vears, an accurate balance-sheet would disclose 66 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. any margin iu favor of the cultivation of Strawberries, upon a large scale, for the general market. In a jtropition.s season, the crop of ordinary or poor varieties, produced in more southerly latitudes, is supplied in quantities and at prices with which we cannot compete. The only pru- dent course, in this vicinity, is to raise the standard of excellence, at the same time developing the taste of the public ; cultivating only tho.se varieties which yield best in hills, and which, thus grovvn, survive for years without the trouble and expense of forming a new plantation. Such superior fruit would command its own price in the market, and a marked appreciation upon the tea-taljle of him who should succeed in its pi'oduction. Raspberries suffered equally with Strawljerries, iu all cases where care was not taken for their protection. Your Secretary has heretofore asserted, in these Ileports, that no variety of this delicate fruit wliich ought to be esteemed worthy of cultivation, can be grovvn prolital)]y for successive years, unless the canes are laid down and covered over through- out the Winter". Such have been his tixed conclusions, deduced from the experience and observation of more than forty years, and running from the earliest introduction of the Red and Yellow Antwerp, to tlie later and richer fruition of Brinckle's Orange. And notwithstanding the re- cent action of the Society, whereby the distinction of " Hardy " and " Half-Hardy " Raspberries was sought to be arbitrarily established, he thinks it not unbecoming to remark tliat his original convictions are un- altered. It is true that the Black-Caps, so-called, will endure eitlier ex- treme of heat or cold. But, then, a person must possess land by the acre to c-row them; and, wlien grown, although technically Raspberries, they will be found to ])Ossess little resemblance save in name to their choicer congeners. The frequent rains of the Spring months, during the period of intlorescence, exerted a very prejudicial intluence upon the fecundity of this fruit. A notable diminution in tlie number of bees and other winged insects, perhaps attrilnitable to the sevei ity of tlie Winter, by the deprivation of their aid in the process of fertilization, was rendered yet more obvious in a decrease of the crop. Nevertheless, in the whole realm of Pomology, no genus can be cited, whose .species are surer, with propei' culture and sufticient care, to render adequate returns for the trouble ex- pended upon and exacted by them than those of the nobler varieties of the Rubus Id;eus. The display of Currants, throughout the past season, has been remark- able Nothing like it,, or at all approximating it, has been seen for yeai-s upon the tables of the Society. No fruit belter merits cultivation: none other so well repays it. And, it may be added with truth, until the Abraxis Ribearia, the scholastic designation of a vulgar pest, compelled 1872] REPORT OF SECRRTAUY AND LII5RARIAN. 57 attention, of none l>esicles, was theie such studied neglect. The evident dawning of a better da}' is welcome. The length of time during which the currant may be made to yield, is not the least of its signal merits. Tiie iirst quart of the 'growth of the present year was visible upon our tables on the eleventh day of July. You could scarcely trust your own eyesight when you beheld a dish of perfectly fresh and sound specimens at the Annual Autumnal Exhibition, on the ITtli of September. That the currant can be thus kept in its j)rime ui on the bush, has been no secret to experienced cultivators. Credit is however due to Mr. Joseph E. Phelps, for the ocular demonstration of the fact which he alforded upon that occasion. It only remains to add that the exhibition of 1872, conlirms l)eyond all question the unapproached pre-eminence of La Versaillaise for excellence and fecundity Our Floral Exhibitions throughout the Summer manifested an in- creased interest on the part of members, and, as a practical consequence, attracted a steadily augmenting attendance. It is recommended that even more attention be devoted to this portion of our wide province, and that a field of usefulness so fruitful of possibilities be stimulated to its utmost cai)acity. The prosperity of the Society will be found to depend, as the City of Worcester expands and is built up over its suburbs, upon the countenance and co-operation of the fairer portion of the community. I<]ven now the Apple-orchard can only be found upon the Farm. When the application of the law of betterments shall have rendered the culture of tlie Pear, upon a Town-lot, too costly, it will be necessary to call for assistance from the owners of green-houses and parlor jardinets. And, in the complete development of Floriculture will be laid, broad and deep the foundations of our ultimate success. Higher premiums when thought advisable; careful discrimination in making awards; these and all things else that may facilitate our progress, are earnestly commended to your favor. In this connection it may be proper to suggest the expediency of estab- lishing a line of demarcation between the collections of the Amateur and Professional Gardeners. It is impossible for them to contest the palm of superiority upon equal teims: it is therefore unjust to exact it. The dis- crimination proposed is fair and apparently free from valid objection. At least the experiment might be tried, and, if found impracticable when tested, the novel step could be retraced. A tabular statement of the entries for the past official year, together with a similar table showing the number of articles exhibited during the entire peiiod subsequent to the transfer of the Library to its present lo- cation, is herewith submitted: 8 58 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY [1872. COMPARATIVE STATEMENT. Anno Domini. 5§ Strawberries. t Baspberries, Gooseberries, Currants, Cherries, Grapes, Peaches, &c. i a. 160 ■ 2 5 i o 3 1862 98 512 (i32 1431 1863 .44 36 83 79 366 140 374 184 616 lOOS 14S3 1864 1447 1865 48 23 43 37 95 90 117 104 151 112 132 207 152 248 ■ 41 38 51 111 78 123 159 161 292 264 120 190 246 252 1643 811 1716 807 1027 928 2049 1997 1866 131A 1867 2186 1868 1207 1869 1.597 1870 1539 1871 2825 1872 56 205 13U 182 3906 4479 For many y^fii'^ pfi'^t the devastation of early vegetables, as well as of Summer and Autumn Fruits, by the feathered pets of Legislation, has been a source of insutfei'able annoyance and loss to many meml)oi's of this Society. My predecessor, in his Annual Report, stated that he had addressed a Petition to the General Court, in accordance with the in- structions of your Trustees, praying iicrmission of a remedy for such injuries, and adding that the Petition quietly slumbered in the custody of the Joint Committee on Agriculture. This statement was not literally exact, insomuch as that Committee, without any hearing of the Petition- ers, had reported leave lo withdraw, — which report was summarily accepted. Upon ascertaining this discreditable fact, the following memorial was transmitted to the General Court, by your present Secre- tary— the author of the original motion for a Petition in the Board of Trustees: — To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives^ in General Court assembled: The undersigned, a citizen of the Commonwea^i, protesting against the Non-Feasance of a (Committee of your Honorable Bodies by which gross injustice has been done to men in every respect their peers, sets forth for your information that, at the Annual Meeting of the Trustees of the Worcester County JlorlicuUural Society, a corporation duly estab- lished by law, it was unanimously voted, on motion of the undersigned, 1S72.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 59 seconded by Mr. Stephen S. Foster, to petition the General Court for such alteration of the Statutes as will permit the destruction by individuals upon their own premises, of Frugivorous Birds. And the undersigned, still protesting, asserts thnt at an early day in the present session of the (reneral Court, a Petition stating the wishes of the aforesaid Trustees, under the seal of the Corporation and attested by its Secretai-y, was presented and in course referred to the Committee on Agriculture Nevertheless the said Committee, careless or ignorant of the fact that the Privilege of Audience is inseparable from the Right of Petition, (which would otherwise be worthless,) in no manner heeded the prayer of the Trustees, neither advising them of meetings nor 3'et of the pre- determination of the matter by the utter exclusion of testimony: — So that the lleport of " Leave to Withdraw," accepted by your Honorable Bodies, in default of ex))lanation, was not more inexcusable for its wanton denial of justice, than it was complete in its surprise to the under- signed who was expected, and only awaited notice, to attend at the official hearing. For the further instruction, in the premises, of your Honorable Bodies, the undersigned would add that it is rumored and believed in the country that there are, within the walls of the State House, infesting the Library or pervading Committee-Rooms, but " hanging ujion the verge" of legis- lation, those who consider the works of Wilson and Audubon surplusage, and, in view of their own existence, esteem the very lives of those emin- ent naturalists as supererogation on the part of the Creator; Professors of Oology; Curators of Stale Eggs, or the like; whose chief, if not sole occu- pation appears to l)e that of testing, by personal experience, the theory of Arti.lcial Incubation by the male I It is strongly suspected that the Com- mittee fell into the ditch wherein they fou(w?)lly repose, owing to the guidance of such " blind, leadei's of the blind." Wherefore the undersigned, protesting that he is not moved l)y any desire for a Hearing, at this late day, and especially not before the Com- mittee on Agriculture which appears so im]ierfectly to comprehend its duties, concludes this discharge of his obligations as a citizen by inviting the attention of your Honorable Bodies to the existence and nature of the obstacles which circumscribe the Right of Petition and limit the slender chances of redress at your hands. All which is Respectfully submitted by EDWARD W. LINCOLN, One of said Trustees. This Memorial was suppressed by Mr. Harvey Jewell, Speaker of the House, who opined that it was not couched in quite diplomatic language. How exact the measure of that equity which, six months later, buried Mr. Jewell and his political aspirations in the grave of his avowed irrever- ence for the great African Fetish ! At the Annual Meeting of the Trustees, last November, it was again voted to apply to the Legislature for such amendment of the Statutes as 00 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. will sulVer the deslructiou of JJirds, injurious to Fruit or Vegetable, by citizens, upon their own premises. Pursuant to that vote, a Petition was once more prepared and presented to the General Court, at its last session. Thanks to your steady i)ersistence, a " Hearing," if nothing more, was obtained from the Committee on Agriculture to whom the subject-matter had been referred. Your Secretary attended at that " Hearing," to his personal inconvenience, to support, with that might of truth which sup- plements even the feeblest ability, the prayer of the Trustees. There being* no opposition, and no facts being alleged in rebuttal, the Com- mittee, after a decorous period of inattention, succeeded in evolving from the depths of their intense misconception yet another '• Leave to With- draw." Having been informed, immediately upon the conclusion of his testimony, by a member of the Committee, that such would be their de- cision, your Secretarj- asks leave to pay his humble tribute of admiration to that tminent gravity which patiently awaited Ihe lapse of three months, before announcing a foregone CMiclusiou. The chief and incorrigible offender — of whose d(!vastation there is most aiul the best-founded complaint, is the Tunlus Migratorius of the ornith- ologist— the pscudo Robin of the sentimentalist and school-girl. Should the following little gem serve to enlighten any who are ignorant of the difference between that flying thief, with a beak like a pickaxe, and the gentle redbreast, its space will be well occupied: THE RED BREAST OF THE ROBIN. AX IRISH LEGEND, Of all tlie mcny little l)inls that live uji in the tree, Ami carol from the syoamore and chestnut, The prettiest little gentleman that dearest is to me, Is the one in coat of brown and scarlet waistcoat. It's cockit little Robin ! And his head he keeps a bobbin'. Of all the other pretty fowls I'd choose him : For he sings so sweetly still, Through his tiny slender bill. AVith a little patch of red upon his boson). When the frost is in the air, and the snow upon the proun( To other little birdies so bewilderin', Picking up the crumbs near the window he is found, Singing Christinas stories to the children: Of how two tender babes Were lell in woodland glades, Ry a cruel man who took 'em there to lose 'em : But liol)by saw the crime; (He was watching all the time!) And he blushed a perfect crimson on his liosom. 1872.] RKPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIP.RARIAN. 61 When the changinj^ leaves of autumn aruunil us thiekly Tall, And every tliinj; seems sorrowful and saddeninir. Rohin may lie heard on the corner of a wall Singing what is solacing and gladdening. And sure, from what I've heard, He's God's own little bird. And sings to those in grief just to amuse 'em : But once he sat forlorn On a cniol Crown of Thorn, And the blood it stained his pretty little bosom. It is recommended that application be again made at the next Session of the General Court, for such amendment of existing Statutes as shall furnish an adequate remedy in the premises; and for an investigation by competent and imprejudiced persons of the habits of both Insects and Birds, to the end that the least informed among us may be taught to dis- criminate in some manner, however imperfect, between his garden friends and foes. Your action, as a corporate body, is also invited upon the recent change in the Statutes regulating the Post Ottice Department, to the prejudice of Horticulture, without any compensating advantage. Heretofore it has been permitted to send Seeds, Grafts, Plants and Cuttings, by mail, at the rate of two (2) cents for every four (4) ounces, in quantities of not more than four (4) pounds. Under this wise relaxation of former re- strictions, a large business had grown up, in the traffic and exchange be- tween remote parts of the Kepublic, of articles superfluous here but desirable there. This provision of the law, beneficial to all and hurtful to none, was alteied, at the last Session of Congress, so as to reduce the hmit of weight to twelve (12) ounces. The effect of .such a narrow re- striction can be best illustrated by a citation from the GarO(ner''s Ifonthh/ which says that " as for living vegetation, where so much of packing " material has to be employed to preserve them fresh and from injury by " the pressure of other mail matter, the postal limit will be reached before "the plant is enclosed." A formal vote of the Trustees is solicited, authorizing the Secretary to memorialize Congress, at its next Session, for a restoration of the former liberal provision of the law. Only the merest official intercourse has occurred between this Society and the Department of Agriculture. Punctually, once. a year, comes a curt and formal note from the Commissioner, desiring to be informed of the character of the organization of this Society, with the names of its President and Secretary. The penalty of withholding such information, so the note proceeds to state, will be the withdrawal of the innumerable and indescribable benefits showered upon all good societies towards which the Department turns its vivifying rays. In panic terror lest this dire 62 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIKIY. [1872. misfortune should befall the Worcester County Society, from any negli- gence of his own, your Secretary, upon lesuming his otficc, was careful to supply the Department of Agriculture with all required intelligence- The oblation must have been sufficient ; for the supply of the Monthly Reports of the Department has never intermitted. That you may the more fully appreciate their inestimable value, just mark the following de- tail in the issue for Kovember and December, of the last year: " Suffolk County, Mass., Apjile-crop a Failure."' And still, with the characteristic fatuity of the average Yankee, the farmers of Pearl or State Streets will contiuue to cling to their barren Orchards! What has become of the Boston Board of Trade V The Annual Autumnal Exhibition, holden for the third year in suc- cession away from the Hall of the Society, more than justified tbe bright- est anticipations of its managers. The pecuniary returns, it is true, were less than could have been wished. But the regulation of the weather is without the province of the Society; and if the sample which he furnished upon the 17th and 18th of September, ult, is a fair specimen of what he can do in that line, it is also beyond the capacity of the gentleman at Washington who so lately assumed its control I^evertheless, the re- ceipts more than equalled the expenses, — an unexpected fortune that definitively settles the future location of our Annual Autunmal Exhi- bitions. The customary tabular statement of entries for the past official year, and also of the two preceding years during which our Annual Autunmal Exhibitions were held at Mechanics Hall, is herewith submitted :— 1870. j Con- itributors I I I Apples ' 55 Grapes, &c., &c 4G Pears 77 Plants, Flowers, &c 32 Vegetables 33 24-J Articles. 632 3'J2 1346 1235 836 4441 1871. Con- tributors 20 44 111 46 33 Articles. 444 642 2600 2006 1401 254 709£ 1872. Con- i tributorsj 64 35 70 56 17 242 Articles 1201 401 1971 2455 I7r)8 786 1872.] REPORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 63 It will be observed that while the number of contributors has scarcely varied, bv a remarkable coincidence being precisely the same in 1870 and 1872, the aggregate of articles upon exhibition has nearh- doubled. Mucli of this increase is doubtless due to the enlargement of our facilities for di.splay. The purchase of new bottles, and of stands for their reception, induced Floriculturists to cull from their profusion, being assured that they would no longer be compelled to return home with their collections unopened for lack of space. The engagement of Washburn Hall con- vinced the growers of vegetables that the Thanksgiving Squash need not again be hidden behind the bushel basket in which it was conveyed, if not contained. But more than all else, to that beneficent Providence which revived the parched earth with copious rains, supplying generous nurture to abundant crops and tilling our horn with plenty, are we in- debted for the ample illustration afforded by our Exhibition that the prim- eval promise of seed time and harvest is not falsified in our own day. The display of Apples — that most valuable of all Fruits — deprived of which, and the Shag-Bark we might well adopt the advice of a shrewd, if somewhat luckless politician, and '' go West," was absolutely without precedent. Of the three (•^) leading competitors, one furnished forty-four (44); another fifty (o'w); and the third sixty-seven (67) varieties. Almost invariably the specimens were handsome, fully developed, and free from traces of injury Ijy insects. "Would not the time seem to have arrived for the President of the New England Agricultural Society, in his rare inter- vals of leisure from the congenial pursuits of the demagogue, to revise his opinions, and, in a new edition of What I Know About Pomology, in- form the Farmers of Sterling and Bolton whether he still thinks it best for them to fell their orchards. The unusual number of entries of Fruit, of Pears not less than Apples, under the head of " l!fameless," requires the application of a prompt and efficient remedy. It is recommended that, hereafter, all plates of varieties, not identified when entered, l)e set aside for especial examination by the Committee on Nomenclature. It is wholly indefensible to allow a general or a limited collection to be swollen by the addition of any variety where- of, the name being doubtful, the quality must be equally uncertain. Grapes were neither in profuse supply, nor ripe. Even the Rogers Hybrids, in the culture and dissemination of which Mr. Lovell, of West Boylston, has been so successful, failed to mature their clusters. Of course it was beyond the power of any Committee to form a definite judg_ ment upon the newei varieties. 'J he mild weather has been protracted so far into the Autumn, however, that many kinds have ripened since the Annual Exhibition which, at that date, gave but little promise. As we gain in experience and knowledge of the requirements of the vine, it be- 6L WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872.^ comes very manifest that we shall soon have only ourselves lo l)lame if we do not jti-oduce a croj) of Grapes as sm-ely as one of Strawberries. The (lisi)lay of Pears, although far inferior to the unparalleled exhi- bition of that favorite fruit, in 1871, was yet of very decided and unex- pected excellence. In the department of " Single Dishes " there was the usual manifestation of eager interest, — the same keen competition as in former years. It is believed that the time will soon come when the present absurd classification must give place to a more rational mode of determining the merits of specific varieties. You can ascertain which of two plates of the Winter Nelis is the l)etter, by the scale, if in all other re- spects they ^re equal. But, in weighing the merits of the '"Best Ten Varieties," each ]ilate in that Ten must be compared with and })ronounced sui)erior to each and every other plate of all the lots in the same class* And, as individual tastes differ, in default of any standard of (quality fixed by the Society, the members of the Connnittee become a law unto them- selves, according to their private palate and parliality. The writer once entered, to test this point, in Class u, the following: — Seckel, Winter Nells and Josephine de Malines. He was beaten by a lot whereof the Doyenne Boussock was a constituent. The argument for a retention of the system of division by classes or collections, has been, that encouragement was therelty afforded to those who had the enterprise to introduce new varieties. But a more effectual and higher stimulus in that direction would be imparted by the specific proposal of Premiums for any kind, novelty being considered alone, or else when combined with superior qualities. Although hopeless of its present adoption, your Secretary would yet urgently advise the abolition of the existing system of classification, as meaningless and unprofitable; and the substitution therefor of a direct com[)etition between the different lots of the same variety. The unwonted profusion of Peaches was a marked and gratifying feature of our Annual Autumnal Exhibition. There has been nothing to compare with it since that period, in the memory of the oldest inhabitant > when the Peach was as common as the Cherry, and both were as plenty as of late either has been scarce. The abundance of this delicious fruit? imported from lower latitudes, may possibly justify the neglect of its ex- tended cultivation in our own grounds. But such is the superiority in flavor, of any variety grown among us, that no one who has once appreci- ated it will fail to make room for one or two trees of kinds that have ap- proved themselves best suited to our climate and soil. The next Biennial Session of the American Pomological Society is to be held in Boston, in the Autumn of the coming year. May it not be wel^ for us so to time the period of our Annual Autumnal Exhibition that w^ 1872.] REPORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 65 may be able to enjoy the presence, and profit b}'^ the experience, of the famous Horticulturists who will then and there assemble from all parts of the Republic. Our Society can furnish a display, in any department, with a reasonably propitious season, which we need not fear to submit to the most critical inspection. His mind must be indeed cast in a narrow mould who argues that Fruit or Vegetables must necessarily be pre-eminent in the precise proportion in which one city surpasses another in population. It is time that the Pomologists of "Worcester County sloughed off such provincialism, and no 'igency could be devised so efficient to develope a proper self-appreciation and relegate metropolitan snobbery to the back- ground, as a free and social intercourse with gentlemen whose position places them above pett}- local prejudices. The expense of a special train and the cost of a suitable entertainment might doubtless be defrayed by subscriptions, in the event of the Society feeling too penurious to extend open-handed hospitality. A flying visit, as here suggested, could be made fruitful of happy recollections, out from which would continually loom the jirospect of a Session of the Congress itself, at some day not very remote, in our own attractive and thriving city. Indeed, by way of familarising the minds of delegates with the idea, it might not be unwise to extend an invitation to the American Society to favor us with one of its stated Sessions, as soon as may be without the manifestation of undue partiality for any particular section of the country. The membership of our Society is larger than that of the Massachusetts. Our Exhibitions, in the opinion of thoroughly competent judges, are, as a whole, fully equal to those held in the metropolis. Possessing every convenience for the proper accommodation of the American Society, why should we not exert ourselves to secure for our fair city the manifold advantages to be derived from one of its regular Sessions '? From the very earliest organization of this Horticultural Society, its Ex- hibitions have always been synchronous with those of its Agricultural compeer. The question presents itself to the minds of many of your members, recurring each year with constantly increasing force, whether it is absolutely essential to our prosperity that we should continue for all time to be a tail to the bucolic kite ! There never was more than a single reason in favor of this practice, and were that allowed its full force, our Exhibition would be held, of verj^ necessity, much earlier than at present. For Flowers would be far surer to escape untimely frosts, while Summer Pears and Apples, of the highest quality, would not, as now, have entirely disappeared. Our latter experience should teach us that it is not always prudent to challenge the untoward influences of the Equinox. The pro- prietors of the largest orchards, throughout the country, allege as their excuse for not entering the lists in competition for our munificent 9 66 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1$72. Premiums, that the Exhibition is fixed foi* a date altogether too early to allow of their Fruit attaining its proper size and maturity. Here, in the city, we know with what compunctions of conscience we nerve ourselves to cull the better specimens of Beurre d' Anjou, Winter Nelis and Law- rence, when it is scarcely the middle of September. The inspection of a collection of half-grown and unripe Apples and Pears can be of the least imaginable benefit to the community. What they wish to see is precisely what ought to be shown them, — the perfection of every variety, fully de- veloped; its highest capabilities illustrated, and so completely and yet exactly ripened, that the veriest novice may detect its most latent flavor. Although your Secretary has elaborated no definite plan in the premises, as indeed the task is not more incumbent upon him than upon any other member, he is nevertheless of opinion that some such scheme as one of which the following is an outline, will before long constrain yoiir appro- bation and acceptance. Have the Exhibition of Roses and Strawberries, as heretofore, late in June. Tr}' the experiment and continue it, if suc- cessful, of holding out inducements for a display of Flowers, together with Sunnner Apples and Pears, during the last week of August or the first week of September. And thereafter, say in the latter part of Octo- ber, let there be a grand Exhibition of Fruits and Vegetables in their prime. It would involve trouble and expense : few things in this world do not. But it would afford a satisfaction which is not, and can never be derived from a system which was perhaps good enough when adopted, but which, in the lapse of time, has become utterly unsuited to our ne- cessities. Should the Society also decide to abolish the moss-grown and absurd method of Classification of Fruits, as elsewhere recommended, it would at once be practicable to hold our Exhibitions, so arranged, in our own Hall. Visitors would then be assured that every article was meri- torious, and contributors Avould feel a just pride over the Premiums won in such a competition." In any event it is advised that you inquire and decide whether 3'ou will continue in a rut merely because you have tugged along in it for thirty years. At present, with much that is price- less, there is also an infinite deal of trash. The abolition of classification will afford summary relief from the intrusion of worthless varieties, too often inti'oduced to swell a collection otherwise meagre; and the advance- ment of our standards of excellence must serve to put a crowning finish upon the good woi'k so well begun. Could an Exhibition be arranged to which every portion of the State should contribute, it might prove a most potent agent in developing the science and promoting the practice of Horticulture thoroughout the Com- monwealth. Titularly, there is a Massachusetts Society. But it implies no disrespect to that venerable organization to state the exact truth that, 1872.] REPOKT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 65 to all intents and puqioses, it is as exclusively a local society as our own- How fortunate would it be should a combined effort of all Horticultural Societies result in a general display of the Flowers and Fruits of Massa- chusetts, at the period of the Session of the American Pomological So- ciety. If the older association, untrue to its name, will not initiate action in this matter, it is suggested for your serious consideration whether it may not be advisable for the Worcester County Society to take prelimin- ary steps toward its realization. The true Horticultural Society of Mas- sachusetts should recognize no other limitations of its prospective and possible usefulness than the capacities of our soil for production. A communication has been received by your Secretary, from Mr. Wm. Phipps Blake, who subscribes himself " Executive Commissioner" of the United States Centennial Commission, wherein the co-operation of this. Society is solicited in the effort to achieve an International Exhibition in Philadelphia, A. D. 1876. As the time is somewhat remote, and because additional details of plan and purpose are promised, it may not be expe- dient for this Society to take any immediate action. Whatever attention you may devote to the project will doubtless be profitably bestowed. The imiDortation of Eruit into this Commonwealth, especially of Peaches, has developed within a few years past into a business of great importance. There is no reason why it should not continue to increase m magnitude, supplying the community cheaply and in abundance with this choicest product of more equable climes, if reasonable supervision can be exercised over its method of packing and transportation. But the grower is too apt to be careless, and even when he does exercise due pre- caution, all his heedfulness may be neutralized by the recklessness of railway or steamboat porters. Reclamation has invariably proved useless, it appearing to be a rule with common carriers to discredit and reject all claims for damage upon their especial lines of conveyance. This evil is rapidly attaining proportions that will demand legislative intervention for its effectual remedy or suppression. It would seem to be within the pe- culiar province of this Society so to direct its influence as to insure, so far as may be, the due safeguard of the more perishable Emits from de- lays in transmission, thefts in transit, and savage fracture of case or con- tents. Your Secretary bestowed much attention upon this subject throughout the Summer, and has been fortunate enough to obtain from one of the largest dealers in all species of delectable fruit, as well as some that would be better described by a different adjective, the following note of suggestions as to the preferable method of packing and carriage : 68 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. Edwakd W. Lincoln, Esq., My Dear Sir, — In rci:)ly to j'oiu' request for 1113' views upon the modes of 25utting up and delivering fruit, t'Si)ecially the Peach, for this market, I would sa}- that in the 1st place the cars should be constructed for the especial purpose, thus giving the fruit perfect ventilation. 2d. The fruits should he shipped in (piarter, half and whole barrels, in jireference to boxes. The)- arrive in much better condition in barrels. These should be made with a false head in the center, so as to divide the bulk of fruit into two equal jiortions. The barrels should be perforated with good sized holes: say an inch in diameter. 3d. The condition of the car must not be overlooked. The fruit is often transported in the same car with horses. Again, it will arrive covered with tar or lime which had probably been in the car before the fi'uit. From this both dealer and consumer have to suffer. 4th. Delay in transportatioii, caused by insufficiency and poor class of boats, (the route by Long Island Sound being unavoidable,) and the in- adequate supply of cars at the precise occasion of their need. Hoping that a change may be effected, and recognizing in your society a i)owerful agency toward this end, I remain very truly yours, &c., George L. Bliss. Mr. Bliss desired that his name should not be used, and will un- dobtedly shrink from this publicity. But the oldest and most expert dealers concur with him in the opinions which he has so well expressed, and the propriety would appear to be slight of withholding from him his just due of recognition. It would be a source of profound regret that so few of our community possess even a limited knowledge of Botany. It ought to be a cause for deeper self-reproach when the remedy is within our own hands and we withhold its application. Your Secretary has already advised the pro- curement of a course of lectures from Prof. Asa Gray,— /aciZeprinceps in his chosen science, and as skillful in imparting the rudiments of learning as he is in mastering its higher branches. He might not come were he invited: should he, which one of you would not prefer his lucid and exact instruction to the vapid flapdoodle that has become the custom- ary food of lyceums. How much of the love of flowers that yet influences our older fellow citizens, may be traced to the lingering charm of those field excursions and off-hand lectures in the old Town Hall, instigated and made profitable by Emory Washburn, John Milton Earle, Christopher C. Baldwin, and William Lincoln ! Of what infinitely higher aspiration — this "looking from Nature up to Nature's God" — than the incessant thrumming upon soul less wure or disembodied cat-gut to which the majority of our young men and maidens are now addicted. Latterly, it has been considered indis- 1872.] HEtORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 69 pensable to a proper impression of tlie juvenile mind with the recondite mysteries of political Republicanism, that it should be seasonably trained to a love for Kerosene and the Tan- Yard. Is it not equally the dictate of prudence for the votaries of Flora and Pomona, in whichsoever depart- ment, to bend their twigs as they would have their trees incline? All which is respectfully submitted by EDWAED WINSLOW LINCOLIN', Librarian and Secretary. Horticultural Hall, Worcester, Mass., Nov. 6th, A. D., 1872. SELECT FRUITS RECOMMENDED BY THE SOCIETY. APPLES. Eakly — Eed Astrachan, Sweet Bough, Duchess of Oldenburg, Wil- liams' Early Red, Worces^ter Spy,t and Summer Pippin (Sour Bough.)t AuTUMK. — Gravenstein, Mother, Porter, Hubbardston ISTonesuch, IIol- den Pippin, Maiden's Blush, Shepard's Sweet,* and Leland's Spice.* "Winter and Spring. — Pihode Island Greening, Baldwin, Tallman Sweet, Poxbury Russett, Northern Spy, Palmerf (Washington Roy- al,) and Yellow Belleriower.f CHERRIES. General Cttlture.— May Duke, Knight's Early Black, Black Tarta- rian, American Amber, Downer's Late, Black Eagle, Elton. PEARS. Amateur Culture. — Doyenne d' Ete, Dearborn's Seedling, Rostiezer, St. Ghislain, Elemish Beauty, Marie Louise, Osband's Summer, St. Michael Archange, Glout Morceau, Josephine de Malines, Passe Col- mar, Dana's Hovey. General or Market Culture. — Beurre Gift'ard, Beurre Bosc, Beurre d' Anjou, Beurre Langelier, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Su]>erfin, Bartlett, Belle Lucrative, Paradis d' Automne, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon, Onondaga (Swan's Orange,) Doyenne Boussock, Doyenne du Comice, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Urbaniste. Winter Nelis, Lawrence, Vicar of Winkfield, Fulton, Howell. Promising Well. — Clapp's Favorite, Durandeau (De Tongres), Beurre Hardy. classification of pears. FOR HOME USE. Best Five. — Bartlett, Seckel, Sheldon, Urbaniste, Lawrence. Best Ten. — Beurre Giffard, Bartlett, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon, Beurre iBosc, Urbaniste, Doyenne du Comice, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence. 72 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1872. Best Fifteen.— Beurre Giffard, Bartlett, Paradis d' Autonme, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon. Beurre Bosc, Duchesse d' An- i,'ouleme, Beurre Supertin, Urbaniste, Doyenne du Cornice, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence, Winter Nelis, Vicar of Winktield. Best Twenty.— Beurre Giffard, Clapp's Favorite, Bartlett, Paradis d' Autonme, Belle Lucrative, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Shel- don, Beurre Bosc. Duchesse d'Angouleme, Beurre Superfin, Beurre Clairgeau, Onondaga (Swan's Orange,) Urbaniste, Doyenne du Cornice, Beurre d' Anjou, Dana's Ilovey, Lawrence, Winter Nelis, Vicar of Winkfield. FOR THE MARKET. Best Five. — Bartlett, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Duchesse d' Angoulemc, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence. Best Ten. — Clapp's Favorite, Bartlett, Paradis d' Automne, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Beurre IBosc, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Beurre d' Anjou, Beurre Clairgeau, Lawrence. STKAWBEKRIES. Best One Variety.— Charles Downing. Best Three Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucuiida. Best Five Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucunda, Lady of the Lake, Kentucky. Best Tex Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucunda, Lady of the Lake, Kentucky, President Wilder, Boyden's No. 30, Downer's Prolific, Cutter's Seedling, Triomphe de Gand. Amateur Varieties. — Nicanor, Napoleon Third, Lennig's White, Fillmore, Scott's Seedling. EASPBERBIES. Hardy Bed. — Clarke, Philadelphia. Half Hardy Red. — Knevett's Giant, Northumberland, Franconia. Light Colored. — Brinckle's Orange. Black Caps. — Davison's Thornless, Manunoth Cluster. BLACKBERRIES. Wilson's Early, Kittatinny, Dorchester. CURRANTS. Red. — La Versaillaise, CheiTy, Red Dutch. White — White Grape, Dana's Transparent. GRAPES. General Culture. — Hartford Prolific, Delaware, Concord, Salem (Rogers No. 53,) Massasoit (Rogers No. 3,) Lindley (Rogers No. U,) Rogers No. 33, Barry (Rogers No. 43). Amateur. — Diana. Promising Well. — Walter, Eumelan, Wilder (Rogers No. 4.) ♦Varieties recommended as " promising well." t Varieties recommended for " amateur cultivation." SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS OFFERED BY THE WORCESTER, COUNTY Horticultural Society, FOR THE YEAR 1874; WITH ITS LIST OF SELECT FRUITS. WORCESTER, MASS.: EDWARD R. FISKE & CO., PRINTERS. 1874. PEOSPEGTIVE PRIZES. For Fruits originated within the County of "Worcester, and wliich, after full trial, shall be decided equal in quality and other characteristics to any now extant : For the best Seedling Strawberry, after a trial of three years, $25 00 For the best Seedling Raspberry, after a trial of three years, re- gard being had to hardiness as well as quality, . 25 00 For the best Seedling Fruit, after a trial of three years, . 20 00 Committee. — President, Secretary, George Cruickshanks of Whitins- ville, Joseph C. Lovell of West Boylston, O. B. Hadwen, James Draper, F. J. Kinney and William H. Earle, of Worcester. j^= Particular attention is called to the Rules and Regulations on pp. 12 and 13, and especially to Nos. 1 and 14, res'pectively; the one defining the limit of time for entries of Vegetables, and the other requiring lists of all entries to be filed with the Secretary. Amount appropriated for Premiums at the Exhibitions in 1874, $1,500. SELECT FRUITS RECOMMENDED BY THE SOCIETY. APPLES. Early. — Pied Astraclian, Sweet Bough, Duchess of Oldenburg, Wil- liams' Early Ked, Worcester Spyf and Summer Pippin (Sour Boughf). AuTUMX. — Gravenstein, Mother, Porter, Hubbardston Nonesuch, Hol- den Pippin, Maiden's Blush, Shepard's Sweet* and Leland's Spice.* Winter AND Spring. — Ehode Island Greening, Baldwin, Tallman Sweet, Roxburj^ Kussett, Northern Spy, Washington Eoyal and Yellow Belleflower.f CHERRIES. General Culture. — May Duke, Knight's Early Black, Black Tarta- rian, American Amber, Downer's Late, Black Eagle, Elton. PEARS. Amateur Culture. — Doyenne d' Ete, Dearborn's Sfiedling, Rostiezer, St. Ghislain, Flemish Beauty, Marie Louise, Osband's Summer, St. Michael Archange, Glout Morceau, Josephine de Malines, Passe Colmar, Dana's Hovey. General or Market Culture. — Beurre Giffard, Beurre Bosc, Beurre d' Anjou, Beurre Langelier, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre Sui^erfln, Bartlett, Belle Lucrative, Paradis d' Automne, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon, Onondaga, Doyenne Bousock, Doyenne du Comice, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Urbaniste, Winter Nelis, Law- rence, Vicar of Winkfield, Fulton, Howell. Promising Well. — Clapp's Favorite, Durandeau, Beurre Hardy. CLASSIFICATION OF PEARS. FOR HOBIE USE. Best Five. — Bartlett, Seckel, Sheldon, Ui'baniste, Lawrence. Best Ten. — Beurre Giffard, Bartlett, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon, Beurre Bosc, Urbaniste, Doyenne du Comice, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence. Best Fifteen. — Beurre Giffard, Bartlett, Paradis d' Automne, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Sheldon, Beurre Bosc, Duchesse d' An- gouleme, Beurre Superlin, Urbaniste, Doyenne du Comice, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence, Winter Nelis, Vicar of Winktield. 4 ^WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. Best Twenty. — Beurre Giffard, Clapp's Favorite, Bartlett, Paradis d' Automne, Belle Lucrative, Seckel, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Shel- don, Beurre Bose, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Beurre Supertin, Beurre Clairsjeau, Onondaga, Urbaniste, Do3'enne du Cornice, Beurre d' An- jou, Daua's Hovey, Lawrence, Winter Nelis, Vicar of Winkfield. FOR THE 3HARKET. . Best Five. — Bartlett, Louise Bonne de Jersey, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Beurre d' Anjou, Lawrence. Best Ten. — Clapp's Favorite, Bartlett, Paradis d' Automne, Seckel Louise Bonne de Jerse}', Beurre Bosc, Duchesse d' Angouleme, Beurre d' Anjou, Beurre Clairgeau, Lawrence. STEAWBEKRIES. Best One Variety. — Charles Downing. Best Three Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucunda. Best Five Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucunda, Lady of the Lake, Kentucky. Best Ten Varieties. — Charles Downing, Wilson, Jucunda, Lady of the Lake, Kentucky, President AVilder, Boydeu's 'No. 30, Downer's Prolific, Cutter's Seedling, Triomphe de Gand. Amateur Varieties. — Nicanor, Kapoleon Third, Lennig's White, Fillmore, Scott's Seedling. RASPBERRIES. Hardy Red. — Clarke, Philadelphia. Half Hardy Red. — Knevett's Giant, Northumberland, Franconia. Light Colored. — Brinckle's Orange. Black Caps. — Davison's Thornless, Mammoth Cluster. BLACKBERRIES. Wilson's Early, Kittatinny, Dorchester. CURRANTS. Red. — La Versaillaise, Chei'ry, Red Dutch. White. — White Grape, Daua's Transparent. GRAPES. General Culture. — Hartford Prolific, Delaware, Concord, Massasoit (Rogers No. iJ), Lindley (Rcjgers No. 9), Rogers No. 33, Barry (Rog- ers No. 43), Salem (Rogers No. 53). Amateur. — Diana. Promising Well. —Walter, Eumelan, Wilder (Rogers No. 4). *Varieties recommended as " promising well." tVarieties recommended for "amateur cultivation."' COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS AND EXHIBITIONS. John C. Kewton, Chairman. James Draper, Samuel Flagg, Henry Phelps, O. B. Hadwen, Alfred Davis. George E. Francis, President. Edward W. Lincoln, Secretary., Nos. 5 Oak and 18 Front Streets, Worcester. The Autumnal Exhibitions commence Tuesday evenings, September 8th and October 6th, at 6 P. M., and close Thursday evenings, September 10th and October 8th, at 9 P. M. COMMITTEES OF AWAED. APPLES. — William T. Harlow, Chairman; James F. Allen, O. B. Hadwen, Samuel H. Colton, Samuel A. Knox, Sylvanus Sears, J. K. L. Pickford, of Worcester; Cyrus White, Henry Marble, of Millhury; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. —William H. Earle, Chairman; T. M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, Horatio Phelps, Thomas A. Dawson, of Worces- ter; Paul Whitin, George Cruickshanks, of Whitinsville; F. M. Mar- ble, of Grafton; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. I'EARS. — Henry L. Parker, Chairman; Henry Phelps, John C- Newton, James Draper, S. Harrison Knox, Alfred Davis, of Wor- cester; Newell Wood, of Millhury; and John F. Johnson, of North- horough. PLANTS. FLOWERS, &c. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman; George E. Francis, James L. Burbank, Charles Madaus, Clarendon Jlarris, D. S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, and Lyman J. Taft, of Worcester. YEGE'rABLES. — Alexander Marsh," C/mirman; Thomas R. Nor- cross, J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Chas. Belcher, George G. Burbank, and Wm. H. Hackett, of Worcester. |@=The Committees will meet at 7^ o'clock on the evenings of Tues- day, September 6th and October 8th, being the opening evenings of each Exhibition. SUMMER EXHIBITIONS. The Opening Exhibition of the Summer Season will be held in the Hall of Flora, on Thursday, the 11th day of June, from 3 to 5 o'clock, P.M. SPECIAL NOTICE. 1st. All named varieties of plants or flowers exhibited for premium must have the name legihly and correctly written on stiff card, wood or some other permanent substance; and each separate plant or flower must have its name attached. 2d. Detailed reports of exhibitions cannot be expected unless a written list is handed to the Secretary. 3d. The Committees will not feel themselves obliged to aAvard the premiums merely because plants and flowers are exhibited in competi- tion; and unless they possess decided marks of superiority, premiums will be withheld. 4th. All exhibitors not strictly complying with the above rules will be excluded from competition for premium. Attention is also called to the Kules and Eegulations of the Society. HARDY PLANTS AND SHRUBS. For the best display of named varieties $8 00 For the second best o 00 For the third best 3 00 On THURSDAY, P. M., June 18th. CUT FLOAVERS For the best display $5 00 For the second best 3 00 ROSE EXHIBITION. The Annual Rose Exhibition will be held in the Hall of Floka, on Thursday, the 25th day of June, commencing at 3 P. M., and closing at 5 P. M. 1874.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 7 All articles for competition must be entered with the Secretary, and be placed on the tables, before 1 o'clock, P. M. ROSES. For the best general display of named varieties $8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 3 00 For the best arranged vase 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 CTJT FLOWEKS. For the best collection ,f 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 GREEN HOUSE PLANTS. For the best collection of named specimens $S 00 • For the second best 6 00 For the third best 4 00 TO FLORISTS. — Special. On each successive Thursday, viz : July 2d, August 6th, July 9th, August 13th, July 16th, August 20th, July 23d, " August 27th, July 30th, September 3d, Premiums of three dollars (,S3.00) and two dollars (S2.00), respectively, will be offered for the best and next best Two Stands of Cut Flowers. To Amateurs. — At each of such exhibitions a premium of two dol- lars ($2.00) and one dollar (Sl-OO) will also be offered for the best and second best Stands of Cut Flowers, grown hy amateurs. [Gratuities will also be awarded for collections of Native Flowers, in their season, and for such other articles as may apjDear lo merit loccuniary encouragement. The Trustees have made liberal appropriations, and the Committee on Exhibitions are resolved that the reproach of meagre dis- plays, or none at all, shall not attach to themselves, but to those florists who neglect their opportunities. E. w. L.] PEEMIUMS FOE FEUITS DDEING THE SEASON. 'The Season is understood to extend from the opening in June to the Autumnal Exhibition in September, during which there will be an Exhibition every Thursday, and premiums will be awarded as enumerated in the Schedule, , AT THE EOSE SHOW— On Thuksday, June 25th, Entries must be made with the Secretary, and the articles be upon thp tables, before 1 o'clock, P, M. Iso person can compete for more than one premium with the same spe- cies of Berry or varieties of Fruit, except that a single dish may be the same as in a collection. All Small Fruits must be displayed in quart boxes. STRAWBERRIES. CLASS 1. — Eor the best collection of five (5) varieties named, one quart of each, the varieties being restricted to the Society's list of the " Best Ten " S8 00 Eor the second best do 5 00 For the third best do 3 00 CLASS 2. — For the best two quarts of Agriculturist 2 00 For the best one quart of Agriculturist 1 00 For the best one quart of Boyden 'No. 30 1 00 For the best two quarts of Charles Downing 2 00 For the best one quart of Charles Downing 1 00 For the best one quart of Downer's Prolific 1 CO For the best one quart of Ida 1 00 For the best two quarts of Jucunda 2 00 For the best one quart of Jucunda 1 00 For the best two quarts of Kentucky 2 00 For the best one quart of Kentucky 1 00 For the best one quart of Lady of the Lake 1 00 For the best one quart of President Wilder 1 00 187-i.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 9 For the best two quarts of Triomphe fie Gand 2 00 Fur the best ouc quart of Trioinphe de Gand 1 00 For the best two quarts of Wilson 2 00 Fur the best one quart of Wilson 1 00 On THURSDAY, JULY 2d. CHERRIES. For the best four named varieties of one quart each $4 00 For the second best four named varieties of one quart each ... 2 00 For the best two quarts of Black Tartarian 2 00 For the second best two quarts of Black Tartarian 1 00 For the best two quarts of any other named vaiiety 2 00 For the second best two quarts of any other named variety ... 1 CO On THURSDAY, JULY 9th. CUKKANTS. For the best collection of not less than four varieties, one quart each So 00 For the second best as above 3 00 For the best two quarts of La Yersaillaise 2 00 For the best one quart of La Yersaillaise 1 00 For the best quart of any other Red variety 1 GO For the best quart of any White variety 1 00 On THURSDAY, JULY 16th. RASPBERRIES. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties, of one quart each S6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the best two quarts of Brinckle's Orange 2 00 For the second best two quarts of Brinckle's Orange 1 00 For the best two quarts of ISTorthumberland 2 00 For the second best two quarts of ^Northumberland 1 00 For the best two quarts of Hudson River Antwerp 2 00 For the second best two quarts of Hudson River Antwerp .... 1 00 For the best quart of Clarke 1 00 For the best quart of Franconia 1 00 For the best quart of Knevett's Giant 1 00 For the best quart of Philadelphia '- 1 00 BLACK CAPS. For the best collection of not less than four varieties 3 00 For the second best 2 00 9 10 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [IH74. On THURSDAY, JULY -230. BLACKBERRIES. For the bc't collection of not less than four varieties, of one quart each $4 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best quart of Wilson 1 00 For the best quart of Kittatinny 1 00 For the best quart of Dorchester 1 00 RASPBERRIES. For the best two quarts of any named variety 2 00 For the second best 1 00 On THURSDAY, JULY 30th. PEAKS. For the best twelve specimens of Doyenne d' Ete $1 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 1 00 POTATOES, For the best peck 1 00 TOMATOES. For the best twelve specimens (open culture) 2 00 For the second best (open culture) 1 00 On THURSDAY, AUGUST 6th. APPLES. For the best ten specimens of any named variety $2 00 For the second best ten specimens of any named variety 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Beurre Giffard $2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve of an}' other named variety 1 00 On THURSDAY, AUGUST 13th. APPLES. For the best ten specimens of Early Sweet Bough $1 00 For the best ten specimens of William's Early Red 100 For the best ten specimens of Red Astrachan 2 00 For the second best ten specimens of Red Astrachan 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve Rostiezer 1 00 For the best twelve of any other named variety 1 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS, 11 On THURSDAY, AUGUST 20th. APPLES. For the best collection of not less than four varieties, of ten speci- mens each S4 CO For the second best 2 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve of any other named variety 1 00 On THURSDAY, AUGUST 27th. APPLES. For the best ten specimens of any named variety $\ CO For the best ten specimens of any other named variety 1 00 PEAKS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite 2 00 For the second best 1 00 PEACHES. For the best twelve specimens of Crawford's Early 2 00 VEGETABLES. For the best twelve Tomatoes 2 00 For the second best 1 00 On THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3d. APPLES. For the best ten specimens of any named variety $2 00 For the best ten specimens of any other named variety 1 00 PEARS. For the best twelve specimens of Clapp's Favorite 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve specimens of Bartlett 2 00 For the second best 1 00 PEACHES. For the best dish of twelve specimens 2 00 For the second best 1 00 AUTUMNAL EXHIBITIONS. The Society will hold Two General Exhibitions dui-ing the Au- tumn of A. D. 1874, in its own Halls, on Front Street, in the City of 'Wor- cester. The First Exhibition will commence on Tuesday, September 8th, at 6 o'clock, P. M., and close on Thursday, Sept. 10th, at 9 o'clock, P. M. The Second Exhibition will commence on Tuesday, October 6th, at 6 o'clock, P. M., and close on Thursday, October 8th, at 9 o'clock, P. M. ^^= Exhibitors are notified that strict conformity to the Regulations and Rules will be expected and required, for their own benefit as well as for the convenience of the Officers of the Society. RULES AND REGULATIONS. 1. Articles offered for premium at the Autumnal ExniBiTiONS must be in the Halls and entered with the Secretary before six (6) o'clock, P. M., of the opening days of the Exhibitions; Provided, that all entries of Vegetables for the Second Exhibition must be made with the Secretary hefore the 3d day of October. 2. Competition for premiums is open to all; but a discount of one- third of the amount will be made from the awards to persons who are not Members of the Society; and it is strictly required that all specimens of- fered for premiums shall have been grown by the competitors. 3. After the articles are arranged they will be under the exclusive charge of the Committees, and not even the owners will have the liberty to remove them, until the Exhibition is closed, when they will be delivered as the contributors may direct. 4. No person shall be entitled to receive more than one premium for the same specimen of fruit or vegetable. And no article for which a pre- mium has been once awarded can receive another during the season. Nor shall any transfer be allowed, from one class to another, of an article once entered upon the books of the Secretary. , 1874.] RULES AND REGULATIONS. 13 5. Ko variety of which specimens have been entered in a class or col- lection shall be repeated in any other collection or class; but specimens of that variety may be duplicated among the single plates. 6. All Fruits offered for premium must be composed of exactly the number or quantity of specimens named in the Schedule, the several Committees being instructed to remove all excess or exclude for defi- ciency; each variety being designated by name. 7. All articles offered for premiums must be correctly named. Indefi- nite appellations, such as " Pippin," "Sweeting," " Greening," etc., will not be considered as names. 8. No Flowers, Fruits or Vegetables will be entitled to a premium unless they possess points of superiority; and the Committees are strictly required to withhold premiums if, in their opinion, the articles exhibited do not merit them. 9. Competitors will be required to furnish information as to their mode of cultivation, and to present specimens for trial and examination if requested. 10. All premiums that are not claimed within three months after the Autumnal Exhibitions shall be forfeited to the Society. 11. The awards of the premiums will be made known as soon as the premium cards can be filled out and placed upon the tables. 12. Admission to the Autumnal Exhibitions, for those who are not Members of the Society, 25 cents; children under sixteen years of age, 10 cents; season tickets, 50 cents. 13. At the close of eacli Exhibition the Fruit, Vegetables, &c. belong- ing to the Society will be sold, and all specimens which are not claimed at that time will be considered as given to the Society, and will be sold for its benefit. 14. Contributors will he required to famish the Secretary ivith a list of their articles^ specifying the precise Class in which they would compete. 15. " Downing's Fruits of America," revised edition, will guide the Committees in their decisions upon matters at isssue. 1^= Special Notice. — The several Committees will meet at 7:30 o'clock, P. M., on the opening evening of each Exhibition, to make their awards. 14 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. FUEl^lIXJMS, SEPTEMBER EXHIBITION. APPLES. Committee — Wm. T. Harlow, Chairman, James F. Allen, O. B. Ilad- wen, Samuel H. Colton, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickford, Sylvanus Sears, of Worcester; Cjtus White, Henry Marble, of Millbury; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. CLASS 1.— For the best six named varieties of ten specimens each .^6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 CLASS 2. — (Single Plates.) — For the best ten Astrachan (Bed) 2 00 For the best ten Duchess of Oldenburg 2 00 For the best ten Golden Sweet 2 00 For the best ten Gravenstein 2 00 For the best ten Holden Pippin 2 00 For the best ten Maiden's Blush 2 00 For the best ten Porter 2 00 For the best ten Sheppard's Sweet 2 00 For the best ten Sweet Bough (Early) 2 00 For the best ten Williams' Early Bed 2 00 For the best ten Washington Strawberry 2 00 For the best ten of any other sort 2 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS. 15 GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. Committee. — William H. Eaile, Chairman; Thomas M. Lamb, W. W. Cook, Horatio Phelps, Thomas A. Dawsou, of JVorcester; Paul Whitiu, George Cruickshaukis, of Whitinsvllle; F. M. Marble, of Grafton; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. GRAPES. For the best collection of not exceeding eight named varieties, grown under glass, two clusters of each variety $12 00 For the second best 9 00 For the third best 6 00 For the best two clusters of Black Hamburg 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other Black Grape 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best two clusters of White Muscat 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other variety of White 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best four ripe clusters of any early native variety of out-door Grape 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not less than ten speci- mens each '. 8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 2 00 For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best one variety of twelve specimens 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 PLUMS. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties . . 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best three varieties 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best single plate 3 00 For the second best 1 00 16 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. PEARS. Committee. — Henry L. Parker, C/iairman; Henry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, S. Harrison Knox, Alfred Davis, of Worcester; Newell Wood, of Ilillbunj; and John F. Johnson, of Northborouyh. CLASS 1.— For the best five named varieties of twelve specimens each, in season $6 00 For the second best, in season 4 00 For the third best, in season 2 00 CLASS 2. — (SINGLE Plates.) — For the best twxdve Bartlett 4 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Belle Lucrative 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite 4 00 For the second best twelve 2 00 For the third best twelve 1 00 For the best twelve Dearborn's Seedling 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock 2 00 For the best twelve Flemish Beaut}- 3 00 For the second best twelve 2 00 For the third best twelve 1 00 For the best twelve Howell 2 00 For the second best twelve 1 00 For the best twelve Paradis d' Automne 2 00 For the second best twelve 1 00 For the best twelve St. Ghislain 2 00 For the second best twelve 1 00 For the best tw^elve Washington 2 00 For the second best twelve 1 00 CLASS ,3.— (New Pears.)— For the best twelve Beurre de 1' Asscmption 2 00 For the best twelve Souvenir du Congres 2 00 PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c. Committee. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman ; George E. Francis, James L. Bur1)ank, Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Messinger, Henry Woodward and Henry L. Shum^vay of Worcester. 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 17 [Rule : All Pot-Plants shall have been grown in the Pots in which the}^ are exhibited.] ASTEES.— For the best display 4 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 2 00 For the fourth best 1 00 BASKET. — (HANGi>fG.) — For the best, grown at least one month in the basket, (out doors) 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 BOUQUETS. — (Hand.) — For the best pair 3 00 For the second best * 2 00 BOUQUETS. — (Parlok.) — For the best pair 4 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 DAHLIAS. — Class 1. — For the best twelve named varieties 3 00 For the second best 1 00 Class 2. — For the best twelve liliputian varieties 3 00 DESIGN. — (Floral ) — For the best 6 00 For the second best 4 00 FLOWERS. — (Cut.) [Variety and arrangement will be consid- ' ered as well as rarity and quantity.] For the best Collection, and best kept during the Exhibition, of not less than two, nor exceeding Ave stands 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 Fer the best stand 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best arranged Basket or Dish 3 00 For the second best 2 (10 GLADIOLUS. — For the best Collection, named or unnamed varieties, from any source 5 00 For the second best 3 00 3 18 worcester county horticultural society. [1s74. Class 1. For the best fifteen named varieties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 Class 2. For the best ten named varieties 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best specimen spike 1 00 For tlie best seedling 1 00 PAXSIES. — For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 PIKKS. — (China.) — For the best Display ": 3 00 For the second best 1 00 PETUNIAS. — For the best Display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 SCABIOSA. — For the best Display, not less than three colors 2 00 For the second best 1 00 SWEET PEAS. — For the best Display 2 00 VEEBENAS. — For the best Display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best display of seedlings 2 00 For the second best • 1 00 zmi^iAS. — For the best Display '. 2 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 19 TEGETABLES. 1®=" All entries in this Department must be made with the Secfetary, on or before the Fifth (5th) day of September. And all articles exhibited for Premiums, must be in Hall of Ceres, by 6 o'clock, P. M., on Tues- day, the eighth (8th) day of September. Committee : — Alexander Marsh, Chairman ; Thomas E. ISTorcross, John D. Lovell, Eufus Carter, O. L. Hatch, Charles Belcher, William H. Hackett and Daniel Bemis, of Worcester. MELONS. — Por the best two Water 3 00 Por the second best 1 00 Por the best Green Plesh, three specimens . 2 00 Por the best Yellow Plesh, three specimens 2 00 TOMATOES.— Por the best collection, not less than six varieties and not less than twelve of each variety 5 00 Por the second best 3 00 Por the third best 1 GO Por the best Boston Market 2 00 Por the best twelve Lester 2 GO Por the best twelve Tilden 2 00 Por the best twelve Trophy 2 00 Por the best twelve of any other named variety 2 00 2() WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. OCTOBEE EIHIBITION. APPLES. Committee. — "\yilliam T. Harlow, Chairman ; James F. Allen, O. B. Hadwen, Samuel H. Colton, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickforcl, Sylvanus Sears, of Worcester ; Cyrus White, Henry Marble, otMillbury; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. CLASS 1.— For the best collection of not less than twenty-five nor more than thirty varieties, ten specimens of each variety . S15 00 For the second best 12 00 For the third best 9 00 CLASS 2.— For the best twenty named varieties, of ten specimens each . . 12 00 For the second best 9 00 For the third best 6 00 CLASS 3. — For the best twelve named varieties, of ten specimens each. . . 10 00 For the second best 7 00 For the third best 4 00 CLASS 4. — For the best six named varieties, of ten specimens each 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 CLASS o.— For the best three named varieties, of ten specimens each .... 4 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 2 00 CLASS 6.— For the best collection, of not less than four new varieties, not previously exljibited 5 00 For the next best .'5 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 21 CLASS 7. — (Single Plates.) — For the best ten Baldwin 2 00 For the best ten Cogswell 2 00 For the best ten Holden Pippin 2 00 For the best ten Ilubbardston Konesuch 2 00 For the best ten Leicester Sweet 2 00 For the best ten Mother -. 2 00 For the best ten Korthcru Spy 2 00 For the best ten Washington Koyal 2 00 For the best ten Peck's Pleasant 2 00 For the best ten Porter 2 00 For the best ten Khode Island Greening 2 00 For the best ten Roxbury Russett 2 00 For the best ten Sheppard's Sw^eet 2 00 For the best ten Tallman's Sweet 2 00 For the best ten Sweet Apples of any other variety than here named 2 00 For the best ten Williams' Early Red 2 00 For the best ten Twenty Ounce 2 00 For the best ten Washington Strawberry 2 00 For the best ten of any other sort 2 00 GEAPES, QUIIl^^CES, &c. Committee. — William H. Earle, Chairman; Thomas M. Lamb, W. W. Cooke, Horatio Phelps, Thomas A. Dawson, of Worcester ; Paul Whitin and George Cruickshanks of Whitinsville ; F. M. Marble, of Graf- ton ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. GRAPES. For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes, not less than six nor exceeding fifteen named varieties, of four clusters each 8 00 For the second best 5 00 For the third best 3 00 For the best four clusters of Concord 3 00 For the best four clusters of Croton 3 00 For the best four clusters of Delaware 3 00 For the best four clusters of Diana 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eumelan 3 00 For the best four clusters of Hai-tford Prolific 3 00 22 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. For the best four clusters of lona 3 00 For the best four clusters of Israclla 3 00 For the best four clusters of Martha 3 00 For the best four clusters of llogers JSTo. 3, (Massasoit) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 4, (Wilder) 3 00 For the best four clusters of llogers Ko. 7 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 9, (Lindlej-) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 15, (Agawam) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 19, (Merrimac) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 43, (Barrj) 3 00 For the best four clusters of Salem 3 00 For the best four clusters of Senasqua 3 00 For the best four clusters of AValter 3 00 For the best four clusters of Worden's Seedling 3 00 For the best four clusters of any other variety of superior quality 3 00 QUINCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best twelve Orange Quinces 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety 2 00 For the second best 1 00 CANNED FRUITS.— For the largest and best collection 8 00 For the second best 6 00 For the third best 4 00 [Samples must be furnished for actual test. Appearance and quality both will be regarded in making up awards.] PEAES. CosiiiiTTEE. — Henry L. Farker^ Chairman ; Plenry Phelps, John C. Newton, James Draper, Alfred Davis, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of Millbury ; and John F. Johnson, of Nortliborough. CLASS 1.— For the best fifteen (15) named varieties of twelve specimens each, the varieties being restricted to those classified among the single plates ^ , S20 00 For the second best 15 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 23 For the third best 10 00 For the fourth best. 5 OJ CLASS 2. — (Single Plates.) — For the best twelve Beurre Bosc (on one plate) 5 00 For the second best .3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre d' Anjou 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Diel 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Hardy 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Langelier 2 GO For the best twelve Beurre Superiin 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve'Dix 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne du Cornice 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best , 1 00 For the best tAvelve Duchesse d' Angouleme 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Durandeau 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Glout Morceau 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best . 1 00 For the best twelve Howell 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Josephine de Malines 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best twelve Lawrence 5 CO For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Marie Louise 3 00 For the second best 2 00 24 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. For the best twelve Mt. Vernon 2 00 For the best twelve Onondaga 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Seckel 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve Sheldon 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best twelve St. Michel 2 00 For the second best. 1 00 For the best twelve St. Michel Archange 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best twelve Urbaniste 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best twelve Vicar of Winkfield 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best twelve Winter Nt'li;^ .^ 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the third best 1 00 CLASS 3. (New Peaes.) For the best twelve Souvenir du Congres 2 00 For the be^t twelve Brockworth Park 2 00 For the best twelve Duchesse de Bordeaux 2 00 For the best twelve Dr. Keeder 2 00 For the best twelve Helene Gregoire 2 00 For the best twelve Hnyshe's Prince Consort 2 00 For the best twelve Eutter 2 00 For the best twelve Emile d' Heyst 2 00 For the best twelve St. Crispin 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne Hovev 2 00 For the best twelve Souvenir d' Esperen 2 00 For the best twelve Gen. Todleben 2 00 For the best twelve Due de Bordeaux 2 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 25 PLANTS, FLOWEES, &c. Committee. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman; George E. Francis, James L. Burbank, Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, and Henry L. Shumway, of Worcester. [EuLE: All Pot-Plants shall have been grown in the Pots in which they are exhibited.] STOVE AND GREENHOUSE PLANTS. PLANTS WITH OENAMEKTAL FOLIAGE.— For the best twelve S20 00 For the second best 12 00 For the best six 10 00 For the second best 5 00 For the best single 3 00 For the second best 1 00 PLANTS IN BLOOM.— For the best six 15 00 For the second best 10 00 For the third best 5 00 For the best single 3 00 For the second best 1 00 EARE AND NEW PLANTS. — For the best collection 8 00 For the second best 4 00 FERNS AND LYCOPODS. — For the best collection 10 00 For the second best o 00 HANGING BASKET. — For the best, grown at least one month in the basket 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 PARLOR PLANTS IN POTS. — (From Amateurs.) ~ For the best collection, not exceeding twelve varieties 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 SINGLE PLANT.— For the best 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 4 26 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1874. FERNERY OR WARDIAN CASE, from any source. — . For the best 6 00 For the second best 4 00 For the third best 2 00 CUT FLOWERS. — [Variety and arrangement will be considered . as well as rarity and quantity.] For the best Collection and best kept during the exhibition, of not less than two, nor exceeding five stands 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 For the best Stand 2 00 For the second best 1 00 For the best arranged Basket or Dish 2 00 For the second best 1 00 CHINA PINKS. — For the best display 2 00 IMMORTELLES. — For the best collection of named varieties 3 00 For the second best 2 00 ORNAMENTAL GRASSES.— For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 PANSIES.— For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the third best 1 00 VERBENAS.— For the best display 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best display of seedlings 2 00 For the second best 1 00 SPECIAL PREMIUM. — (Offered by the President.) For the best two plants of Zonale Geraniums, single or double, of any color, in bloom, — to be awarded by George Cruickshanks, — a Cup, valued at .SIO.OO, the name of the contributor not to be attached to the plants. 1874.] SCHEDULE OP PREMIUMS.- 27 VEGETABLES. |@^ All entries in this Department must be made with the Secretary, before the third (3d) day of October. And all Vegetables exhibited for Premiums, must be in their proper Hall, by 6 o'clock P. M., on Tuesdaj^, the sixth day of October. Committee. — Alexander Marsh, Chairman; Thomas R. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, O. L Hatch, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, and William H. Hackett, of Worcester. CLASS 1.— For the best Collection of Vegetables $20 00 For the second best 15 00 For the third best 10 00 g@=" The Collection of Vegetables must consist of the following: Beans, 4 varieties. Egg Plant, 1 varieties. Beets, 4 " Onions, 2 " Cabbage, 4 " Parsneps, 2 " Carrots, 2 " Peppers, 2 " Cauliflowers, 1 '' Potatoes, 4 " Celery, 1 " Pumpkins, 2 " Corn, 3 " Squashes, 4 " Turnips, 3 " SPECIAL competition: [Open only to the Worcester City Farm and the State Lunatic Hospital.] For the best general Collection of Vegetables 12 00 For the second best 8 00 CLASS 2. — Beets. For the best twelve Long Blood 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano 2 00 For the best twelve Egyptian 2 00 For the best twelve Sugar 2 00 For the best twelve Turnip 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel 2 00 CABBAGES. — For the best collection of not less than five varieties 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best three Large Flat Brunswick 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 28 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, [1874. For the best three Drumhead 3 00 For the best single specimen Drumhead, weight not less than 30 lbs •. 1 00 For the best three Drumhead Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Early Sweinfurth 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 For the best three Eed 2 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 For the best three Savoy 3 00 For the best single specimen 2 00 CAKKOTS. — For the best twelve Early Horn or Short Scarlet 2 00 For the best twelve Long Orange .• 2 00 For the best twelve Eed 2 00 For the best tweh'e White 2 00 CAULIFLOWERS. — For the best three specimens 3 00 For the best single specimen 1 00 CELERY. — For the best six roots 4 00 For the second best 2 00 CORN. — For the best collection of Sweet, not less than five varieties . . 5 00 For the second best 3 00 For the best twelve ears of Sweet 2 00 For the second best. 1 00 For the best Yellow or Field, of twenty ears traced 2 00 For the second best 1 00 CRANBERRIES. — For the best peck 1 00 EGG PLANT. — For the best four specimens 1 00 HORSE RADISH.— For the best six roots 1 00 ONIONS. — For the best four varieties, a half peck of each 3 00 For the second best 2 00 For the best half peck of Red 1 00 For the best half peck of Silver Skin '. . 1 00 For the best half peck of White Portugal 2 00 1874.] SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. 29 PARSNEPS. — For the best twelve Guernsey 2 00 For the best twelve Hollow Crown 2 00 For the best twelve Student 2 00 For the best twelve Short 2 00 POTATOES. — For the best ten named varieties, a half peck of each 12 00 For the second best 8 00 For the third best 4 00 PUMPKINS. — For the best thi-ee, weight not less than 20 lbs. each 2 00 For the second best 1 00 PEPPERS. — For the best half peck 1 00 SALSIFY. — For the best twelve specimens 1 00 SQUASHES.— For the best three pure Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Canada Crookneck 2 00 For the best three pure Hubbard 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth 2 00 For the best three pure Marblehead 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow 2 00 For the best three pure Turban 2 00 For the best three pure Yokohama 2 00 TURNIPS. — For the best twelve EngUsh or Flat 2 00 For the best twelve French AVhite 2 OU For the best twelve Ruta Baga or Swedes 2 00 30 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1875. A. D., 1875-MARCH 18. SPECIAL EXHIBITION OP CHINESE AND OTHER PRIMROSES, CYCLA- MENS, HYACINTHS, AND OTHER SPRING-BLOOMING PLANTS. PLANTS IN BLOOM.— For the best general display $5 00 For the second best general display 3 00 PRIMROSES.— For the best six in bloom 3 00 For the second best • 2 00 For the best single plant 2 00 For the second best single plant 1 00 CYCLAMENS.— For the best six in bloom 3 00 For the second best six in bloom 2 00 For the best single plant 2 00 For the second best single plant 1 00 Gratuities will be awarded to other Plants that maybe adjudged worthy. SPECIAL PREMIUM. (Offered by the Secretary.) For the best collection of Indian Azaleas, not less than six (0,) nor exceeding twelve (12), specially entered for this prize, a Crj^stal Yase, valued at $10.00, to be awarded by a Committee to he selected by the Secretary. TRANSACTIONS OF THE Worcester Coimty Horticultural Society, FOR THE YEAR 1873; COMPKISIXG THE EEPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBI- TION; AND THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SEC- RETARY AND LIBRARIAN FOR THE YEAR 1873. WITH THE COMMEMORATION OF JOHN MILTON EARLE. REPORTS. REPORT ON APPLES. COM3IITTEE. — William T. Harlow, Chairman ; James F. Allen, Sam- uel H. Colton, Samuel A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickford, of Worcester ; Cyrus White, Henry Marble, of. Millbury; and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford. The apple crop last year (1872) in New England was unusually large — larger than any previous one for a decade, and that of the present (1873) is comparative!}' small. The report of your Committee on Apples last 3'ear, speculating upon the probable causes of the large crop of that year, gave a prominent place to the fact that it was the even or bearing year for grafted apples The alternation of larger crops in the even, with smaller ones in the odd years of our era, universally recognized in the case of the Baldwin, was pointed out to be equally true of all varieties. The small crop of the present year is in accordance with this alternation, and was to have been expected. Considering the smallness of the crop, our exhibition of apples this year exceeded expectations. Though inferior to the great exhibition of last year, it was more than an average as compared with exhibitions of the last ten years. The apparent success of an exhibition depends more upon the efforts of exhibitors than upon the crop. Probably there has never been during the thirty-three years of this Society's existence so small a crop of apples in the County of Worcester but that persistent effort would have found sufficient material for a creditable exhibition. Not that there was any extraordinary effort made this year to render the exhibition a success. With a single exception, only the usual premiums for apples were offered, and these were advertised only in the usual manner. And the entries were made by the usual exhibitors — mostly members of the Society living in the City of Worcester. 1873.] REPORT ON APPLES. 33 There were entries for each of the three premiums in the first five classes, except for the 2d and 3d in the 2d class, and in most cases the number of varieties entered was in excess of the number called for. In Class 6, where two premiums were offered for the best and next best col- lections of not less than /our new varieties, not previously exhibited, there were no entries, and none were to have been expected. These preminms, (Class 6), were offered for the first time this year, and it is doubtful whether, even if the apple crop had been as large as that of last j'ear, any apple grower could be found within the jurisdiction of this Society able to exhibit apples that would satisfy the terms of the class. Of twenty- four premiums of $2.00 each, offered for single dishes of ten specimens each, eighteen were sharply competed for, the number of entries being in most cases so great and so excellent as to render the award a matter of difficulty. The six 82.00 premiums for which there was no competition were for the following varieties: Eed Astrachan, Duchess of Oldenburg, Golden SAveet, Palmer, Roxbury Russett, and Twenty Ounce, but all these varieties were on exhibition as parts of collections. The Committee had no difficulty in awarding the last premium of $2.00 "for the best ten of any other sort " to a plate of American Beauties — facile prince])S — entered by Mr. Sanders, of Worcester. If this new vari- ety shall turn out eventuallj'' as well as its present promise, it will be a truly valuable addition to our Apples. A few competitors placed their apples on the Society tables with their skins rubbed till they shone, imitating the practice of old apple women vending fruit on street corners. It cost your Committee an eifort to be just to such lack of good taste. We were pleased to notice in one department several plates of Crab Apples. No premiums were offered for this kind of fruit, but deemiug it worthy of culture and encouragement, we awarded to Mr. Morse a gratu- ity of .$1.00 for his plate of " Transcendants." And we recommend here- after the offer of a special premium for Crab Apples. The Committee have made x\.wards and recommend Gratuities, as follows : CLASS 1.— For the best collection of not less than twenty-five nor more than thirty-five varieties, ten specimens of each vari- ety, Joseph Pratt $15 00 For the second best, A. II. Sears 12 00 For the third best, J. L. Ellsworth 9 00 34 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. fl873. CLASS 2. — For the best twenty named varieties, of ten specimens each, E. M. Banning 12 00 For the second best, no entry 10 *00 For the third best, no entry 8 00 CLASS 3. — For the best twelve named varieties, of ten specimens each, S. Putnam 10 00 For the second best, O. B. Hadwen 8 00 For the third best, S. Sears 5 00 CLASS 4. — For tlie best six named varieties, of ten specimens each, Mrs. a. A. Chamberlain 0 00 For the second best, Joseph Boyden 4 00 For the third best, Eri Sanders 2 00 CLASS 5.— For the best three named varieties, of ten specimens each, E. S. Dusenbury 4 00 For the second best, E. B. Eice 3 00 For the third best, D. B. Comins 2 00 CLASS 6. — For the best collection, of not less than four new varieties, not previously exhibited, no entry 5 00 For the next best, no entry 3 00 SINGLE DISHES. — For the best ten Baldwin, S. Putnam 2 00 For best ten Astrachan (Red), no entry 2 00 For best ten Cogswell, A. Moore 2 00 For best ten Duchess of Oldenburg, no entry 2 00 For best ten Golden Sweet, no entry 2 00 For best ten Gravenstein, A. Lovell, of W. Boylston 2 00 For best ten Holden Pippin, G. W Mallilieu 2 00 For best ten Hubbardston Nonesuch, F. McCracken, of Mill- bury 2 00 For best ten Leicester Sweet, J. K. L. Pickford 2 00 For best ten Maiden's Blush, Mrs A. M. Newell 2 00 For best ten Mother, A. Moore 2 00 For best ten Northern Spy, S. Putnam 2 00 For best ten Palmer (Washington Royal), no entry 2 00 For best ten Peck's Pleasant, no entry 2 00 For best ten Porter, S. S. Foster 2 00 For best ten Rhode Island Greening, D. S. Goddard 2 00 1873.] REPORT ON APPLES. 35 For best ten Koxbury Eussett 2 00 For best ten Sheppard's Sweet, S. S. Foster 2 00 For best ten Tallman's Sweet, ITewell Wood, of Millbury 2 00 For best ten Sweet Apples of any variety, Mrs. A. M. New- ell, for Spice Sweeting 2 00 For best ten Williams' Early Ked, A. Foster, of Holden 2 00 P'or best ten Twenty Ounce, no entry 2 00 For best ten Washington Strawberry, Mrs. A. M. Newell .... 2 00 For best ten of any other sort, Eri Sanders, for American Beauty 2 00 GRATUITIES. — To S. S. Foster, for collection of thirty-four varieties .3 00 To Isaac Mills, for collection of twelve varieties SCO To O. Chaffin, for collection of twelve varieties 2 < 0 To A. Foster, for collection of six varieties 2 00 To C. White, for collection of six varieties 2 00 To H. Marble, for collection of six varieties 2 00 To William Howe, for single dish of ten Baldwins 1 00 To J. A. Farley, for single dish of ten Hubbardston Nonesuch 1 00 To C. Putnam, for single dish of ten Hubbardston Nonesuch. 1 00 To S. G. Curtis, for single dish of ten Hubbardston Nonesuch 1 00 To N. R. Hapgood, for single dish of ten Porters 1 00 To Mrs. A. M. NeweU, for single dish of ten N. J. Pippins. . . 2 00 To C. Morse, .Jr., for single dish of ten Trauscendant Crabs. . . 1 00 The bearing year for grafted apples will again recur next year, but former experiences warn us against basing great expectations solel}' on this fact. Frosts, insects, drouths or other negative factors may again, as they often have heretofore, either alone or in combination, produce a nega- tive product. The Report of your Committee on Apples last year, attempting to ac- count for the repeated failure of the apple crop in previous years, assigned as the principal cause the frequent occuri-ence of alternate periods of cold and warmth in Spring, whereby the bloom of the trees was first unduly forced and then, though often most abundant, was rendered abortive by late frosts. Discussing this topic, among other things the Report con- tained a remark about the freezing of trees in Winter. Since publication of the report my attention has been called to several articles in the Gar- dener's Monthly, a Horticultural Magazine published at Philadelphia, and more particularly to an editorial notice of the Transactions of this Society for 1872, in the number for June, 1873, wherein the editor, after quoting the remark above referred to, proceeds to criticise the same, maintaining 36 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 1873.] that the sap of trees does not freeze hi Winter. And this view of the Editor appears to have been the topic of frequent discussion witli his own correspondents and other horticultural editors. On the one side it is said that the sap of trees, containing as it does a large percentage of water, might be expected to freeze at SS'^F. And that it does in fact freeze, ap- p eal is made to experience. When, some morning in Januar}', with the thermometer below O'^r.,you pick up a sapwood chip as it flies away from the woodman's axe, and Avith your own eyes see that it is frozen solid, why should you doubt their evidence? Of course, this appeal to experi- ence is legitimate, and the Editor, unable to explain the facts, admits that l)lants " may appear frozen, as a drowned man sometimes appears dead; but \Adien the drowned man afterwards recovers we are bound to believe that the man was not really dead, in spite of aU appearances." He seems to assume that freezing must be fatal to all kinds of life, as if there was an a priori necessity supporting his theory. He says: " if we saw any living thing frozen through and yet live, we should doubt the evidence of our own eyes." But a priori assumption on a question of natural science is entirely'out of place in this age of experimental philosophy, and begging the question is out of place in any age. Nor is a shallow argument from analogy entitled to any weight ujion a question capable of submission to crucial test. Some " living things " cannot endure freezing. A tree is a '• living thing." Therefore a tree cannot endure freezing. — is an induction of the illegitimate order. Neither is the Editor's frequent appeal to common sense admissable upon this question. Com- mon sense is a very shallow philosopher, and knows nothing about it. It is not 400 years yet since common sense views of astronomy and geog- raphy were thought to 'be sulficient refutation of scientific demonstration. I tell thee, O, Copernicus, cried Common Sense, that the whole universe revolves around the earth once ever}' twenty-four hours; and I tell thee, O, Columbus, it is impossible for men to hang by their toes, with their heads downwards from the underside of the earth, like flies from the ceiling. The Editor of the Monthly also refers to certain facts which have come under his personal observation: " Grape vines in the house, with their roots out in solid frost, have been foiteed to put out foliage and bloom; and Hyacinth bulbs, buried six inches deep in November, ))ush their crowns to the surface at the first Spring thaw, though the whole mass was frozen solid all winter." This is argument from a legitimate source. But the facts stated, so far from proving that freezing is fatal to all plant life, would rather seem to favor the belief that some plants or parts of the same are capable of ac- tual growth while other parts are frozen. 1873.] REPORT ON APPLES. 37 Having thus outlined the argument, pro and coh., permit me to suggest a reconciliation. In medio tutisswius ibis. Though the weight of argu- ment and evidence as exhibited is all against the theory, there really is some substantial truth in it after all. Ifo7i constat that a theory is un- sound because its author's presentation of it begs the question or contains an incomplete induction. 1. There are two classes of trees. Of course no one would maintain that any tropical tree or plant could endure freezing. But the trees and shrubs of our latitude are all exogens or outside growers, and are of rad- ically different structure from the endogens or inside growers of the tro- pics. The humble representatives of the latter class in our Northern climes are all annual plants, which perish with the first freezing of Au- tumn. Among the important distinction* between these two great classes, to represent which we may take our Apple tree and the Palm as proper typical forms, there is this, which, though well known, is usually little noticed in elementary works: That while the inside-growing palm wholly consists of living vegetable matter, the only living parts of the outside- growing apple tree are the extremities, (that is, the buds and foliage and the tips of the roots and rootlets,) and the newest strata of wood and bark and especially the interposed cambium layer, which, annually renewed, maintains a living communication between the extremities. The apple tree, like all other plants of this highest form of vegetable life, is a com- posite being or community — not an individual in the same sense that a man, horse or bird is an individual, but an aggregation of many units. The true unit or individual is the bud. The exogenous tree resembles a coral reef or community of compound animals of the lowest class where the structure is built up by successive generations of avast number of in- dividuals. Only the extremities and surface are alive, and all underneath are the lifeless I'emains of preceding generations. In the tree, as in the coral reef or polypidom, there is no portion now alive that was alive a few years ago. Life proceeds constantly outward from older to newer parts, and death follows imri passu. The foliage perishes annually, the internodes or joints that bore them, enclosed under the wood of succeed- ing generations, are transferred into lifeless heart-wood, and the bark that once covered them falls off. The lowest grade of animals, the radiata of which the star fish is the type, and to which the polyps or coral animals belong, truly embraces the whole vegetable kingdom. All plants " have organs arranged in a radiate manner around a central axis." . Thus we see that only a small portion of the exogens or outside-grow. ing tree is really alive, and that life only inheres in its outside growth. The distinction between the duramen or heart-wood and the albumen or sap-wood is as well known to common observers as it is to botanists. The 38 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. former is entirely without life, and the latter, though serving mechanic- ally as a medium for the ascent of the sap, has only a low and constantly diminishing vitality. Freezing it does not destroy its cells or do any harm to the life of the tree. 2. And there are two kinds of sap — crude sap and elaborated sap. Crude sap, as first imbibed by the rootlets, is water, impregnated with certain gases and soluble matters from the earth. It rises through the cells of the sap-wood to the leaves, where, under the influence of light and exposure to the oxygen of the air, it is transformed into elal)orated sap. In this process water is exhaled by the leaves in great quantities — estimated in case of a seedling apple tree at about one ounce to a square foot of foliage a day The elaborated sap descends in the bark and forms the cambium layer or zone of growth between the bark and wood. During the Summer the watery portion of the sap is exhaled ; the elab- orated portion is consumed in the formation of the new zone, ring or strata, almost as fast as it is imbibed by the roots, and no accumulation takes place; but in Autumn, as the leaves gradually cease to discharge their function and finally perish entirely, the trunk becomes gorged with sap imperfectly elaborated. The more perfectly elaborated portion of it is in the cells of the bark and of the newly -formed outside strata. The less perfectly elaborated and watery portion is in the cells of inside strata of the sap-wood. The latter freezes, that is, crystallizes or forms ice, every Winter in this latitude, without injury to the cells of the wood or the life of the tree. The former, which is viscid even in Summer, becomes more and more so under low temperature, but does not crystallize. In fact, its soluble matters are deposited in the cells and it appears to be com- pletely dried up. That, however, the sap is really there, is readily proved by exposing a branch or twig entirely of the last year's growth to artificial heat. In the light of these truths, the phenomena stated l)y the Editor of the Monthly in regard to Grape Vines and Hyacinths, before referred to, are of easy explanation. The sap, with which the grape vine is gorged in Autumn, is a reserve force stored away for first use in Spring. The first application of sufficient heat in Spring, whether solar or artificial, dis- solves the sap and sends the same into circulation. If 3'ou severely trim the vine in Autumn or Spring, it will "bleed to death;" that is, its re- serve force will be wasted before new sap can be imbibed by the roots. The Editor is greatly mistaken if he supposes that the bloom and foliage of the vine in the case which he refers to, with its roots out in solid frost and its branches in the heated conservatory, come from sap immediately supplied by the roots. The sap of the Sugar Maple, which flows so abund- antly in tbislatitude about the first of March, is the reserve of tliei)revious 1873.] REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES, &C. 39 season, stored ia the sap-wood and bark, and does not come immediately from the roots. They are usually with the ground around them at this sea- son frozen, and I have often seen the sap of the maple flow profusely on a warm day in mid-winter when the gi'ound was frozen hard and the snow lay deep under the tree. The H^-acinth bulbs likewise contain a reserve of soluble sap, deposited the preceding season, but ready to dissolve the instant the frost leaves the ground. Just as soon in Spring as the temperature of the bulb rises even the least fraction of a degree above SS'^F. it begins to grow, and at the first thaw has its crown at the surface. WM. T. HAELOW, Chairman. REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES, &c. Committee. — AVilliam H. Earle, Chairman; Thomas M. Lamb, W. W. Cooke, Horatio Phelps, of Worcester ; Paul Whilin, of Whitinsville ; F. M. Marble, of Grafton ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston. GRAPES. For the best collection, of not exceeding eight named varieties, grown under glass, two clusters of each variety, W. T. Merrifield S12 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 10 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 6 00 For the best two clusters of Black Hamburg, W T. Merrifield. 2 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other Black Grape, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 1 00 For the best two clusters of any White Muscat, P. L. Moen. . 2 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 For the best two clusters of any other variety of White, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 1 00 For the best collection of well-ripened out-door grapes, not less than six nor exceeding fifteen named varieties, of four clusters each, J. C. Lovell 8 00 For the second best, F. J. Kinney o 00 For the third best, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of Concord, Iforatio Phelps 3 00 40 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. For the best four clusters of Croton, J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Delaware, D. S. Goddard 3 00 For the best four clusters of Diana, John C. Whitiu, of Whitinsville 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eumelan, Frank J. Kinne}^ 3 00 For the best four clusters of Hartford Prolific, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of lona, John C. Whitin, of Whitins- ville 3 00 For the best four clusters of. Israella, F. J. Kinney 3 00 For the best four clusters of Martha, J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Kogers No. 3, (Massasoit), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 4, (Wilder), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Eogers No. 7, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 9, (Lindley), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 15, (Agawam), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 19, (Merrimac), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Rogers No. 43, (Barry), J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Salem, J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of Senasqua, no entry 3 00 For the best four clusters of Walter, no award 3 00 For the best four clusters of Worden's Seedling, J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 For the best four clusters of any other variety of superior qual- ity, no award 3 00 The Committee carefully examined " Kinney's Em-ma " Grape, and see no reason for changing the Report of the Committee made one year ago. To Charles Nash, a gratuity of $2.00 for the best " Delaware." Mr. Nash would have been entitled to the first premium if he had limited his collection to four clusters. Yox one fruit dish of choice Eumelan Grapes, presented by Frank J. Kinney, a gratuity of '^';i.OO. To Horatio Phelps, for a Black Grape of fine appearance — not of high quality, may be a good market grape— a gratuity of $2.00. 1873.] REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES, &C. 41 PLUMS. For the best collection of not less than four named varieties, no entry 5 00 For the second best, no entry 3 00 For the best three varieties, no entry 3 00 For the second best, no entry 2 00 For the best single plate, no entry 3 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 To Moses Church, for three varieties, a gratuity of $2.00. PEACHES. For the best collection of six varieties, not less than ten speci- mens each, T. F. Greenleaf, of Shrewsbury 8 00 For the second best, Henry Marble, of Millbury 5 00 For the best three varieties of twelve specimens each, J. B. Pratt o 00 For the second best, Wm. Howe, of Millbury 3 00 For the best one variety of twelve specimens, S. V. Stone .... 3 00 For the second best, F. Hancock 2 00 For the third best, S. S. Foster 1 00 To J. C Lovell, of W. Boylstou, for five Seedlings, a gratuity of ip2.00. To C. L. Allen, for six Seedlings, a gratuity of $2.00. To S. S. Foster, for Seedling, a gratuity of .$1.00. QUIJSrCES. For the best collection of not less than three varieties, no entry 5 00 For the second best, no entry 3 00 For the best twelve Orange Quinces, Newell Wood, of Mill- bury 3 00 For the second best, Adams Foster, of Holden 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, no entry 2 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 A gratuity of $2.00 to Miss A. Chamberlin, for two plates of White and Red Currants. WM. H. EARLE. Chairman. 42 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. REPORT ON PEARS. Committee. — Henry L. 'Parker, Chairman ; Henry Phelps, John C ITewton, James Draper, O. B. Hadwen, S. Han-ison Knox, Alfred Davis, of Woi-cester ; Newell Wood, of Millhury ; and John F. Johnson, of Northhorougli. The Committee on Pears respectfully submit the following Report: The entries at the weekly meetings of the Society, and at the Annual Exhibition, were considerably in excess of any previous 3'ear. The past season has been in many respects a remarkable one. Not only was there an abundant fruitage, but nearly every variety possessed both color and flavor to an unusual degree. Pears, also, like the St. Michel, Dix, and Flemish Beauty, which, in former years, have shown a tendency to crack, and which, from this fact as well as from their uncertain fruitage, were beginning to be regarded with disfavor, seemed restored to their former high estate. NEW PEARS. If the theory, advocated by many eminent horticulturists, be true, that all varieties of fruits are best adapted to, and will flourish best in, those localities where they originate, then it would seem to follow that we must be dependent in a great measure upon our native varieties for our finest Pears. And the Committee would suggest it as a question for considera- tion, whether some encouragement should not be offered by the Society for the production of new Pears, either from seedlings or by the more re- cent method of hybridization. A reference to the Society's list of Pears will satisfy any one of the prominent position our native varieties are be- ginning to occupy. If all the effort made for the introduction of new seedlings had resulted only in the production of the Clapp's Favorite, the time and money expended would have been a good investment; but this is but one out of many, and, since the introduction of this valuable vari- ety, the Messrs. Clapp have produced some seventy or more new seed- lings, out of which we shall get more than one superior Pear. One of these new seedlings in particular, No. 22, has already excited much at- tention. It is said to be an acidulous sprightly Pear, combining the qual- ities of the Beurre Superfin and the Urbaniste, equal or superior to the Durandeau in quality, and the tree a good grower. The Committee on Fruits of the Massachusetts Society, in their Report for 1872, speak of it as " the juiciest pear they had ever cut." A number of other gentlemen connected with the Massachusetts Soci- ety, imitating the example of the Messrs. Clapp, have been also experi- menting with seedling Pears, and some of them with good success. 1873.] REPORT ON PEARS. 43 Mr. Alex. Dickinson has experimented with the Bartlett. Mr. Francis Dana has produced a seedling resembling the Winter Nelis, but larger and more oblong. And at the meeting of the Pomological Society at Bos- ton this month, there was on exhibition a large number of seedlings from the Seckel. But aside from the production of new and superior varieties, the new ideas to be gained by these experiments, of the habits of the Pear and the cultivation of a more critical taste, would make them well worth the trial. Of the hundred or more of new seedhngs on exhibition at the session of the Pomological Society already alluded to, probably at least one-third, if judged by the standard of fifteen or twenty years ago, would have been deemed superior Pears, and perhaps recommended as new varieties; while, tested by the more cultivated and discriminating taste of to-day, not more than three or four would be selected as worthy of attention. ITow, can this Society subserve the ends of its organization in any better manner than by affording some encouragement for experiments in this direction? If no other practical result be attained, the experimenter will have gained a fund of invaluable knowledge of the laws of impregnation, hereditary transmission, and the other habits of the Pear, which he would never gain in a lifetime spent in feeding and thinning for the largest plate of Bartletts, or the best collection in a certain class. The Committee have made the following Awards of Premiums and recommend the subjoined Gratuities: CLASS 1.— For the best twenty named varieties of twelve specimens each, P. M. Marble, of Grafton S16 00 For the second best, S. S. Foster 12 GO For the third best, V. P. Townsend 10 00 CLASS 2. — For the best fifteen named varieties, of twelve specimens each, Alfred Davis 12 00 For the second best, James Draper 9 00 For the third best, James F. Allen 6 00 CLASS 3.— For the best ten named varieties, of twelve specimens each, Stephen Salisbur}' 8 00 For the second best, S. H. Colton 6 00 For the third best, D. Kinsley 4 00 CLASS 4. — For the best five named varieties, of twelve specimens each, Edward W. Lincoln 6 00 44 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. For the second best, Henry Chapiu 4 00 For the third best, Moses Church 2 00 CLASS 5.— For the best three named varieties, of twelve specimens each, Albert A. Barker 4 00 For the second best, W. Frank.Bush 3 00 For the third best, no award 2 00 CLASS 6.— For the best collection, of not less than three new varieties not previously exhibited, no entry 5 00 For the next best, no entry :i 00 SINGLE DISHES. — For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears on one dish, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville, weight 3 lbs. 11} oz 2 00 For the second best, Alfred Davis, weight & lbs. 7 oz 1 00 For the best twelve Bartlett, Melville O. Whittier, weight 6 lbs. 2i oz 2 00 For the best twelve Belle Lucrative, Edward AV. Lincoln, weight 4 lbs. 14^ oz 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Bosc, Edward W. Lincoln, weight i lbs. 15 oz 3 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, weight 4 lbs. 1 U oz 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre Clairgeau, Wm. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre d' Anjou, Alfred Davis, weight 0} lbs " 3 00 For the second best, Samuel H. Colton 1 00 For the best twelve Beurre d' Arenberg, Wm. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Diel, James F Allen 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Easter, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Hardy, S. H. Colton 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Langelier, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Beurre Superfin, Moses Church 3 00 For the second best, Charles Eichardson 1 00 For the best twelve Clapp's Favorite, no award 2 00 For the best twelve Dana's Hovey, S. H. Colton 2 00 For the best twelve Dix, Wm. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Doyenne Boussock, O. B. Hadwen, weight 5 lbs. 8} oz . 2 CO For the best twelve Doyenne du Cornice, S. H. Colton 3 00 For the second best, Edward W. Lincoln 1 00 For the best twelve Duchesse d' Angouleme, Alfred Davis, weiffht 7 lbs. lU oz 3 00 o- 1873.] REPORT ON PEARS. N^^S '^^ For the second best, S. P. Hickey 1 00 For the best twelve Dumas, no entry 2 GO For the best twelve Durandeau, James F. Allen 2 00 For the best twelve Flemish Beauty, W. Arthur Williams, weight 6 lbs. 10 oz 2 00 For the best twelve Goodale, J. C. Goodale 2 00 For the best twelve Glout Morceau, O. B. Had wen 3 00 For the second best, Moses Church 1 00 For the best twelve Howell, Moses Church 2 00 For the best twelve Josephine de Malines, J. E. Bridges, weight 2 lbs. 11 oz 3 00 For the best twelve Lawrence, Alfred Davis 3 00 For the second best, Wm. H. Earle 1 00 For the best twelve Louise Bonne de Jersey, Alfred Davis. . . 3 00 For the second best, James Draper 1 00 For the best twelve Marie Louise, Wm. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Mt. Vernon, J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston 2 00 For the best twelve Paradis d' Automne, Wm. H. Earle '. 2 00 For the best twelve Passe Colmar, James Draper 2 00 For the best twelve Sheldon, Mrs. Geo. A. Chamberlain 2 00 For the best tAvelve St. Ghislain, S. C. Andrews 2 00 For the best twelve St. Michel Archange, S. H. Colton 2 00 For the best twelve Onaudaga (Swan's Orange), Wm. H. Earle 2 00 For the best twelve Urbauiste, S. H. Colton 2 00 For the best twelve Winter Nelis, Hartley Williams, weight 3 lbs. 10 oz 3 00 For the second best, J. E. Tucker 1 00 For the best twelve Winter Pound, S. H. Colton, weight 6 lbs. 12 oz , 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, no award 2 00 GRATUITIES. — To William H. Earle, for collection of twenty varieties 5 00 To Hartley Williams, for collection of twenty varieties 5 00 To S. Y. Stone, for collection 2 00 To W. G. Maynard, for collection 2 00 To N. P. Gates, for plate of Flemish Beauty, weight 6 lbs. 9 oz 1 00 To Alfred Davis, for plate of Sheldon 1 00 To S. V. Stone, for plate of St. Ghislain 1 00 To Joseph Dusenbury, for plate of Onondaga 1 GO H. L. PARKER, Chairman. 46 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c. CoMiiiTTEE. — Samuel Flagg, Chairman ; George Cruickshanks, of Whitinsville ; Charles Madaus, Clarendon Harris, David S. Messinger, Henry Woodward and Henry L. Shumway, of Worcester. [KuLE : All Pot-Plants shall have been grown in the Pots in which they are exhibited.] STOVE AND GREENHOUSE PLANTS. PLANTS WITH ORNAMENTAL FOLIAGE. — For the best twelve, Stephen Salisbury $20 00 For the second best, William T. Merrifield 12 00 For the best six, William T. Merrifield 10 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 6 00 For the best single, W. W. Cook 3 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 PLANTS IN BLOOM.— For the best six, no award 15 00 For the second best, W. W. Cook 10 00 For the third best, Stephen Salisbury 5 00 For the best single, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the second best, W. W. Cook 1 00 EARE AND NEW PLANTS. — For the best collection, Stephen Salisbury 8 00 For the second best, W. W. Cook 4 00 FERNS AND LYCOPODS. — For the best collection, Stephen Salisbury 10 00 For the second best, William T. Merrifield 5 00 HANGING BASKET.— For the best, grown at least one month in the basket, Stephen Salisbury 3 00 For the second best. Dr. George E. Francis 2 00 For the third best, P. McDonald 1 00 PARLOR PLANTS IN POTS. From Amateurs. For the best collection, not exceeding twelve varieties, Mrs. David Scott 6 00 For the second best, Mrs. Mowry, of Shrewsbury 4 00 For the third best, Miss Susan Chamberlain 2 00 1873.] EEPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &C. 47 SINGLE PLANT.— For the best, no award • 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. Alexander Marsh 2 00 For the third best, no award 1 00 FEENERY OR WARDIAN CASE. From Any Source. For the best, Mrs. David Scott 6 00 For the second best, Chas. D. Thayer 4 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen 2 00 CUT FLOWERS. [Variety and arrangement will be considered as well as rarity and quantity ] For the best collection and best kept during the exhibition, of not less than two nor exceeding five stands, Mrs. Dan- iel Taiuter 6 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 4 00 For the third best, Mrs. C. Thomas 2 00 For the best stand. Mrs. David Scott 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. C. E. Brooks 2 00 For the third best, Mrs. David Fitts, of Oxford 1 00 For the best arranged basket or dish, Chas. D. Thayer 3 00 For the second best, Mrs. Daniel Tainter 2 00 PARLOR BOUQUETS.— For the best pair, W. W. Cook 4 00 For the second best, Charles D. Thayer 2 00 For the third best, Mrs. C. E. Brooks 1 00 HAND BOUQUETS.— For the best pair, Chas. D. Thayer 3 00 For the second best, W. W. Cook 2 00 FLORAL DESIGN.— For the best, W. W. Cook 6 00 For the second best, Mrs. C. L. Hartshorn 4 00 ASTERS — For the best display, Mrs. Geo. Estabrook 4 00 For the second best, Miss Weston . 3 00 For the third best, P. L. Moen , 2 00 For the fourth best, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES.— For the best display of named varieties, no award 3 00 For the second best, Chas. D. Thayer 2 00 CHINA PINKS.— For the best display, P. L. Moen 2 00 48 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. DAHLIAS. — Class 1. — For the best twelve named varieties, Harry Ballard 3 00 For the second best, Chas. D. Thayer 1 00 Class 2.— For the best twelve liliputian varieties, no award 3 00 GLADIOLUS. — For the best collection, named or unnamed varieties, from any source, A. McLaren, of Forest Hills 5 00 For the second best. Miss Abbie Lovell, of West Boylston 3 00 Class 1. — For the best fifteen named varieties, Mrs. M. B. Green 5 00 For the second best, A. McLaren, of Forest Hills 3 00 Class 2. — For the best ten named varieties, J, Milton Earle 2 00 For the second best, no award 1 00 For the best specimen spike, Miss Abbie Lovell, of West Boyl- ston 1 00 For the best Seedling, J. Milton Earle 1 00 HOLLYHOCKS. — For the best collection, A. McLaren, of Forest Hills 3 00 For the second best collection, no award 2 00 IMMORTELLES. — For the best collection of named varieties, J. C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 3 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 2 00 ORNAMENTAL GRASSES.— For the best display, Mrs. S. E. Fisher 3 00 For the second best, no award 2 00 PANSIES. — For the best display, Mrs. Geo. Estabrook 3 00 For the second best, Harry Ballard 2 00 For the third best, T. A. Dawson 1 00 PETUNIAS — For the best display, Mrs. Shaff , of Leicester 2 00 ROSES. — Class L — For the best fifteen named varieties, Miss M. E. Fox 4 00 For the second best, no award 2 00 Class 2. — For the best ten named varieties, Chas. D. Thayer 3 00 For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 1873.] EEPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &C. 49 SCABIOSA ) NANA. ; For the best display, not less than three colors, J. C. Whitin, of W hitiusville 2 00 For the best display, J, C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 2 00 SWEET PEAS. — For the best display, Mrs. Shaff, of Leicester 2 00 VERBENAS. — For the best display, C. A. Keyes 3 00 For the second best, Harry Ballard 2 00 For the best display of seedlings, J. C. Whitin, of Whitins- ville 2 00 For the second best, Mrs. C. E. Brooks 1 00 ZINNIAS. — For the best display, J. C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 3 00 For the second best, P. L. Moen 2 00 SPECIAL PREMIUM. — {Offered by the President.) For the best two plants of Zonale Geraniums, single or double, of any color, in bloom, — to be awarded by George Cruickshanks, — a Cup, valued at $10.00. None deemed deserving the award; open for the next Annual Exhibition. GRATUITIES. — To W. W. Cook, for Hanging Basket 1 00 To Mrs. Daniel Tainter, for Fernery 1 00 To Mr. J. Colson, for Hand Bouquets 1 00 To Stephen Salisbury, for Hand and Mantle Bouquets 1 00 To Mrs. E. Thomas, for Bouquets and Dish 1 00 To Chas. E. Tainter, for Floral Stands 2 00 To Mrs. S. E. Fisher, for Collection of Dishes 2 00 To Chas. D. Thayer, for Funeral Wreath 3 00 To Mrs. Mowry, of Shrewsbury, for Floral Designs 2 00 To Mrs. J. S. Baldwin, for Basket 2 UO To Miss Lizzie White, for Dish of Flowers 1 00 ■ To Mrs. H. C. Sargent, for Collection 1 00 To Mrs. WiUiam Y. Holman, for Seedling Petunias 1 00 To Mrs. Geo. E. Francis, for Stand of Wild Flowers and Berries 2 00 To Mrs. Shaft, of Leicester, for Bouquet of Wild Flowers. ... 1 00 To H. R. and L. F. Kinney, for Collection of Wild Flowers . . 1 00 Respectfully submitted, SAMUEL FLAGG, Chairman. 1 50 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. REPORT ON VEGETABLES. Committee.— George A. Adams, Chairman ; Thomas E. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Kufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, Charles Belcher, Alexander Marsh, and AVilliam H. Hackett, of Worcester. Your Committee on Vegetables met, and, in the absence of George A. Adams, deceased, organized b}' choosing Alexander Marsh, Chairman, and William H. Ilackett, Clerk. On account of the severe drought the first of the season, many Vegeta- bles suffered, and there were not as many kinds as were anticipated, al- though there Avere several fine selections; also quite a good lot of single specimens. The arrangement of Vegetables was much better thau here- tofore, but considerable improvement can yet be made, in classifying and bringing those that compete for premiums nearer together, thereby saving the time of the Committee, etc. The following is a list of the Committee present: Alexander Marsh, Chairman; Thomas R. Norcross, J. D. Lovell, O. L. Hatch, Charles Belcher, and William H. Hackett. The following Premiums were awarded: COLLECTION.— For the best general collection of Vegetables, Alden H. Sears. $20 00 For the second best, Sylvanus Sears 15 00 For the third best, Thomas A. Dawson 10 00 BEETS. — For the best twelve Long Blood, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best twelve Early Bassano, no entr}' 2 00 For the best twelve Egyptian, P. L. Moen 2 GO For the best twelve Sugar, Mrs. G. A. Chamberlain 2 00 For the best twelve Turnip, Stephen Salisbury 2 00 For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel, O. B. Hadwen 2 00 CABBAGES.— For the best collection of not less than five varieties, Sj^lvanus Sears 5 00 For the second best, Simon E. Fisher 3 00 For the best three Large Flat Brunswick, Sylvanus Sears .... 3 00 For the best single specimen, Sylvanus Scars 2 00 For the best three Drumhead, no entry 3 00 For the best single specimen Drumhead, weight not less than 30 lbs., no-entry 1 00 For the best three Drumhead Savoy, no entry 3 00 1873.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 51 For the best single specimen, no entry 2 00 For the best three early Sweinfurth, Sylvanus Sears 3 00 For the best single specimen, Sylvanus Sears 2 00 For the best three Eed, Simon E. Fisher 2 00 For the best single specimen, Simon E. Fisher 1 00 For the best three Savoy, no entr}^ 3 00 For the best single specimen, no entrj' 2 GO CARKOTS. — For the best twelve Early Horn or Short Scarlet, P. L. Moen. 2 00 For the best twelve Long Orange, Thomas A, Dawson 2 00 For the best twelve Red, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve White, no entry 2 00 CAULIFLOWERS — For the best three specimens, Cyrus A. Lovell, of West Boyl- ston 3 00 For the best single specimen, Cyrus A. Lovell, of West Boyl- ston 1 00 CELERY. — ■ For the best six roots, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 4 00 For the second best, no entry 2 00 CORK — For the best collection of Sweet, not less than five varieties, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 For the second best, O. B. Hadwen 3 00 For the best twelve ears of Sweet, Frank J. Kinney 2 00 For the second best, Alden H. Sears 1 00 For the best Yellow or Field, of twenty ears traced, no entry. 2 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 CRANBERRIES. — For the best peck, no entry 1 00 EGG PLANT. — For the best four specimens, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 HORSE RADISH.— For the best six roots, no entry 1 00 MELONS. — For the best two Water, Joseph Pratt 2 00 For the second best, Thomas A. Dawson 1 00 For the best Green Flesh, three specimens, P. L. Moen 1 00 For the best Yellow Flesh, three specimens. Stephen Salisbury 1 00 52 • WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 1873.] ONIOXS. — For the best four varieties, a half peck of each, Thomas A. Dawson 3 00 For the second best, Frank J. Kinney 2 00 For the best half peck of Red, Thomas A. Dawson 1 00 For the best half peck of Silver Skin, C3'rus A. Lovell, of West Boylston 1 GO For the best half peck of White Portugal, Frank J. Kinney. . 2 00 PARSNEPS — For the best twelve Guernsey, Sylvanus Sears 2 00 For the best twelve Hollow Crown, Stephen Salisbuiy 2 00 For the best twelve Student, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Shori, no entry 2 00 POTATOES. — For the best fifteen named varieties, a half peck of each, Frank J. Kinney ! ... 12 00 For the second best, no entry 8 00 For the third best, no entry 4 00 To O. L. Hatch, a gratuity of $2.00 for Tuttle's Excelsior. To Mrs. G. A. Chamberlain, a gratuity of $1.00 for Late Rose. PUMPKmS. — For the best three, weight not less than 20 lbs. each, Stephen Salisbury 2 00 For the second best, no entry 1 00 PEPPERS. — For the best half peck, J. C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 1 00 SALSIFY. — For the best twelve specimens, Stephen Salisbury 1 00 SQUASHES. — For the best three pure Crookneck, Simon E. Fisher 2 00 For the best three pure Canada Crookneck, M. B. Green 2 00 For the best three pure Hubbard, Yelette P. Townsend 2 00 For the best three pure Mammoth, P. L. Moen 2 00 For the best three pure Marblehead, Velette P. Townsend ... 2 00 For the best three pure Marrow, N. P. Gates 2 00 For the best three pure Turban, Joseph Pratt 2 00 For the best three pure Yokohama, no entry 2 00 1873.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 53 TOMATOES. — For the best collection, not less than six varieties and not less than twelve of each variety, Sylvanus Sears 5 00 Tor the second best, no entry 3 00 For the third best, no entry 2 00 For the best Boston Market, Velette P. Townsend 2 00 For the best twelve Lester's Perfected, H. L. Parker 2 00 For the best twelve Tilden, Stephen Salisbury 2 00 For the best twelve Trophy, Thomas A. Dawson 2 00 For the best twelve of any other variety, A. S. Gilmore 2 00 TUENIPS. — For the best twelve English or Flat, Henry Smith 2 00 For the best twelve French White, no entry 2 00 For the best twelve Euta Baga or Swedes, O. B. Hadwen 2 00 ALEX. MARSH, Chairman. ANNUAL REPORT OF EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary and Librarian OF The Worcester County Horticultural Society. To the Mertibers of the Worcester County Horticultural Society : The customary Catalogue of Additions to the Library, during the year 1872-3, is lierevvith submitted, for your more exact information: Agriculture, Report of Department for 1871; 8vo; Commissioner. Clematis,The, As a Garden Flower; Moore & Jackman, London; 1 vol. 4to; Society. Roses, Book About; S. Re3-nolds, Hole, London; 1 vol. 4to; Society. Trees and Shrubs for English Plantations; Mongredien; 1 vol. Svo; So- ciety. Gardener's Year-Book, 1873; by Robert Hogg; pamphlet, 8vo; Lon- don; Society. Second Annual Report of the Department of Xew York Central Park; pamphlet; Svo; Hon. Aiidrew H. Greene. Garden, The; Edinburgh and ]jondon, 1872; 1 vol. Svo; Society. Floral World, The; London, 1872; vol.7; Society. American Naturalist, The; 1872; vol.6; Society. Window Gardening; 1 vol. 4to; Society. A Summer In My Garden; Warner; Society. Florist and Pomologist, The; 1872, London; 1 vol Svo; Society. French Gardens, Gleanings From; Robinson, London; 2d ed. ; Society. Gardener's Chronicle and Agricultural Gazette; 1872, London; 1 vol. Folio; Society. 56 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. American Agriculturist, The; vol. 31, 1872; 1 vol. Folio; Society. Uorticulturisf, The; vol. 27, 1872; 1 vol. 4to; Society. Floral Cabinet, The Ladies'; vol. 1, 4to; Society. Country Gentleman, The; vol. 37, 1872; Society. Hard}- Trees, Shrubs and Herbaceous Plants; Decaisne and Naudin; Abridged by llemsley; 1 vol. Loudon; Societ3\ Floral Magazine, The; Loudon; vols. 1-11; Society. State Charities, Ninth Annual Report, Board of; E. Earle. R'jse Amateur's Guide; Rivers, London; 1 vol. 10th ed.; Society. Dictionarj', Paxton's Botanical; new and revised ed.; London; Society. Horticulture, Journal of; London, vols. 22 and 23; Society. Gardener's Magazine, The; 1872, vol. 15; London; Society. American Pomological Society, Proceedings of the Thirteenth Session; Hon. M. P. Wilder. You will notice that there has been no excessive increase in the number of volumes. Every new work of known value, which commended itself to the Committee as likely to be of use to members, and Avhose cost did not transcend their available means, was seasonably placed upon our shelves. But the policy, outlined in the Report for 1871-2, wherein the opinion was expressed that the richest fruits of contemporaneous inquiry and culture will be gathered from the seria^l publications of our own and foreign countries, still sways the judgment of the Librarian and his col- leagues of the Committee, and has governed their purchases. The prin- cipal acquisition, for the past year, was the entire set, from its commence- ment, of the ver}^ beautiful Floral Magazine, than which even the Flore des Serres can scarcely claim to be more precious. It is quite desirable to complete the series of other magazines, of which only detached volumes are now in our possession. Should you concur in this view of the Com- mittee on the Library, it may be practicable to accomplish this object dur- ing the coming year. The Summer ExniBixiONS of the Society have achieved an unexam- pled and most gratifying success. In former years_^ it is true, there were always entries of Flowers and Fruit; but they were almost invariably the contributions of the veterans, by whom the Societ}'^ has been upheld from its infancy, and to whom it has become a second nature to toil in its be- half. During the season just past, however, it was pleasant to note the steady accession of new exhibitoi's, whose fresh enthusiasm, constantly stimulated by rivalry, served as a sharp incentive to their older and more jaded competitors. In his Annual Report for 1872, your Secretary sub- mitted a recommendation, which it may be well to recite: " In this connection it may be proper to suggest the expediency of estab- lishing a line of demarcation between the collections of the Amateur and 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 57 Professional Gardeners. It is impossible for them to contest the palm of superiority upon equal terms: it is therefore unjust to exact it. The dis- crimination proposed is fair and apparently free from valid objection. At least the experiment might be tried, and, if found impracticable when tested, the novel step could be retraced." The Committee for the Establishment of Premiums, concluding that a trial of the experiment, as here proposed, could at least do no harm, offered a schedule of prizes in money, to be contested throughout the sea- son solely by Amateurs. One stand was assigned to each competitor, as it was deemed of essential importance that quantity should be subordina- ted to excellence. And it was interesting to observe, from week to week, the development of a progressive taste in the selection of varieties and disposition of colors. If our florists have one fault, more conspicuous and therefore obnoxious than another, it is to be detected in their too fre- quent arrangement of the treasures at their command, in (ibvious disre- gard of all natural harmony of tone and tint. Should our recent experi- ence have accomplished aught toward ?■ remedy of this too common error, the Society will have done more to " advance the Science and encourage " and improve the Practice of Horticulture," — the purpose for which it was organized, — than it could have effected in any other way- Skill in arrangement has become a matter of distinct and specific competition in England. With the book of Nature open before us. replete with illustra- tions of richest hue, yet all disposed in utmost harmony of color, it needs must be only those who, having '' eyes yet see not," ignorantly or will- fully reject the proffered lesson. A discrimination in favor of Professional Florists, estabhshed during the trial of this experiment, should no longer be tolerated. The Amateur is obliged to' snatch from other and unavoidable occupations the scant moments that may be devoted to Floriculture. Familj- cares cannot be sununarily set aside by a lady, if such is our amateur. On the con- trary, the professional gardener is simply following the occujiation of his life. That the premiums should be equalized supplies him with no ground for complaint. It is recommended that both classes be placed upon the same pecuniary level in the preparation of the Summer Schedule for 1874 and also that a moderate increase of the Premiums be author- ized. One benefit that was anticipated from engaging the interest of Amateur Florists has been fully experienced. Heretofore, there was no positive assurance of anything to be seen to attract visitors. But when it became evident that there was an absolute certainly, each successive week, of an abundant and even elegant display, the public, slow, perhaps, but never- theless sure to appreciate excellence, coujmenced and thereafter con- 58 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. tinned to throng the Library, until it was filled to an almost uncom- fortable degree. So obvious grew the difficult}-, and so insupportable was it likel}' to become in the not distant future, that the Trustees of the Society, at a special meeting holden on the 2.3d da}'^ of October ult., ap- pointed a Committee with full power to secure additional accommodation, engaging as much room as might appear desirable. Under that vote, the Committee have taken leases of the suite of rooms recently occupied by the Bay State Fire Insurance Co., and of a chamber adjoining the rear room of that suite, with which latter a convenient and symmetrical union can be easily effected through an archway that will require to be con- structed. It is not doubted that the action of the Trustees, " compre- hending their epoch," will receive your cordial approval. Twelve years had well nigh elapsed since the 27th day of February, A. D. 1S62, when the transfer of the Library to Horticultural Hall was initiated ; and the system of Weekly Exhibitions had its origin in a display of Citrus Aurantium by our esteemed associate,* whose locks Time and the Sioux have dealt with so tenderl)^ The enormous aggregate of Twenty-Seven Thousand articles displayed at these meetings, during this decade, of which otherwise we should have preserved neither sight nor knowledge, amply justifies a step adopted at the time with much timidity. So will it be now. The Eoom in which this Annual Meeting is in session — which is devoted to the uses of the Library, and wherein the Summer Exhibi- tions must be held — no longer suffices. It proVed too small during the past season. If, as 3'^our Secretary hopes and believes, the stimulus im- parted to Amateur Florists in 1873 should cause a wider and generous rivalry during the coming Summer, the Flowers must be accommodated to the exclusion of the community ; and that, as flowers are contributed to be seen, would not be a very desirable consummation. The Library itself demands more space Our most valuable works of reference — notably the Gardener^s Chronicle, the Agriculturist, but more especially the Country Gentleman — are too cumbrous to be placed upon shelves not constructed purposely for them. This inconvenience — the seriousness of which in a Libr;iry intended for consultation can scarcely be exaggerated — requires the speediest possible remedy The Librarian asks that he be authorized to transfer the Library of the Society to the rooms just hired by the Trustees. Applications were long since made, informally, for a lease of our entire Hall above the stores. Any ter.ant, no matter what his business, would require the occupancy and sole use of our present Ijibrary-Room. There can be no doubt that a sum may be realized from our property, over and above its present rental, adequate to defray any probable expense that *Hon. Eilward Earle, of the Indian Peace Commission. 1873.] REPORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 59 will enure to us from the change of location. The Annual Autumnal Exhibition has left this Hall, never again to return. The Library, with immediate and prospective needs, and the Summer Exhibitions, exceed the provision for their accommodation. Your active members, — the men who do 3'our work and keep the Society in abounding activity, — ask only that they shall no longer be " cabined, cribbed, confined " in a space which, however ample in 1850, may, not unreasonably, be found restricted and even cramped, after the lapse of a generation. A tabular statement of the Entries for the past official year, together with a similar table showing the number of articles exhibited during the entire period of twelve years that has elapsed since the transfer of the Library to this room, is herewith submitted for your more precise inform- ation : COMPAEATIVE STATEMENT. Anno Domini. 1862 1868 1864 1865 1866 1867 1868 1869 1870 1871 1872 1873 g'^ ^1 a .ajj3 a §.2og fe ■Efei^ M «Sj=aor CC Koao ■< fc f^ 29 98 160 512 632 44 83 366 374 616 . 36 79 140 184 1008 48 104 41 161 1643 23 151 38 292 811 43 112 51 264 1716 37 132 111 120 807 95 •207 78 190 1027 90 152 123 246 928 117 248 159 252 2049 56 205 130 182 3906 114 197 204 254 4899 1431 1483 1447 1997 13-15 2186 1207 1597 1539 2825 4479 5668 It will be noted that the entries of Strawberries were largely in ex- cess of those offered in any previous year, with a single exception. The sum of this excess will be all the more evident Avhen it is remembered that in 1871 we were favored with Ihe ripe fruit of that experience which, during the season just past, has been limited to the ruts of a Dummy. More propitious weather for this berry could not have been desired than that of the opening Spring. But as the days lengthened, there came a sudden cessation of the rain-fall, which is so essential to the successful development of the Strcmherry especially, among the Small Fruits. A few cultivators, who had learned by sad experience the wisdom which, 60 WORCKSTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [ISTo. gained in that school, is never forgotten, secured a fair crop, mainly of the European vai'ieties, by heavy mulching. But the fact remains that, with an apparent or actual change in the character of the seasons, there is but the barest possibility of securing a good and remunerative crop of Strawberries without the aid of artificial irrigation. In most parts of the City of Worcester, such assistance can be derived by a simultaneous draught upon the private purse and the Municipal Keservoir. Through- out the Count}', so hilh' and uneven, it is probable that there are few homesteads near which a running stream cannot be diverted, or an other- wise noxious bog be utilized. The titrawherry repays any cultivator for exceeding pains and labor. Raspberries were in inferior supply and quality. It is true that some fine lots of Brinckle's Orange, Northumberland Fillbasket and Hudson River Antwerp were placed upon our tables, by growers whom no obsta- cles daunt. But the general crop was insufficient to compensate for the trouble taken in its culture. A chief cause of this deficit, in the opinion of your Secretary, is to be found in the unwonted scarcity of winged in- sects throughout the Spring. There were no pouring rains, during the period of inflorescence, to drench or wash out the pollen. But it could not escape the notice of a careful observer, that there was hardly a single Wasp, or Honey-Bee, where there are usually dozens; and that fecunda- tion, in so far as it needed help, was left almost wholly to the Bumble-Bee. Doubtless the deep snows and intense cold of the Winter of 1872-3 had much to do with this decimation of bur insect-/rte?i(:Zs. In nothing is there greater need of exact phraseology than in Horticul- ture. Our Western Pomologists write long essays upon the proper growth and treatment of the Mas^jberry, and, at the end, one finds that our old acquaintance, the Thimbleberry, has *been the subject of discourse. Now, your Secretary has no idea of dissuading from the culture of even the Thimbleberry, if a person has time and land to waste. But he pro- tests most emphatically against the publication of rules for the culture and development of a genus, which are applicable only to its species/erae naturae. That which may be advisable for the Rubus Occidentalis is ab- solute loss in the case of the Rubus Idicus. Thus the Horticultural jour- nals tell us to cut off Raspberry canes at three feet high — a general di- rection, without exception of species. That your Secretary ha^i had some success in growing superior varieties has been manifestetl to you at suc- cessive Summer Exhibitions for the last decade. Until the present cal- endar year, not a cane, intended for fruiting, was ever shortened an inch. In the Autumn of 1872, being somewhat occupied in grading the lawn of the First Parish, in this City, he entrusted the preparation of his Basp- berries for the Winter, to one of those imported professors, in whom the 1873.] REPORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 61 maximum of ignorant pretension is combined with the minimum of ac- tual knowledge. As a result, the canes of Brinckle's Orange and North- umberland Fillbasket were amputated at bi-east high. Somewhat of the shortness of the crop has already been attributed to the scarcity of winged insects. But, for nine years in sequence, when he took personal charge of the canes, suffering them to retain their entire Summer growth, there never failed to be an abundant and even superfluous yield. The yield of Cherries, throughout the City and its suburbs, was un- expectedly large. The fruit was also fair and of unusual quality. But few specimens, however, were shown upon our tables, as it seems impos- sible to frame a Schedule, in advance, which shall closely approximate the period of maturity of this most uncertain of all fruits. It is never- theless a matter for congratulation that the Cherry^ so long enjoyed in New England, should be found in the possession of its wonted vigorous vitality. The fearful and quite Arctic frosts of a dozen years ago killed outright all the Cherry trees then in bearing, or so enfeebled them that they might have as well died at once. The case was similar with the Quince. Since that date, new trees have been planted and come into bearing. The life of the Cherry tree is estimated by the best authorities at Thirty years. If then, we are provident enough to set out a young tree, occasionally, there would appear to be no ground for a failure of the crop, barring those extreme seasons whose severity is the event and fable of a life-time. The fruit, itself, although not of first-rate excellence, is yet agreeable and refreshing. Too many of the lots of Currants were untrue to the accredited traits of the alleged varieties. Thus La Versaillaise, which has no especial characteristic if not its long clusters, was misrepresented by stems bearing at least but five (5) or six (6) berries. The most experienced cultivators in- cline strongly to the opinion that the distinction between the Cherry and La Versaillaise, is without a difference. But what if gi'owers are not even careful to maintain a distinction ? So, too, of th6 White varieties. There were displayed during the past Summer, boxes of White Dutch, White Gondouin, and White Grape ; of very great similarity in appear- ance ; and between which it would not be desirable to preserve any line of demarcation, unless elements of superiority are more obvious than was the case on tlie 17th of July. It is noteworthy that one noble box of Red Dutch surpassed in size its fashionable and modern rivals, as it notoriousl}^ does in flavor whenever and wheresoever put in competi- tion. The Rule that all Fruits should be exhibited in stated quantities and specific measures should be rigidly enforced. Ornamental dishes have their place, but Fruit is wanted at a Pomological Exhibition and not an 62 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. array of Chinaware. There has been au improvement, of late, but the end is not yet. Currant bushes, like Cherry tree.s, have been greatly infested, of recent years, with aphides. White Hellebore is an effectual safeguard from the Currant-Worm, but has no desti-uctive effect upon the Aphis. Your Secretary earnestly recommends a remedy which he has personally tested, that is fatal to all insect life, and, at the same time exerts a salutary in- tiuence upon bush or tree — Air-Slaked Lime. This is easily dusted upon the leaves of a Cherry tree, when wet, from a ladder. Applied to the moist foliage of a Currant bush and there will be a summary riddance of all vermin. For the Summer of 1874, a larger room having been obtained for the use of the Library and for the Weekly Exhibitions, your Secretary ad- vises renewed and strenuous endeavor. Premiums should be offered to the extent of our available means. Amateur Florists should be placed upon a level with Professional, instead of being subjected to an adverse discrimination. And an effort at least, should be made to organize Com- mittees which can and will attend to their business, instead of deferring the task of assigning awards to the Secretary, whose duties are already sutHciently onerous. So many of your members were in diligent attendance upon the Four- teenth Session of the American Pomological Society, that it would be a work of supererogation to give a detailed narrative of its proceedings. Suffice it here and now to say that the hospitality of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, like the quality of mercy, was not strained ; and that our welcome was unaffectedly cordial, whether at the Highlands, the princely domain of Wellesley, or in Music Hall. The Fruits from the new Western States were well worth a journey to see, although your Secretary is credibly informed that, upon such occasions, Kansas, Ne- braska, &c., not onl}'^ do their best but their very utmost ; and that pro- bably neither State could duplicate the specimens exhibited. Our thanks are due to the Massachusetts Society for its courtesy. Our ambition should be for a chance to reciprocate it. Had that occasion any short com- ings, our hope would be, profiting by experience, to avoid them. At that Session some informal conferences were held with a view to the formation of an American Horticultural Society, whose meet- ings should alternate with those of the Pomologists. Should the plan be carried out, it cannot fail of receiving your active and zealous support. 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 63 The customar}' tabular statement of Entries for the past official year, not otherwise and elsewhere detailed ; including also the three preceding years during which our Annual Autumnal Exhibitions were held in Mechanics Hall ; is herewith submitted : Apples Grapes, &c., &c. . Pears Plants, Flowers. &o Vegetables 1870. 1871. Con- tributors Articles. Con- tributors Articles. 1 55 632 20 444 46 392 44 642 77 1346 111 260U 32 1235 46 2006 33 936 33 1401 242 4441 254 7093 1872. 1873. Con- 64 35 70 56 17 1201 401 1971 2455 1758 Con- tributors -I- 38 35 81 51 27 242 I 7786 232 Articles. 784 998 2733 3075 1319 8909 It will not escape jaiur attention that while there has been steady, pro- gressive augmentation in the number of articles displayed upon our Ta- bles, from year to year, there was no corresponding increase in the num- ber of contributors. The great interest aroused among Amateur Florists, during the summer is plainly manifested in another way. Pears betray their abundance and, as almost the sole exception, the fact that new gar- dens are yielding their first fruits from their pet tree or their select col- lection. Yet the language of a former President of the Society,* in an Ad- dress delivered to the Members not less than fourteen years ago, is so apt to the present situation and applies so forcibly to the needs of the hour, that it may well be repeated : "One feature of the Exhibition must strike every visitor. And, although 'it may be somewhat flattering to our local pride, no one can regard it otherwise than as unfavorable to the interest of the Society, and the cause of Pomology in our County. In reading the accounts of some of the Town Exhibitions, we see that fifty and more varieties of Apjjles are frequently shown by a single individual, a number equal to that exhibi- ted by our most extensive Orchardists. This Society should offer i:)remi- ums sufficient to induce cultivators in ever}- part of the County to bring their choicest Fruit here. The labor of collecting specimens from large orchards, the expense attending its conveyance, and the additional fact that most of this fruit is given to the Society and sold for its benefit, of- ten realizing an amount greater than the premiums bestowed upon it, are I'easons why sjjecial encouragement should be given to this, our most valuable Fruit. The Pears, like the fast horses in this Agricultural So- ciety, will take care of themselves. I recommend to the Trustees to con- sider whether it is not for the interest of the Society that, in addition to the premiums for Apples now offered, premiums liberal in amount and *iIon. D. Wiildu LiiR-oln. 64 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873, number, should be given to competitors within the County, but not be- longing to the city of Worcester." Your Chairman of the Committee on Apples,t in his very able and in- structive Report for 1872 ; which was not more highly than deservedly complimented by the learned Editor of the Gardeners Monthly ; advised that our Autumnal Exhibition be held at a later period. To quote his own argument : "And there is another reason for selecting a different time for holding our Annual Exhibition. The more valuable portion of the Apple crop of Worcester County, the Winter and late Fall fruit, ought not to be and will not be harvested, no matter what premiums are offered or how well known they are, till at least two or three weeks later than the Annual Exhibition was held this year. And there are not three weeks of the whole season, of more importance to the growth and perfection of the fruit than the last three. " The Chairman of your Committee, attending a Town Fair in one of the adjoining towns— where, by the way, he saw an exhibition of Api)les not much, if any, iuferior in substantial qualities to ours — asked several farmers whom he met there and knew to be large growers of Apples for the market, why they did not enter their fruits at our Exhibition. One- replied that he belonged to our Societ}-, and that one year it gave him a premium on his Apples. Further inquiry revealed the fact that he meant the Worcester County Agricultural Society. This man is a good farmer, skilled in Apple culture, and, to use his own language, has ' slathers of Apples this ^-ear.' Others made replies that showed a like misconception. Others, who knew of our Exhibition and our separate existence, knew nothing of our Premiums; and all with one accord sftid that our Exhibi- tion was too eai'ly for them. Jt was impracticable to go over large orchards hunting best specimens. Such could only be selected at the har- \est of the whole, and they would not for any premiums or exhibition harvest Winter Apples in the middle of September." And, unless your Secretary errs in the assumption that the reference of the Chairman is to his native town, it is safe to sa}- that what was predi- cated of 1872, would be more than borne out by the experience of the current Autumn. The Exhibitions of the AVokckstkr Couistty Hortk;ultural So- ciety, for a length of time beyond which memory runneth not, have been synchronous with those of the Agricultural Society. Why, it pnss- eth the wit of man to explain. That we are more likely to escape early frosts, thereby insuring a superior Floral display, cannot be denied. But, in the opinion of your Secretary, an E(iuinoctial Storm is about an equal (as in the judgment of the Agricultural Treasurer it is certainly an equine) misfortune. Florists can, if they will use a little industry to supplement reasonable forethought, secure their treasures from harm. A single frost, in September, when one does occur, is almost invariably followed, as now, by weeks of mild and pleasant wealhei-. tMajor William T. Harlow. 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 65 Your Secretary is very decidedly of the opinion that the time has come, and can never be more opportune, for this Society to try the experiment of an Autumnal Exhibition at a late date. And he would recommend that an Exhibition of Flowers, Plants, Fruits and Vegetables be appointed for the four days comprising the 2yth and 30th of September and the 1st and 2d of October. A few varieties in all departments will probably have passed away. But who requires, or is edified by, a display of Bartlett Pears? And what community, Worcester not excepted, does not need to be informed that there are other species as much superior to that general favorite as that confessedly is to its " Button " or " Choke " congener? The possible advantages of a change of time are many. The co-operation of some now exclusively confined to Agricultural Park. Relief from that distraction occasioned b}' the multiplied fascinations of the gay bull and festive stallion. The reasonable maturity of Fruits and Vegetables throughout the County; and the result, — a willingness to contribute to the Exhibitions of a Societ}' that has evinced its disposition to merit success. Should this suggestion be adopted, a wider publicity should be given to the Premium-Schedule. At present, the knowledge of the very lib- eral prizes olTered by this Society is confined to its members, to whom alone the volume of printed Transactions is annually sent. Your Secre- tary is of opinion, as he has been for years, that an advertisement of our Premium-Schedule, in at least one ncAvspaper, would be a judicious in- vestment, and one also that would be certain of large returns. If our Exhibitions shall hereafter be holden later in the Autumn, let them be conducted upon a scale of liberality commensurate with the oc- casion. Let there be a final cessation of chronic grumbling at every ex- penditure for indispensable table furniture; for Music, which adds such a charm to the other agreeable features of an attractive display. Sanction cheerfully, not grudgingly as heretofore, the employment of help enough to do the necessary preliminary work, as well in the Halls as at the desk of the Secretary. Contributors have a right to prompt attention, but the Society has no right, through ill-timed parsimony, to compel them to wait. Thirty Years ago plenty of aid was offered voluntarily. But the pleasant rural town has developed into a great City, in which fife is too busy to be dawdled away. Moreover, the present oflficers cannot much longer endure the exhaustion consequent upon the excessive toil of the Autumnal Ex- hibition, as now managed. Viewed through a microscope, a picayune will assume the proportions of a dollar. But there was no suggestion of a microscope in the advice to cast one's bread upon the waters. Likewise, 3'our Secretary repeats his recommendation that some com- pensation be paid to Chairmen of Committees. We need something more 9 66 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. than a bare abstract of Awards. If aught is to be gained from our Ex- hibitions, it must be derived from a record of facts and observations, — themselves the basis of comparison and ultimate conclusion. All this takes time; and the time of any man fit to be Chairman of a Horticul- tural Committee is worth something. Nor would a Supper, at which the Awards should be declared, be much amiss. Some method must be adopted by which the Trustees shall be enabled to pass upon the assignment of Premiums. Under the present S3'stem, or lack of it, errors are constantly occurring, so that, when a com- petitor calls for payment of what he supposes his due, he Yearns that it belongs to a rival, and that there must have been some error in transcrip- tion. While the whole business is too much and needlessly hurried now, it is believed that it could be accui'ately and agreeably transacted at the Supper-table. Provided, however, that there should be an inexorable prohibition of tongue from the list of viands. In his last Annual Meport, your Secretary " urgently advised the aboli- " ticfn of the existing system of classification," (of Apples and Pears,) "as meaningless and unprofitable; and the substitution therefor of a di- " rect competition between the different lots of the same variety." The experience of ISTo confirms the wisdom of this advice. There is no par- ticular objection to premiums for the best collection, nor to generous offers for new varieties not before exhibited. But, with such exceptions, the whole theory and practice of classification, (in servile imitation of the Massachusetts Society,) which we ought to have outgrown and been ashamed of long since, is a delusion and snare. Committees spend what time is absolutely indispensable upon the Collections. But their interest is aroused and their attention riveted, when called to judge the Single Dishes. That you may the better comprehend the views of the Secretary, a statement is submitted of the Awards for Pears, in Class 4, at the Au- tumnal Exhibitions for 1872 and 1873 : 1872. Xo. 1. — Bartlett, Belle Lucrative, "Winter Nelis, Beurre Bosc, Louise Bonne. No. 2. — Louise Bonne, Lawrence, Bartlett, Beurre d' Anjou, Golden B. of Bilboa. No. 3. — Buffura, Louise Bonne, Sheldon, Flemish Beauty, Duchesse. 1873. No. 1. — Bartlett, Louise Bonne, Duchesse, Lawrence, Winter Nclis. No. 2. — Duchesse, Beurre Clairgeau, Beurre d' Anjou, Puradis, Flem- ish Beauty. No. 3. — Louise Bonne, Howell, Duchesse, Sheldon, Jaminette. 1873.] REPORT OP SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 67 ISTow it may be said that the Secretary, who was the successful com- petitor in both those years, should be the last person to complain. ISTor does he of the awards, which seemed just to the Committee; but simply of the theory under which tliey are necessarily made. That the point may be more precisely taken, similar lists are supplied of the unsuccessful entries in Class Four (4) : 1873. A. — Seckel, Sheldon, riemish Beauty, Eostiezer, Dix. B. — Bartlett, Flemish Beauty, Duchesse, Yicar, Chelmsford. C. — Duchesse, Bartlett, Flemish Beauty, Buffum, Louise Bonne. D. — Duchesse, Louise Bonne, Beurre d' Anjou, St. Michael, Beurre Bosc. E. — Bartlett, Seckel, Flemish Beauty, Duchesse, Louise Bonne. F. — Bartlett, Duchesse, Beurre Diel, Louise Bonne, Yicar of Wink- field. G. — Flemish Beauty, Duchesse, Beurre d' Anjou, Seckel, D. Boussoc. H. — Glout Morceau, Winter Nelis, Beurre d' Anjou, Beurre Superfin, Beurre d' Arenberg. JS'ow if there were any recognized standard of quality by which to deter- mine the pre-eminence of a particular variety, our present system of class- iflcation might not be so objectionable. But, while one member of the Com- mittee may find the Belle Lucrative grateful to his palate, another would rank it as insipid and utterly without merit. To many, the chief, if not only, recommendation of the Duchesse is its size. Take, however, the case of two lots, of different or partially the same varieties, yet all of conceded excellence, and what test shall be aijplied to decide between them? What comparison can be instituted between the Lawrence and Winter !N"elis, each unsurpassed of its kind! Who shall decide that the Beurre d' Anjou is a better Pear than the Beurre Bosc, or vice versa? The truth is, that the whole theory is radically vicious, and justice becomes impossi- ble of administration under the consequent practice. At the last Autumnal Exhibition, the Society offered premiums for Thirty-Nine (.39) different varieties of Pears, in separate entries; for sev- eral species proposing first and second prizes. This would seem to com- prise all the sorts that have approved themselves meritorious by actual culture within the County. It may be advisable, however, upon the abo- lition of classification as now existing, to offer Three (3) Premiums of Five (5,) Three, (3,) and One, (1,) Dollars, severally, for those choicer varieties of whose absolute pre-eminence not a doubt can exist. The suggestion is further advanced of the expediency of proposing specific Premiums for 7iew species of Apples and Peaks and of discon- tinuing "Class 6" in those genera. There are many kinds of Apples grown at the West that might prove worthy and capable of acclimation here. 68 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. While no jirize that we could offer would be an adequate compensa- tion for the cost and trouble involved in the i^rocuring of scions and their subsequent care, it might nevertheless prove an incentive to a broader and more generous culture. Quite a number of Pears, too, of marked promise, and it may almost be said of approved excellence, have been originated, of late years, upon the European Continent and in Great Britain, with which it would be desirable to make a closer aquaintance. The "Beurre de 1' Assomption, ''Souvenir du Congres, and the "Duchesse de Bordeaux are names that occur at this present writing. Then there is the ''Brockworth Park, pronounced •' a splendid pear" by the Garden- er^ s Chronicle. A member of the Committee on Pears,* upon whose gen- erous zeal the Society never counts in vain, and to whose matured judg- ment his colleagues accord proper deference, has collated the subjoined list of such varieties, absolutely or comparatively new, as commend them- selves to him, for trial by our more enterprising Members : Doctor Keeder." Doyenne Hovey,'' Helene G-regoire,' Souvenir d' Esperen,' Huyshe's Prince Consort,^ Belle P^pine Dumas,"" or Rutter," Due de Bordeaux, St. Crispin,' Gen. Todleben." Emile d' Heyst,^ How infinitely better to '' advance the Science of Horticulture " by the al)olition of an utterly meaningless system of classification, and by the substitution therefor of an intelligible and instructive competition be- tween different lots of the same varieties, grown under altered conditions of soil and temperature! Of what vastly augmented usefulness the labors of our Society when it shall concentrate its efforts upon the wider dissem- ination of Pomological knowledge, by the introduction of new and im- proved species, whether imported from Europe, or originated at home, as fondly hoped and predicted by the accomplished President of the Amer- ican Pomological Society .f In this field corporate bounty may well be applied to stimulate an otherwise dormant energ3^ The character of the Autumnal Exhibition, while disclosing no startling features, may be summed up as of general and uniform excel> lence. There were good Apples, more and better than could have been expected. Pears were in superfluity. Peaches are again yielding, on a soil so long fallow; while the clusters of Grapes are as countless as the Rogers numbers. Flowers adorned each nook and corner of the Hall. Nor would an untoward season have been suspected from the abundance a, Early August; b, August and September; c, December to February; fl, Octoljor. *>Ir. Henry Phelps. e, November; f. October; g, Xovember; h, October and November; i, October; j, November and De- cember; k, October and Novcmlier; 1, October and November; m, November; n, October and early Nov. tnon. Mar«hall P. WiKl.-r. 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 69 of choice and thrifty Vegetables. In this latter Department, his eft'orts to develop which to its proper proportions have been so liberally seconded by the Trustees, your Secretary would again invite your attention to the conspicuous absence of the City of Worcester as a competitor. Within the two years last past, this Society has paid into the Treasury of that City, for various Taxes and " Betterments,'" (!) a sum amounting to well nigh Two Thousand Dollars. How appropriate, then, the diversion of the produce of its Farm to swell the display of a rival association, Avhich not only claims exemption from its just share of the public burdens, but also blocks the progress of civic improvement. Although this reproach should perhaps be mitigated, when it is considered how much is done by prominent members and Trustees of our Society to foster a competing Exhibition. Without the aid of professed Horticulturists, through which alone the tables of the Agricultural Society are kept poorly supplied, there would speedily be a cessation of this ill-advised attempt at rivalry in our own especial province. But, whether a due perception of their obligations as Members of this Society shall become fainter, or vividly revive, among our associates; whether a proper spirit of comity shall, or not, actuate the councils and govern the policy of other organizations ; it nevertheless remains for us, as it lies palpably in our power, to crush out rivalry by rendering its results as pitiful as the spirit by which it is in- spired. Earnest and disinterested labor to " advance the Science and en- courage and improve the Practice of Horticulture," will place us beyond even a panic fear of comi etition. As the power to make of our Society what Ave will lies in our own hands, so there will be but ourselves to blame if propitious opportunities are neirlected. Your Secretary, at all events, will spare no effort to stimulate your zeal and accomplish your resolves. In pursuance of their policy, announced to you by the Committee of Arrangements through tlie Eeport of the Secretary for 1872, the number of new, patented Tables has been largely increased. The purchase of two hundred linear feet annually, for two or three years longer, will renew our stock, now greatly dilapidated, to the exceeding convenience of the Committee and without embarassment to the Treasury. The development of the Floral Department of our Exhibition has been such that it ai)peared at first as though another and additional sup- ply of Flower Stands would be indispensable. But it is believed that a readier and better way of relief may be found in a reduction of the ex- treme allowance of stands, permitted to a contributor of Cut Flowers, to two (2), at most. Such limitation will afford ample margin for quantity, — perhaps more than enough for excellence. 76 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. The discrimination between Amateur and Professional Florists, which has worked so successfully throughout the past Summer, should be estab- lished as a Rule for the Annual Autumnal Exhihitions. Its opera- ■ tion has been so beneficial, so far as aj^plied, that no fears need be enter- tained from its unlimited extension. Attention is called to an Exhibition proposed to be held on the Nine- teenth (19th) day of March, A. D. 1874. The taste for Window Garden- ing is likely to become such an auxiliary of our Society that is was judged wise, b\'' the Committee selected to revise the Premium-Schedule, to offer a list of prizes for Bulbs and Plants that bloom in the Vernal Season. If Members, and the community generally, shall second this effort, it may be the means of great public utility. At worst, it will doubtless afford a partial substitute for the Poultry Show, hitherto the attraction ,of that period, but more recently transposed to mid-Winter. It may also be worth our while to consider the expediency of assuming charge, in future, of those Autumnal Exhibitions of Ferneries^ so credit- ably initiated by the [Natural History Society, but which, abandoned by that organization, might lapse into our hands naturally enough. Admir- able facilities for such a display will be furnished in our new Rooms. A simultaneous Show and Trial of Bipe Fruit would have its advantages. At the last Annual Meeting of the Trustees, instructions were given to 3-our Secretary to petition Congress, in behalf of this Society, for a restoration of the Postal rates upon the transmission of Plants and Scions by mail, as they were in force prior to the session of 1871-2. The action of the Federal Legislature in redress of a wrong, contrary to its usual wont, was so exceeding prompt that the obnoxious Statute was repealed, and the yet more offensive " construction " of the Post Office subverted, be- fore such Petition could be prepared. It may prove a mild emollient to the wounded feelings of our excellent associate and Trustee, who keeps so close watch and ward of the material and moral interests "of Tatnuck, but who, in a moment of political oblivion, lost sight of his Butler, to learn that for this act of justice, gracefully done because done quickly, the people are mainly indebted to the Representative from Essex. Those of us who are willing to accept our rights, at whosesoever hands they may be vindicated, feel at liberty to remonstrate with our associate for not es- teeming works meet for thanksgiving an adequate condonation for the failure of political calculations. The slow but sure advance of the Colorado Potato Beetle (Dorypliora decemlineataj toward our borders has been carefully noted and often chronicled in these Reports. As it was found, during the past official year, in Delhi, Delaware Co., New York, our prospects are slight of longer escap- ing its ravages. Our friends in the Western States have fought it, for 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 71 years since its first appearance, witli a mixture of Paris Green and Flour, — the latter ingredient being combined to give bulk. It would appear to your Secretary that Air-Slaked Lime would answer such a loui'pose, and at the same time materiall}^ aid in the work of destruction. Yet it may be ineffective ; since almost everything has been tried, without avail ac- cording to rumor, with the sole exception of Paris Green, At best, we shall unquestionably have ample opportunity to experiment in the pre- mises ; and to test that tenacity of life which, in these Insect- JP'oes, is reputed to be something marvellous. And, should every thing else fail, we still have the assurance of the Ornithologists at the State House that their " Kobin'' shall be with us even unto the end ! In obedience to the instructions of the Trustees a Petition, duly attested and under the seal of the Coi'poration, was addressed and pre- sented to the General Court at its recent protracted session, praying for the concession of leave to freeholders to destroy Frugiverous Birds upon their respective estates. As the phraseology of that Petition disturbed the exquisite sensibilities of the most exalted branch of the Legislature, your Secretary, in his own vindication, recites it verbatim, that you may know at how slight a touch the nerves of those " Prurient Prudes " are wont to tingle : To the Senate and House of Represe'titatives of Massachusetts, in Geneial Court assembled : The Petition of the Trustees of the Worcester County Horticidtural Society, a Corporation duly established by the Laws of the Common- wealth for the '■'• jjuyyose of advancing the Science and encouraging and im- proving the Practice of Horticulture : " Respectfully represents and sets forth that, in the prosecution of the declaimed objects of their organization, the Members of said Society ex- perience sore discouragement and hindrance from the Statutes which have been cunningly devised to protect all Birds from destruction, or even diminution, without reference to their habits, and whether, or not, ferae naturae. And your petitioners aver that many of the species of Birds, thus carefully preserved, are rapacious and wasteful, — gluttonous of choice fruit which it has cost time, patience and labor to introduce into this Commonwealth; and that they in no manner, as is hastily assumed, compensate for their mischief by the destruction of Noxious Insects. And your Petitioners further insist, (challenging disproof of a fact so well established as to be notorious !) that the devastntions of Insects were never so injurious to Fruit, and every form of vegetation, as during the last few years within which Legislation has striven, most sedulously, to guard and prolong the worthless existence of everything that had wings. Wherefore your Petitioners pray that the Statute, not more futile in its scope than contrary to public policy in its provisions, may be amended in such wise as to permit Freeholders to destroy, upjon their own premises, Frugivorous Birds. 72 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1873. And your Petitioners would further say that they are not especially so- licitous for what is entitled a " Hearing " before a Committee of your Honorable Bodies, at which their arra}^ of indisputable facts would prob- ably be met, and possibh' overwhelmed, by the gushing sap of sentimental females, or the lluent gibberish of urban ornithologists, utterly uncon- scious of the obvious distinction between the Turdus Miyratorius and any other 2\crdus. And your Petitioners, earnestly desiring that the truth maybe elicited, from exact observation and precise test, and not bj' accepting for gospel the mawkish theories of moulting sciolists, would further pray your Hon- orable Bodies to authorize the determination, by a Commission of com- petent and faithful men, of the actual facts in the premises, to-wit: If Birds, or many species of them, aie not signally rapacious of Fruit, Veg- etables, &c.; whether the3M'ender any appreciable compensation for the damage they do, b}' the "destruction of noxious insects; but more especiall}^ (and upon this your Petitioners would lay exceeding emphasis,) should it be found that they do consume Insects, whether those Insects are not Parasites, — allies and friends of Man, — never his foes? So shall the " Science and Practice of Horticulture " be at last effect- ually advanced and improved, and the development of Borrioboola Gha be no longer arrested by the diversion of those insipid streams of sentiment- ality upon which her waste places have been wont to depend for irriga- tion. For, and in behalf of, the Trustees, Edward Winslow Lijstcoln, Secretary of the Trustees and of the Corporation. The language of the Petition varying scarcely a particle from the terms of that which was received without a murmur at the Session of 1872, your Secretary was puzzled at the time, and is still at a loss, to account for the virtuous indignation of the Senatorial Ebeuezer. It has been suggested that his ideas had got somewhat mixed in the effort to recon- cile the toleration of Cider with the pressing exigencies of Party. Some have imagined that his thin skin was nettled at the explicit impeachment of his veracity by an associate fi"om Essex. Other some opine that he may have lost his head through pride of success in demonstrating the disloyaltj'^ of Charles Sumner. But an ex-President of our Society, whose perceptions are as acute as his wit is pungent, finds a solution of the enigma not less plausible than grotesque. In his judgment the origin of misconception is to be sought in Latin cacophony; and in the private grief of the Turdus Felivox from Fitchburg, at any hint, however deli- cately conveyed, that the difterence between his own peculiar species and that of his congener, — the Migratorius, — would not be perceptible to the average Legislative intellect. Recommending that you renew your Petition to the General Court for relief in the premises, whereof the need was never more evident nor urgent than during the past year, praying for such amendment of exist- ing Statutes as shall concede to freeholders the liberty of protecting 1873.] REPORT OF SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN. 73 themselves, effectively, from the depredations of Frugivorous Birds, (a liberty already allowed in the case of trespass by human beings!) your Secretary dismisses the subject, concluding this Report with a dutiful submission to that swarm of intellectual giants who crowd the State House ; whose name is Legion ; and who stumble over each other in their "pious rage" to serve the Commonwealth — for a consideration I of this, — Reductio ad Absurdum In re Migra — Turdum. All which is respectfully submitted. EDWARD WINSLOW LINCOLN^, Librarian and Secretary. HORTICIJLTURAL HaLL, Nov. 3d, A. D. 1873. 10 OF THE Worcester County Horticultural Society. ANNUAL MEETING Article 1. There shall be an Annual Meeting of the Society, to be held on the first Wednesday in November of each year. MEMBEKSHIR Article 2. Any male person may become a Member of the Society on payment of the sum of Five Dollars; females upon the payment of Three Dollars. Honorary Members may be admitted by vote of the Society or of the Trustees, but shall not have the right to vote at any Business-Meeting. OFFICERS. Article 3. The Officers of the Society shall consist of a President, three (3) Vice-Presidents, a Secretary and Librarian, and a Treasurer— (all of whom shall be Trustees ex-q^ms) —and the Trustees by election. The Officers are to be elected by ballot, to hold their offices until the next annual election, or until others are chosen in their places, and to dis- charge the duties of their respective offices. MEETINGS OF THE SOCIETY. Article 4. All meetings of the Society shall be called by giving not less than one (1) week's notice in at least one newspaper published in the City of Worcester. Special Meetings of the Society shall be called at any time, on the application of five (5) members therefor. And at all meet- ings of the Society, seven (7) shall constitute a quorum for the transac- tion of business. BY-LAWS. 75 SECKETAEY. Article 5. His Duties: The Secretary shall keep records of all business transacted at the meetings of the Society and of the Trustees, and also of the admission of Members, and he shall call and notify meet- ings of the Society and of the Trustees, and shall notify persons chosen to office in the Society of their election and the Committees of their ap- pointment, and shall attend to the correspondence of the Society. TKEASUREK. Article 6. His Duties : The Treasurer shall, at each Annual Meet- ing of the Society, make a Report of his Receipts and Expenditures on ac- count of the Society, and the condition of its finances, and exhibit his accounts. And a Committee shall be annually appointed by the Trustees to examine and audit his accounts and to report thereon. The Treasurer shall give bonds to the acceptance of the Trustees of the Society for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office. TRUSTEES. Article 7. Their Number: The Trustees shall consist of any number not less than twenty-five (25) exclusive of the officers,. who are Trustees ex-officiis — and the exact number of Trustees for the year ensu- ing, shall be determined at each Annual Meeting. Their Powers: The Trustees shall have the general charge and di- rection of the affairs and business of the Society, its funds and jDroperty, so far as not otherwise provided for in the By-Laws or at the meetings of the Society, and may appoint one or more exhibitions of Flowers, Fruit or Vegetables in each year, and make all arrangements therefor and for conducting the same, including the appointment of Committees; and may establish Premiums and provide for awarding the same, and shall direct the disposal of all articles of a vegetable growth which may be presented to the Society, including the distribution of Seeds, Scions and Cuttings, Layers and Roots. Their Meetings— Quorum: At all meetings of the Trustees seven (7) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business; and a meet- ing of the Trustees may at any time be called, on the application of three (3) members of the Board to the President of the Society; and all meet- ings of the Trustees shall be called by the Secretary. There shall be stated meetings of the Trustees, to be held once in three (3) months. 76 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. FINANCE COMMITTEE. Article 8. There shall be chosen at the Annual Meeting of the So- ciety a Committee of three (3), one member thereof to be elected each and every year, to hold office for the term of three years; said Committee, subject to the control and supervision of the Trustees, shall have the general care and oversight of the lands, buildings and other property of the Society; shall approve all bills against the Treasury before being paid by the Treasurer, except money awarded for Premiums, and shall author- ize the Treasurer to invest, for the benefit of the Society, in one or more of the Savings Banks of the City of Worcester, any money not appropri- ated or necessary for the current exi)enses of the Society. AMENDMENTS. Article 9. The By-Laws may be altered or amended at the Annual Meeting of the Society, by a vote of two-thirds (|) of the members pres- ent; provided, that previous notice shall have been given in the call for the Annual Meeting that the subject of an alteration of the By-Laws is to come before the Society at that meeting. JOHN MILTON EARLE. A special meeting of the Trustees of the Worcester County Horti- cultural Society was convened on Thursday, February 12th, at 4 o'clock P. M., upon a requisition in pursuance of the By-Laws, President Fran- cis in the Chair, who, upon calling the Board to order, announced as the occasion of their being summoned together the recent decease of one of the oldest and most prominent Members of the Society. He briefly enumera- ted the reasons why they should commemorate the death of John Mil- ton Earle. Although not one of the persons named in the Act of In- corporation, he was one of the very oldest Members of the Society, and for a long time one of its Officers. No one has done as much for Horti- culture in this City, and for the Society, as Mr. Earle. His precise knowl- edge of Plants, Flowers and Fruits surpassed that of any one the President had ever met, and was obtained by long, close, and persistent study. We can never expect again to see a man of so much ability so devotedly at- tached to Horticulture. His great loss warranted the Trustees in taking serious and thoughtful action in commemoration of his death, and the President announced that he had requested one of the oldest Members of the Society, the Hon. Stephen Salisbury, to prepare a set of Kesolutions. Mr. Salisbury being introduced, read the following: Whereas, our President, Dr. Geo. E. Francis, has announced, with ap- propriate and merited eulogy, that the Hon. John Milton Earle, a Trus- tee and a distinguished Member of this Society, died on the Hth inst., at the ripe age of 79 years, 9 months and 25 days, and it is proper that the Trustees should express on their Kecords their views and feelings in re- gard to this solemn and important event ; — IN MEMOBIAM. Besolved, That the death of the Hon. John Milton Earle, our associate in this Board, is an event that calls on us to pause in the hurr}' of life to take notice of his valuable labors, his instructive example and his agreea- ble co-operation in the trust committed to us. Besolved, That we concur with our fellow citizens in the expressions, in public and private, in society and through the j^ress, that honor and la- ment for our friend, as a man of kind feelings, refined taste, independent judgment aud cultivated intellect, ever ready with the generous aid of zealous and unpaid labor of his body and mind to promote good learning, pure morals, personal freedom and all institutions and movements that he considered adapted to make men wiser, better and happier. Besolved, That our duties here lead us to remember with reverence and gratitude: — That Mr. Earle was the last of the early supporters of this Society who continued his active service without abatement to this time; — That at a meeting of this Board a few days ago, he attended with a physical effort painful to witness, but his eye was not dim, nor his natu- ral force abated for the objects of his long continued care; — That he was the President of the Society for three years, and before and after he was a member of this Board, and in addition to excellent Reports, and other service, he performed his duty on the Committee of Nomenclature of Fruits and Flowers with a readiness and accuracy that few men in the countrj^ could equal ;^ And that as an introducer of new Fruits and Flowers he was distin- guished, and as a cultivator he was eminently successful. Itesolved, That while Ave consider with sadness the loss of a guide, ex- ample, and friend, whose place in our Society Ave see no one prepared to fill, we Avill thankfully remember that all is not lost of his valuable labors for this Society aud for the culture that he so fondly loved. The good he did aa-III live after him, not only in his own City and County, but in the larger circle of those who Avill be benefited by the publication of his writings, AAdiich were profitable to everybody but himself. Besolved, That the foregoing Resolutions shall be transcribed upon the Records, and that a copy of them shall be presented by the Secretary to the children of Mr. Earle, Avith the assurance of our respect and our sym- pathy in their sorroAV. Mr. John C. NcAvton, arising to move the adoption of the Resolutions, bore feehng testimony to the kindly disposition of Mr. Earle and the earnest fidelity with which he had discharged his duties in relation to the SocietA". Mr. Obediah B. Iladwen, seconding the motion to adopt the Resolu- tions, stated that he had been acquainted, from childhood, with Mr. Earle, to Avhom he Avas indebted for Avhatever he kncAv of Horticulture. IN ME MORI AM. He believed that the influence of Mr. Earle had extended throughout the County to a greater extent than that of any other Horticulturist. Re- ferring to the many prominent members of whom death had deprived the Society, — mentioning William Lincoln, Dr. John Green, Rice, Butman, and Ripley, — he lamented that the number should now be augmented — although in the fullness of his time — by the decease of Mr. Earle. Mr. W. W. Cook spoke briefly, feeling it his duty to give testimony to Mr. Earle's generous and kindly feeling. He referred to the interest which Mr. Earle took in the business which he started here a few years ago, and expressed thankfulness for the aid and encouragement which he had received from the deceased. The knowledge of plants and flowers which Mr. Earle possessed was remarkable, amounting to a gift, when we consider the faculty which he had of retaining in mind the forms and colors of diflierent varieties of Fruits and Flowers. Before putting the motion, the President remarked that it was possible to learn a lesson from the causes which enabled Mr. Earle to acquire such varied and extensive information. The persistency and thoroughness with which he studied were remarkable, and every department which he investigated was studied to its very fullest extent. The thorough study of one thing at a time was another characteristic of the deceased. Tlie Resolutions were then unanimously adopted. The following Resolves, proposed by the Secretary, Edward W. Lin- coln, Esq , were adopted with like agreement : Resolved, That the Committee on the Library be instructed to procure, if attainable, an accurate likeness of our late associate, John Milton Earle, and suspend the same in Horticultural Hall. Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting, including the very ap- propriate Resolves of the Hon. Stephen Salisbury, be published in the current volume of " Transactions." And thereupon the meeting was dissolved. Attest : EDWARD WINSLOW LINCOLN, Secretary. v^ (f ' W^JK^m/' p mjf^^f r f ^■^T- £ Bi^\\ r/' ' A J / :A F\^ W ^ im J ^f