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9 4 '^ '\

SCOTCH TENANT-FARMERS

ON XII K

AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

OF CANADA.

THE REPORTS

OF

Mr. JOHN STEVEN, Purroch Farm, IIuri.ford, Atrstiirk ; and
Mr. ALEX. ERASER, Balloch of Cullodew, Inverness,

ON

THEIR VISIT TO CANADA IN 1893.

I

Puhlished hij Authority of the Government of Canada (Department of

the Interior).

M

FEBRUARY, 1894.

L

CONTENTS.

i'ti^F^<^E

Mr. John Steven's Kei-okt

Mr. AhKx. FnxsKR's Uei-out ...

• ' • ••• ■••

General Inpormahon auoui Canada (Appendix A;
The Canadian Exhibits at Chicaoo (Appendix H)
Mai'

...to fate

TAOE

iii

J

4(

93
1)6

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

Kxi'EHIMENTAL FaHM, OTTAAVA

Winnipeg

••• •■• t.« ,., , .,

Wheat Stacks-, Maniioha

A Crofter's Ox Team ,

Hyde Farm, yu'AiTKLLE

Canadian Pacific Kailavav Hotel, Vancouver .,
CALGA1^V

••• •*• tt9 •■•

A KiLLARNEv Crofter ri,oLouiNO

A Crofter's Stable and Farm-Yaud

An Ontario Farm ,

Galloway Cattle on a Mamtoba Farm

Farm Scene, Manitoba

Grain Elevator, Brandon

Cattle in the (^uAppell?-: Valley

Cameron's Farm, (^u'Api'Elle

Vancouver

Rakou Scene, Alberta

Croftebs Thrbshino

••' ••• t««

A Farm-Hqube, Southern Aiakitoba

4

13

18

2o

28

,i'6

33

'ST

40

53

(i2

G3

65

70

75

79

81

1

PREFACE.

rAUB

iii

i

4. i

U6

4

13
18
2o
L'8
•6'6
33
37
40
53
G2
G3
65
70
75
79

Iv July, 1893, the High Commissioner for Canada, hy direction of the
Minister of the Interior, invited the following gentlemen (who are all
connected with the agricultural industry in the different parts of the
United Kingdom from which they come) to visit the Dominion of
Canada, and report upon its agricultural resources, and the advantages
the country offers for the settlement of farmers and farm labourers,
and the other classes for which there is a great demand : —

Mr. A. J. Davies. Upper HoUings, rensax, Tenbury, Worcestershire ; Mr. W.
II. Dempster, Millbrook Ix)dge, ClarbeHton lioad, Soath Wiiles ; Mr. AleXRtider
Fraser, Balloch, (yuUoden, Inverness, Scotland ; Mr. R. H. Faiilka, Langhani, Oak-
ham, Rutland ; Mr. J. T. Franklin, Handley, near Towcester, Northamptonshire ;
Mr. J. J. Quiry, Peppardstown, Fethard, Clonrael, Ireland ; Mr. Tom Pitt, Oburn-
ford, Cullompton, Devon ; Mr. John Roberts, Plas Ileaton Farm, Trefnant, North
Wales ; Mr. Reuben Shelton, Grange Farm, Ruddington, Nottinghamshire ; Mr.
Joseph Smith, 2, Mowbray Terrace, Sowerby, Thirsk, Yorkshire; Mr. John Steven.
Pnrroch Farm, Hurlford, Ayrshire, Scotland; Mr. Booth Waddington, Bolehill
Farm, Wingerworth, Chesterfield ; and Mr. William Weeks, Cleverton Farm.
Chippenham, Wiltshire.

In addition, two other farmers -Mr. John Cook, of Birch Hill,
Neen Sollars, Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire ; and Mr. C. E. Wright,
of Brinkhill, near Spilsby, Lincolnshire — visited the Dominion, under
their own auspices, during 1893 ; and they have been good enough to
prepare Eeports of their impressions.

The Reports, if published together, would makt^ a bulky volume.
It has therefore been decided to divide them into the following
parts : —

Part 1 — The Reportb of Messrs, Shelton. Waddington, (.\x)k, and Smith.

Part 2 — The Reports of Messrs. Franklin, Faulks, and Wright

Part 3 — The Reports of Messre. Weeks, Pitt, and Davies.

Part 4 — The Reports of Messrs. Roberts and Dempster.

Part 6 — The Reports of Messrs. Steven and Fraser.

Part 6 — The Report of Mr. Guiry.

Part 1 will be circulated in the following counties : — Northumber-
land, Cumberland, Durham, Westmoreland, York, Lancashire, Shrop-
shire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Derby, and Nottingham.

Part 2, in Lincoln, Rutland, Leicester, Northampton, Huntingdon,
Cambridge, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertford, Bedford, Bucks, Oxford,
Berks, Middlesex, Surrey, Kent, and Sussex.

Part 3, in Warwick, Worcester, Hereford, Gloucester, Wiltshire,
Hampshire, Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall.

Part 4, in Wales ; Part 5, in Scotland ; and Part 6, in Ireland.

Any or all of these pamphlets, as well as other illustrated
From whom pamphlets issued by the Government, may be obtained.
Pamphlets post free, by persons desiring to peruse them, on applica-
ohtainahle. tion to the Hon. Sir Charles Tupper, Bart., G.O.M.G.,
C.B., High Commissioner for Canada, 17, Victoria Street,
London, S.W. ; to Mr. J. G. Colmer, C.M.G., Secretary, at the same

IV

Preface.

Land

Regulations in
various Provinces.

addreHs ; or to any of the ageuts of thn Canadian Government in the
United Kingdom, whose names and addresses are as follows: — Mr.
John Dyke, IT), Water Street, Liverpool; Mr. Thomas Grahame,
40, St. Enoch Square, Glasgow; Mr. E. J. Wood, 79, llagloy Koad,
Birmingham ; Mr. P. Fleming, 44, High Street, Dundee ; Mr. W.
G. Stuart, Nethy Bridge, Inverness ; and Mr. G. Leary, William
Street, Kilkenny. Copies may also be obtained from the steamship
agents, who are to be found in every village.

As the land regulations of the different Provinces
are fn!quently referred to in the Reports, they
are quoted iu detail in the following paragra])hs ;
but they are, of course, subjecij to alteration from
time to time : —

Prince Edward Island. — Tlio available uncultivated and vacant Coverntnent
land is estimated at about 45,000 acres. These consist of forest lands of medium
quality, the very best having, of conrse, been taken up by the tenants in the first
instance, and their price averapes about one dollar per acre. Partiec desiring to
settle upon them are allowed ten years to pay for their holdings, the purchase-
money to bear interest at 5 per cent, and to be payable In ten annual instalments.

^ova (Scotin. — There are now in Nova Scotia abriut two milIion« of acres of
ungranted Govarnment Innds, a considerable quantity of which m n..j8n and
almost totally unfit for cultivation ; but there is some land in blocks of from 200
to 500 acres (if reiiUy valuable land, and some of it the best in the province, and
quite accessible, being very near ])rescnt settlements. The price of Crowu lands
is $40 (A"8 sterling) per 100 ncres.

New Bruvsunck. — Crown lands, of which there are some 7,000,000 acres still
ungranted, may be acquired as follows : — (1.) Free grants of 100 acres, by settlers
over 18 years of age, on the condition of improving the land to the extent of £4
in three months ; building a house IH ft. by 20 ft., and cultivating two acres within
one year; and continuous residence and cultivation of 10 acres within three years.
(2.) One hundred acres are given to any settler over 18 years of age who pays £4
in cash, or does work on the public roads Sec. equal to £2 per annum for three
years. Within two yeai-s a house I'l ft. by 20 ft. must be built, and two acres of
land cleared. Continuous residence for three years from date of entry, and ten
acres cultivated in that time, is also required. (3.) Single applications may be
made for not more than 200 acres of Crown lands without conditions of settlement.
These are put up to public auction at an upset price of 4s. 2d. per acre ; purchase-
money to be paid at once ; cost of survey to be paid by purchaser.

Quebec. — About 6,000,000 acres of Crown lands have been surveyed for sale.
They are to be purchased from the Government, and are paid for in the following
manner: — One-fifth of the purchase-money is required to be paid the day of the
sale, and the remainder in four equal yearly instalments, bearing interest at
6 per cent. The prices at which the lands are sold are merely nominal, ranging
from 20 cents to 60 cents per acre (15d. to 2s. 5^d. stg.). The pnrchaser is required
to take possession of the land sold within six months of the date of the sale, and
to occupy it within two years. He must clear, in the course of ten years, ten acres
for every hundred held by him, and erect a habitable house of the dimensions of
at least 16 ft. by 20 ft. The letters patent are issued free of charge. The parts
of the Province of Quebec now inviting colonisation are the Lake St. John District ;
the vallejs of the Saguenay, St. Maurice, and the Ottawa Rivers ; the Eastern
Townships ; the Lower St. Lawrence ; and Gasp^.

Ontario. — Any head of a family, whether male or female, having children
under 18 years of age, can obtain a grant of 200 acres; and a single man ever
18 years of age, or a married man having no children under 18 residing with him,
can obtain a grant of 100 acres. This land is mostly covered with forest, and is
situate in the northern and north-western parts of the province. Such a person
may also purchase an additional 100 acres at 50 cents per acre, cash. The
settlement duties are — To have 15 acres on each grant cleared and under crop at the

Preface, f

end of the first five veara, of which at least two acres are to he cleared ann nailer ;
to build a habitable house, at least 16 feet by 20 feet in si/.e ; and to reside on
the land at least six months in each year. Tn the. Rainy Rirer district, to the west
of Lalte Suf)erior, consisting; of well-watered uncleared land, free prantfl are made
of lt>0 acres to a head of a family having children under 18 yearn of ape residing
with him (or her) ; and 120 acres to a single man over 18, or to n married man
not having 'children under 18 residing with him; eacli person obtaining a free
grant to have the privilege of purcbasing 80 acres additional, at the rate of one
dollar per acre, payable in four annual instalments.

Manitoba and North- West Territories. — I'Veo grants of one quarter-section
(160 acres) of surveyed agricultural land, not |ii'eviously entered, may be obtained
by any person who ia the sole liead of a family, or by any male who has attained
the age of 18 years, on application to the local agent of Dominion lands, and on pay-
ment of an office fee of $10. The grant of the patent is subject to the following
conditions having been complied with : —

By making entry and within six months thereafter erecting a habitable
hnu.so and commencing actual residence upon the land, and continuing to reside
upon it for at least six months in each year for the three next succeeding years, and
doing roasor.able cultivntion duties during that period.

Person.s making entry for homesteads on or after September Ist in any year
are allowed until June Ist following to perfect their entries by going into actual
residence. The only charge for a homestead of 160 a(!re8 is the entrance fee of $ 10.
In certain ca.«»es forfeited pre-emptions and cancelled homesteads are available for
entry, but slightly additional fees, and value cf improvements thereon, if any, are
demanded frori the homesteader in each case, and when abandoned pre-emptions
are taken up tliey are required to perform specified conditions of settlement. Full
information can be obtained from the local agents. In connection with his home-
stead entry the settlei may also purchase, subject to the approval of the Minister of
the Interior, the quarter-section of the same section, if available, adjoining his
homestead, at the Government price, which is at present $3 per acre. Tn the event
of a homesteader desiring to secure his patent within a shorter period than the
three years, he will be permitted to purchase his homestead at the Government
price at the time, on furnishing proof that he has resided on the land for at
least 12 months subsequent to date of entry, and has cultivated 30 acres thereof.

The following diagram shows the manner in which the country is surveyed.
It represents a township — that is, a tract of land six miles square, containing
36 sections of one mile sqnare each. These sections are subdivided into quarter
sections of 160 acres each, more or less.

TOWNSHIP DIAGRAM.

640 Acres. N.

'( ■■,•<■

5^

s2

..31..

.. 32..

School
...29..
LandB

..33...

...34...

I

...35...

...36...

-^M

...30...

m

...28...
...21...

...27...

H.B.

...26...

Lands

...25...
...24...

w.

...i9...

...20...

. 22...

...23...

...is .

...17..

...16...

...15...

...14..

...13...
...i2..

...i...

...7...

H.B.

...8...

Lands

...9...

...io...

School
...11...

Lands

.

...6...

...5...

...4...

...'3...

...2...

E.

The right of pre-emption has ceased to exist, having been altogether discon-
tinued since 1st January, 1890.

Information respecting timber, mineral, coal, grazing and bay lands, may be

Preface.

obtained from iiny uf the laud it^juiitfl. HoineMteadrrs in thu HrM yenr of nettloment
are entitled to free permits to cut a specified quantity of timber for their own nne
only, upon payment of an oHHce fee of 25 centM.

It niuHt be iliHtinotly undcrHt(KMl that the land rcKiilittions an* Hubjm't to varin-
tion from time (x) time. SettlerH should take care to obtain from the land agent,
when making their entry, an explanation of the actual re^^ulationo in force at that
time, and the clause of the Act under which the entry is made endorsed upon the
receipt, so that no question or ditKculty may then or thereafter arise.

British Columbia. — In thiH province any British subicct who \h the hewd of
a family, a widow, or a single man over 18 years, or an alien proposing to become
a British subject, may acquire the right from the Provincial Government to pre-
empt not more than 160 acres of Crown lauds west of the Cascade Kange, and 32<i
acres in the east of the province. The price is 48. '2d. an acre, payable by four
annual instalments. The conditions are— (1) I'crsonal residence of the settler, or
his family or agent ; (2) improvements to be mode of the vitlue of lOs. »!d. nn acre.
Lands from l(>0 to 640 acres may also be bought at from $1 to $5 an acre, ac-
cording to class, without conditious of residence or improvements.

The Esquimau and Nanaimo Railway Syndicate have not yet fully arrRn;.M'il
the terms upon which they will dispose of their unoccupied lands. They own
about 1,500,000 acres, but they are much broken up by rock and mountains.

The land belonging to the Dominion Government lies withiu the " Uailway
Bolt, "r tract 20 miles wide on each side of the line, which begins near the sea-board,
runs through the New Westminster district, and u]) the Fraser Valley to Lyttou ;
thence it runs up the Thompson River valley, post Kainloops and through Eagle
Pass, across the northern part of Koocenay district to the eastern frontier of
British Columbia. The couutry is laid out in townships in the same way as
in Manitoba and the North-West Territories. The lands may be purchased at a
price not less than %b (£1) per acre — free from settlement conditions, no sale,
except in special cases, to exceed (140 acres to any one person. The lands may bo
" homesteaded " in certain proclaimed districts by settlers who intend to reside on
>t them. A registration fee of $10 (£2) is charged at the time of application. Six
months is allowed in which to take possession, and at the end of three years, on
proof of continuous residence of not less than six months annually and cultivation,
he acquires a patent on payment of $1 per acre for the land. In case of illness, or
of necessary absence from the homestead during the three years, additional time will
be granted to the settler to conform to the Government regulations. Any person
after 12 months' residence on his homestead, and cultivation of 30 acres, may obtain
a patent on payment of $2.50 (lOs.) per acre. These conditions apply to agri-
cultural lands.

In addition to the free-gnint lands available in Manitoba
Lands for and the North- West Territories, several companies have
Sale, large blocks of land which they ojffer for disposal at

reasonable rates, from S2.50 up to $10 per acre. Among
others, the Canadian Pacitic Kailvvay Company (Land Commissioner,
!NIr. L. A. Hamilton, Winnipeg) has about 14 millions of acres ;
and the Hudson Bay Company (Chief Commissioner, Mr. C. C.
Chipman, Winnipeg) has also a considerable area. The same
remark applies to the Canada North-West Land Company (Land
Commissioner, Mr. W. B. Scarth, Winnipeg) and the Manitoba and
North- Western Railway Company; and there are several other com-
panies, including the Land Corporation of Canada. The Alberta Coal
and Railway Company also own nearly half a million acres of land in
the district of Alberta. The prices of these lands vary according to
position, but in most cases the terms of purchase are easy, and
arranged in annual instalments, spread over a number of years.
Mr, R. Seeman, c/o The Manitoba and North- Western Railway
Company, Winnipeg, has purchased about 80,000 acres of land from

Prcfuie,

>ii

wttlement
ii own line

to varin-
in<l agent,
rco at tbHt

upon the

R hcH<l of
to bec<>m<>
It to prc-
'; and 320
e by four
Pettier, or
nn acre.
Ht'ie, ac-

arrRnyci]
liHy ow'o

IS.

Uailway
ia-board,

Lvttoii ;
:h Kagle
>ntier of

way as
tsed at a
no sale.

may bp
aside uo
>n. Six
ears, on
ivatiou,
Iness, or
me will
' person
7 obtain
;o agri-

nitoba
have

sal at

.mong

lioner,

acres ;

C. C.
same

Land

I and
corn-
Coal

id in

ig to
and

ears.

hvay

from

that lailwuv coinpiiny. Ili' iti pn^imred to m'II tlio hind iii a rruMonuhle
rate per ucri*, a Mnall nuiii hciiig |>aid (h)\vn, the remainder in iinnuHl
instalments on a graduated Hcaie. Mr. HetMiian ImM already .sold al)uut
^40,000 acres diu'ing the last yeiii*. Ah will be wetjn from Home of the
delegates' Keports, Lord Bras.sey, Senator Sunford, and others have
land for sale. The Colonisation Board have also land for disposal,
under favourable arrangements, particulars of which may be obtained
of Mr. G. B. Borradailo, Winnipeg.

In all the provinces improved farms may be pureiiased
Improved at reasonable prices- that is, farms on wliicli buildings
FarmH. have been erected and a portion of the land <.'ultivat.ed.

The following are the average prices in the dilTerent
provinces, the prices being regulated by the position of the farms,
the nature and extent of the buildings, and contiguity to towns and
railways : Prince Edward Island, fj-om £A (o X7 per acre ; Mova
Scotia., New Brunswick, and Quebec, from £,"2 to X\i)\ Ontario,
from £'2 to i!20; ManiU^ba and the North-West Territories, from
^1 to .£10; and British Columbia, from £2 to £20. These farms
l)ecome vacant for the reasons which are explained with accuracy
in many of the accompanying Keports. They are most suitable
for persons possessed of some means, who desire more «>f the social
surroundings than can be obtained in those parts of the various
I)r()vinces in which Government lands are still available for occupation
and settlement.

Canada has already assuuied an important position as
Agricultural an agricultural country, and the value of its exports of
Exports, such products alone now nearly reaches S60,000,000*

annually, in addition to the immense quantity required
fr»r home consumption. The principal items of farm and dairy
produce exported in 1892 — the latest returns available — were:
Horned cattle, $7,748,949; horses, a;i,354,027 ; sheep, « 1, 385,1 46;
butter, $1,056,058; cheese, *11,652,'412; eggs, $1,019,798; flour,
$1,784,413; green fruit, $1,444,883; barley, $2,613,363; pease,
$3,450,634; wheat, $6,949,851; potatoes, $294,421. Besides the
articles specially enumerated, a considerable export trade was done in
bacon and hams, beef, lard, mutton, pork, poultry, and other meats, as
well as in beans, Indian com, oats, malt, oatmeal, flour-meal, bran, fruits,
and tomatoes. The chief importers of Canadian produce at the present
time are Great Britain and the United States, but an endeavour is
being made, and so far with success, to extend the trade with the
mother country, and to open up new markets in other parts of the
world. The products of the fisheries, the mines, and the forests are
also exported to a large annual value ; and the manufacturing industry
is a most important and increasing one, especially in the eastern
provinces, and includes almost every article that can be mentioned.

It is not necessary to extend this preface or to summarise the

* The exports of these products in 1879 were only 33^ million dollars, and
the iuiportaace of the present volume of the trade may be realised when it is
remembered that prices have declined, roughlv, 25 per cent, in the interval.

▼iu

Prefncfi.

variouH Jtf> ports ; they must \m^ ullowtnl to speak for themHelvcH. Tboy
deal with Caiindu an nocii by prm'tical ajj;iiriilf.iiristM, and rdVr not only
to itH advantapo.M, ])iit to its diMadvantaR»'M, lor no t'ountry in vvithcuit
tho latiiM' in hoiho simp*' or form. It may Hiifi-ly bo said, l»owHv^^r, that
Canada haw fewer drawbacks than many oth«'r parts of th«i world ; and
this is borne out by the bivoiirublt^ opinions that are generally expresnt>d
by the Delegation. Tiiose who read the lieports of tiu^ farmers who
visited Caiuuhi in 1M70 and IHMU will realise that immense profj;resH
has been made since that time — wImmi the vast region west of \Vinni[)eg
was only aciceHsible by railway for a short distance, and direct communi-
cation with Eastern Canada, through I'rifish territory, was not complete.
Considerable development has also taloi. ])Iace since 1890— when the
previous Delegation visited the country.

The Canadian (lovernmeut, in inviting tho Delegation, wished to
place, Ix^fore the public, information of a reliable and independent
character as to the prospects th(» Donnnion offt^rs for th») settlement
of persons desiring to engage in agricultural pursuits, and it is believed
that its efforts will be as much appreciated now as they were on previous
occiisions. In Great Uritain and Ireland the area of available land is
limited, and there is a large and ever-incr<;asing population ; while at
the same time Canada has only a population of about 5,000,(100, and
hundreds of millions of acres of the most fertile land in the world, simply
waiting f(.i' people to cultivate it, capable of yielding in abundance
all the products of a temperate climate for the good of mankind.
It only i-emains to be said that any persons, of the classes to whom
Canada prtssents so many opportunities, who decide to remove their
homes to the Dominion, will receive a warm welcome in any part
of the country, and will at once realise that they are not strangers in
a strange land, but among fellow British subjects, with the same
language, customs, and loyalty to the Sovereign, which obtain in the
Old Country.

IUnI

Chal
visit
tiel(
othol
on tl

(Ml h

witlj

th(^

aftoi

map

inve

"^F

For general information about Canada^ advice to intending Emi-
grants, and a description of the Canadian Agricultural and Dairg
Ea^hibits at Chicago, see Ajypetidices (pages 85 to 96),

In addition to the Reports of the Delegates referred to above, the
Reports of Professor Long, the well-known Agricultural Expert, and of
Professor Wallace (Professor of Agricvllure and Rural Economy), of
Edinburgh University — who visited Canada in 1893 — are also availafjle
for distHbution, and may be procured from any of the Agents of the
Government.

>.'. ti

.1 '

V

n -i

M',1\

«

i

THE REPORT OF MR. JOHN STEVEN,

Purroch Farm, Hurlford, Ayrshire, N.B.

IIavino r«!o»'ived thd honour, in AugiiHt, 189.*i, of boinp selected by Sip
CliiirKis 'lupjx'r as one of thu tormiit furnun' (lt'lo«:;(it«'« appoint^'il to
visit Cutiada and roport on tlio Huitability of that wid<» Dominion as a
Hold of oniif^ration for Hritijii farmuris, I, in oon\pany with Hiivurai
othor inuinborH of th(^ DoLgation, set sail from Liv(irpool for Montreal
on th(< 17tli of the month already mentioned. We n^ached Montreal
on Saturday, tlu! 20th, and stayed there over Sunday. In accordance
with tile arrangements tiiat hacl been made for us, we left the city on
the following Monday, the 28th of August. A''riving at Ottawa in the
afternoon, we called at the olKces of the Minister of the Interior for
maps, instructions, Ac, in connection witii our future journey of
investigation.

EXl'EKIMENTAL FAUM, OTTAWA

Mr. Daly, the Minister of the Interior, being away
Experimental on a visit to the North- West at the time, we were
Farms. received by Mr. Burgess, Deputy-Minister. Mr.

Burgess made arrangements for our visiting in the
first place the Central Experimental Farm, near Ottawa. We were
accompanied by Mr. Fortier, of the Government offices, who introduced

The Ar/ricultural liesoiirces of Canada.

c.'U'li of us to th(» heads of the several departinentH connected with the
estiiblislirneiit. The ofticers are Mr. William Saunders, director, who
was absent from home; Mr. James W. llobertson, Dairy Commissioner
and agriculturist; and Mr F. ¥. Shutt, chemist, who was analysing soil
from British Columbia when we called. We were at the same time
introduced to Mr. John Craig, horticulturist, and Mr. A. G-. Gilbert,
poultry manager. There are live experimental farms located throughout
th(! Dominion, the idea in having them in different parts of the country
being the better to adapt the teaching to the varying climate, soil, and
altitude of the country. As a standing monument to the foresight and
wisdom of the Canadian Government, these experimental farms are a
marked ' success. In carrying out experimental work in connection
with farming, an increasing interest ia being manifested by farmers all
over the Dominion, in proof of which 1 can refer to the fact that,
whereas four years ago from 5,000 to 10,000 copies of reports supplied
the demand, now 40,000 are requirea. This demand exists because the
farmer gets the knowledge he needs in connection with all the depart-
ments of his calling. There is also a distribution of seed grain of
improved varieties ; and to show how this advantage is appreciated, last
year the number of samples distributed was 1 6,905. These samples
were of 3 lbs. each, amounting in all to 24| tons of grain. Amongst
them were 5,384 samples of oats, 3,954 samples of barley, 719 of peas,
36 of rye, 1,545 of Indian corn, and 1,278 samples of potatoes.
Besides the testing of grain for seed purposes and the improvement
of approved varieties, experiments in connection with testing cattle
fond for milk and beef production, investigation into insect pests, with
a view to check their ravages, and so on, are prosecuted in a scientific
way by picked experts, each in a separate department. Dairying is a
special feature in this establishment, and in consequence a great
improvement has taken place in the quality of butter and cheese in
Canada during the last few years.

Our next move was to Winnipeg, wh'^re we called upon
Wirmi][iey. Commissioner Smith, of the Dominion Land Offices, and

received instructions with regard to our route. Mr. Cox, of
the Crown Forest Department, a very energetic and capable conductor,
was appointed to chaperon us through the vast extent of country weat
of Winnipeg. The city of Winnipeg is the chief city of Manitoba,
and one of the principal cities of C«.nada. It forms the great com-
mercial centre of a country of nearly two thousand millions of acres
of rich territory, and is the seat of government and the fountain-head
of the educational institutions of not only Manitoba, but the whole
North- West. The progress of Winnipeg has been quite phenomenal.
A few years ago it was only a lonely trading post of the Hudson Bay
Company, called Fort Garry ; now it is n city of nearly 30,00(>
inhabitants, with visible evidence of great future expansion. On
driving through the city I was much impressed by the good streets,
substantial structures, handsome public buildings, and suburban
residences, all indicating enterprise, wealth, and public spirit. Driving
out to Silver Heights, I had the pleasure of seeing Sir Donald Smith's
home farm, in one of the fields of which were grazing at leisure and

Mr. John Steven's Report.

8

d with the
•ector, who
mmissioner
dlysing soil
same time
3-. Gilbert,
throughout
he country
, soil, and
esight and
rms are a
connection
'armers all
3 fact that,
'8 supplied
ecause the
he depart-
d grain of
slated, last
e samples

Amongst
L9 of peas,

potatoes,
proveraent
ing cattle
tests, with
I scientific
L'ying is a
) a great
cheese in

lied upon
fices, and
[r. Cox, of
onductor,
ntry west
Manitoba,
feat com-

of acres
tain-head
he whole
jnomenal.
dson Bay
Y 30,000
on. On
1 streets,
suburban

Driving
i Smith's
isure and

contentment the last living specimens of the old buffaloes of Canada.
Afterwards driving in a circuitous direction through the locality, we
!got back to Winnipeg well pleased with our first outing in the province
of Manitoba. •

WIMNIPEO

Next morning a commencement was made in
Portaye-la-Prairie. earnest to spy out the land west ot" VV^innipeg.

Portage-la-Prairie was the centre of investiga-
tions. It is one of the most enterprising cities of the plains, and
now has a population of nea»*ly 4,000. It is about 60 miles distant
from Winnipeg, straight west. In the course of our first drive w(i
noticed a farmer putting a traction engine and threshing mill in order
at his place, and thinking a good opportunity presented itself of inter-
viewing him, we made our approach. He expressed his pleasure at
seeing farmers from the Old Country, and offered to show us around,
and give us a share of his hospitality. His name, he said, was Brydon,
and he was a native of Roxburghshire. He settled in Manitoba 18
years ago, and has stuck to the district ever since. His farm consists
of 820 acres, hnlf of which was given as a grant from Government, and
the other half paid for by him at a nominal figure. His small capital
was expended in stocking the place after a certain manner, and he had
to borrow money to enable him to reap his first crop. The land he
owns is now worth £6 an acre. He and his family are almost able to
work the place among themselves. After everything has been reckoned
up, he can still realise SIO an acre from wheat-growing, and he is
able to dispose of several head of cattle throughout the year. Taking
all in all, we were pleased with our first visit to a i eally good Manitoban
farm.

As a consequence of the enormous breadth of corn
Threshing. crops growing throughout Western Canada, one of the

leading features in connection with the farm work of
that part of the Dominion is threshing the corn crop Next day,

4

The Agricultural Resources of Canada.

seeing a mill at work a short distance from the track while W(
were out driving, at my suggestion our conductor ordered thi
driver to pull up. Oats were being threahed, and at a speed which 1
considered astonishing. The cliarges here tor threshing are 5 cents
per bushel for wheat, and 4 cents for oats. On asking the average

WUBAT STACKS, MANITOUA.

results of a day's work, we were told that from 1,500 to 2,000 bushels
were considered to be near the mark, but that a great deal more had
been done. Many people will think this too high a record, but .it mudt
be taken into account that the grain is cut high up the stalk, and,
consequently, contains more to the bulk of straw than in Scotland.
Each mill has a register for tallying the quantity of grain it delivers.
The average price in this district of a good mill is about .£360, all
complete. A few farmers possess mills of their own. Speaking
generally, however, the mills are hired out, as at home, and hands go
along with them to assist in the work.

Another day we visited the Lake of the "Woods
On the Manitoba and Flour Mill and Elevator, which erection forms
North-Western Line. one of the principal sights of the neighbourhood.

It is managed by a Mr. Thomson, who does
the buying and selling, and he kindly showed us all over the place. On
leaving Portage-la-Prairie that morning, Mr. Eutherford, who practises
as a veterinary surgeon, joined our party. He is a member of the
Manitoban Parliament. We found him a valuable acquisition. In
addition to him, ne had Mr. Thomson, who knows the district well,

ai
dj

P

a|

tl

K

J1:
|t,'

ick while W(
ordered tin
ipeed which I
1 are 5 cents
', the average

I

)00 bushels

il more had

but.it mud^

stalk, and,

I Scotland.

it delivers.

.£360, all

Speaking

d hands go

;he Woods
ion forms
ibourhood.
who does
)lace. On
> practises
)er of the
ion. In
rict well,

A Successful

Ayrshire

Farmer.

Mr. John SteverCs Report. 0

and with whom I drove. Mr. Cox, our resourceful conductor, had
arranged our route with the view of our ariving at Westbourne before
dark, and of allowing us to see by the way a few typical farms of the
plains. We lunched at a certain farm plac^ where Mr. Eutherford had
a horse case to attend to. After our repa.st we sallied out, and saw
three self-binders at work cutting the yellow corn. It was more of a
mixed farm than any we had yet seen, there being both sheep and
cattle raised on it.

I was very much surprised when I found that this
large farm belonged to an Ayrshire man, a Mr.
McCartney, who left Cumnock (fistrict about 24 years
ago, and who knew a good many people I know. He
had this season 300 acres of wheat, and a large
timothy meadow. He makes it no secret that he is doing very well.
Taking me aside, we had a long chat together regarding cost of labour,

Eriee of wheat, amount of capital required, &c. He told me that 23
ushels of wheat was his average production last year, and that 30
bushels is a big average. When Mr. McCartney landed in Canada he had
only $30 of his own, and after working as a labouring man in Ontario
for a number of years, he came here and took up this place, where he
has succeeded well. His dwelling-house is a capital one, and he now
owns the farm clear of debt. He has, he told me, wrought himself into
a position to which he says he could not have attained in the Old
Country. In answer to the question how it came that some farmers
who began with capital failed to do any good in Canada, he said that
men coming here with capital from the Old Country are often too
wise to learn anything, and too rich to take advice. They generally
make the blunder of buying land without using proper discrimination,
and then selling at a loss, doing the same thing repeatedly until the
money has disappeared ; whereas a man who has a little capital to lose
generally fights a harder battle, and in nine cases ou* of ten succeeds.

We next visited a neighbouring farm belonging to a
Another Good Mr. James Bray, who farms 700 acres of land. He
Farm. has 620 acres of wheat this season, and also 80 acres

of timothy. He started 15 years ago with a capital
of $350, and now owns the farm, and a live stock consisting of 26
head of Jersey c^ws, 14 graded milk cows, 17 horses, 20 sheep, and
30 pigs. He gave us a similar opinion of things in Canada to what
Mr. McCartney did. Being on the borders of prairie land whitjh is not
yet cultivated, we had the opportunity of seeing a portion of land being
reclaimed. The prairie plough is larger than the common one, and is
drawn by a team of four horses. It is as sharp as a knife, so as to cut
the scrub. After being turned over the soil is harrowed. Then the
surface rubbish is gathered, and the soil ploughed again, after which it
is sown with wheat.

Leaving here, we next visited a ranch, or stock farm,
A Stock Farm, owned by a Mr. Lynch, who possesses a small herd of

pure-bred Shorthorns. Here we unhitched our horses,
fed them, and had tea ourselves with Mr. Lynch. He sent his niece
out on horseback to round up a few of the cattle, and in about half

6 The Agrteuttural lUtourcet of Canada.

an hour she had them in the enclosure ready for inspection. "We
found them, as our friend the "vet." said, a very good lot, and in
good condition, without having received any other tood than prairie
grass. On our return drive we passed a great many Indian tents.
Being interested in the Indian, and his relationship to the settlers,
I learned on inquiries that they are now a very civil and harmless
people. Mr. Cox, who knows the red people well, said the Indians
of these parts are mostly of the Cree tribe, though largely mixed
up with the Sioux. At this season of the year these original inhabi-
tants of Canada leave their respective reservations and t^ake harvest
work, making fairly good hands, though receiving much less pay
than Europeans do. The Indian population of Canada numbers
about 123,000. The people are located on reserves in different
parts of the country. There is a special department of State to
administer Indian affairs, and the Indians are not only now peaceable,
but fairly contented and happy. There are, according to statistics
which I have in my possession, 7,554 children being educated in the
day, boarding, and industrial schools, established off and within the
different reserves. These schools number 268. The boys attending
the industrial schools are taught trades, farming, and ordinary
branches of education ; and the girls sewing, knitting, and other useful
knowledge.

In the "Westbourne district, practically, begins the
T'he Sanford region of mixed farming and cattle-raising along the
Ranch. lines of the Manitoba and North-Western Railway

system. From this point west we traversed a country
of greater diversity of natural features than is exhibited in the great
plains to the east. Before leaving Westbourne we visited the
home farm of what is known as the Sanford Ranch. "We met Mr.
Davis, the manager, who kindly showed us round the farm. Mr. Davis
is also agent for Mr. Sanford, who has 80,000 acres of land for sale.
"When we came across him he was employed digging a basketful of
potatoes for dinner, the varieties being, he said. Early Rose and White
Elephant. Taking us to the horse boxes, he showed us a good Hackriey
stud horse imported from Torkshire ; also, an old stud horse, a cross
between a Cleveland Bay and a " Boyal George " mure. We were shown
a herd of /oung horses off the old stud horse, which were driven into
the farm enclosure by a cowboy, and they appeared to be a very good
lot. Two or three of them, however, had got wounded by running
against a barbed wire fence during a stampede caused by a thunder-
storm. Two of them, were killed by lightning, two were severely
cut by the wire, and others injured more or less. Mr. Davis, in
consequence, is dead against barbed wire as a fence for horses. After
viewing the horses, we were next shown the piggery, which is of
considerable dimensions. The varieties of pigs consist of Tamworths,
Berkshires, and Yorkshires. We saw a good specimen of a Tamworth
boar. The price of pork here is $4^ per 100 lbs., live weight, delivered at
the nearest town or station. In answer to the question as to whether
cattle-ranching did not pay in the locality, Mr. Davis seemed to think
that horses did better. He thought a large herd of cattle trod down

1

the

winn

coiit

iftl

hav(

coull

advi|

no

thei

to

of

and I

as h

I

Mr. John Steven's Report.

Hon. "We
ot, and in
lan prairie
lian tents,
le settlers,
harmless
le Indians
lely mixed
ml inbabi-
le harvest
less pay
numbers
different
State to
peaceable,
statistics
ed in the
ithin the
attending
ordinary
her useful

igms the
ilong the

Kail way
' country
the great
sited the
met Mr.
Ir. Davis

for sale,
cefcful of
id White
Hackriey
. a cross
•e shown
ven into
31*7 good
running
ihunder-
severely
avis, in
After
b is of
worths,
mworth
^ered at
(whether
) think
J down

i

the grass which required to be cut in order to keep them over the
winter, and this caused the farmer to go a long distance to cut his hay,
consequently the haulage added considerably to the expenses. Asked
if the hay portion of the ranch could not be fenced in, he seemed to
have overlooked this fact, and remarked that it might do if the expense
could be afforded. My own opinion is that cattle-raising is the most
advisable pursuit, as horses are getting cheaper in Canada, owing,
no doubt, to the fact that electric tram-cars are the order of the day
there, and that winter keep for horses in expensive in proportion
to cattle keep ; but Mr. Davis appears to favour his own hobbies
of horse-breeding and pig-raising. Barley, he says, never fails here,
.and is a good kind of food for both horses and pigs, and it can be sown
as late as the 1st of June.

Our conversation at this point was interrupted by Mr.
The Beautiful Cox, our energetic conductor of the expedition, who
Plains, y informed us that it was train time; so we took the

hint, bundled up, and got on the train for the town of
Neepawa, which is situated in the fine wheat tract of the " Beautiful
Plains." After passing through a mixed country for about two hours,
we arrived all right, and were met at the station by Mr. Davidson,
hardware merchant and general storekeeper, who is the member
for this district, in the Manitoban Parliament. He also owns a
farm near at hand, and knows the district well. This part of the
country is 10 years settled, but the town of Neepawa is younger. It
contains 1,200 inhabitants, and is a very clean-looking place, likely to
turn out a large town soon. In order to see the district, a double
buggy was hired, which held the seven of us, including Mr. Davidson.
The country, though comparatively level, is rather more undulating
than the Portage-la-Frairie district. After going three or four miles
out of the town, we came to a fine wheat country, where the land is
heavier than near Neepawa. Dropping in at a farm-house where a
Mr. Donald Eraser lived, to whom my co-delegate from Scotland had a
letter of introduction, we found he was from home. But, by chance,
we fell in with a Mr. Monroe, a farmer situated a little further along
the way, and had a long chat with him, in the course of which he
treated us to a Yankee farmer's experience in Canada.

Mr. Monroe is a Yankee bred and born, though he
says he is of Highland descent, which his name would
seem to bear out. Mr. Monroe said he came to his
farm in X889, from New York State, with a capital
of only 3B235. In 1891 he bought half of the farm
for $4,500, and later on the other half for $1,600.
He had, he informed us, 225 acres in wheat, 30 acres in oats, and
15 acres under barley. Being an exact book-keeper, Mr. Monroe
was able to give us a lucid insight regarding expenses of labour,
cost of production, &c. He told us that, including interest on capital,
it cost him $6.69 to produce an acre of wheat. He reckons 19
bushels of wheat as last season's average return per acre, for which
he received 55 cents per bushel at the nearest elevator. I^st year he
had a poor crop. This season he expects 25 bushels an acre, and thinks

An American
Farmer's
Opinion of " ,
Manitoba.

d

The Agricultural Resources of Canada.

i

we may take this as an average for the district. In regard to work,
he told us that four horses in a plough could turn over 5 acres a
day, and he reckons it oosts him 60 cents an acre for ploughing
(though the contract cost is $1, or 100 cents, per acre). Mr. Monroe
has a large family, the three eldest of which help him on the farm.
He has also one man employed continuously throughout the year,
besides two additional men for eight months. In wages he pays S20
a month for eight months, besides board ; SIO a month, and board, is
the ordinary winter rate. Mr. Monroe has a capital lot of imported
horses from England, one of which he uses for stud purposes. In
proof of how a man of skill and energy can succeed here, we may state
that Mr. Monroe now values his assets at $22,000. In regard to mixed
farming, Mr. Monroe thinks it ought to pay better than continuous
wheat-growing, but want of capital prevents the general adoption of
that system. Mr. Monroe has, besides wheat and oats, 3 acres of
onions, of which he has at times raised as many as 500 bushels per
acre. He has also 120 acres of meadow hay. On being asked his
opinion in regard to farming in Manitoba as compared with the States,
he expressed a decided opinion that Manitoba is better suited to both
the man of capital and the man of small means ; that the climate is
not so hot as in the States ; that the land is richer ; and that there are
other points in which Canada has the advantage.

Next day we had a call from Mr. Donald Fraser, whom
Mr. Fraser's we found from home on the previous day. He owns a
Farm, farm of 800 acres near Mr. Monroe's place. Out of

this, 500 acres are cultivated under wheat and oats.
Mr. Fraser has been in his farm 11 years, and has been very successful,
his experience being somewhat similar to Mr. Monroe's. On the
following day, at the request of Mr. Davidson, M.P.P., we drove out
to his square-mile section about seven miles from Neepawa, and saw
what might be properly called a mixed farm He is fitting up a large
shed cf 70 ft. long and 60 ft. wide for holding hay, chopped stuff,
and bruised grain. There is also a slip in one of the corners capable of
holding 150 tons of ensilage. Mr. Davidson estimates the cost of this
erection at S2,500. He considers it as a sufficient reason for his going
into mixed farming that good fair cattle can be bought in the fall for
something like $20 each, and which can, as a rule, be sold for $66 in
spring. Placed along the side of this large byre is the piggery, made
to hold 80 pigs, with suitable accommodation for breeding purposes.
His intention is in the future to use the greater part of his wheat and
barley for feeding stock, instead of selling the whole of it at the present
low prices. In making this attempt to solve the problem of mixed
farming, Mr. Davidson considers he is acting in the interest of the
farming community, a considerable number of whom believe it to be the
most profitable way of getting along in Manitoba. This system has the
advantage of enabling the farmer to let the land have more of a
variety of cropping, and of allowing it to lie longer in pasture, instead
of being obliged to follow an almost continuous course of wheat pro-
duction, which must sooner or later exhaust the land. On talking this
question over with a good many farmers hereabouts, the chief drawback

wrgel
begtti

■equ|

niixc

Biost

is t'uj
with]

Imp
can
d«m^
ipjastl

'^\
fain

Mr, John Steven*9 Report.

rd to work,
>r 6 acres a
r ploughing
M-r. Monroe
n the farm.
b the year,
e pays »20
id board, is
)f imported
rposes. In
e may state
rd to mixed
continuous
idoption of
3 acres of
bushels per
^ asked his
the States,
ed to both
climate is
t there are

ser, whom
e owns a
, Out of
and oats,
successful,
On the
drove out
and saw
iip a large
ped stuff,
;apable of
st of this
his going
e fall for
)r «56 in
)ry, made
purposes,
heat and
J present
)f mixed
it of the
;o be the
t has the
)re of a
, instead
eat pro-
ing this
rawback

urged is the want of sufficient capital. Farmers about here generally
began on the homestead principle with hardly any money, and con-
■equently it is only a few who can afford sufficient capital to make
mixed farming a success. A great many are under the belief that the
Host suitable ti'act for mixed farming is in the region of Alberta, which
is further west. There the cattle are allowed to roam at will all winter,
with but little supervision. This advantage is no doubt of considerable
Importance ; but 1 have learned from several cattle dealers that they
ean well afford to give the Manitoba farmer $5 more for a beast that is
domesticated, as it loses less in condition on transportation to the
i^astern markets than one which has been allowed to roam half wild
^n the prairie, as they take more kindly to their food during the
failway journey.

Returning to our hotel from this pleasant visit, we came
Another across a Scotchman named George Laidler, originally from
Scottish Berwickshire, whose father rents a farm there of 600 acres.
Settler. Mr. Laidler was walking on the road opposite his house, and

we came upon him quite accidentally. He told us his
farm included 640 acres of land, 250 acres of which is wheat this
year. On our asking him about financial matters, he seemed dis-
inclined to volunteer much information, but said he began with only
S425. We found out afterwards that he had done very well in
the 15 years he had farmed in Manitoba. Bidding him good-bye, we
made for town.

Next day we left Neepawa for Minnedosa, at a distance
Minnedosa. of about 26 miles. The route we took was through a
country of an undulating nature and of diversified
appearance, with good natural hay meadows, and apparently adapted
lor mixed farming. It seemed, however, to be not so well suited for
wheat-raising, as we saw very little indication of extensive cropping.
On our arrival at the beautiful little town, which is snugly situated
in a pleasant hollow surrounded by belts of wood and hills, we were
Introduced to Mr. Fairbairn, the Mayor, and to some others con-
nected with the municipality.

"^ After luncheon, we visited the farm of a Mr. Fraser,

Mr. Fraser's who lives in the town, and who drove along with us.
Farm. He owns 1,500 acres of land about seven miles from

Minnedosa, and is going into mixed farming. He
recently built one of the largest sheds for hay and cattle in the
Province, at a cost of between SS2,000 to $3,000. He believes mixed
|p,rming will pay well. The shed referred to is 141 ft. long and 58 ft.
ivide. He has farmed for 12 years. He intends, he says, to feed 100 head
ff cattle each winter, and thinks it will pay him much better than
ji^heat-raising. Mr. Fraser came from Ireland. It seems to be a current
laying here that an Englishman in Canada has a good dwelling-house,
^ut a poor barn ; a Scotchman a good barn, but a poor house ; a
iDutchman a good house and a good barn; and an Irishman a poor
louse and a poor barn, but generally a good bank account. In this
ise we found that the saying did not hold good, seeing both dwelling-
iouse and barn were superior to almost anything we had hitherto seen

(1

i ■ ^

'(

10

The AgritmUural RstourMt of Canada.

I

And in ho far an bank a<»«ount \n ooncprned, Mr. Fra«er admitn, if h«
were Htiilin^ out, ho would conoidor he made a bad bargain if bin unneU
did not roach jC6,000 sterling.

Through the kindness of Mr. Cox, I was at this
A FarmK^r*s( Profit time provided with a North-West farmer's proHt
and Loss Account, and loss account, being a document recently sup-
plied by Mr. Monroe (a gentleman formerly inter-
viewed) to the Patrons' Advocate of Manitoba, a copy of which I
subjoin : — ■ '• ■' •■•• • •• ^ y>'^v. i.c ■ .• :■>- ■■ .-■■: . :,■ tr <,.;■*■ ^:>^^/ .

The farm contains 640 acres, located eight miles Dorth of Necpawa. On
hasiH of sales in locality it is worth $20 per aero. On this interest is rhargod iit
8 per cent., while on animals and machinery 12 per cent, is allowed for interest
and depreciation. With the exception of this year (l«92j, the average yield of
wheat has hien 80 bushels per hcre. Lowest price, Tio cents; highest, t^t cents pci
bushel. Our help is hired by the mouth, for the season Each operation on tin
farm is charged actual cost for wages and maintenance. There wore 200 acres in
wheat this year. Average yield, 19 bushels per acre ; none of It fallow.

Wheat Crop. — 200 acres, at 19 bushels per acre. No. I hard, at Hii cents

per bushel, $10.45 per acre.

Ploughing, per acre

Harrowing and rolling

Seed. 1 1 bushels

Seeding ... ... ... ... ...

vyvirCl • • • ••• ••• ••• ••• »%$ ••■ ■•• ••

Harvesting and stocking

Stacking

Threshing 19 bushels, at 6 cents

Marketing 19 bushels, at 2f cents

Interest, taxes, repairs, &c. ... ... ..

A otai cose ... ... ... ••• ••• ... ..

Total return from 1 acre

Total cost of production

, Profit, per acre, above interest ...

Equal to 18.8 per cent, on investment.

Hai/ Crop. — 120 acres yield 172^^ tons.

Value of hay, 172^ tonp, at $5

Cost of mowing, raking, and stacking, at 70 cents per ton

' ; i'

Value, per acre, on 120 acres ...
Less interest, taxes, &c.

^j Net profit, per acre, above interest

!■ i.

$1.00
0.40
0.90
0.15
0.2G
0.22
0 40
1.14
0.52
1.70

$6.69

$10.45
6.69

$3.76

$802.60
120,76

$741.76

$6-18
1.70

$4.48

Equal to 22.4 per cent, on investment.

The hay is natural grasses. Has been cut every year for the past 10 or U
years. We begin mowing from July 25th to August Ist. Since the farm has beer
in my possession (four years), the crop has been better each successive year. The
crop is not all sold yet, but the portion sold has been $5 per ton, in stack Noiu
has ever been sold at less, while that kent till spring has usually brought from $:
to $3 per ton more. For next year we have for wheat 250 acres, nearly all rollcc
and harrowed, 130 acres of it breaking, 80 acres for summer fallow, 30 acres fot
oats, potatoes, &c

Mr, John Stevfns Iteport,

n

• admits, if hn
ri if his assetN

I was at thin

armer's profit

reoently sup-

ormerly inter-

of which I

Necpawa. On
8t is fliargod nt
wod for interest
tvero^e yield of
est, K"> cents pci
)pemtiou ou tin
Me 200 acres in
How.

at 5i> cents

$1.00
0.40
0.90
O.lf)
0.20
0.22
0 40
1.14
0.62
1.70

4

$6.69

$10.45
6.69

$3.76

$802.60
120.76

$741.76

$6-18
1.70

$4.48

B past 10 or 1:
5 farm has beer
31 ve year. Th(
u stack Noiu
pought frooj $;
early all rollec
'W, 30 acres for

This showH how unwJHe it is to proplu'wy, ami how
J'rojtthecie^ and faliibh' the bt'Ht iudge.s are. 1 may remark, with
Actual JlcsuItK. reference to the above statejnent of Mr. Monroe, tluit
the two moMt capaWe genth^men, MessrH. Kead and
IVll, who acted as Assistant Commissioners to the last Royal Commis-
.sioii on the Depression of Agriculture — the one presided over by the
Duke of Richmond — and who in that capacity visited the United {States
and Canada, declared that wheat could never be grown in America at
a profit under the price of 40s. a quarter, so that J3ritish farmers need
never contemplate a minimum rate of anything much below 45s. a
(juurter. Ever since — some 12 or 15 years ago — the price has been
steadily declining, yet leaving a margin of profit to men situated as
Mr. Monroe is. Were high prices now to rule for a year or two, what
[)rofits these men would make! Jf thev can live now, they would surely
be very prosperous then.

Taking train from Minnedosa, the next point of investigation

Busscll. was the Russell district. Travelling by Binscarth, we drove

from there to Russell, a distance of about 12 miles. Russell,

a town a little west from Minnedosa, is better adapted both for cattle

and mixed farming than for wheat. Hay is plentiful, and the stock

we saw v.'ere in a thriving condition. The appearance of the grass

is not good, but somehow or other the cattle are fat. One would

think, judging from their condition, that they were getting oil-cake.

The first place we called at in the neighbourhood was Mr. "Wm.

Custar's, who owns 320 acres, 180 of which are under cultivation.

He came to the place 10 years ago, with very little capital. He

homesteaded one-quarter of it, and took up the rest by right of

pre-emption : that is to say, he obtained a Government free grant of

land on condition that he built a house, and broke up

A Successful and cropped a certain area of virgin soil j after which

Farmer. he had the first claim, at a nominal price, to the

remaining parts of the half-section upon which he had

settled. The following are the prices in his district of the principal

ugricutural products : — Heifers, i$27 ; 14 cents per lb. ibr dressed

hixam ; 14 cents per lb. for butter ; wheat, last year, 49 cents per

bushel ; year before, 74 to 80 cents. The average yield of wheat

is from 20 to 24 bushels per acre. Each cow yields about 9 lbs. of

butter per week. Mr. Custar employs one boy to assist him during the

year, and has an extra man for six weeks in harvest. The man's wages

are $1^ per day, and board. A man's wages for the year would run at

the rate of from S22 to $26 per month, with board. There is no

homestead land to take up now in this quarter. Virgin land sells at

about 885 per acre, according to quality. Mr. Custar estimates his

property now as being worth altogether about $6,000.

We next visited Dr. Barnardo's Farm Home for boys.
Tlie Barnardo It lies about four miles from Russell. Dr. Barnardo
Farm. got a grant from the Dominion Government of 12

square miles of country. He sends out annually drafts
of boys from his London Homes — as many as from 70 to 100 in
a year — and gives the lads a year's training on the farm, after

lii

The Aijricultural Retourdts of Canada,

Farms in the

Aseaaipi

Dutrict.

which thoy are supposed to be able to do for themselves. We w(^re
shown round by the establishment manaf^er, Mr. Struthers, and by Mr.
Biythe, superintendent of the farm. Mr. Struthers accompanied us in
our drive round the country also. Seventy milk cows and two bulls —
one being a fine Shorthorn — are kept on the farm, 600 acres of which
an* undei crop, 100 of them being in wheat, the rest being equally
divided between oats, barley, rye, and turnips ; 70 acres are summer-
fallowed each year. In connection with the farm is a creamery, which
absorbs all the milk of the establishment, and also a large quantity from
the farms of the surrounding district. The output of butter is 270 lbs.
a day in summer, and a good market is found for it on the Pacific
Coast. I tasted the butter, and found it good in quality. The follow-
ing prices are given farmers for milk : — In the early part of summer,
60 cents per 10 gallons ; and later on, 70 to 80 cents. During winter
the milk comes in frozen, and is paid for at the rate of 85 cents per 100
lbs. The turnips on the farm this year are not a large crop ; what we
saw was the result of a third seeding.

From Russell we drove in the afternoon to a little
town called Asessipi, on the Shell River. It con-
tains a flour and saw mill, a store, and a few M'orkmen's
houses. It is beautifully situated in low-lying ground,
surrounded by hills. On our way there we called on a
Mr. Seaters, who farms 320 acres. He took up this place nine years
ago, and has 160 acres in crop, and says he has done very well indeed
since. Across the Shell River the country is devoted entirely to cattle-
grazing, for which it seems well suited. Grass is both good and
plentiful along the river frontage. There are 30 miles of land to
the north of Asessipi, bounded on the one side by the Shell River,
and on the other by the Assiniboine, still open for homesteading.
The distance between the rivers is from 9 to 16 miles. Having to
return to Russell, we retraced our steps, and on the way back called
on a Mr. James Smith, who sets apart his farm of 160 acres for
grazing piyjposes. He showed us a fine lot of cattle, with one of
which he took a first prize at Winnipeg this spring. Arriving once
more at Asessipi, we were entertained to tea by Mr. J. A. Gill, who
owns the mill there. He is building an hotel alongside. We were
much struck with the elegance of the interior of the house, and the
courtesy with which we were received. Mr. Gill has been here for
nine years, and intends to stay. Getting back to our hotel at Russell,
I was called upon by a Scotchman named James Mitchell, who originally
came from near Glasgow. He owns 640 acres, and has been seven years
in the district. Cattle-raising is his special style of management, and
he thinks the land and climate will suit turnip-raising, and is going in
for that in future. He says a man coming to his quarter needs a little
capital, even though he should " homestead."

Taking train from Russell at three o'clock next morning,

Carherry. we arrived at Oarberry about noon. It is the centre of

a fine wheat country, which is all taken up. It is as

level as the Portage district. A good many Scotchmen have farms

here. On our way there by train, while waiting at Birtle for an hour,

1 NN|

otlx

iiisJ

Otlul

BO.

roui
one
wh<l
wit!

Mr. Julia >' 'tiV^ti^H JU/turt.

IM

Wo worn
ind by Mr.
mied us in
wo bulls—
8 of which
Jg equally
8 sunimer-
iry, which
itity from
is 270 Ibfl.
he Pacific
■^le follow-

summer,
ig winter
is per 100

what we

0 a little
It con-

orkmen's
J ground,
klled on a
ne years
11 indeed
to cattle-
food and

land to
il Biver,
steading,
aving to
;k called
teres for

one of
ng once
ill, who
i^e were
and the
lere for
Russell,
iginally
in years
nt, and
oing in
a little

orning,

itre of

b is as

farms

1 hour,

1 wiiH nillcd u[)(>ii by two Scotchmen ono a Mr. Iit'gg«^t, und tho
otluT 11 Mr. Drumiiioucl. They were very anxious tlmt I slumld
inspect the liirtle country on my own account, and catch up tlie
others at Carherry, but I found tlie distance too great for my doing
so. IJoth gentUimen art- getting along exceedingly well, und praise
Mm* district wry much. ( >ti the following morning we madt^ our usual
round ol' investigation. We visited a Mr. VVhiti^'s farm— a very good
one indeed, and considered a model. Mr. White took first prize for
wheat last year at Winnipeg. On the whole, we were well pleased
with what we saw there.

I

f;-!:-i':!;iii:li!;jiil';l!iii!;ii:ii;.!,

.„■ |M|1,,.....|„.. .'"■''■'■

A CROFTER H ()\ TKAM

We next pulled up at a farm belonging to a Mr. G.
More Barron, which is about eight miles from Carberry. He

Succesn/ul also lias done well in the district. We then visited a far-
Farmers. mer named James Buckle, who owns 160 acres of land,

which is all under crop this year. He homesteaded 14
years ago, with a capital of $800. This season he reckons up his
crop at 25 bushels of wheat to the acre, and 55 of oats. One of the
special features of this district is timothy fields — an indication that
mixed farming is going to be the order of the day. Farmers are a long
distance from natural prairie hay, the land being all cultivated far out
on each side. Two tons of timothy hay per acre can be easily got. At
one place we saw nearly 100 tons in three stacks. We iiext visited
Mr. A. McKenzie's large farm, where we saw operations carried out on
a large scale. Mr. McKenzie has a wide area under hand, and has been
gr)ing in for mixed farming for a long time. He has 55 young horses,
all going in one lot, which was quite a sight to us. He also feeds pigs

I't

The- Aifrii'iiUunil Ut'ttoHi'dS of Cnnndn,

vory rxtciwivcly, iiud thi'v un* sunl U) |my well. Mr. iMcKm/itj not
l)niiii; ill lioiin', wo w(!ro nIjowu round liy tho rurpiiiiiii. At'tor lukiii^'
luiuMicon, we drnvo back by uiiolliDr rout**, uiul rotuni«id tmtcli ploutttMl
u itii our ilay's oiilin<,'. On Mio wliolo, wo con'<iil»Jri'd this distrirt uhtmt
t ln' l)t'st, wt« luid yi't siM'ii.

Alter partiiip," with thu mnitlcnn'ii wlio HC«5oiii|miiit!d uh,
UruHiiitn. Olio ol' whom was a Sn)tc'hm;u; from tho noi^hboiirliood ol
I'jiisloy, wo li'i't CiirlM'iiy about, 7 o'clock, and arrived about;
bi'd-limo at HruiHloii, tlio second cit-y of i\lanit,ob;i. Taking a walk
round next morninij;, \\v t'onnd Mrandon (|nito a larti;o place. It, has
liir^^e and batidHome btiildinujs, well-made .streets, and a <;reat, ninnbcr
ol" larjjfe uraiii elevators and fuills 'IMie town has only Ixn^n 12 years in
e.xistonci^ but it has already a ])opulation of 6,()(>(). It is one of the
points on the Canadian Pacilic; line where timo is broken. Between
MontriMil and Vancouver, so lonii; is tlu; distance that four hours imvo
to be disposed of botw(H;n the standard timo of the two places. Thoro
is EaHtorn times Central time, Mount am time, and Western time. At
Hrand(m, Mountain time bti^ins, and an extra hour has then to be taken
into account by the western-bound traveller, or dropped out of his
reckoning by the east-going one.

Brandon has the largest market for grain in Manitoba.
AVhilo there wo viwited the Government Experimental
Farm. It Ih conducted on the same lineH as the one
at Ottawa. The rnanager, Mr. Bedford, received us all
with great courtesy, and showed us round the several
departments of the establishment. The farm con-
tains 600 acres, which are divided into separate experimental por-
tions, on which various crops are grown, under the conditions peculiar
to the district, with a view to Hnding out the most profitable
course of farming to adopt. In the museum attached there are 60
different kinds of grasses, both native and cultivated, with their
analyses clearly notified. Tliei'o are also all sorts of cultivated grass
suitable^ to Manitoba. We saw oats 42 lbs. and 44 lbs. per bushel,
which had been selected from u crop averaging <S() bushels per
acre. (ioing the round of the byres, we saw good Shorthorn
cattle, among them a got)d vSborthorn hull, also a good Ayrshire
bull, whicli was perhaps a little coarse in the head. In the stable
we saw a good specimen of the Clydesdale horse, named " Sir
Arthur," bred bv J. Woodrovv, Pennylee, Killmrchan, and foaled in
1888 -sire, "Prince Adino" (5255); grandsire, "Prince of Wales."
After expressing ourselves satisfied with all we had seen, we
bade Mr. Bedford, the manager, good-bye, and went back into
Jirandon.

On our way we visited the saw-mill establishment of
A Manitoha Mr. J. A. Christie, a Scotchman. Mr. Christie being
Saiv-MiU. from home, we were shown through this large place
by his manager. The capacity of this large mill is
6,000,00,0 ft., board measure, per season of 6| months. The
wholesale pi-i^e of wood hei-e is ISIG per 1,000 ft. The timber ia

The

Government
Mxpenmental
Farm,

l\<i

sel

r(

li;

(III

(;i|

\s\
h\

u|

hi

I

I

'."*«'' l>litaM«.«|
'•^'''ict al)i)u(

»'><>urh()o(| ot
'''■ivHd alxMit

■*^'". K- UuH
"'■i' nijfril)(>r
'- yt'.irs in
'>"«' of tlio

''oiir.H httvo
t'<"«. Thoro
» time. At
to be taken

"ufc of his

Manitoba,
perimental
'w the one
iived us alJ
the several
farm con-
ental por-
'8 peculiar

profitable
■ly are 60
ith their
■tf'd ^rass
ii' bushel,
ihels per

Ihorthorn
Ayrshire
fie stable
ed "Sir
'oaled in
WaJes.*'
3en, we
ck into

went of
ie bein/?
e place
niiJI is
The
iber is

Mr. John .S7#i'<^'# lUftort. \ r»

(lo.iiid down the A.sMiiiilM)iiU' KiviT for lu'urly l,<>(M» iimIhs. \\\> ciiiild
Men il hluckcd biu;k uh uloso um it could lie for iifiirly liiilf a iiiiK*.
Tim iimiinta* in vvhicli il in lniiidNtd in very ititt-n'Miimr. A hook is
lixnl iiitn tli«4 *'ti(l of a iii|{, wliieli U li:iidt'(i ii|» Uy a clniiii i-ifvator
oil to a linicli, u'hiM't* it is at oikm* iiiado I'twuly t(i run ii|i I In' ian,:c
(jiriMilar njiv^. 80 (|iiickly is tlm \\«>rlv tloii(% Mial \\v cal.iilat'ul lln'
h|)*'»mI tlu* Haw^ w»Mit tliroii<i;h tlio wood uh at llif ratn ot an ordinary
walk. An Hoon uh tliu rou^li boariU kiVK' cut tlioy an* ilrtcd, iti«>n
H(jiiar«'d and drt-NScd l»y nn'ans ol' another saw, and last ol all tln-y
an* put thi'<Ma;li a pianiniJ^ niaoliine, aftor which they an- stori-d in
Inr^c! M(|imro lotH nearly an liifj;li aH tho roof of an ordinary Iiouhc.
Tho amount of pl)'"i'd wood Htored hero wonlJ Hin-priMo wonu) ol onr
wood nierchantH, aH ulao would the oxpudilioii with which tho work
is done.

Tho rtaine day, durinf; lunch in our hotel, I hafipened to
hklncdtiun. fall in with u man of tho luime of Dodds. On entering'

into converHation with him, he told mo he vvas Heerelary
and treaHurer id' a Mcinxd hoard at a town called Molita. lie gave
me a gnat deal of information regai'ding [»id)lic education in
Manitoba and Canada gen«;rally. Free e(lu(\'ition is [)n)vided in
all the |)rovincoH of Canada, and the rates aro levii'd hy lo(!al councils
similar to what we have at home. The details dill'er a littli! in tho
various provinci's, and the Hysteni nuiy be descrilied as follows :- -j'lvery
township is divided into sections sulliciently large tor a scluxd.
Trustees an^ (dected to manage th(! affairs, and the local rates am
supplemented by (lovornment grants. The schools are only two miles
from each other where tlu^ country is settled; and wheie ndigious
opinions ditVer, se})arato schools are built to satisfy sentimental con-
Hiderations. On the whole, the system of education in the Dominion
is in 'liany ways similar to what w«j have at home.

When on the point of leaving Brando, atid nuiking
A Kilmarnuclc for the station, i was much surprised to hear my
Man. name called from the opposite side of the street by a

man in a buggy. 1 went over, and found him to be
my old friend Mr. Mutter, late saddler in Portland Street, Kilmaruock.
lie said he was just going out to see his cattle. He keeps 20 milk cows,
and appeared to be getting along very well. We were compelled,
however, to bid each othc^r good-bye almost simultaneously with
salutation of welcome.

Manitoba is a wonderful province. It is nearly as large as
Area of Great Britain and Irtdand put together. It is bounded on
Manitoba, the north by large lakes teeming with fish, and further

west by the Eiding and Duck Mountains, carrying extensive
forests of poplar, spruce, and other varieties of trees. The open
prairie lands leading to the south and east form one large fertile plain,
embracing about 500 townships of -36 square mUes, through which run
many rivers, each with a belt of timber along its banks, ref'haps three-
fourths of the land of Manitoba is tit for cultivation, the remaining
portion forming the river valleys, bluffs, and high grounds, timber belts,
sloughs, and lakes. , ■'■, v;- ju.-.;,:^;^: :; J".' :. •-£• \ i'. -^.^

I'Uii

l^i

16

The Agricultural Resources of Canada,

Tho soil is fertile, and requires as yet no artificial manure. It
Soil, is a rich, deep black mould or loam, resting on a rather tenacious

clay undersoil, and capable of producing the finest wheat in the
world ; it is the accumulation of decayed vegetation for centuries, inter-
mixed with the ashes of prairie fires. In dopth it varies from 15 to
20 inches ; but along the river valleys it i** often 2 feet " and more in
depth. The soil of Manitoba is well suited for vegetable production ;
potatoes, cabbages, turnips, beets, mangolds, and cauliflowers all grow
most luxuriantly.

The climate of Manitoba is warm in summer and cold in
Olimatc. winter, but withal one of the healthiest in the world. On
interviewing farmers regarding the cold in winter, I found
few of them object to it, on account of the dry atmosphere making it less
felt than were a moist itmosphere to prevail. Instead of the perpetual
winter so much talked about, so far as I could learn, only about
4| months is the extent on the average. The closing and opening of the
navigation at Montreal and Toronto for the last five years are as follows : —

1

(Montreal.
1887-88
1888-89
1880-90
1890-91
1891-92

Closed.
Dec. 23rd.
„ 14th.
„ 29th.
„ 3rd.
., 17th.

Opened.
April 29th.
„ 14th.
„ 14th.
„ 1 4th.
., 13th.

Toronto.
1887-88
1888-89
1 889-90
1890-91
1891-92

Closed.
Dec. 24th.

„ 20th.

„ 30th.

„ 28th.
Jan. 5th, 1892

Opened.
April 11th.
Maxch loth.

,, 15th.

„ 20th.
, .. 3l8t.

The

North- West
Territories.

Government

E.vi)erimental

t'arm.

Indian Head, a place of about 400 inhabitants, which is
situated 180 miles west from Brandon, in the territory
of Assiniboia, was our next destination. It is the centre
of an immense wheat district, which is almost as le\el as
a floor.

Situated near this town is another Government
Experimental Farm, which we visited in the early
forenoon. It is managed by Angus MacKay, a
very practical exponent of the principles of Canadian
farming. The extent of the farm is 640 acres, which
have been five years under cultivation. The soil is a sandy loam, on a
clay subsoil. We found the wheat first-class, and the other crops
equally good. This experimental farm is conducted on a larger scale
than the one at Brandon. We saw a selection of both native and
foreign cultivated grasses under test as to suitability to climate and
soil. We had our attention drawn to a new kind of grass, called
Bromus inermus, said to produce 3| tons of hay per acre, and which
Mr. McKay held in high favour. We also saw barley, wheat, oats,
and native seeds of all descriptions. I was much struck with the
whiteness and quality of the grain, whioh gave evidence that the land can
produce first-class quality, though the weight is a few pounds per bushel
lighter than we have at home. This part is 1,800 feet above sea level.

> - We next visited a farm of 480 acres, belonging to Mr.
An Ontario W. J. Harrop, who said he left Winnipeg with $40 in
Farmer. 1882, and who homesteaded part oi his farm, and bought

the rest at S5| per acre. He came originally from Ontario.
He said his horses and cattle cannot be estimated at less than 881,640.
He has had good annual returns off his crops. . -^/jk;

ArA

Abl

Fai

wai

acr|

bui

anj

all}

coi

farJ

tioi

Thil

tsecil
>i ove
sor
" ^
I spii

.Ta'y.Ui'

Mr. John Steven'n Report.

17

inuro. It
tenacioua
eat in the
ies, inter-
'om 15 to
i more in
:)duction ;
all grow

1 cold in
)rld. On
', I found
ing it less
perpetual
ily about
ng of the
>ilows : —

Opened,
pril llth.
'arch loth.
M loth.
„ 20th.

„ 3l8t.

which is
territory
ke centre

le\el as

ernment
le early
Kay, a
anadian
3, which
■m, on a
r crops
3r scale
ve and
ite and
, called
which
oats,
ith the
md can

bushel
level.

o Mr.
UO in

30Ught

ntario.
!1,640.

We had a similar detailed experience given from a neigh-
An bouring farmer who originally came from Aberdeenshire,

I Aberdonian and whose experience here is of 10 years' date. Th;s part
m Farmer. of Canada appears to be as good as any we have seen as

T regards wheat-raising. The wheat, which the Aberdonian

was just threshing, we were told would average 40 bushels per
acre. Here the straw is cut very high up, and the stubble is
burned. Oats are often drilled into the soil after wheat withont
any ploughing. This process saves labour, and the return is gener-
ally satisfactory. A rotation of crops is, however, here being
considered necessary to good farming. In this part of the Dominion
farmers appear to be careful in regard to scientific methods of cultiva-
tion, as we found most farmers fallowed one-third of their arable land.
This, as we all know, helps to keep the land clear of weads, and to
secure a better return. A feeling, happily, is getting prevalent all
over the country that too much cultivation, if done in an insufficient
sort of way, does not pay so well as thoroughly good cultivation.
" What is worth doing at all is worth doing well," seems to be the
spirit which is becoming more prevalent.

Farmers who start here are not all bred to husbandry.

t Mechanics The beginners have to feel their way, and, consequently,

\and Others often have to rectify their preliminary efforts. This class

[as Farmers, often turn out well, and we came across an instance on

our next visit, to a farmer called Fraser. Mr. Fraser

is a Canadian born, and was bred a mechanic. He owns a section

of land which is 640 acres — 175 acres of wheat and oats, the rest

in fallow and pasture — and at present has 80 head of cattle. He believes

sheep and cattle pay best, but confesses there is a sort of fascination in

connection with wheat-growing that often tempts farmers to grow it.

The reasons seem to be that when the wheat seed is in the ground in

spring the severe work of the farm is over until harvest, harvest

loperations last only a few weeks, the crop can be turned into money

^quickly, and there is little more to do until the following spring ;

'whereas, on the other hand, cattle require constant attention, more

sspecially during the winter. Mr. Fraser, however, has been connected

with mixed farming all along, simply because he finds.it pays him best.

He thinks sheep will pay even better than cattle, and intends going into

"that department of farming also. He appears to have been very

successful, although he owns that he has had to pay a good deal for his

experience. He says that an ordinary mechanic, with a little capital tf)

^jStart with, can, with a little experience, succeed very well at farming

here. The climate appears to be a little milder than in: Manitoba,

id is well adapted for cattle-raising. Land can be got in this district

-on the homestead principle, and as much more as is wanted at from

$3 to $4 an acre. It is being taken up here and there all over,

mnd before many years are past this is likely to be a well-settled

district. It is well watered, and dotted all over with little belts of

wood, which give shelter to cattle without interfering to any great

extent with cultivation. • ,

PAET V.

i

18

The Agrimltural Rftoureeg of Canada.

I

We next visited the great Bell Farm, which lies between
The Old the town ot Indian Head and Qu'Appelle, a town ntiil

Bell Farm. farther west. It is one of the gigantic affairs in the

way of farming in Canada, or I might rather say it
used to be; it is now divided into throe largo farms. Major Boll
used to have 12,000 acres of wheat. It usod to be run as a joint-
stock affair, but the company dissolved, and it was divided into thiee
farms, one of which is owned by Major Bell. On this farm there
are still about 1,400 acres of wheat, and, as far as we can learn, it is
successfully managed. Major Bell being from home when we called, we
only waited a short time; visiting also the Edgley Farm of 14,000 acres,
2,000 of which are in cultivation. Land here can be bought for from
f$t5 to JS8 per acre, according to quality. Mr. Sykes, Stockport, Man-
chester, is owner of an immense estate, and willing, I understand, to
sell it at some such price. This particular location, however, is said to
be more suited for wheat-raising than mixed farming. After staying
overnight, we drove through a country of diversified appearance, mostly
(Government land, ready to homestead, or to be bought at from ;$3 to ►84
per acre. We found this district also well watered, and intersected by
small belts of wood of nearly an acre in extent on an average. To those
here who are looking for land, water is of great importance — in fact, for
cattle-farming it cannot be done without. Some parts of this plain are
three miles square without a single bush, all waiting the plough; other
parts are as I have described.

t ,

UYDE FAKM Qb'APPELLK.

en between
, town 8till
'airs in tlie
ther say it
Miijor Bell
ii8 u joint-

into thiee
farm there

learn, it is
e oulled, we
4,000 acres,
it for from
:port, Man-
derstand, to
ir, is said to
Eter staying
ince, mostly
)m m to «4
tersected by
o. To those
—in fact, for
tiis plain are
ough; other

Mr. John iStevena Jiejtort.

19

Wo were now iu the valley of the Qu'Appelle, on
The Qu'Appelle the second plateau of the pontinent. The district is
Valley. called Assiniboia, and is, in my opinion, well suited

for cattle-raising. It comprises an area of about
90,000 square miles, and very little, comparatively speaking, is tftken
up in cultivation except near Indian Head, Qu'Appelle, Moos^ Jaw,
and Jie^ina. The lana around Qu'Appelle and Fort Qu'Appelle is
open for homesteading, and is a beautiful mixed country, well watered,
wooded, and thoroughly adapted for mixed farming. This part, in my
opinion, will soon be t^ken up, as I saw settlers' dwellings being
built in all directions. Fort Qu'Appelle used to be the great centre of
the Hudson Bay trade in this territory, when hunting was followed by
the Ked Indian, when the wild buffalo roamed the plain, and the
beaver displayed its engineering faculties on the small river-courses.
The great fur business that used to exist is now a thing of the past, and
the traditional trapper has uad to move further north, or undertake
other employment. The Hudson Bay Company still have a large store
hire, and it forms one of the centres of trade in this part. It is
managed by a Mr. McDonald, who came here in 1854 from the North
of Scotland, and with whom Mr. Fraser, from Inverness, and myself
stayed overnight. Mr. McDonald is quite an authority in connec-
tion with this part of the country. He has the supervision of the
other centres of trade within q, large area. Fort Qu'Appelle is beauti-
fully situated in a deep and picturesque ravine. Near at hand there
are large and beautiful lakes of gre^t depth, and famous for fish. On
each side of this long valley are high, bare, mountainous bluffs, remip4"'
ing one of our Highland scenery.

A shooting party being organised, we were accom-
Indian Schools, panied by Mr. McDonald and several others. Ou

our way we visited the Indian Government school,
which is supported by Government, and has been established six
years. The school course includes technical education. Surrounding
the building is a large vegetable and flower garden and wooded
policies, which, besides giving ornament to the establishment, allow
experiments to be conducted for the benefit of the pupils. There
are nearly 200 Indian children in attendance, and the males are taught
useful trades, such as carpentry, blacksmith work, farm operations, &c.;
and the girls — after a certain age — sewing, knitting, aud household
duties. We were introduced to the principal. Father Lacombe, a French
Canadian. We were shown round the establishment, and saw the
cooking house, sleeping rooms, class rooms, and the general arrange-
ments of the interior. In one of the class rooms ^0 girls were receiving
their usual course of lessons. When we entered this departpaent they
were all ordered to stand up, and they sang two hymns exceedingly
well. Their writing exercise books were then shown to us, and these
showed some excellent work. The Indian schools are under different
denominational superintendence — Presbyterian, Evangelical, and Roman
Catholic. This one is under the latter management. The chief idea
in connection with teaching these Indian children is to make domestic
servants of the girls, aud tradesmen, farmers, or farm hands of the
boys. The experiment, I am of opinion, is well worth a trial. Leaving

flO

Tlte Agricultural Itesourcei of Canada.

the school, we drove round the country, taking in a circuit of about
40 miles. We saw a well watered and wooded country, open for
. homesteading, which will no doubt soon be taken up, as all round it
is a beautiful country. On our return we counted our game, and
found that the party had shot between 30 and 40 prairie chickens.
This bird is about the size of a grouse, and flies in much the same
manner as a partridge. It provides good sport.

Next day we went ofE in a north-westerly direction,
An Indian taking on our way the Indian reserve, where we
Reserve. inspected an Indian village, occupied by representatives

of the Cree and Sioux tribes. Most of the inhabi-
tants were away harvesting. Encountering a tall, athletic specimen of
the dusky-complexioned Indian, we hailed him, and got introduced
by our interpreter. Opening the door of a tent the occupiers of
which were absent, we saw into the interior of an Indian teppee, or
tent. Altogether not the acme of orderly arrangement, an air of
comfort to a certain extent pervaded, there being cooking utensils, bedp,
and chairs visible. We then drove along the margin of some lakes,
where there is a good road, which led us back to Fort Qu'Appelle,
where we arrived about 2 p.m. after a pleasant drive.

Leaving there, we got to Begina, which is the principal
Regina. town in the district of Assiniboia, about 8 p.m. Next day

we went round the town, which has a population of about
8,000. It is the seat of government for the North- West Territories,
composed of the provincial districts of Assiniboia, Alberta, Saskat-
chewan, and Athabasca. Two miles west of the town are the head-
quarters of the North- West Mounted Police, and beside them the
Lieutenant-Governor's house, on the Wascana Jliver. On special
invitation, we visited the barracks of the Mounted Police. They
are commanded by Colonel Herchmer. The force is about 800 strong,
located in different stations throughout the Territories. Their chief
work consists in looking after smuggling and general misdemeanour
cases. On asking the colonel how defaulters could be taken in
such a wide country, I was surprised that nearly all, without a
single exception, were captured. People in Canada, he said, all
read the papers, in most of which a general description of the man
wanted is given. The culprits must appear in some town or at some
farm-house, where suspicion, if well grounded, usually ends in capture.
This is the reason there is so little crime in Canada. The same
vigilance exists in the rural parts of most of the States, and mutual
assistance is general along the border. The colonel showed u& the
large riding hall where drill is practised in winter. The adjoining
departments consist of a large hall for gymnastics and athletic exercises,
a bowling alley, canteen, and foot-drill hall. In the foot-drill hall were
four recruits, who. for the first time, were being put through their
facings. They appeared to be young, active men, about 26 years of
age.

Next day we visited the country to the south of the town. Tor
10 miles or so the ground is as level as a bowling green. A great part
of this land is held by speculative companies, and is being sold at from
$3 to aSo per acre. I believe the district of Assiniboia is well adapted

Mr, John Steven*s Hepori.

fil

of about
open for
round it
ame, and
chickens,
the same

direction,
here we
entatives
inhabi-
)cimen of
itroduced
iipiers of
jppee, or
ti air of
?il6, bed?,
[16 lakes,
'Appelle,

principal
5'ext day
of about
rritories,
, Saskat-
be head-
[lem the
L special
. They
) strong,
eir chief
tneanour
aken in
thout a
said, all
ihe man
at some
capture,
le same
mutual
uiL the
ijoining
Kercises,
all were
h their
ears of

1. For
3at part
it from
idapted

lor both mixed farming and wheat. It appears to be divided into two
great areas, and each of these portions of country has its own peculiar
eharacteristic, the eastern division being more adapted for wheat-
raising, and the western better fitted .*or mixed farming and ranching.
Both parts are traversed by the Canad>n Pacific Bail way.

We then took train to Prince Albert. The distanc^^
^nce Albert from Begina to Prince Albert is 240 miles. We
JHfitrict. arrived at the latter place in the early miming, and

took quarters in the " Queen's " Hotel. Prince Albert
Is the principal town and capital of the Saskatchewan Provincial
Pistrict, and is situated on the south side of the North Saskatchewan
Eiver. The North and South Saskatchewan Eivers, which have their
iources in the Bocky Mountains, join 24 miles east of the town. At
Prince Albert, between the two rivers, the country is well Scltled.
Bettlemt ,c began in this favoured place 16 years ago, before railways
tfcppe;! the resources of the district. Prince Albert itself is an old
Bettlement, a mission station having been established there many years
•go. During the day we formed a party and took a drive of over 40
miles through a splendid country of pleasant scenery, both well wooded
ind watered, and well adapted for cattle-farming. I consider the land
ill this part capable of growing almost any crop. One turnip plot I
•»w on the way was really good. We visited a Mr. McKay's farm,
which is over 1 ,000 acres, of which nearly 700 is cultivated. On his
&rm there is limestone, and he has built a fine concrete house. Mr.
McKay is a member of the local Parliament of the North-West Territories,
itid takes a pride in saying tb&.t he has never travelled far out of his
Ifesent district.

From there we next drove to the Bed Deer Hill, on the side of
l^hich Mr. McKay's farm is located. From the top we had a splendid
flew of the surrounding country, and could see settlers' houses in all
Ijlrections. The atmosphere being fine and clear, we could see a
i>ng distance away. The whole of. this district just now is attracting
considerable amount of attention, as the opening up of the Hudson
ay route is anticipated, which, if realised, will bring Prince Albert as
jar to Liverpool as Toronto and some of the other large centres
the East. There is a considerable amount of land all over the
mntry ready for homesteading. Many immigrants from Dakota, and
bher Western States, are here taking up land, and before many years
past land in this district is likely to rise considerably in value,
it.tle-raising is, in my opinion, the best method of farming to adopt in
lis district ; and the streams and lakes which abound here mark out
le district pre-eminently as a dairying one. Cattle do not require to
1& housed, though farmers, as a rule, provide shelter and food for the
^nter. Numerous ranches are being started in Alberta, especially
jiear Edmonton, which is close to the Eocky Mountains, and said to be
milder than this part.

With the view of seeing the country about 25 miles from Prince
Jklbert, where the unoccupied land is chiefly situated, we resolved to
' ive a camping-out night ; so on the Monday we started, having with us
)ur men from the Mounted Police, and the whole paraphernalia in
jnt requirements. We passed through a district similar to what I have

22

The Aijricidtural lienources of Canada.

(letioribtid, crossed the Baskatohewan Kiver on a large wood-built float,
and pitched our camp near a half-breed^H farm. I consider this part of
the country even better than round Prince Albert, the laud being more
regular in character, and perhaps fully as rich in natural fertility, and
well watered. As good oats us I have seen in the Dominion belonged
to this half-breed. The great drawback is the distance from Prince
Albert Town. A farmer who is not afraid to live a little isolated from
society, and with sufficient capital to start ranching, ought to do well
here. Cattle are allowed to roam all over the unoccupied land, and, as
there is plenty of natural hay in the sloughs and low-lying grounds
for winter feed, the settler has advantages he cannot have in a close-
packed settlement. This is a land of wild fruit, game, and fish. We
shot nearly 90 prairie chi-kens, but we had not time to go to the fish
lakes, although only a few miles away. The wild fruit consists of
strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries. On our journey back we
drove through an Indian reservation, where a farm inspector is paid
by Government to teach farming. We found harvesting going on all
along the banks of the Saskatchewan. This reservation has been
chosen with some judgment, as the land is good, M'ell watered, and a
great part of it clear of scrub and trees.

Next day, as we had to leave Prince Albert about seven o'clock on our
way to Vancouver, and had writing and packing to do, we took an easy
time of it, going round the town, visiting the lumber mills of Messrs.
Day, Hort, Macdowall & Co., and other places near. Mr. Macdowall
is an Ayrshire man, and was born in Lochwinnoch. He came here
about seven years ago, and has done well.

We arrived safely at Vancouver. Our journey over the
Vancouver, mountains was charming beyond description. It ex-
Briiish tended nearly 500 miles from the Xananaskis Falls, in

Columbia. the Rap, until within a few miles of this picturesque
city. In estimating this distance, one must take into
account the numerous windings, which in some parts of the moun-
tains were almost circuitous : the train often seemed to be marking the
letter S ; in fact, in one place we actually took a circle back, crossing
over, at a higher level, the line we had already gone over. In making
the journey through the mountains, the train has in many places
to slow down, as a considerable amount of danger would ensue by
attempting a quick speed. On our arrival in the city we took
up our quarter? at the Vancouver Hotel, a large and raodern
building constructed by the 0. P. E. Company. This hotel is
specially fitted up with every convenience, such as baths off each
bedroom, large open spaces furnished in drawing-room fashion, and
reading rooms — all intended to suit the requirements of tourists,
who come here in large numbers during the summer. On taking a turn
through the city after dinner, the thing that struck me most was the
large areas of unbuilt property, called " city lots." In these lots are to
be seen stumps of trees and other relics of the old primeval forest.
In the more cqmpactly constructed part of the city electric cars go up
and down, doing a good passenger business, furnishing a tangible
evidence of the enterprise and prosperity of this city of seven years
of ajfe. It already contains 18,000 inhabitants. It is worthy of

I

built float,
thin part ol:
being more
rtility, and
)u belonged
•om Prince
olttted from
to do well
md, and, as
ng grounds
in a close-
fish. We
to the fish
consists of
iy back we
tor is paid
oing on all
has been
ared, and a

lock on our
lok an easy
of Messrs.
Macdowall
came here

y over the
1. It ex-
is Fails, in
[)icturesque

take into
the moun-
arking the
k, crossing
In making
any places
ensue by

we took
1 modern

hotel is

off each
hion, and

touriets,
ng a turn
3 was the
ots are to
al forest,
irs go up

tangible
ven years
orthy of

■ Afr. John St9vevC» Report, 18

remark that seven years ago Vancouver was burnt to the ground, tlir
devouring element leaving only one dwelling. At that time the town,
however, was small, and consisted of only a few hundred inhabit/ants.
Vancouver is the Pacific terminus of the great trans-continental railway

. CANADIAK PACIFIC RAILWAY HOTEL, VANCOUVER.

of Canada. It fronts on CoaJ Harbour, a widening of Burrard Inlet,
and extends across a strip of land to English Bay, along the shores of
which it is now extending. Vancouver has good natural drainage,
harbour facilities, picturesqueness, and commercial advantages, and
being a shipping port of considerable importance to Australia, China,
and Japan, its future as well as its present prosperity is in every sense
secured by the advantages mentioned. The scenery around the city
is magnificent. The Cascade Mountains near at hand on the north, —
the mountains at Vannouver Island, across the water, on the west, —
with Mount Baker looming in the distance, — together present a most
magnificent prospect.

The agricultural resources of the large province of British

Columbia are still undeveloped, though along the Fraser

Kiver valley an extensive tract of agricultural land is

cultivated, some of which is still open for sale. With

the view of giving us an idea of the fertility of the

^ land along this river, the Mayor of Vancouver and party accom-

panied us on a round. We went by electric tramway to the town of

New Westminster, a distance of 12 miles. It is on the banks of the

Fraser Kiver, and % great c^iitre of the salmon-canning industry. On

Agriculture
in British
Columbia.

The Agriculiural Hesoureea of Canntla,

bein^ shown through one of the largest canning estikblishments, which
also takes in hand fruit-preserving, we were struck by the dimensions
of the place, an idea of which can be formed when I state, from
authentic statistics, that last season's exportation of salmon from the
Fraser River, of which trade New Westminsttu* is the centre, was of
the value of ^1300,000 sterling. Going on board a little steam
launch at New Westminster, we passed down the Fraser River to
liadner's Landing, a distance of about 30 miles. At the iish-packing
establishment John Chinaman is greaUy in evidence, and the skill and
despatch witich ho exhibits in fixing up the cans and doing other work
convinces one that he is entitled to a little more consideration than he
generally receives at the hands of the Anglo-Saxon. Having seen a
good many Chinamen in British Columbia, and being somewhat curious
to know the sum and substance of the objections against them, I find it
consists in the fact that they work for less wages than others do.
They spend almost nothing, and take about 80 per cent, of their
earnings back with them to China. In exercising these virtues they
are said to do no good to the country ; therefore the cry is always
leaking out at intervals, " We'll have no more of them." In spite of all
remonstrances, however, John Chinaman continues to come, interferes
with nobody, makes his pile, and returns home.

After partaking of lunch at the hotel at Ladner's
Ladner^a Landing — Landing, we had a drive over the arable district
Fi'aser Valley. adjoining the town. Along with us we had a Mr.

Cunningham, who owns a tine farm near New
Westminster. He is a North of Ireland man. Under his guidance we
saw much good land, both in cultivation and lying ready for sale.
I may state that land in this part of the Dominion is dearer to
purchase than any which we have yet inspected, owing to the better
markets existing in this province. This is caused by the fact that,
comparatively speaking, little land is taken up, because of the heavy
timber which abounds in most parts, and which is expensive to clear ;
therefore farm produce is scarce. Land sells here, according to location
and quality, at from $20 to $160 per acre, and in the near vicinity of
large towns it is as dear as in Scotland. The land along the Fraser
River is alluvial, and, consequently, very rich and fertile. Mr.
Cunningham told me he could raise 12 tons per acre of potatoes on
an average crop, which I consider almost double what we can do at
home. He also estimated an average crop of oats at 70 bushels per
acre. These facts, however, apply to his own farm, which he considers
a very good one. The great drawback along the Fraser Valley is a want
of drainage. It must be understood that this is a moist country, and
not like the great plains of Oen^ral Canada. Very nearly the same
climate is experienced here as at home, with the difference that it is
warmer in summer here, and milder in winter, than we are accustomed
to. The rainfall is between 40 and 50 inches annually, though, of
course, it varies much, in accordance with location.

Land drainage, therefore, must h^ the foundation of good farming
in the Fraser Valley. The manner in which it is done here is with
split timber laid longitudinally on side supports of the same. Tiles are

to(

, dis

1 val

< tcs

• cro

Udj

ne

ioi

sto

an

if^

nts, which
itneiisiuiiH
ttte, from
from the
re, was of
tie 8t«um
ttiver to
i-packing
skill and
her work
Q than ho
ig seen a
it curious
I find it
thers do.
of their
jues they
is always
ite of all
nterferes

Ladners
B district
ad a Mr.
Jar New
iance we
for sale,
earer to
e better
let that,
le heavy

0 clear;
location
sinity of
) Fraser

Mr.
itoes on

1 do at
lels per
•nsiders
a want
ry, and
e same
at it is
stomed
^gh, of

Mr. John 8ieven*» lleport.

2d

the time is not far
Anywhere along the

too dear for practical use, though I believe
, distant when they will be in general demand.

valley where draining was done the altered appearance of the pasture
* testified to its good effect. The clover was luxuriant, and the other
f} crops correspondingly so ; better pasture, in fact, than in one field
^ adjoining the town of Ladner's Landing I never saw. A greener field I
never met with in the whole of my experience. Beturning by a circui-
tous route, we visited a cattle farm, where we saw a number of good
■ stock cattle and sheep. We then dropped into town, where we made
arrangements for our departure by our steam launch. So, bidding
' good-bye to Ladner's Landing, we got safely back to Vancouver three
' hours later.

Next day we sailed to Victoria, the capital town of British
Victoria. Columbia, where the Government offices are located.
We took five hours to reach it, and took up our
quarters in the " Balmoral " Hotel. Victoria has a population of
i'0,000 inhabitants, and is situated very beautifully at the .southern
extremity of Vancouver Island. The climate of this island is
^reckoned the same as is to be found in the South of England.
'Victoria, like Vancouver City, is a port, and steamships depart
about every five days for San Francisco and Mexican and South
■American West Coast ports. It is also the British naval station
on the North Pacific, and we could see the blue-jackets pacing the
streets in twos and threes. From an agricultural point of view,
•Vancouver Island, like the mainland of British Columbia, consists of
/some fertile land. The greatest portion of it, however, is under
itimber jf gigantic proportions. Some of the trees measure between
■200 and 300 feet in height. In certain parts where the trees have
J been burned out, cultivation is carried on with a fair amount of success.
I With the view of seeing some of the agricultural

f -4 Dnve in land round Victoria, we started with the intention
\ihe District, of making a circuit in an easterly direction, returning
by the west, seeing on our way parts of the vast
[timber region. Starting from town about nine o'clock, we tra-
; versed a country of great natural beauty, with farms here and there,
? stolen, as it were, by the hardy pioneers of former days, by dint of
I hard labour, from the primeval forest. The land along our route
sis rich, and produces splendid crops, but only a small portion of
it is yet cleared. It takes from $50 to $100 per acre to clear the
:land; but it is calculated that 10 acres of good land is as
profitable as 100 in many parts of Canada. Dairying does well,
and the country round about might be said to be the natural home
■of the Ayrshire cow. Milk sells at 30 cents per imperial gallon, and
•|from 3 to 4 gallons per d.'iy is the average production of a cow
^ during the flow of summer. The price of other agricultural productions
lis eqaally dear. A duck sells at 5s., British money, and other poultry
lin proportion. Passing on, we arrived at Saanich Hotel, 12 miles from
Victoria. There we unhitched our horses and partook of lunch, giving
the horses an hour and a half to rest. All along our line of journey
land has risen in price to a great extent during the last year. This

2fl

The A'jrintUural JieMOurcts of Canada,

hjiH l)«Mm ill M RHMit niriiMun* ciiUHt'd by h lino of ruilwiiy wliioh '\» being
nuuhf throiif^li tluH purl, of Vuiuiouver. Nrar thu hotol whoro uo put
11)) H Htation iH l)einff built, anotiujr hotel liaH junt, boon cornjjloUnl, und
a ff«uieral boom appears t,o be tht) outcome. FarinorH who havo land
within the surveyed houiuIaneM of this future town or city are asking
I'll) sterling por iiore for it, and tiiere is a probability that they may
Ijet oven mom.

Diverging at this point, we continued our journey in a westerly
direction, thrr)ugh a beautifully wooded country, diversified by hill and
valley, lake, and wooded heights, with here and there farm-houses
nestling in the lower ground. The farm-houses which we have seen are
done u|) in quite a good style, with flower and fruit gardens adjoining,
|)resenting a snug appearance, and suggestive of comfort and prosperity.
When half-way between Saanich Hotel and Victoria we are in the
centre of the great timber belt of Vancouver Island. The wood for
six miles along is a vast wedge of timber, of which the spruce, cedar,
and Douglas pim> predominate. Some of the trees measure very nearly
300 feet in length, with thickness in proportion. A correct idea of
this great forest cannot be formed without visiting it. In some parts
the trees are so close to each other as to be nearly touching. We got
out of this district by getting on to the main road from Victoria, on
which we travelled in the morning. From that point to the city are
inns every two miles or so, It appears to be a thickly populated part
of the country, as we met quite a number of people driving one way
or another.

Getting back to our hotel, and leaving Victoria
about 12 o'clock midnight, we arrived at Vancouver
in the early morning. From there we took the
train to Mission, about 30 miles up the Fraser
Valley ; there we stayed all night. During the day we visited
most of the agricultural land in the valley, driving a distance of
14 miles to a farm owned by a Mr. Page, where we found a splendid soil,
of great depth and fertility, capable of producing fruit and vegetables
of the largest kind. He possessed a number o :' cows, and made dairy
farming a speciality. In his piggery we counted 200 pigs of all sizes.
Mr. Page says he can make a good deal off them annually ; he feeds
them on white peas, with a few raw vegetables. We examined a field
of swede turnips, and pronounced them excellent. They were sown
as late as July, and Mr. Page expects them to grow until December.
He says July is the best time to sow turnips, as the Fraser .Hiver rises
with the snow melting on the mountains, causing back water during
the months of May and June, Mr. Page has a good many acres
planted with fruit trees, which seem to do well in this province.
The great drawback in this valley is the bad roads ; the land is not
drained, and, as the rainfall is high, the roads are apt to be muddy and
soft.

i On getting back to Mission, I happened to meet an old settler,
wbo told me the whole history of the locality, and his own as well.
Travelling in search of work, he heard from a man who came from
this part that wa^es wer^ high, so he conjectured he might do

7()rs(

To Vancouver
and Mission.

Mr. John ^ffvfn*» /f/>pnrf.

87

in IxMiig
!!•() vvu put
luUul, nnd
hnvu lund
iro UMking
tlioy may

westerly
•y lull and

» NtMm are
adjoining,
»ro8|)erity.
in the
wood for
lee, cedar,
sjry nearly
2t idea of
:)me parts
We got
ctoria, on
le city are
lated part
; one way

Victoria
i^ancouver
took the
e Fraeer
'e visited
stance of
>ndid soil,
vegetables
lade dairy
all sizes.

he feeds
ed a field
3re sown
December,
iver rises
!r during
ny acres
province,
id is not
iddy and

I Settler,

as well.

me from

light do

orse thnn try hi** luck in tlio dinfrict. On Jirrivini?, he found
Employment at the rate of $1(10 a month ; and after working twelve
Hioiitlis he Naved sullicient money to homestead a farm. *' Now," he
iMiyH, •* I am indep(>ndi>nt of anyone, nn far an money goes." In thene
diiyn there wum no ChineHe labour, atul few workfiien to be had, the
diHtanee and expenwe of travelling ho far westward being the gr«'at

^^^ier.
, A« an eviden(;e of the interest the settlers in

An IrultiMtrial Mission Valley have in the welfare of this district,
Opening. they, in conjunction with the people* of Mission

Town, which consists of about 200 inhabitants, have
•reeted a large salmon-canning shed, which cost more than ►iS2,000,
#n the hanks of the Fraser River, half a mile from town, and they are
♦fPering the shed, free of cost, to any man or company who will ('ons(>nt
lo run it for three years under certain conditions. At \\w suggestion
^f my friend, I consented to go down and visit the place. 1 found it
120 yards in hfngth and 00 in brejidth, and of two stories. fn tht?
Upper part, fish-curing had already been hegun by some of tlu^ workmen
0n their own account. 1 might say this is a great valley for Hsh. Our
Iriend told me that at a certivin creek off the Fraser iliver near here,
the salmon going up to spawn, as they do every yt-ar at this time, got
#0 jammed that he managed to fill a waggon with a hay fork as fp^t as*
Ike could lift them. At this point they are caught for manuring fruit
•re<}8, and anyone can take them who cares to. There are also two
Slnail rivers ni the valley when; trout are caught with the rod. At
our li<jtel I saw two which had just been taken. One of them weiglu^d
24 llis., and the other \h II>h. liellecting over these facts, I thought it
put in the shade all our little rivers combined- such as the Irvine,
Cessnock, the Lugar, and Ayr — to such an extent as to make tishiug at
lome something of the nature of a joke.

t Returning to the hotel, we made preparations

xlalgani, Bed Deer, for departure for Calgary to see the Red Deer
%nd Edmonton. and Edmonton country ; and once more crossing

the Rockies, we arrived at Calgary, and left there
for the purpose of seeing the Edmonton district. We then left for
jhe town of Red Deer, which is the centre of what is known as the Red
5)eer district, one of the finest in the Great North-West. The town,
hich is only of a year or two's standing, exhibits signs of substantial
regress as far us building oj)erations go. We put up at the Alberta
otel, a large building of modern construction. After a good night's
est, we went out on a rt)und of inspection, calling on our way on a
jarmer named John Gaetz, who owns a fine farm of 320 acres of rich
Jand. On interviewing him, we found him most willing to tender any
information in his power to give. He told us that he had home-
steaded about 10 years ago, and that he was satisfied financially with
is position now. This appears to be a very good district for oats, as 60
ushels per acre are often said to be raised, and even 90; and, judging
^om the crop we vsaw in stook, these estimates are perhaps correct.
'assing on, we struck a fine country, particularly well adapted for
mixed farming, and little of it as yet taken up by settlers. A large

28

Tltf Affrirulturnl IU»<mrfft of Canada.

portion of the luiid hero, aH m a gront ninny distrirtfl in Cannda, in h<«I(l
by N|)«>culHtorH. Tlio HaHkutuiu^vvun l^ttncl and lioiiK'Nttad Company ant
laPRo hoiderH of land in the nt'ighhourhood, and they hud advt)rti««d a
Mile of land for thu following Tuesday, at the upnet price of %\\\ per

OALOART

acre. As this part of the country is likely to develop in the near future,
anyone investing with the intention of farming his land would in all
probability find himself fairly well fixed, with good prospects before him,
in a few years. Along our way stops were made at the farms of
several of the settlers, and the replies given to questions asked justifies
me in saying that an air of contentment existed which spoke well for
the district generally.

On Wednesday we drov 3 out in an entirely different direction,
the day being spent in mur^h che same way as the previous one, with
the exception that no settlerb were interviewed. Along our route we
drove through some fine stretches of hay land, from which thousands of
tons of hay could be taken. The natural grasses grow very luxuriantly
in the sloughs, or lower stretches of land, which in a great many cases
are covered with water during spring and early summer. The country
through which we drove is a beautiful one, and is covered in many
places with large groves of timber, much of it of good size and well
suited for house purposes. Wood is, I consider, a great acquisition to
the settler : he can use it for rail timber, out-houses, and for fuel. In
this district of Ked Deer, however, coal abounds, and can be wrought
from the face of river banks and other outcrops. The price of coals is
about SB2 a ton, which is not a high price, and anyone wishing to haul
them can have them for nothing.

*

i !

Mr. John Sittu'enU Rsport.

29

rmda, in \wh

'ontpuiiy un

lulvertitted a

of $m p<t

4

aear future,
I'ould in all
before him,
9 farms of
:ed justifies
ke well for

b direction,
8 one, witl)
r route wo
lousands ut'
luxuriantly
many cases
'he country
d in many
e and well
juisition to
r fuel. In
36 wrought
of coals is
Qg to haul

W\

N«xt (lay ThurHduy, 1 2th October hapjM'tU'd to bf« tho
An ikiiiiiial fair of thit town, on which ocramon tin* show of

Aariculturitl {\m \U>d I )o«t Agricultural Society in hold. Wtnill viHittd
Show. the Hhow, mcv* -al of us aMsiMting in tht* judging depart-

ment. In point of attendance, number of entrins, and
Quality of oxhibitfl, tho nhow waH an unqualiHed success. Both
ttiH HrttUtrs in tho district and the merchants in the town unite in
promoting tho intorosts of tho society, and there aprnjurs to Im* quite
a urmnimity in Muh tmittor. The weather being good, a largo nurnln'r
of people turiu^d out to the show, which was woll arranged, and would
have (lone cnuiit to atiy Old Country exhibition of tho sort, (jrain in
sheaf, made up for the occasion, was arranged round tlm walls, pre-
senting a lino appoaranoo, bein^ charming in colour and plump in
quality. Tho bushol ex^'ibits of grain were also good. One lot of
oats which got first prize weighed 51 lbs. per bushel. Wo proved this
for (ourselves. The wheat also was good, and so was the barley. As
regards vegetables, there were several varieties of turnips, potatoes,
beets, mangolds, carrots, pumpkins, squash, citron, oni(Uis, cabbage,
parsnips, winter radish, «fec. They wore all good specimens, and spoke
w(i\[ for tho fertility of the Ited Deer soil. Of dairy produtu* then*
was a good display. The butter — in rolls, prints, and firkins- -v\ as of a
good quality. The cattle stock— consisting of the Hereford, Polled
Angus, and Shorthorn breeds — was of large size and good quality.
They had been fed on the natural grass of the prairie, without any
extra food whatever. The horses were mosJily of light breeds, though
there were were some of the Clydesdale stamp. There were also pigs
and poultry. An exhibit of preserved native fruits was deserving of
notice; also an exhibit of silk-embroidered leather work from the
Indian Industrial School, the production of the dusky fingers of the
Indian women, which reflected credit on tho superintendent (Mr.
Neilson), his assistants, and the pupils.

Leaving the Red Deer district, we went straight on to
Edmonton. Edmonton, the terminus of a branch of the Canadian
Pacific Railway. This district, though more than 100
miles from Red Deer, is a continuation of the same fertile belt of
land. It is at present being opened up by the railway company,
and is absorbing settlers from all parts. A proposed further exten-
sion of the railway will throw open a vast region further north
equally fertile, containing millions of acres, which is destined in
the future to become the home of many settlers, but which is at
present outside the scope of civilisation. Edmonton consists of two
towns. North and South, the North being the older one, originally
a Hudson Bay fort, and the other the terminus of the railway. The
climate differs from that of Southern Alberta in that rainfall and
snowfall are heavier, but it is, comparatively speaking, free from wind
storms. It is therefore more favourable for the growth of cereals. The
natural advantages of the district, as well as that of Red Deer, consist
in the fact that they have the benefit of the Western as well as the
Eastern markets. British Columbia takes nearly all that can be
produced. Like Red Deer, too, it has abundaace of coal, and there is

~^

so

The Affrieulturat 'RegourtM of Canada,

gold-mining as W6ll. Gold-digging is done on th«^ banks of the
Saskatciiewan River on the sand-washing principle. Good wages can
be made during i'our months of the year — from July, when the river
gets small, until the end of October, when the frost begins. From S2 to
$4 u day can be made without much hard labour during these months.
The gold is got in what are called " pockets," or special spots, all along
the banks. At these places the soil is riddled and the sand washed.
Whether this industry could be better developed by the aid of
machinery remains yet to be seen. At present hundreds of men live
by gold-tinding in and around Edmonton.

In regard to the agricultural resources of the district, there cannot
be two opinions. The land is deep and fertile, and capable of pro-
ducing almost any crop. With the view of seeing the natural produc-
tions of the district, we responded to an invitation to visit the
exhibition hall of North Edmonton, which contained grain, seeds, roots,
and vegetables, held over from the former day's exhibition for the pur-
pose of showing us the capabilities of the district. The display was
similar in character to what we saw at Ked Deer, with this differenco
— that the exhibition was on a larger scale. The same interest and
enthusiasm are shown here as at home between the rival exhibitors.
There is also a rivalry between the two towns of North and South
Edmonton. The old town is situated in a fine farming country, the
land being mostly taken up for a distance of 12 or 15 miles. Between
the two towns is the Saskatchewan Eiver. A bridge is going to be
built by Government, perhaps next year, which will oe a great advan-
tage to both places, and do away with the ferry.

We left South Edmonton next morning on our usual land-
Visits to inspecting excursions, calling first upon a farmer named Mr.
Farmers. Kerning, about 1| miles from the station. He expressed
himself satisfied with his position. We also visited Mr.
David HolmevS, who is located on a very good farm, and whose
average of oats he told us was 80 bushels per acre. This may
seem to people at home to be an exaggeration, but, judging from
the appearance of the standing stooks — which, owing to a late
harvest, were not all in — we concluded, as far as this year was con-
cerned, there was no exaggeration. Mr. Holmes has o20 acres, and
is conducting his business on the mixed farming principle, sowing
oats chiefly, a portion of which he feeds to his cattle during winter.
The oats he sells are generally kept over from the previous season, and
sold as old oats, for which he received this year 50 cents per bushel.

Moving on, we dropped in on another farmer, in our usual un-
announced manner, and received similar evidences of his success. He
farms 320 acres, cropping only 75, however, the balance being used for
cattle-grazing. Last year, we were told, he sold 85700 worth of cattle.
We were also told that he started 1 1 years ago without capital ; now
he estimates his farm as being worth $10,000.

The next farmer we visited was a Frenchman, and one of the
oldest settlers in the district. Working his way up from being a
labourer, he has now a farm of 800 acres. He sold 60 very recently at
!S7^ an acre. In his straw-yard the portable threshing mill was doing

'$t.

'*^i

ks of the
wages can

the river
i'rom $2 to
ie months.
i, all along
id washed,
he aid of

men live

ere cannot

e of pro-

•al produc-

visit the

^eds, roots,

>r the pur-

isplay was

difference

terest and

exhibitors.

and South'

)untry, the

Between

oing to be

eat advan-

isual land-
lamed Mr.
! expressed
isited Mr.
tnd whose
This may
ging from
to a late

was con-
acres, and
[e, sowing
ig winter.
3ason, and
)ushel.
usual un-
cess. He
? used for

of cattle,
ital ; now

le of the

being a

jcently at

vas doing

Mr, John Sieven^g Msport.

31

iSrork, threshing a very superior crop of wheat, whioli he considered
^oiild average 25 bushels per acre. His oats he thought would run
it) 45, and his barh^y to 40. Expressing satisfaction with his explana-

fons, we drove on to the town of 8t. Albert, about 18 miles from
dmonton, and here we had lunch. ' '^ .

Taking a stroll afterwards through the town and surround-
)t. Albert, ings, we >vere struck with the nice, cleanly appearance of
the place, and the reign of contentment which seemed to
Pervade everyone. At present the district round St. L ibert is attract-
ig considerable attention on the part of land speculators and settlers.
[)he land is good, and there is plenty of it to sell, buy, or homestead.
|t is well intersected by timber r'umps, of from 1 acre to 4 or 6, all
jotted over the plain.

Getting back after a run of nearly 40 miles, we started next day
a north-westerly direction to Fort Saskatchewan, nearly 24 miles
rom Edmonton. This is one of the principal trading stations of the
Tudson Bay Companv in these parts, and does a considerable trade
both with the white and native population. Bound here, as at
St. A.lbert, a considerable number of half-breeds hold land. Some of
them farm very creditably, though the majority are indolent, and
willing to sell out in a great many cases at an undervalue on a ready
cash transaction. I am of opinion any man coming here with a little
Capital, and industrious at the start, could do very well. Money in
liew settling countries is of paramount importance, and can purchase
land which in a few years must rise in value. Into this great fertile
belt of the North-West a flow of immigration must sooner or later
fome. It is beginning ; and we met and passed during our drive to
Und from Fort Saskatchewan four or five settlers' outfits. As our guide,
who is the emigration agent for this part of the country, said, they
come in at all oimes, but get swallowed up as fast as they come. A
rood many are now coming from the United States, and it is contem-
plated that this immigration will increase as time goes on. Taking
circuitous route from the town of Port Saskatchewtn, we went along
similar tract of land to that we had seen in the fore part of the day.
Jong the road here and there could be seen evidence of settlement,
the shape of new houses — log, board, wood, and brick being the
Ihief materials used in construction.

After visiting the provinces west of Winnipeg in the

capacity of delegate, my impressions are that too much

wheat-growing is resorted to. Wheat seems to hold the

field in spite of falling prices. As a sort of corrective to

)ntinuous cropping, which must sooner or later exhaust the best of

)il8, 1 would recommend mixed farming as a remedy. It will both

"testore the land to the original fertility, if properly managed, and

Create much better returns. The country, too, is specially adapted

for it — a conclusion I have formed after studying the matter. The

leading features that mark out Manitoba and the North-Western

,|provinces as specially suited for mixed farming, and dairying are the

jH^ich natural grasses which everywhere abound, with no noxious weeds

: tu taint the dairy produce, and the abundance of winter keep in the

fixed
I'ttrmina.

32

The Agricultural Resources of Canada.

shape of hay, which is very nutritive and fattening, and which can be
raised for SI a ton. Then the summers do not seem to be too hot
for the cattle ; and there is, generally speaking, a plentiful supply of
water from lakes, rivers, and springs. The great objection, I found,
that some farmers had to mixed farming was the amount of capital
needed to purchase cattle and build houses. Every man 1 talked
with connected with farming seemed to fully understand the benefits
connected with it; but there seems to be a sort of fascination in
wheat-producing which a great many cannot well get over. No doubt
there is a certain amount of skill needed to manage a herd of cattle or
dairy, while little judgment, comparatively speaking, is required to
plough, sow, and reap a crop of wheat. If farmers, however, do not
see their way to adopt mixed farming generally, they would do well
to cultivate a smaller area of wheat than mostly prevails. It is of
importance that the land should be sufficiently prepared in the fall,
and an early variety of seed sown in the spring, so as to give the most
advantageous results both as to market value and early maturing —
allowing the farmer to cut his grain before there is any chance of
autumn frosts ensuing, and finishing threshing before Avint. r cones
The old saying that wheat is king seems in some pai'ta tr ho the

on

truth, but it is no secret that a good many farmers all over the
country are not quite content to take the risks connected with wheat
alone, and are seeking after something that will give a regular and sure
profit. It is, however, too much to say that the industry of either
dairying or cattle-raising will save the farmer from disappointment,
and enable him to reckon on a steady income in every case. I hold it
would be a step in the proper direction, and to help to bring it about
the advisability of erecting cheese factories ought to be considered and
adopted in the most likely parts, where they would have a chance of
establishing themselves, as well as encouraging an industry which must
sooner or later become general.

Having finished with the Edmonton district, we too^
The Crofters train to Calgary, and from there to Brandon, a distan ,
at Killarney. of 800 miles, driving from Brandon on to Killamey (G4

miles), from where we intended to take the train on
to Winnipeg. In taking that part of Manitoba on our way back
to Winnipeg we were to be afforded an opportunity of seeing the
southern part of the province, and perhaps, if time afforded, talk-
ing with a few of the crofters. In going to Killarney we passed
through p- fine level country, which is already mostly taken up. Passing
Bounthwaite, Methven, and Wawanesa— all lively little places, with
visible signs of improvement, seeing that building was going on in all
of them— we arrived late at night at Killarney. This is a lively little
place of perhaps 200 inhabitants. Obtaining a trap next day, my
co-delegate from the North and myself visited the settlement. On
interviewing a few of the crofters, most of them admitted being better
off now than they were at home in the North and West of Scotland.
Some of them, however, complained about one thing and another, thus
impressing us with the idea that when a crofter stops complaining he ceases
to be one. I favour the opinion, however, that the crofter should not be

Mr. John Steven's Itepori.

33

3h can be
e too hot
supply of

I found,
)f capital

I talked
e benefits
nation in
No doubt

cattle or
quired to
r, do not
[ do well

It is of

the fall,

the most
aturing —
;hance of
ier cones
to bo the

over the
ith wheat

and sure
of either
ointment,
I hold it
f it about
dered and
chance of
hich must

, we tooV
a distan
ttrney (G i

train on
way back
eeing the
ded, talk-
we passed
. Passing
Mjes, with
on in all
vely little
b day, ruy
bnt. On
ing better

Scotland,
ther, thus
g he ceases
uld not be

_ated in the colony system, but rather in twos and threes. Being
ishermen more than farmers in the Old Country, they had every-
jhing to learn in connection with a settler's life, the first stages of

iparted by neighbours having already gained the experience. I have
my possession the names of 11 crofters from the North, who have

>ne very well, they having been located in twos and threes, and this
IS to prove my statement. The aggregate capital they started with

PABT T.

84

The AgrimUural Meiourees of Canada,

<' ' !*

i

'■HI

The Canadian
Exhibit at
Chicago.

was 186,600 ; the aggregate value now is $79,000. The names of these
crofters, and the figures, I have from a reliable source.

Parting with our friends, and making once more for Killarney, we
left next day for Winnipeg, returning there about raid-afternoon. Our
official duties, as far as related to the Western provinces, were now
ended ; and as the members of the Delegation were leaving on the 28tli
October, except Mr. Guiry, from Ireland, Mr. Smith, from Yorkshire,
and myself. Commissioner Smith, of the Dominion Lands Office,
AVinnipeg, made provision for us to inspect what we could of the
province of Ontario, up to as near the 11th November as possible,
at which date we tlyee were due to leave Montreal for Liverpool.

Leaving Winnipeg via North Bay, Toronto, and Detroit,
I arrived at Chicago on Tuesday the 24th October,
putting up at the Manitoban Hotel, opposite the
World's Fair grounds. In a large hall connected with
this hotel the Manitoban agricultural exhibits were
located. On entering the hall, I was much struck with the extent as
well as the good quality of the exhibits- There were 500 samples of
wheat, oats, barley, rye, &c., selected from various parts of the province.
The wheat exhibits I considered very fine; and Manitoba was very
successful in taking first prize against the world at large

In the Canadian Court, situated in the Agricultural Buildings,
the Dominion exhibits were located. It occupied a space of 15,000
square feet, and was surrounded on four sides by artistic designs,
done up in all kinds of grain in the sheaf, straw, corn in the
husk, native grasses, and cereals from the different Government
Experimental Farms in the various provinces. Each province of the
Dominion had a display of its own special products, and each vied with
the other as regards excellence and beauty of the turn-out.

Occupying a prominent position in front of the Court
was Canada's Cheese Wonder. It was mounted on a
low waggon strongly constructed, and painted in bright
colours ; the weight of the cheese is 22,000 lbs., and it
was placed within a large iron casing with a glass top,
which allowed visitors to seo it. It really was a rbeese.
There was a stair up to it which looked quite worn by people treading up
and down. Along the large annexe of the Agricultural Buildings the
Canadian agricultural machinery and implements were placed — a
display which reflected credit on the Canadian manufacturen. Thiere
were three Canadian courts devoted to vegetables and fruits in the
Horticultural Buildings. The exhibits made by Ontario were in every
way the largest and most complete. In the ^ay of fresh and preserved
fruits the Dominion exhibited 292 varieties of apples, 73 of pears, 19
of peaches, 39 of cherries, 37 of gooseberries, 25 of currants, 61 of
strawberries, 139 of grapes, 18 of raspberries, and 14 of m ild fruit.

Not content with having the largest cheese in the world, the
Canadians tried to outdo their neighbours in exhibits of the largest
vegetables at the ^reat Exposition. A large pumpkin weighing 146 lbs.,
and a squash which turned the scale at 486 lbs., both grown by
William Warnock, of Goderichi Ontario, were the largest shown.

The Mammoth
Cheese —
Machinery'-^
Fruits.

>

. ! .

Jtfr. Jo^bn 8U^mf» Beport.

85

es of these

larney, we
oon. Our
were now
>n the 28th
Yorkshire,
ids Office,
lid of the
18 possible,
pool.

id Detroit,
October,
posite the
lected with
libits wer(3
) extent as
samples of
e province.
I was very

Buildings,
3 of 15,000
ic designs,
3rn in th(;
l-overnment
ince of the
ti vied with

: the Court
unted on a
id in bright
lbs., and it
a glass top,
IS a cheese,
reading up
ildings the
placed — a
>ra. There
lits in the
'e in every
i preserved
I pears, 19
nts, 61 of
fruit,
world, the
;he largest
g 146 lbs.,
grown by
hewn.

Previous to the official list being published, I re-
for Cheeae. ceived, through Judge Brown, of Hamilton, Ontario,
one of the judges of British exhibits, a summary
the effect that Canada took about 50 per cent, of all the money
ixes at the World's Fair, the proportion in the case of the cheese
thibits, being 96 per cent. I afterw-'^*" received the official list
)w published, and find that at the June exhibition the total number
single entries of cheese from Canada and the United Str.tes was
7. Of these, Canada sent, from over 100 different factories, 162
learly all of these entries were in the classes for factory and Cheddar
leese). Total awards for Cheddar cheese, 138 ; of the.ie, Canada took
J9, leaving for the United States 9. Thirty-one exhibits of Canadian
leese scored higher than the highest United States cheese. At the
^'tober competition, the total number of single entries from Canada
d the United States in Cheddar and factory cheese was 606, of which
iling from Canada there were 524. The total of awards for cheese
ade previous to 1893 was 110; Canada took all of them. The total
ards for cheese in Cheddar or factory classes made in 1893 was
14 ; of these, Canada took 369, leaving for the United States 45 ; 130
hibits of Canadian cheese in these classes scored higher than the
ghest United States cheese. In Cheddar or factory classes, for the
o competitions of June and October in which Canada took part,
e entries and awards are as follows : — United States, 586 exhibits,
awards ; Canada, 687 exhibits, 607 awards. These striking successes
ill have the effect of not only stimulating further effort on the part
if Canadian di^irymen, but will enhance the price of Canadian cheese
British and foreign markets. The system of judging was conducted
irly, subject to rule 5, which provides for the appointment of judges,
tne from the Eastern States, one from the Western States, and one
om Canada.

Leaving the World's Fair, I arrived in Hamilton,
tario. Ontario, on November Ist. I had time to see only a
portion of this province. Ontario is a large and important
vince of the Dominion, having an area of about 222,000 square
es, and a population exceeding 2,000,000. Kedeemed mostly from
le primeval forest by the old pioneer settlers of long ago, it is need-
to say that it is now a rich, commercial, and well-popiilated country.
'oronto, the seat of the Provincial G-ovemment of Ontario, has a
pulation of 200,000 ; and Ottawa, the seat of the Dominion Govern-
ent, has a population of about 60,000. The soil of Ontario may be
d to be rich. It varies according to locality, some localities being
3ry suitable for grain, frui'., and vegetable productions. Ontario is
ming rapidly a large manufacturing country. Agricultural imple-
ents, railway rolling stock, furniture, tanning, cotton and woollen,
per, soap, and pulp manufactures all imply an ever-increasing popula-
n. The climate of Ontario, like erery other climate in a large
itory, varies according to situation, latitude, and proximity to lakes,
On the whole, it is one of the most pleasant and healthful in the
Id. The purity and dryness of the atmosphere counteracts the
:ectB of high temperature in the summer and low temperature in the

m

The Agricultural Beaourees of Canada.

li

U

I -

k

winter. In the districts bordering on the lower lakes (Ontario and
Erie) tho winter begins a little before Christmas, lasting till about tho
end of March.

Dairy farming is the sheet anchor of the Ontario
Dairy Farming, farmer, and tne value of cheese exported has more

than doubled in the last few years. Canadian cheeses
have all along been recognised as the best in America, and now, since
the wonderful success achieved at the World's Fair, an enhancement
of value must be the result. The following figures relating to the
exports tell the progress of this trade in recent years : —

1874 value $8,623,201 ,, ' .

1884 , 7,261,989 . ,

1887 ... •«• ••• ••• j» 7,108,978

1889 „ 8,915,684 ' =,;'

1890 „ 9,872,212 -..a>

1891 , 9,608,800

Owing to the development of the cheese trade in Ontario, butter-
making is more limited, nevertheless $602,176 worth was exported in
1891, and I found wherever I went that creameries are being considered
profitable in connection with cheese factories.

Being anxious to visit a cheese factory, I took train
A Cheese Factory, from Hamilton to Ingersoll, the home of Mr. Drum-

mond, cheese instructor. Dairy Institute, Kilmarnock.
It is the centre of a fine agricultural and dairy district, about 60 miles
out. G-etting there about mid-forenoon, I drove to "West Oxford Fac-
tory. Mr. Williams, the manager, not being at home, I was shown
through the establishment by one of the foremen. On account of
the lateness of the season, it being the 8th of November, only two
vats were in use. These contain 400 gallons each. On asking the
proportion of dry curd to milk, I was told it was 110 gallons of curd
to 100 gallons of milk, which is about the same average as in Scotland.
Seventeen cheeses were made the previous day, and 11 the day I was
there, of 80 lbs. each ; 3,200 had been made up to date, and there were
abou^ 300 still to make. Both coloured and uncoloured cheese are made.
Although not all sold, the price then, 11 cents per lb., I was told was
offered for those from September till the end of making, and 9| cents
for the summer make. This factory helped to build up the reputation
of Canadian dairymen at the World's Fair, it having scored a high
average there. Eighty farmers send milk here in summer, and about
seventy were doing so when I called. A meeting, I was told, was to
be held that night to consider the propriety of establishing a creamery
in connection vnth the factory — an evidence that expansion of business
is contemplated ,

Land roun(. Ingersoll appears to be good. It sells at from $15 to
S35, and sometimes as high as $50, an acre. A farm within a stone-
throw of West Oxford Factory, of 150 acres, of superior land, well
situated, was for sale ; the price asked, I was told, was ^2,000, one-tenth
down, and the remainder in nine payments at 6 per cent, per annum.

Being anxious to see a typical high-class farm in
A Typical Ontario, I drove from Hamilton one day, about

Ontario Farm. 10 miles from town, through a splendid fruit and
rvxW^A farming country, to Mr. Fothergiirs prize

mixed

Mr. John Steven's Report,

37

fnrni. He has been there for 15 years. In 1886 Mr. Fothorgill was
awarded third prize for the best-managed farm in the province of
Ontario, and three medals previous to that for groups of counties.
On arrival, I found him busy securing his maize crop in small ricks
near the house. Beinp; anxious to learn his system of management, he

. ^p

•r. fj

V<i^:

▲N ONTABIO FARM.

told me he went in for mixed farming, and a little fruit-raising* besides.
He sold his milk instead of feeding cattle as he used to do more
extensively. Mr. Fothergill keeps between 30 and 40 cows, and feeds
them on maize during winter, which he thinks better than turnips.
He hau no silo. He had 40 acres of wheat, the average production of
which he estimated at 27 bushels, and oats 60 bushels per acre. Mr.
Fothergill feeds part of his grain to stock, thinking it pays
him better to do so than selling it. He has a fine house and buildings.
His turnip and hay shed is 100 ft. by 50 ft., on the bottom floor of
which his cattle are wintered. On the whole, everything connected
with the farm was tidy, and the management appeared to be well
conducted.

Having visited the Agricultural College and experi-
The Agricultural mental farm near Guelph, which, is situated in a fine
Collegef Gfuelph. farming district, and where young farmers from all

parts of the Dominion are taught the practice and
science of agriculture, I consider the establishment of such an institu-
tion, and the advantage gained, a tribute to the foresight of the
Canadian people, The farm consists of 560 acres, promising to

88

The AgrieuUural Bettourcfg of Canada,

Ml

i'o-

the youth who attends the college a thorough practical and pro-
fesMional knowledge of every branch of farming. It is conducted by
an able stuff of instructors and professors, thoroughly qualified to
impart agricultural instruction. The fees are not high — for residents
in Ontario, sons of farmers, SI20 a year ; for residents who are not
farmers' sons, !^'.iO ; for non-residents, $100 for the first year, and
{$»() for the second year. Besides giving a thorough practical and
theoretical education to pupils, experiments are carried on with grain,
roots, grass seeds, clovers, and all kinds of fruit trees connected witli
farm. The students are pointed out the different qualities of

a

various productions, and the results of all experiments are published
in bulletins from time to time. Such an institution as the Guelph
College is calculated to aid very materially the development of every
branch of agricultural industry.

After seeing the Falls of Niagara — one of
The Niagara Valley. the great sights connected with Oanadi— ]

had a stroll of inspection through part of
the Niagara Valley, called by some the " Garden ol Canada."
Leaving Hamilton about 8.30, I drove to Grimsby, a distance of
about 18 miles on a straight road. All along, on both sides, thrift)
orchards are laid out on almost every well-managed farm, the
products of which constitute in many instances a source of profit and
pleasure. Apples, peaches, pears, plums, and other small fruits and
grapes are also cultivated to a great extent. In forming an orchard,
the ground is first of all cropped in turnips or potatoes, and cleaned of
weeds. Then the trees are planted in rows about 6 yards apart, so as
to allow horse cultivation to be done. During the course of growth,
crops of wheat, oats, maize, or barley are taken off th'> ground, and
you can see a fine crop of golden grain overtopped by young trees
covered with fruit. Calling at a farm near Grimsby, I was shown
a plot of onions of 1^ acres, the crop of which was said to be 900
bushels, and the price about 6s. per bushel. The cost of production
was £12, and seeding £6. Land there sells at from .£10 per acre
to £30 and £40, and in some cases more, according to extent and age
of orchard, and quality of soil.

My stay in Canada now drew to a close, and I began
to turn my face homewards, much pleased with all I
had seen, and with the way I bad at all times been
that great and widespread country. In concluding
of my tour throughout its Dominion, I must say that
my opinion of Canada as a suitable place for our surplus population
is very favourable. There is cheap land, and plenty of it, and a
farmer can begin with a small capital, with a good chance of suc-
ceeding well if he is industrious. Canada being a country of vast
extent— as large ae Europe, taking away Turkey, and as hig as the
United States, with the exception of Alaska — it presents a diversity
of climate, soil, and production, as a matter of course. The different
provinces of the Dominion hare so many special claims on the
attentions of the intending emigrant, that he is often at a loss to know
whei^ to locate himself. The Old Countiy farmer with a little capital

Conclusions.

treated in
this record

jf>v Mr. John Stiven'u Jteport,

will find in Ontario an old province, with good land and cheap, social
coDaitions, and schools and churches au at home — in fact, little dilferenco
between it and Scotland or England. Then Munitoba ban gpeciaL
advantages open to all, both to the capitalist and thoi^e who are willing
to work themselves up. There is excellent soil of a rich black loam,
roatinjj; on a clay subsoil, and producing the finest quality of
wlieat in the world ; indeed, it took this year the first prize ut tlio
World's Fair, as it did at the Bakers and Millers' Exhibition in
London in 1892. Then the North- West Territories present a field for
mixed farming and ranching not to be surpassed anywhere ; these have
deep soil, and large crops are generally produced. The climate in
Alberta and near the " Bockies " being mild in winter, cattle can be
kept out all the time without shelter, making this the place suitable
for ranching and mixed farming. Then British Columbia has special
claims and advantages to hold forth. It has a splendid climate, good
soil— no better in the world — and good markets for farm produce. It
has also large mineral resources, jGlsh in abundance, and wood
which will, sooner or later, be a source of wealth to the Dominion.
The Earl of Aberdeen has just now bought a large estate in British
Columbia, which I understand he intends to sell out in farm lots to
settlers. Land is, however, dear in most parts of British Columbia,
£20 and XdO an acre being asked for most of it in the fertile portions
ot the province.

Having seen this vast country from Manitoba to the Pacific, in
common with the rest of the Delegation, and having talked with
farmers in every district I visited, meeting them on their own farms
and hearing what they had to say, I must confess I was not
surprised to find both contentment and a look of prosperity, in
nine cases out of ten, prevailing. Every man we interviewed
appeared to us to be speaking the truth, and each seemed to think
the particular spot in which he happened to be located was the'
best in the Dominion or the world. Some might want to know, how-
ever, how the Canadian farmer is able to live with wheat at such a
low price as it happens to be presently. I think it can be shown
that there is a profit yet in spite of low figures. The average
production of Manitoba and the North-West Territories in wheat is
as near as possible 20 bushels ' an acre, which at 50 cents p^r
bushel is equal to £2 Is. 8d. The cost of production is as follows :—
Ploughing, per acre, 11; harrowing and rolling, 40 cents; seed,
1^ bushelii, 90 oents) seediiig, 15 cent«; eord, 26 cents; harvesting
and stocking, 22 cents; threshing 20 bushels, fl.Xi; marketing,
52 cents; interest, taxes, repairs, Ac., «1.70 — «6.69 (equal to
£1 7s. 8|d. in our money). Valu« of crop per acre, £2 Is. 8d. ;
cost of production and interest, £1 7s. 8d. ; profits, 14s. per acre.
Thus a dOO-aere turn in Manitoba, with one-third In fallow, leaving
200 acrea in whieat, at 14a, per acre, brings the profit to a total of
£140. This ia only one item of revenue. With mixed farming
the proftta ought to be much greater. In judging as regards
farming in Muiitobft, it i« evident in many oaaea that ignorance
in contlection with scientific methods prevails. This, no doubt,

'M

40

The Agricultural Begourceg of Canada,

w

m

is because very few are born and bred to it there. The way
profitable farming can best be conducted in Manitoba is to fallow
one-third annually. For instance, on a J300-acre farm, to fallow one-
third leaves 200 acres in crop ; then sow wheat on the fallow the
following year. The next season oats can bt5 drilled into the ground
after burning the stubble, without ploughing, which reduces the work
of ploughing by 100 acres annually. This system, which is beginning
to be generally adopted, especially on light land, has the advantage of
allowing the fallow work to be done before harvest, when there is little
else to do. Some farmers do not appear to fallow any land, as the
crops in some parts are often choked with weeds — a neglect which
causes a reduction in the average production. I am of opinion that
if careful farming was practised, instead of 20 bushels per acre being
the average production, 30 bushels would be nearer the figure in the
province of Manitoba.

In the way of summing up my remarks, I might state that every-
where we went we met with successful Scotchmen, both in connection
with farming and mercantile pursuits. They seem to carry the secret of
prosperity wherever they go in the Dominion. The large proportion
of farmers we came across in Canada were either Scotch, or their
parents were. When leaving for the World's Fair, I was pleased to
hear from Mr. Ogilvie, the great wheat king of Canada — himself a
Scotchman and millionaire — that nearly one-half of the c^ty of
Montreal belonged to our countrymen. I was also pleased when I
got to Chicago, the city than can boast of the largest Burns Club
in the world, to hear more Scotch music than any other. I am sure
my co-delegate, Mr. Fraser, from the North, and myself will long
remember the kind greetings we received from brother Scots, especially
those connected with the Hudson Bay Company.

OAIiLOWAY CATTLK ON A MANITOBA VABM.

41

THE REPORT OF MR. ALEX. FRA8ER,

Ballooh of Culloden, Inverness, N.B.

I HAD the honour of being appointed in AugUHt last a tenant-farmer
delegate to visit and report on the agricultural reHources of the
Dominion of Canada. The Delegation then appointed connisted in all
of 14 members — two reprenenting Scotland, viz.: Mr. Steven, Purroch
Farm, Kilmarnock, for the South, and myself for the North ; the other
members represented England, Ireland, and Wales. I left Inverness
on Tuesday, 15th August last, by the night train, and, joining Mr.
Steven in Glasgow, got on board the s.s. "Porisian," of the Alljin
Line, which was timed to sail from Alexandra Dock, Liverpool, at noon
on the 17th. We got under way shortly afterwards, and I was intro-
duced to Sir John Thompson, Premier of the Dominion, and to Sir
Charles Tupper, High Commissioner for Canada, both of whom were
crossing with us ; and to two of our fellow-delegates — Messrs. Smith
and Shelton. At Moville we were joined by Mr. J. Guiry, Clonmel,
who represented Ireland ; and on Friday afternoon we got the parting
sight of Ireland, lit up with brilliant sunshine, as we ploughed our
way towards the great Ambrican continent.

The "Parisian" is a vessel of 3,262 tons register,
The Voyage. having accommodation for 1,134 passengers and 130

of a crew — in all, 1,262. The captain, Mr. Joseph
Ritchie, was very agreeable and attentive to us during the trip ; he is
a native of the Soutn of Scotland. We carried the following passengers
and crew, viz. : — 1st cabin, 201 ; 2nd cabin, 172 ; steerage, 288 ; crew,
150; all told, 811. About 120 of the steerage passengers were
foreigners — I should say Germans, Dutch, Ac. — and the remainder
English and Irish, 40 of . the latter joining us at Moville. A con-
signment of 10 pure-bred Border Leicester sheep, bought from the
Duke of Buccleuch, and going to Mr. Joseph Thomson, Salem, Gold-
stone, Wellington, Ontario, was taken out ; also, a two-year-old York-
shire coaching stallion, bought from George Burton, Esq., Selby,
Yorkshire, and going to Mr. B. Whale, Goldstone, Wellington, Ontario.
At noon on the 23rd we siglited land, which proved to be the coast
of Newfoundland— Belle Isle and Labrador; an hour after we were
close up, and passed BeUe Isle on the south side. Our first sight of
the American shore was not very enticing. Belle Isle reminded me
very much of Ailsa Craig, not in shape, but in geological construction.
As far as I could make out with the assistance of a powerful glass,
there was no living creature on the place, with the exception of the
lighthouse keepers. Before and after passing through the straits, we
encountered a great number of icebergs ; one morning I counted over
1 20 from the deck at one time. They were very beautiful to look at,
resembling white marble cut into all shapes and forms, representing
castles, churches, towers, &c. I was of opinion that they were a source

42

The Agricultural Bumreet of Canada,

% \

I

of considfirable clangor to navigators ; but T am told that, uhIphs in the
cjiHo of fog, this iK not ho. Thoy are plainly viBibl« on the dark«'.st
night, on account of their cloar whitenou.

On th(i 24ilj w(» w<?ro Hhown round the ship by Mr. Hartn»(ll,
chiof steward. Wo visitod the steerage flrst, ^"^-K saw the genenii
arrangementH, which agreeably surprised me. 1 had an idea that
steerage passengers had to put up with a great amount of hardships on
board ship, but this is not the case. Their quarters are kept perfectly
clean, being washed out and the decks freshly sanded every morning ;
the cabins are well ventilated, and 18 cubic feet of space \% allowed for
every passenger. Of course, as a rule, tbe^ have more than this, but
in no case less. I Jed, tin cup and plate, knife, fork, and spoon can b<'
hired from the company for tbo voyage for .'is. 6d. ; and blankets,
which could be used afterwards as plaids, and would be useful to
emigrants, are supplied at 2s. We next visited the cooks' galleyn,
which were very ccjmplete ; 12 cooks are employed, and apparently are
kept very busy. All fresh provisions are preserved in ice, and keep
well. The ship is victualled for 40 days in summer and 32 in winter,
by order of the Government. The steerage is situated in the after-
part of the ship, and has accommodation for 948 passengers ; the saloon
in the centre, and the intermediate in tbe fore-part. The accommo-
dation in the intermediate is very similar to the first cabin — quite w
comfortable in every respect, only that there is a difference in stvle ;
all is plain, there being no decorations, &c. The rooms, as a e,
contain four berths, and all bedding is supplied. In my op
the passengers in this department get the best value in the ship. The
difference in price between the steerage and intermediate is only £2 2s., I
and for this small additional sum you get everything supplied, have
very much betti^r food and accommodation, and a much nicer class of
fellow-passengers. All who can possibly afford it would be wise in
taking this class, and would find this to be especially the case if the
weather proved to be in any way rough. The doctor visits the steerage
regularly at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and can always be called in. There!
are two apartments on board set aside fof hospitals — one for malefll
and the other for females — containing six beds in each. They arej
used in cases of contagious diseases, fever, &c. The ship's stores— I
such as preserved meat, eggs, butter, fruit, meal, wine, &c. — are kept!
underneath the intermediate cabin. The wine cellar is capable o(l
containing 800 dozen of beer, and other liquor in proportion. Overl
6,000 lbs. of p eserved beef is carried. After getting into the Gulf ol
St. Lawrence, we had a concert in the intermediate cabin, and on tbel
following night a concert and dance in the saloon, both or which were]
. most enjoyable. The weather during the voyage was very good, an(l[
consequently everyone enjoyed themselves very much. We wer
within two hours of beating the record, and would have succeede
in doing this if we had not encountered a fog in the Gulf whiclj
detained us for a few hours. At 7.30 a.m. on the morning of Friday, thj
. 26th, we were met by the tender at Eimouski, which took off the ma
bags and a few passengers. The operation was carried out ver
eipeditioualy, only occupying about half an hour in all, and at 6 p.

Mr. Alfx. tVfUin^* fUjtort.

43

the same day we W(>r« tiioored tilongaide the wharf nt Quobec. We
iirrived during a ««vero thuriderNtorm. I have never »een aiiythinj?
ut h(>roo likrt the brilliancy of the liji;htning. It lasted up till ulH)ut
» p.m., and set a Huw-inill ( n tire. Tho efftfot o? the tire and thundor-
Htorm combined waH very imjMming, and looked uh if Nature had
prepared a npecial illummutioa on the occasion of our arrival in
Canada. ' ' •. ; ,

We left Quebec at daylight on Saturday, and arrived
(^tuheo to at Montreal at about l.MO p.m. Tho scenery on both
Montreal, sides of the river was very striking for the first half
of the journey, resembling in many resjwcts that of
the Firth of Clyde. On the south side ther« are numerous villages
and detached residences ; but we were informed the country behind
was not so thickly populated, all the people living near tho shore,
being principally engaged in fishing. On the north bank there are not
nearly so many villager, and the country looked very bare and deserted ;
in Scotland it would be suitable for sheep or deer. All the land here
is occupied by French Canadians. Just before reaching Quebec a view
of the Montmorency Falls is obtained, on the north bank ; they are
higher than Niagara, but of very much less volume. It is from here
that power is got for the supply of electricity to tho city of Quebec.
After leaving Quebec, the scenery along the river banks was of a differ-
ent description from the first part of the ' urney, the c(»uiilry being
much flatter. We could not see very mucli of the agricultural aspect
from the ship; the ground seemed to be divided into very small palcheH.
In some parts the river was over a mile wide, in others it ruirrowt'd
down to a few hundred yards. lu some places the current runs very
swiftly.

It was with a general feeling of regret that the passengers, who
had passed the preceding week so pleasantly, said good-bye. During the
passage. Sir Charles Hibbert Tupper had several conversations with the
delegates, both together and separately, and imparted to us very much
useful and interesting information about Canada, and how we could
accomplish the objects of our mission in the best and most expeditious
way. Mr. Thomas Mills, photographic artist and lanternist, Garth,
Bangor, Nprth Wales, gave an entertainment on board, showing his
views of Canada, which we afterwards found to be very correct and
representative. He accompanied one section of the Delegation, adding
to his already copious supply of lantern slides many new and interesting
views. Our portmanteaus and boxes were passed by the Custom House
officers with very little difficulty, they in every case taking our word for
what they contained. I may mention that on our return journey, at
Liverpool, the examination was very much more strict.

As our mission was principally connected with the
Montreal. North-West, it was our desire to push on to Winnijjrg

with as little delay as possible; in consequeure, we had
very little time to spare seeing the large towns of Ontario. Indeed, it
would be of small benefit in any case to describe, in a report of this
nature, these cities very minutely, as that has been done so often
already, and any person desirous of having that information can consult

#^

The Agricultural Memurces of Canada.

it

i

I,

wt

any of the numerous illustrated guides, which can be purchased for a
few pence. One of the finest views of Montreal is to be had from the
top of Mount Boyal. We were drawn up by the cable tramway, the
gradient being as steep as the roof of a house. On reaching the
summit we had a magnificent view of the city, which lay spread out
at our feet. In the foreground lay the town, with its numerous churches,
cathedrals, and large public buildings ; while in the distance the mighty
St. Lawrence formed the background, carrying on its bosom shipping
bound for all parts of the world. The hill is well wooded with oak,
birch, &c., and part of it forms a very picturesque cemetery. Winding
paths intersect each other in all directions, and it affords a most
pleasant picnic retreat for the inhabitants of the town, which they
seem to take full advantage of. The temperature at this time was about
80 degrees in the shade j the heat is not very oppressive as long as
one is outside. The nights are cool. I slept quite soundly, not feeling
any too warm.

Av- 9.55 a.m. on Monday we left for Ottawa, arriving there
Ottawa, at 12.56 p.m. After lunch we went to the office of Mr. A.
M. Burgess, Deputy-Minister of the Interior, who, unfor-
tunately, was not in. We saw Mr. Hall, secretary to the department,
and had a long conversation in relation to our future proceedings,
finishing by making an appointment to meet Mr. Burgess the next day
at 10 a.m. Owing to the wet nature of the weather, we were unable
to carry out a suggestion that had been made to visit the Central
Experimental Farm, Ottawa, having to postpone it for another day.
Instead, we saw through the Houses of Parliament, which are fitted up
in a very elabora-te style. A good view of the city is to be had from
the clock tower.

After breakfast on the 29th, four of our number called
Our Route. on Mr. Burgess, who received us very kindly, and
briefly sketched a proposed route for our guidance in
seeing the Great North-West. His idea was that we should at once
proceed to Winnipeg, which would be our headquarters for a few days ;
from there we should proceed by parties of two and see as much of
Southern Manitoba as possible, both east and west, visiting the crofter
settlement at Killarney, near Pelican Lake. On returning to
Winnipeg, the portion of Manitoba lying to the north of the Canadian
Pacific Eailway line would be examined in a similar manner, including
an inspection of the crofter settlement at Saltcoats. Again joining the
main line, we were to proceed west, branching off to Prince Albert and
Edmonton, seeing as much of these places as our time would permit ;
then proceed across the Eockies to Vancouver, Victoria, Ac. On our
return journey we would take Niagara Ealls, entering the province of
Ontario at the south-west, and finishing at Ottawa. Mr. Burgess then
. gave us an account of the system of education in Canada, which is
' both efficient and complete. Primary education is free, and secondary
education very cheap, the fees only amounting to «6 per quarter.
There is a School of Practical Science at Toronto, and an Agricultural
College at Guelph. Our interview lasted until nearly mid-day, when
we returned to our hotel with Mr. Eortier, a gentleman belonging

Mr. Alex. Fraser's Report.

45

to the Immigration Department, who was to take us to the experi-
loental farm in the afternoon.

The Central Experimental Farm is situated about
The Experimmtal two miles from Ottawa, and extends to about
Farm. 450 acres. Owing; to the short time at our

disposal, we were only able to see things in a
very cursory manner; more than a day would be required to see
the whole properly. The objects of the farm are to give informa-
tion to farmers, free of cost, on the following subjects, viz.: agri-
culture, horticulture, farm chemistry, entomology, botany, and the
management of poultry. "We first visited the chemical laboratory.
Here all sorts of soils, grain, water, &c., sent in by farmers are analysed
free of "ost. "We next saw the seed-testing establishment. Last year
over 1,900 samples of different kinds had been tested, and the results
given to the farmers, showing the percentage of good plants, weakly
ones, and those that did not germinate. The process employed is that
known as capillary attraction. After many experiments, this is found
to answer best ; it usually takes four days, but varies according to the
state of the weather. A great many different varieties of grain are
grown ; indeed, I think almost every known variety of the different
seeds have been tried. Those that have proved best suited to the
climate are sent out, free of charge, to farmers in 3-lb. samples, along
with a form of return which the farmer is asked to fill in and send
back. This return gives information as to the dates of sowing,
reaping, quantity, quality, &c. 2,600 samples were sent out in this
way last year to various farmers all over Canada. Six pair of work
horses are kept, none of which are pure-bred. One pair were said to
be nearly pure Clydesdales, but, in my opinion, would not be considered
so at home, although very good, serviceable, useful horses. These ';
horses are not bred on the place, but bought in various parts of the
Dominion, one team having only newly arrived from a horse ranch in
Alberta. Cattle are well represented by all the principal breeds both of
Britain and the Colonies. A good deal of time and money has been ^
spent in getting them good and pure of their respective kinds, and the '
result is highly satisfactory. Pigs are a very good show, and here, as in
the cattle section, each variety is represented. Tamworth, Berkshire,
Large White Yorkshire, Poland China, Ac, pigs thrive extraordinarily '
well here, the trouble being to keep them low enough in condition for
breeding. So much loose grain lying about, and it being so cheap and
plentiful, they seem to ccme in for more than their share. At this
particular season of the year there is little doing in the dairy depart-
ment ; the object of the specialise in cnarge is to make experiments
in cheese and butter making, with a view to letting farmers have the
benefit of his experience. He showed us his method of testing the
amount of butter fat per cent, contained in a sample of milk, which was
a very pretty and interesting little exhibition. Milk is now being
largely bought by creameries according to the amount of butter fat it
contains. Perhaps the most interesting sight on the farm was the
poultry house. Mr, Gilbert, the manager, is a native of Inverness, and
came out to Canada in the year 1860. He thoroughly understands hia

46

The Agricultural Resourw* of Canada.

business, and is a most enthusiastic poultry-breeder. The ooaditioQi
on which fowls are kept here are very different from the Old Country,
as they cannot be allowed out of the houses during the winter, on
account of the cold ; in these circumstances it is nooe^sary to keep them
in a state as nearly resembling nature as possible by artificial in«»ni.
Mr. Gilbert's ingenuity has been greatly tested in this line, but he has
proved equal to the occasion, and his variouH contri?anoee to keep his
charge in a healthy condition are most interesting to see. Tobaeco haa
been tried for the first time on the farm this year, and to all appear-
ance was doing well. A farm of this description must be of very great
advantage to the farmers of the Dominion, as they need not waste time
or money in making costly experiments, but by simply reading the
annual reports made by the heads of the various departments, and
acting according to the advice given there, they are put in a position of
taking the most out of their holdings. r

We left Ottawa on Wednesday, August 30th, at
To Winnipeg. 1.15 a.m., per the Canadian Pacific Railway, for
Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, which lies about
1,300 miles to the west. The country through whieh the line passes is
admirably described in their time-tables, and is of a M-ild, beaut^ol
character. With the exception of a very small proportion, it is of v«y
little value from an agricultural point of view, but looks like a country
containing mineral wealth. We reached Winnipeg on Friday morning
at 5.30 a.m., thus accomplishing the distance — 1,300 miles — in 52 hours,
being at the rat^e of 25 miles an hour. The cars on this line axe
beautifully fitted up, so that travellers csn live on the tcain amioet as
comfortably as at home. Every morning a dining ear is attached, on
which meals of first-class quality can be had for 75 cents ea<^. In
addition, the train stops at roadside stations for breakfast, lunch, and
dinner, when, if preferred, a good substantial meal can be had for 25
cents, or Is.

We were met at Winnipeg by Mr. George J. Ooi,
Inspector, Crown Landf; Office, Winnipeg, who had been
appointed to conduct the Delegation over Manitoba aad
the North- West. He is thoroughly acquainted with
the countiy, and has an excellent reputation as a cicerone, which he has
fully maintained on this occasion. Indeed, I may sa£ely say it was
owing to his knowledge of, and experience in travelling over, the land
that we were mainly enabled to get over the vast amount of count»*y
which we traversed in the comparatively short time at our disptuuil.
During the course of the day we had an interview with Mr. H. H.
Smith, Dominion Lands Commissioner, Winnipeg, at which our future
movements were discussed. It was finally agreed that we should
travel in two parties, and this arrangement was carried out ; one section
was ccMnposed of seven, and the other of six, delegates. Winnipeg,
formerly known a* Fort Garry, has a population of 29,000, and stands
at an altitude of 200 ft. above sea level. In 1870 the site which the
town now occupies was unbroken prairie, and the only buildings were
the Hudson Bay Company's fort and a few Indian wigwams. Dunc^
our stay here we visited Sir Donald Smith's farm, Silver Heights, lying

The Qiiy and
District.

,V>f,*t M^\ AIm, Frtu&r^t Mipwrt.

m

litionfl

3r, on

them

>«*ni.

|he has

)p his

has

ippear-

great

time

the

>, and

bion of

about four miles out of town. Unfortunately, the handsome residence
whioh he had here, and to which there is a special line of rails, was
burnt down last year, and has not been rebuilt. Our party was
accompanied by Mr. James Fisher, representative of the county of
Russell in the local Parliament, who pointed out and described the
various places of interest on the way. The land on both sides of the
road was occupied principally by market garden", one of which we
stopped at and examined, viz., Mr. Ohadwick's, Deer Lodge. We
saw tomatoes, cucumbers, <fcc., grown in the open air. Off a small plot
of about 10 yards square Mr. Chadwick took 46 bushels of tomatoes,
and from a similar plot of cucumbers had taken a barrel that morning.
He mentioned that at the commencement of the season he got 10 cents
each for the cucumbers, and at the time of our visit was receiving
50 cents a doaen, We saw the only herd of plain buffalo now in
Canada on Sir Donald Smith's farm; they number four bulls, three
cows, and two calves, and are now in a quite tcme condition : we drove
up quite close to them, and they took no notice. Two of the bulls are
very fine speoimens of their kind. It is a most extraordinary thing
how these noble animals could be exterminated in such a vast -country.
Stories are told of their being simply killed by the thousand for the
sake of the skin. Buffalo skins are now very rare, and cost about $90
apiece. It would be a very paying business if they could be raised for
the sake of the hide alone ; this, however, seems to be an impossibility.

We arrived at Portage-la-Prairie on Saturday, September
Portager-lgr 2nd, and it was there that our work really began. The
Prairie. district round here, known as the Portage Plains, is one

of the finest wheat«growing districts in Manitoba, and
has now been under cultivation more or less for the last 20 years.
There' is no doubt that the soil is simply of first-class quality, about
18 in. rich black loam, resting on a subsoil of whitish clay. To me
the land appeared of uniform character ; but I was informed that this
is not the case, and that even on adjoining farms there is a great deal
of difference. This is caused by either the depression or height above
the level : if the former, the place is too wet ; and if the latter, the soil
is light. Owing to this circumstance, it would be advisable for any
intending settler to have some experience before purchasing, as, if not,
he is liable to be imposed on. There are plenty of farms for sale,
ranging in value from $20 to $30 per acre, according to quality. All
the land here was homesteaded 15 to 20 years ago.

Among others, we called on Mr. F. Brydon, Section 7,
Mr. Brydon'» Township 12, Bange 7, west of the first principal
F-irm, meridian. (The explanation of these figures is to be

found in any official book of information for intending
settlers, and, to economise space, locations will be afterwards referred
to in this Beport by the figures giving the section, township, and range
in their respective order.) We found him engaged in Cxing up his
steam engine and separator, prei)aratory to starting threshing on
Monday morning. He farms 320 acres of land— 210 under white crop,
principally wheat, with » few acres black oats. The general system of
farmiiig at present pursued in this district is to sow 4s much oats as

4$

The Agricultural Refoureev of Canada.

M

■'. ■>■'

1

i

will feed the horses ; reserve a natural meadow of about one-sixth of
the farm for cutting hay, or, if this is not possible, lay out a similar
exteni in timothy grass, which does well; and the remainder of
the farm, consisting of about two-thirds of the whole, is Uid out in
wheat. The sections are usually fenced with three barbed wires
stapled to posts set at about 16 ft. apart, the cost of which
amounts to about 6 cents, or 3d., per yard. The wheat is stacked,
immediately threshed out, and, as a rule, sold at the nearest elevator.
If wished, the farmer can have it stored there, but this is not
generally done. Wheat is divided into the following grades, viz. :
Extra No. 1 hard ; Nos. 1, 2, and 3 hard ; Nos. 1 and 2 Northern, or
soft ; and Nos. 1, 2, and 3 frozen ; prices varying according to grade.
The price of wheat last year, delivered at the nearest elevator — for No. 2
hard, as Mr. Brydon's was graded — was 66 cents per bushel ; that is",
ISs. 8d. per quarter. Frozen wheat fetched 40 cents per bushel, or
138. 4d. per quarter. Very little oats are sold, as they are all required
for feeding purposes ; any samples I saw were very inferior, the standard
weight only being 34 lbs. ; the season seems to be too short to bring them
to proper maturity. The quantity per acre is much in excess of anything
in Scotland, sometimes going as high as 100 bushels per acre, or 12|
quarters. The barley is also inferior, but not so much so as the oats.
X am of opinion that if the proper seed was sown, and more attention
paid to the cultivation, a good sample of barley could be raised. The
colour of any samples I examined was v 3ry good, the deficiency being
in the small and shrunken appearance of the grain. The land at
present receives very little manure, the practice being to burn the
straw : this must necessarily tell on the fertility of the Foil sooner or
later. Crops of wheat have been taken from the same ground for 19
years in succession, and the natural fertility of the soil is such that* as yet
there are only a few bushels of difference in the yield. The average crop
20 years ago would be about 30 bushels per acre ; now it is about 24
bushels : this decrease is partly accounted for by the fact that it is only
Bed Fyfe wheat that is now grown, which, although of better quality,
is not so prolific as the kinds which were formerly cultivated. The
price of growing an acre of wheat, including seed — 1| to 2 bushels per
acre — threshing, and delivering at the nearest elevator, is put down,
according to Mr. Brydon, at £2 ; this calculation includes interest on
capital and paying wages. As a general rule, farms are worked by the
farmer and his family. This would leave, at the low prices for wheat
ruling last year, a clear profit of 16s. per acre, if the average yield of
24 bushels per acre is taken. It is almost unnecessary to say crops
vary here, as elsewhere. These figures I believe, from the testimony of
several farmers, together with the at)pearance of the stooks in the field,
to be very nearly correct ; indeed, from the appearance of the fields, I
would put down the returns at much more. The following gives an
idea of the speed with which farming operations are carried on.
As the summer season is short, the work must be done quickly, and the
most improved labour-saving implements are employed. A gang
plough, taking two furrows, each 14 in. wide and 6 in. deep, drawn
by four horses, and driven by one man, will turn over 6 acres in a

.'.-<

Mr. Alex, Fraser^a Report,

40

day of 10 hours. One man with three horses will drill in 15 acres
of seed, or broadcast and cover 18 acres, in a day. One man with a
self-binder drawn by three horses will cut from 14 to 15 acres
a day, and it is not an unusual thing to run the binders night
and day during the wheat harvest. A steam threshing machine, with
14 men employed, will thresh from 1,500 to 2,000 bushels of wheat
per day ; one man is sufficient to attend the straw, which he draws
away with a team of horses, in ricks, as it comes from the elevator.
After the threshing is over the straw is burnt. Other operations are
conducted in a similar style as regards speed. Things are not done so
neatly as at home. A much longer stubble is left in the fields. The
stooking is done very well ; very few sheaves are to be teen lying on
the ground This is done so as to have the wheat of a good colour — a
most important thing when it comes to be sold. A natural hay
meadow will produce about 1| tons an acre on an average of years.
These meadows are low-lying, and inclined to be marshy, so that they
could not very well be used for anything else. The hay looks in
appeju-ance rather coarse, but stock thrive very well on it ; it costs
only the labour of cutting and putting up into stacks. If any is sold,
which is seldom the case, from ^1 to £2 per ton is got for it, according
to the season. Timothy meadows are coming into favour a good deal,
and when better understood will, to all appearance, do very well.
When Mr. Brydon took up his homestead, 18 years ago, he stated that
he was in debt. He has now 23 head of cattle, 12 horses, 3 foals,
and a considerable number of pigs ; improved buildings, consisting of
barn, granary, stables, implement shed, and good dwelling-house ;
320 acres of land, which would readily sell at $25 per acre ; improved <
implements, including steam threshing machine, which cost .£360 ; and
he is now clear of debt. These facts speak for themselves, and show
what has been done here in the past. Since wheat has sunk so low in
price, farmers here, as elsewhere, are turning their attention to other
things. There seems to be a general feeling in the country that mixed
farming would give a better return. Hitherto capital was scarce, and
farmers had to meet their engagements : the result was, the land was
punished in order to do this, and wheat was raised every year in
succession. It is being discovered that this cannot last, so that it will
not surprise me much to learn that mixed farming has taken the place
of wheat-raising in a few years. From all I can learn, the country is
well adapted for dairying, and cattle and pig feeding. All kinds of
stock thrive well. The few sheep kept round here look well, the
difficulty being to keep them thin enough for breeding .purposes.
Two-year-old fat cattle sell in the spring for about .£8 a head ; fat
lambs for the local demand at .£1 a piece; and pigs sell just now at
18s. 6d. per 100 lbs., live weight. Considering that keep costs little or
nothing, these prices ought to pay well. Crops, as a rule, are pretty
safe from frost in this part. Mr. Brydon, in 18 years' experience, did
not wholly lose his cx'op in any year, but in four years it was partially
injured — he calculated to the extent of about 20 per cent. Eain in
harvest is almost unknown. In the Portage Plains, all the water for
drinking and domestic purposes is got from wells about 10 ft. to 20 ft.

PAET T. ^

IT;

w

It '

■i

60

The AgricuUurdl Retoureu of Canada.

below the surface. With the exception of the Asainiboine River, there
is no runuing water. What are called *' sloughs " intersect the country at
intervals ; these are stagnant ditches or ponds containing water, and in
the fall of the year are literally alive with wild ducks and other water-
fowl. Numerous coveys of prairie chicken are to be found all over the
fields ; this bird is of the grouse family, and makes excellent eating,

The next farm we stopped at belonged to Mr, A. E.
Another Mellon ; he was engaged in threshing out his crop,

Successful Farmer, and, as he was not the possessor of a threshing

machine of his own, had engaged one. These machines
travel the country during the season, in a similar manner to the way
they do at home. The mill-owner provides the necessary hands, 14 all
told, the farmer only having to provide meat ; a travelling caboose is used
for sleeping quarteis. The price paid is 4 cents per bushel for oats,
and 5 cents for wheat. The threshing outfit costs $2,600 ; the engine,
being a traction one, in this case cost more ; a good many of those I
saw in use were portable. The mill-owner calculates that he ought
to earn about $60 per day, and his working expenses amount to S26
per day ; his season only lasts for two months. We drove over about
20 mUes of country, taking samples of the wheat occasionally, and
found them very good and equal in quality.

One of the sights that strikes the traveller on first entering
Mevators this country is the number of huge buildings which he
and Mills, sees at almost every station along the lines of railway,
These, he is informed, are grain elevators. As some of our
party expressed a desire to have a look at the interior, it was decided
, to examine one, which had a flour mill attached, both the property of
the Lake of the Woods Milling Co. However imposing the outside
looked, we were all considerably astonished when we saw the elaborate
and complete machinery inside. We first looked over the engine,
which is of 300 horse-power, built by the Goldie & MacCulloch Co.,
Ltd., Gait, Ontario. It is supplied with steam from three boilers,
two of which are in use at a time, the third one being cleaned out.
As water is scarce, and, owing to the alkali contained in it, injurious
to the boilerf!, a condenser is usedj and the same water returned
to the boiler; also, the water used in cooling the condenser is
used twice over, it being emptied into a large pond outside to
cool, and pumped in again. The mill was renovated last year, the
whole building and machinery costing $150,000, or something over
£30,000. The wheat goes through six or seven machines in
being ma^e into flour, being gradually ground finer at each process,
and all foreign substances are removed as it leaves each machine.
Only the best wheat is used, and two kinds of flour produced,' via.,
first and second. In the busy season this mill runs night and day, and
when doing so can make 700 barrels of flour in the 24 hours. As a
general rule, it takes 4| bushels of wheat to make a barrel of flour ; so
that 3,1,50 bushels, or nearly 400 quarters of wheat, are conveited into
flour daily. A barrel contains 196 lbs. of flour. The price got for the
bran at the mill is $10 per ton for first, and $8 per ton for 2iid q«a4i^y,«
Nearly all the flour produced at this mill goes to the W^t Coast, 4u^

y'ly'yi.

Mr. AUx. fiS'aser^g HeporU

m

finds a market in Vancouver, China and Japan, &c., very little finding
its way Bast. The grain elevator, which adjoins the mill, and is sup-
plied with power by the same engine, is cajHible of holding 175,000
bushels of grain. Grain can bo taken in on both sides of the building
'—on the one side from the railway, and on the other from farmers'
waggons ; 1,320 bushels an hour can be taken in from tho railway, and
about 4,000 bushels a day from farmers. The grain is emptied into a
shoot from the waggons, from which it passes into an elevator, through
a dressing machine, and into a huge hopper, where it is weighed. The
HelleJ" has the option of taking away the dressings with him if he wishes.
Delivery is taken so quickly that by the time the seller has his waggon
emptied and his sacks collected he can have the weight of his dressed
wheat. All grain is bought by weight here ; as yet I have not seen a
bushel measure, even in the elevator ; I was told they had one, but,
being so seldom in use, they could not lay their liands' on it.
Labourers in the company's employment receive SI | per day ; skilled
labour, such as millers, &c., S2, S2|, to $2| per day. The concern is
managed by Mr. R. S. Thomson, who received us very kindly, and took
great trouble to explain things to us. We are also indebted to the
kindness of Mr. R. J. Meyaw, head miller, who showed us over hi«
department. The company owns two mills — this one, and another at
Keewatin. The Keewatin mill is driven by water power, and is much
larger, the output being 1,600 barrels of flour per day. Most of thifl
finds a market in Eastern Canada and Britain.

On leaving the mill we drove off in a north-westerly direc-
tion, our next halting-place being fixed for Westbourne,
25 miles distant, a station on the Manitoba and North-
western Railway. As there is no hotel here, it was
arranged that we should put up with Mr. Davy, manager of the
Sanford Ranch. The country is very similar to that already described
for the first 20 miles — fine flat land, evidently at one time the bed of a
lake, all laid out in hiige wheat-fields. With the exception of one or
two fields, all were of the same excellent uniform quality. In my
judgment, there was very little difference in the samples we took from
the fields passing along ; the grain is small in size, hard as flint, and a
good colour. We stopped for lunch at Mr. T. MacCartney's farm —
Section 26, Township 13, Range 8— Portage-la-Prairie. As Mr.
MacCartney was worfcing in the fields, on finishing our lunch we drove
out to sec him. As this is a farm very similar to Mr. Brydon's, it
is unnecessary to go over the same ground again. He farms 320
acres now, and has been here for the last 16 years ; considers he got an
average return of about 30 bushels of wheat per acre then ; last year,
which was under an average, the return was 23 bushels. When he
started, his capital was SlOO ; he now has his place clear, and winters
over 40 head of cattle. His neighbour— 36, 13, 8— Mr. James Bray,
farms 700 acres, 620 acres of which is in white crop, the balance being
in grass. Started 15 years ago with a capital of J8350 ; has now the
folkwing stock :— 26 Jersey cattle, 24 of which are milkers, 17 horses,
30 Oxford Down sheep, and 30 pigs. He gets from 20 to 30 cents per
lb. for Wtter. These men own between them a threshing machine

Farms near
Weathoume.

52

The AfjricuUural Retourca of Canada,

77H

.:)»■

(I

costing S2,200. Mr. Bray is of opinion that sheep would do well.
He gete «6 a piece for lambs, and 10 to 12 cents per lb. for dressed
mutton : this is to supply the local demand. After driving about 20
miles, the character of the country changes, assuming a more
rolling aspect, and is more adapted for stock-raising. There is a
good deal of small rough timber, a considerable area not having
yet come under the plough. About 5 p.m. we reached Mr.
Walter Lynch's place— 7, 14, 8. He keeps a herd of pure-bred
Shorthorn cattle, consisting of about 30 head of cows and a stock bull.
During the summer — that is, from May to November — they are out on
grass, and when we saw them they were looking in remarkably good
breeding condition. In winter they are housed, and fed on natural hay,
with a little bruised com. Mr. Lynch has a reputation all over the
colony for the excellent quality of his stock, a half-brother of his stock
bull, '• Village Hero," being first at the Chicago Exhibition this year.
He gets from SlOO to U25 for his bull calves; most of his heifer
calves he keeps for his own use, and when he sells any bo gets a higher
figure than tor his bulls. Mr. Eutherford, V.S., anu M.P.P. for this
district, accompanied us {is far as Mr. Lynch's farm ; he drove his own
horse, and I had a seat with him. I had a long conversation with him
on a variety of subjects, and he gave me much useful information
regarding the country, and his ideas of the best modes of farming.
Mr. Eutherford had refused the other day £70 for the mare he was
driving ; she was certainly a beauty, and a good goer. The high prices
paid for horses here are surprising ; indeed, they are nearly as dear as in
Britain. It is quite common to get from £90 to £100 for a pair of
horses that are not by any means out of the way as regards quality.

The Sanford Eanch extends to about 30,000 acres, and is
The Sanford stocked with 300 horned cattle and 200 horses. In the
Banch. buildings there is accommodation for 200 horses, capacious

barns, and a large piggery. Hitherto a great many more
cattle were kept, but a change is now contemplated, and cattle are
going to make way for horses. Senator Sanford owns the ranch
in fee simple, and will dispose of it in lots to intending purchasers.
His intention is to dispose of the whole as he can find suitable buyers.
The cattle are all wintered out in the woods near Lake Manitoba ; they
get as much hay as they can take, and the ice on the lake is broken
every day to supply them with water. It is found, after considerable
experience, that they thrive best in this way j it is a rare thing for
many of them to succumb to the severity of the season. The horses
are all housed during the winter, and fed on hay, oats, Ac. Owing to
the low price, no cattle were disposed of last year. The average price
received for two-year-olds is from £7 to £8 a head in a lean condition.
Fifty horses were sold last year, averaging $300 a pair, or £30 a piece ;
they are four years old, and broken, as a rule, when sold. The stalHon in
use for the last few years was a cross between a Cleveland Bay horse
and a " Eoyal George " mare. This year a Yorkshire cob, imported from
England, has been used. Clydesdales have been tried, but were found
not to suit. The manager, Mr. Davy, intends to go into pork-raising
extensively, as he thinks there is money in it, and in my opinion he is

Mr. Alex. Frcuer^a Report.

68

not far wrong. Prices are high just now, 4i d(jllars, or 228., being given
per 100 lbs., live weight, for pigs. He has several different breeds,
including Tamworth, Yorkshire, and Berkshire, all of good quality.
There is so much cheap grain that pigs are bound to pay well.

Whilst waiting tor the train, Mr. Davy gave us some of his
experiences before Becoming manager of this ranch. He bad a farm
of 1,200 acres in Southern Manitoba, and had it all under crop. On
Sunday, 22nd August, 1886, the whole was utterly ruined by frost; as
he was only starting, principally on borrowed capital, the result was
disastrous. He put in the next year's crop, and it turned out well, but
it was not sufficient to put him on his legs again, so he had to quit, a
ruined man. He now thinks that if he had gone more into mixed
farming he would have pulled through.

At Westboume practically commences a district of mixed farming.
Along the line of the Manitoba and North-Western Railway system,
from this point westward, we traverse a country of greater diversity of
natural features than is exhibited on the great wheat-growing plains to
the east.

We got on the train at Westbourne Station at 12.20 p.m.,

The Neepawa and, proceeding westward, reached Neepawa, a rising town

District. of 1,000 inhabitants, about 2 p.m. The country we passed

through was principally adapted to cattle and sheep

raising. In the afternoon we drove out, accompanied by Mr. John A.

I ii|ij"!ilV'|.|"ili|i lull.. 'i'l|,ii 'l.!i,i,Mli'i'j' Hil'i'i'iil !"i''i",l!'i|l|i,iii,j|'

''I'l'M , N ' 111 n^r J mJll I iIjuMiH , 'l!|li '|i||!| ' i t ,1?^ iJl

t ' 1 1 >i i iiiiii III i,uM,m"i'ri^

FARM SCENE, MANITOBA.

Davidson, M.P.P. for this district. Our route lay to the north of the
town, passing through an entirely wheat-growing country. Near the

04

The Affricuttui'ul liettourcts of Canada.

town thn fluids did not present so rich an tip|)earttnco us those in the
Portug(!i district which we had recently seen : hut as wof^ot further away,
and nearer a hill called Riding Mountain, the appearance of the crops
improved. 1 called on Mr. Donald Fraaer, to whom \ had a letter of
introduction, but, unfortunately, he was not at homo ; however, he
avaih.'d himself of my invitation to lunch at the hotel the following day,
when he gave me much useful information rtjgarding the country. On
our way back to town we stopped at Mr. David Munroe's — Ix)cation 16,
16, 15, 640 acre.i in extent, lie is originally of Scotch descent, but his
family have resided in tlie Uuited States for a considerable number of
years past. He has travelled over most of the United States, and
farmed in different i)arts of it, but finally settled down here four years
ago. He is very conlident in his opinion that this is the best farming
land he has yet come across. On landing here in 1889 his capital
amounted to >1il235, and he now estimates that after paying all his debts
he would have a balance of from flP9,000 to I'Bl 1,000 clear.

The following is a cutting from i\ local newspaper — the Neepawa
li^efjigter, Jan. 27th, 1893— giving Mr. Munroe's ideas of agricultural
costs. They may seem to us to be set down at a remarkably low rate,
but, from many inquiries made, 1 have come to the conclusion that he
is nearly correct.

A FARMING ACCOUNT.

David Munroe, of Rosedale, sent the Patron's Advocate the following state-
ment regarding the expense and pi-oiit of wheat-growiog, &c. : —

The farm contains 640 acffs, located eight miles north of Neepawa. On basis
of saleH of land in this vicinity it is worth $20 per acre. On this interest is
charged at 8 per cent., while on animals and machinery 12 per cent, is allowed'for
interest and depreciation. With the exception of this year, the average yield of
wlieut has been 30 bushels to the acre. Lowest price, 65 cents ; highest, 86 cents
per bushel. Our help is hired by the month for the season. Each opemtion on
tlie farm is charged actual cost for wages and maintenance. There were 200 acres
in wheat this year. Average yield, 19 bushels per acre ; none uf it fallow.

Wheat Crop,

200 acies, at 19 bushels per acre. No. 1 hard, at 55 c«ats per bushel, $10.46
per acre.

Dr.
Ploughing, p^dr acre ...
Hari'owing and rolling...
Seed, 1^ bushels

Seeding

Cord

Harvesting and stocking

Stacking

Threshing 19 bushels, at 6 cents
Marketing 19 „ 2^ cents
f Interest, taxes, repairs, &c. ...

• •■

• • • • • •

• • • • • •

• • • !••

• • • •• •

• ••

• • •

• ••

• • •

• ••

• • •

• ••

••• •••

••• •••

• • • • ••

••• •••

• ■• •••

$1.00
40
00
U

Total cost ...

••• t»«

••• ••• ••• •••

• ••

• • •

• • ■
••• •••

■ ••

• • •

22

40

1.14

52

1.70

Total value of 1 acre

Total cost

Profit, per acre, above iuterest

Equal to 188 per cent, on investment.

$6.69

B 10.4.5
6.69

$3.76

Mr. Ales'. FVaner^g Bejtort.

66

Ilajf Crofi.

180 acres jleld 172) tOM.

Valno of hay, 172 tonii, at $S

C'oit of mowing, raking, and stacking, at 70 cents per ton

"It

Value, per acre, on 120 acres
Less interest, tAxea, Ac.

•••

•••
•••

$802.60
I2().7rt

$741.76

$0.18
1.70

$4.48

Net profit, per acre, above interest

Equal to 22*4 |)cr cent, on investnicnl.

The hay is natural grasses. Has been cut ever}' year for the post 10 or 12
years. We begin mowing from July 28th to August 1st. Binco the fsnn has been
in my poMession (pust four years) the crop has been better each HUccessive year.
The oron is not all sold jet, but the portion sold lias been ut $ri per tun ut the
stack. None has ever been sold at less ; while that kept till spring bus usually
brought from $2 to $n more per ton.

For next rear we have for wheat 260 acres nearly all rolled and harrowed,
180 acres of It breaking, 80 acres for summer fallow, 80 acres for oats', potatoes, &c.

It must always be borne in mind that the land in much easier
worked here, being uniform in quality and free from stones. Mr.
Munroe is of opinion that mixed farming would suit this country well,
and he intends going in for it as soon as possible. This, as already
stated, is the general opinion of all the farmers I have spoken to. The
stock on the farm consists of 15 head of cattle, 8 of which are cows,
8 working horses (including 1 Shire stallion and 2 pure-bred
mares), 4 young horses, and 11 pigs. One hired man is employed
on the farm all the year round, and two for eight months ; in addition
to which four boys of the family help, the eldest being 1 9 years of age,
and the youngest 10. Hired men get $20 a month, are boarded in tne
house, and treated in all respects like one of the family. There is a
natural hay meadow of 120 acres on the farm. Mr. Munroe's farm is
rather better than the average of the district.

The forenoon of next day — 6th September — was
spent in the vicinity of the town. We saw some
grass-fed cattle that were en route for the British
market} they were hardly fat enough, and were
inclined to be coarse ; the heaviest of the lot was put on the steel-
yard, and weighed over 1,900 lbs., live weight. While out, we
met Mr. Donald Fraser on his way to the hotel to lunch with us.
Afterwards I cot the following particulars from him : — Home-
stead, 15, 16, fo. Total acreage in farm, 800, of which 500 acres
are under cultivation. He has been 11 years in the country, eight of
which he has been engaged in agriculture. His capital on starting
amounted to SI 50, and he now estimates it at $22,000. He usually
gets $25 for his two-year-old cattle, and $30 for cows in milk. He has
held over his last year's crop of wheat, which in itself is a sign that he
has considerable money to work upon. The price of horses seems to
have sunk very considerably within the last year. The probable causes
of this are that, when the country was filling up, horses were needed by
the new settlers, and had to be imported : now there are a sufficient
number raised to supply the home demand ; in the second place, a great

FurtTier
Information.

00

The Affriculturtd Rf»ourM» of Canada.

A Drive round
the District.

numb«r of horwrs were required to supply the tramway NyHtem in the
largo cities: this is now done away with, owing to the introduction of
electric cars. Up to last year the price f»r a good horMe, well broken
to all work, was *250; now a similar horse can U^ bought at from $125
to $150. Farm servants gj)t $200 a year from Mr. Eraser. He is of
opinion that if they have ambition to get into a farm, and make up their
minds to work hard for a year or two, tliey have an excellent chance
here ; but, if their object is to remain in service, they are more comfort-
able at homo.

At 2 p.m. we went for a drive to the south-west of the
town, to visit a farm belonging to Mr. John A.Davidson.
The country presented very much the same features as
in our drive of yesterday. Perhaps the crops were
not quite so good. We were told, however, that this part is remark-
ably free from summer frosts. We passed through a strip of country
here, 1| miles broad by about 6 long, where the crops bad been totally
destroyed by a hailstorm. The fields had been apparently flattened to
the ground, and were coming up in second growth. These storms are

Suite local, and there is no accounting for their action. They come
own in strips, with long intervals between ; the next place where any
damage was done on this occasion being 20 miles eastward, at Gladstone.
A Mutual Insurance has been got up by farmers against them, so that
anybody so inclined can in this way get compensation. Mr. Davidson's
farm is situated on Section 31. 13, 15, W. It is his intention to go in
for winter-feeding cattle and pigs. This is a new idea in this part,
and he is going to give it a thorough trial. The buildings now in
course of erection will cost, when finished, about $2,500 ; this includes
all necessary machinery, and windmill for driving same. The principal
building is 60 ft. by 70 ft., the ground floor being partially under-
ground. There are stalls provided here for 60 head of cattle ; the
space above, which is 16 ft. nigh in the wall, is to be used as a store-
house for hay, corn, ensilage, &c. A root house is to be constructed
underground, with a passage leading into the byre. The foundation is
excavated out of the side of a hill, so that access to the barn fibove can
be had from the level on one side ; on the other the manure can be
taken away from the level of a tunnel running through the centre of
the byre, and about 6 ft. beneath the floor. The machinery consists of
a pulper, corn-crusher, and straw-cutter, driven by a windmill. The
piggery will accommodate 150 feeding pigs and 15 sows. Mr.
Davidson's plan is to buy in two-year-old cattle during the summer and
autumn ; this can be done just now for about $20 to $25 a head. He
estimates that he can feed them for the winter five months at a cost of
$12 a head ; and that at present prices he will get $56 for them in
spring— that is, $4 per 100 lbs., live weight. The labour required for
running this farm is estimated at three men in summer and two in
winter. Of course this is a new idea, but, in my opinion, is a step in
the right direction. All the manure made, which will be considerable,
will be applied to the land. The feed for the cattle will consist of cut
turnips, cut green straw and hay, crushed grain, and ensilage made
from Indian corn (green) and sunflowers. On our way back to town we

m-v

Mt, Ale,v, J'Vtueri Heport.

57

pa.sH(>(l a numbor of farniH with v«rv comfortable houH«w4 and Hiiitable
and comtnodiouH farm buildings ; thcMe uro gBiuTally built of wood,
with an occanional ono of brick and Ntone. Hpruco, tatuarac (a wood
roHoinbling larch), and poplar of largo «izo aro found in the noit.i-
wcHtorn partH of the provinco of Manitoba, and from them* HourcoH
timlxir is 8up/\lied to tho variouH wood millH of the province. Through-
out tho remaining diMtricts, poplar wood Nuitahle for building, fencing,
and general farming requiremontN In almost univi>rNally found.

At H a.m. on the 7th we left Neepawa, and drove in
Minnedota. a wewterly direction about 18 mile» to Minn««doHa,

a town of couHiderable size, with many handsome
stone, &c., buildings. It is situated on the Little Huskat/chewan
Kiver, and looks very picturesque nestling in the valley and overlooked
on three sides by the surrounding highlands. The ci)untry \w passed
through was, at tho commencement, cultivated. As we got on it assumed
a more rolling appearance, and less cultivation was gone in for. We
encountered several large herds of cattle grazing on the natural grass.
I was much struck with their sleek appearance and fine, glossy coats of
hair; at home I would have at once said they were getting cake. The
natural grass must be very nutritious here, though to look at it one
would not think so, it looks so dried up. Further on the ground was
wooded in clumps, between which you could occasionally see the wheat-
fields and settlers' houses peeping out. This is a much more interesting
country than the plains below, and, from the abundance of hay and
water, is much more suitable for mixed farming. The patches of wood
and scrub would afford excellent shelter for stock, both from the hot
sun in summer and the cold winds and snow in winter.

Im the afternoon we drove out to the north of the
Mr. Frater'a town, and taw over Mr. E. P. Eraser's farm — 1, 16, 18.
Farm. He holds 1,500 acres, and has been in the country 12

years. This year he has been rather unfortunate, having
met with considerable loss through hail, which he roughly estimates at
about £Q00 sterling. This is his first experience in that direction, and
hitherto he has b^n making money. More dependence is placed on
mixed farming here, a great many of the farmers going in for cattle-
raising. There are few sheep in the country just now, but there seems
to be a general feeling that they would suit well, Mr. Eraser sold 150
last year of vario'is ages, realising on an average $7 a head. Owing to
the severity of the winter, they have to be housed during the night,
and are hand-fed with natural hay.

The Mayor of Minnedosa, who accompanied us, pro-
SporU posed on our way home to have some shooting. He is

a keen sportsman, having won the gold medal at
Winnipeg last year as the champion shot of Manitoba, which means a
good deal. The season for prairie chicken shooting does not commence
until the 15th of September, so we had to confine ourselves to ducks.
They abound here in all the marshes and small lakes. On arriving at
a good slough, as they are termed in this country, the party, which con-
sisted of three guns, placed themselves in good positions round the
edge, hidden by the long reeds. A commencement was made by firing

58

llie Agricultural liesmirces of Canada.

Farms near
liussell.

later steamer.

A Bhot to put up the ducks, after which they flew round the water in
circles, giving each of us an opportunity of displaying his skill. Before
darkness put an end to our enjoyment we had secured quite a good hu^.
Next duy we had a long drive round the country, accom-
Mr. Broivn'8 panied by the Mayor and several of the leading citizens
Farm. of the town, including a Mr. Brown, who is engaged in

the cattle trade with Britain ; he owns a farm about nine
miles from town, at which we put up and had lunch. The land in this
vicinity is more hilly than anything we have yet seen in Manitoba, in
some places resembling the Highlands of Scotland, only not nearly so
wild. At Mr. Brown's place they were busily engaged in threshing out
wheat. I had the curiosity to time the operation, and discovered that
they were putting it through at the rate of 3 bushels per minute.

On Saturday, the 9th, at 2.30 p.m., we got on the train
and joined other three delegates, viz. : Mr. Guiry, whom
we had left behind ; Mr. Waddington, Derbyshire, and
Mr. Faulks, Rutland, both of whom had left England by a
With this addition our party numbered eight, and we
continued together until we broke up on our way home. After leaving
Minnedosa, proceeding westwards, the Tne goes through a level country,
slightly inclined to be marshy. This draws frost, so that this part is more
suited to stock-raising. The train had to come to a standstill several
times in order to remove cattle from the track ; except in a few places,
the railwa^ is not yet fenced. We reached Binscarth Station about
9 p.m., and drove to Eussell, a town 12 miles to t) e north, which we
reached at about 11 p.m., rather tired. We spent two days in the
neighbourhood of Russell, which is a country admirably adapted for
dairy farming and stock-raising. Hay is plentiful, and all the stock
we saw, which was not much, was in a very thriving condition.
The appearance of the grass at this time of year is not very good, but
the sleek appearance of the cattle shows it must be very nutritious.
A number of grass-fed three-year-old cattle we saw were quite fat.
We cftUea on Mr. Wm. Custar— 6, 21, 28— farming 320 acres, 180 of
which he has under cultivation. He settled here 10 years ago with
very little capital, homesteading 160 acres, and pre-empting the
adjoining quarter-section. He values his land now at $10 per acre,
and considers himself worth about $6,000. The following are the
prices of the principal agricultural products: — Two-year-old cattle,
$27 to $80 ; dressed bacon, 14 cents per lb. ; butter, 24 cents per lb. ;
wheat, per bushel, 49 cents last year, and 74 to 80 cents the previous
year, average yield per acr« being from 20 to 24 bushels. A cow yields
about 9 lbs. of butter per week. A good agricultural labourer is paid
at the rate of $22 to $25 per month for the year round ; and a man
taKen on at harvest would have $1| a day, and board. There are no
homesteads now to take up in the immediate vicinity of Russell, but
large quantities of unbroken lar-^. could \^e purchased at about $5 per
acre, more or less, according to quality. On the opposite side of the
Assiniboine River we were sVmwn a large tract of country open for
settlement ; it is traversed by the Harrowby District Railway ; it
appeared to be good undulating land, suitable for wheat and cattle.

f

Mr. AUx. FraMfir*» P^pori.

60

Dr. Barnardo's Home for boys lies nbout four miles to the south-east
of the town. The farm buildings, which aro large and well arranged,
are on Section 30, 30, 28, W. Dr. Barnardo has got a grant from
Government of 12 square miles of country, and yearly brings out from
Jjondon from 70 to 100 boys ; gives them a year's training on this farm,
when they aro supposed to be able to do for themselves. We weio
shown round by Mr. Struthers, manager, and Mr. Wm. J31yth, farm
superintendent. The following stock is kept : — 70 milk cows, 2
ordinary bulls, and 1 very fine pedigree Shorthorn bull, which was
presented to the doctor by Lord Polwarth; 230 cattle, 150 sheep, 45
pigs, 24 horses and colts. 600 acres are under cultivation, 100 of which
are under wheat ; the other i.rops grown are rye, oats, and barley, with
a few acres of turnips, and about 70 acres are summer-fallowed each
year. There is a creamery in connection with, the farm, which uses
up all the surplus milk, in addition to large quantities received from
surrounding farmers. The output of butter is 270 lbs. a day in summer,
and 56 in winter. A market is got for it in Victoria and on the Pacific
Coast, at 24 cents per lb. at the creamery, with a weekly delivery. The
quality of the butter is very good; the only fault is that it is too salt,
probably in order to make it keep in the hot weather. The following
prices are given to farmers for milk : — In April, May, June, and July,
60 cents per 10 gallons; August and September, 70 cents; October
and November, 80 cents ; and 75 lbs. of skim -milk is returnable from
every 100 sent in. During the winter the milk comes in frozen, and
is paid for at the rate of 85 cents per 100 lbs. The turnips on the
farm this year are not an average crop, as they were twice destroyed
by the cut-worm, and what we saw was the result of the third sowing.
They were only beginning to bulb, and would be not much bigger than
oranges. This is the first year the cut-worm has appeared in the

country.
Asessipi.

Asessipi, on the Shell River, lies 19 miles north of
Eussell, and is a small place, consisting of a general
store, a flour and saw mill, with a few houses. On
our way there we called on Mr. A. Seeter, who farms 320 acres. Mr.
Seeter took up this place nine years ago, homesteading a quarter-section,
and pre-empting another ; he has now 160 acres in crop, 9 horses, 1
cow, and 2 pigs, with the usual implements. Last year his wheat
made 40 cents per bushel. He stated that his clear income from the
farm amounted to «1,000 per annum. On crossing the Shell River, the
country is entirely devoted to cattle-grazing, for which it seems very
well suited, the grass being good, and plenty of cover, hay, and river
frontage. There are 30 miles of land to the north of Asessipi,
bounded on the one side by the Shell River, and on the otler by the
Assiniboine, which is open for homesteading. The distance between
the rivers varies from 9 to 15 miles. As it was necessary that we
should return to Russell on the same day, we could not go very far
up this tract, but I saw sufficient to convince me of the nutritive
quality of the grass. We called on Mr. James Smith— 4, 23, 28. He
holds 160 acres, which he now entirely grazes. Some of his cattle are
very well bred. He showed us two four-year-old steers which he had

60

The Agricultural Resourcett of Canada.

just sold for £1'2 a head. In Scotland they would have been worth
more than double, and both in breeding and quality would stand well
at our Christmas shows ; they had received nothing but grass. The
system pursued here is to let the cattle run in summer time on the
prairie ; in winter they are hand-fed with natural hay, but not housed.
After experience, this method is found to answer best.

On Wednesday, September 13th, we left Russell at
Farms on the 2.30 a.m. by rail for Carberry, via Neepawa. After

Carberry Plain. a very tedious journey, the greater part of which

we performed at the rate of 10 miles an hour, we
reached the latter place at 2 p.m., and had lunch at our old hotel,
starting immediately afterwards to drive across country to Carberry,
a town on the Canadian Pacific Eailway, 33 miles to the south.
The land which we passed through on our drive was at first of
a light sandy nature, until we struck the Carberry Plain, when
we came into a grand wheat-growing country; miles and miles
of wheat-fields extended on every side, all seemingly of equal quality.
The Carberry Plain, originally known as the " Big Plain," is 70 miles
long by 40 miles wide, and is very similar to the Portage Plain as
t© soil and methods of farming. We reached our destination at abou;.
7 p.m., and were all glad to avail ourselves of the comforts of an hotel
after our fatiguing journey. Carberry (1,000 population) is a busy little
town, which has increased in population very rapidly in the past, and,
from the number of new buildings in course of erection, is very likely ^
to continue to do so in the future. It is a great grain-exporting
centre, having handled last year no fewer than 1 ,500,000 bushels. Its
five elevators are capable of storing 200,000 bushels, and its flour mill
can turn out 250 barrels of flour per day. The surrounding plain—
which, as already stated, is 2,700 square miles in extent — contains some
of the finest wheat farms in Manitoba. Mr. H. W. White, ex-Mayor
of the town, whose place we first visited, and who accompanied us
during the remainder of the day, took first prize at the Winnipeg Exhibi-
tion last year for his wheat. The Dominion Government ha\e since
purchased from him 100 bushels, at iSl per bushel, for distribution at
the Chicago Exhibition. Nearly all the farms visited presented a
home-like appearance, much care having been bestowed on the gardens
and general surroundings. As a rule, in the North- West, farm-houses
give one the impression of having been dropped from the sky, and the
fact of the grass being trampled down a little more in their immediate
vicinity is the only external indication of the inhabitants. Mr. George
Hope— 1, 11, 15 — Carberry, has a place very much in contrast to this.
He originally came from Roxburghshire, but has farmed in Ontario for
21 years, and has been on his present place for 15 years. His garden
is a perfect treat to visit. He grows small fruit and vegetables, such
as cabbage, onions, carrots, pumpkins, and beetroot, to perfection.
Apples won't do in this part of Canada, the summer not being sufficiently
long for them to come to maturity, and the trees generally get
destroyed when three or four years old by frost. Mr. Hope also
informed me that he has tried on several occasions to grow melons, but
has failed. We saw a number of young poplar trees raised from the

Mr. Alex. Fraser^s Report.

01

seed thiis year. They stood fully a foot above ground. A number are
planted round the house, with a pretty avenue leading up to it From the
road, and the effect is very pleasing. I am of opinion that a good deal
more of this sort of thing could be done, with advantage to the country,
both affording shelter and pleasing the eye. The average yield of
wheat here is from 20 to 25 bushels per acre, and the crops are not
much interfered with by frosts or hail. Gophers are only a trouble in
newly settled parts, when they come in from the open and cut up whole
fields ; any country which has been under cultivation for some time is
not troubled much, as the settlers soon dispose of them by means of

Eoison and trapping in the spring. I was told a story as to the
abits of this curious little rodent, which I give here for what it is
worth. They live in holes in the ground, and resemble our squirrel very
much, only the tail is short, like a weasel's. During winter the frost
penetrates into the ground to a depth of from 6 to 7 ft., and, as the
gophers only go down half that distance, the result is that they are
frozen in winter. My informant stated that he has taken them into
the house quite stiff, and to all appearance dead, but on being put near
the stove they have melted and apparently returned to life. The next
few places we called at, we were rather unfortunate in not finding the
proprietors at home, but saw some good cattle; they have to be jiU
housed in winter. As there is not much natural hay here, timothy
meadows are laid down on nearly every farm, and present a very good
appearance ; the yield ^s from 1| to 2 tons per acre. We had our
lunch at Mr. Adam MacKenzie's place ; he unfortunately was away
from home himself, so that we could only have a general look-round.
Mr. MacKenzie evidently does not approve of elaborate buildings,
preferring the primitive style ; his byres and stables being constructed
principally of straw, supported by railings. I am told, when this covers
up with snow in winter, that they keep the stock warm and comfort-
able. The housing of implements did not receive very r-uch attention,
and considerable loss must result every year from the damage done
to valuable articles, such as steam engines, binders, waggons, &c.,
from exposure to the el ments. On the whole, I was much struck
by the agricultural value of this district, and the prosperous condition
of the people. Water is obtainable of very good quality at dejiths
varying from , 5 ft. at the town, to 40 ft. at the north end of the
plain. Lumber costs S24 per 1,000 ft. A good team of horses,
1,400 lbs. weight, about $300. A good man's wages, from $200 to
$240 a year, and board ; men as a rule are easily got. Soft coal costs
$7 a ton ; hard, $11. Land varies from $12 to $20 per acre, according
to situation and quality. Sheep, which thrive well, are being intro-
duced. Cross ewes just now cost from $6 to $6.50 a head.

After an hour's ride in the train we reached
Brandon and Brandon, on Thursday, 15th, in the evening. The
District. next day the members of the Delegation inspected

« the Government Experimental Farm. It is situated
about a mile from the town of Brandon, on the north side of
the Assiuiboine Eiver. As in the case of the farm at Ottawa,
the situation has been carefully chosen vith a view to testing the

(ii

T7w Agrtmltural K«»ouree* of Canada.

K

i

\k

I

growth of all kinds of crop on various soils, and I think the
Government have been particularly happy in their choice on this
occasion. The ground is situated on the face of a hillside, and
extends to the valley below, so tha*-' the soil varies from a deep loam
of a clayey nature in the valley to drifting sand on the heights ; the
subsoil is chiefly marly loam, mixed with limestone. 620 acres have
been set aside for the purposes of the farm, and already, after only four
years' work, nearly the half is in cultivation. We were shown round
by the energetic manager, Mr. S. A. Bedford, and first examined the

^dg«*fcr4|t:i

ORAUr BLKVATOR, BBANDOK.

buildings, which are very complete. Power for driving the machinery,
for cutting, pulping, &c., is derived from a windmill. Pure-bred cattle
of the various breeds, including Shorthorn, Holstein, Polled Galloway,
and Ayrshire, are kept. The objects of the farm are similar to those
already described in connection with Ottawa, particular attention being
bestowed on grain, grasses, roots, and trees.

As we had some time ix) spare on our return to town, we had a
look through Mr. John A. Christie's saw-mill. The labour-saving
machinery in use here is simply wonderful. The working year lasts
from 15th May to Ist November, and in that time the average output
is about 6,000,000 ft. inch-thick board measure. Nearly all the wood
used is spruce, known to us as white-wood, and the prices received at
the mill pre SI 6 per 1,000 ft. wholesale, aiid l$20 retail, for undressed
boards 1 in. thick, and $2 more per 1,000 ft. for dressing. Wood of
all sorts is calculated and sold by board measure. Cedar shingles
imported from the Pacific Coast, are sold at ;S4 per 1,000 retail and

Mr, Alex. B^raser's Report.

63

JS2.25 wholesale. All the logs used in this mill come down the
Assiniboine a distance of 800 miles. The country to the south of
Brandon is splendidly adapted to arable farming, consisting of rolling
prairie, with hills in the distance. We stopped at the Matheson Shuep
!E^arm, where a herd of 400 pure-bred Shropshires are kept. They
have been imported from the best flocks in England, and succeed very
well here. Disease of any kind is almost unknown, and they have only
to be dipped once a year, in spring. The average return of lambs is
1| per ewe. The flock are summered at Oak Lake, 60 miles west, and
are brought down here about this time and hand-fed on hay and oats in
the straw. The sheds in which they are kept are open, so that they
can move about at will and not get too warm.

"t'

'■)■>■ i;:'

OATTLB IN THB QU'aPFELLB VALLISY.

Our next stop was at Indian Head, Assiniboia, a
Indian Head small town 180 miles west of Bnuidon. About

and Qv'Appelle. half a mile north-east of the railway station is

another Government Experimental Farm, 680 acres
in extent, of which 500 acres are under cultivation. The soil is
of a more uniform character than any of the other experimental
farms visited, probably for the reason that it ia diflicult to get in
this neighbourhood, within a given radius, very much diversity of soil.
It is a sandy loam, varying from light to heavy, and resting on
a clay subsoil. We were shown round by the manager, Mr. Angus
MaoKay, who gave me a great deal of reliable and trustworthy
iniormation regarding the country round* Pure-bred cattle of three

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The Agricultural Metources of Canada.

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varieties — viz., Polled Angus, Shorthorn, and Holsteins — are kept. Mr.
MacKay is of opinion that, for general purposes, the Shorthorn is best
suited to the country, combining to a great extent both fattening
and milking qualities. The Polled Angus thrive well, and here, as
elsewhere, make excellent butcher's beasts. The Holsteins are, in
my opinion, a very rough lot, in general configuration resembling
a buffalo ; they are said to be good milkers. Average yield of
wheat per acre in this district is 30 bushels, barley 40 bushels, and
oats 50 bushels; and the standard weights, 60 lbs., 48 lbs., and
34 lbs. per bushel, respectively. The best grass for making hay of here
is Bromus inermus; it lasts well, and gives sometimes as high as 3>|
tons per acre. Timothy does not suit, as after the first couple of years
it runs out. Mr. MacKay is having a new piggery put up just now, of
concrete ; and I was much surprised to learn that this concrete, which
sets nearly as hard as Portland cement, is made of a mixture of sand and
the lime of the country. There are as yet no lime quarries discovered,
the stones being picked up on the surface. "Wages here are very muah
the same as in Manitoba. Before our return to Indian Head we had a
drive round the country, calling on several farmers. The system of
farming is to summer-fallow one-third of the land in cultivation, and
take two white crops off in succession ; the land is not ploughed for
the second crop, the stubble being burnt off in the spring, and the seed
drilled in. In this way two-thirds of the farm is in crop, and the
remainder in summer fallow. So far as wheat-growing is concerned,
this is the finest land we have seen, the average yield being about 30
bushels per acre, with almost entire freedom from frost or hail. Smut
has sometimes appeared, but only when the farmer has failed to dress
his seed with bluestone. We drove over a part of the celebrated Bell
Farm, which has so often been described, and called at the house.
Unfortunately, Major Bell was away from home, but we were kindly
received and hospitably entertained by Mrs. Bell. The Bell and
Brassey Farms occupy a great deal of the land available for wheat-
growing round this immediate neighbourhood, but on both land can be
bought for a very reasonable figure from JSIO upwards. In the after-
noon we drove to Qu'Appelle, about 10 miles west, which was reached
at 4.30 p.m. Most of the journey was through the Brassey Farm.
After the first couple of miles the land was unbroken, and of a lighter
and more undulating nature. Many bluffs, composed of tall poplar
scrub, were dotted over the land, the trail at times going through an
avenue over a hundred yards in length. The principal agricultural
implement agent at Qu'Appelle is a Mr. MacDonald, from Forres, N.B.
I had a look over his stock, and got much information as to the prices
paid here. In some cases — as, for instance, the Massey-Harris binder
— the price here is lower than in Britain by about ^£6. In the evening
we had a long interview with Mr. Davidson, Member of the Legislative
Assembly for this district, and several of the farmers round, gathering
much information as to the success, or otherwise, of the various kinds of
emigrants who come here. The conclusion come to was that a man
ought to work the first year, and get as much of his homestead broken
by contract as he can pay for ; the following spring it is seeded, and by
harvest he is able to go on his own ground, and from the sale of his

Mr. Alex. Fraser't Report.

06

grain gets money to go on with. In this way experience is gained,
and time given to picJs up cheaply the necessary stock and imple-
ments.

From Qu'Appelle Station we drove to Fort Qu'Appeile,
Farms on the which lies about 18 miles to the north. On our way
BoadtoFort we called in at several farms, the first being occupied
(Qu'Appelle. by Mr. John H. Fraser, a native of Ontario. He haa
i, . • been here for the last 12 years, and is now tiie owner
of 480 acres of splendid wheat-growing land, of which 175 are in
cultivation. He has had many ups and downs since coming here.
Originally brought up as a machinist, to which he lias devoted
nine years of his life, he started farming without any pnnioub

camesom's farm, qu'appbllb.

knowledge of the business. The first few years he worked on his
liomestead trying to raise wheat, but, having failed to make a success
of it, had to betake himself to his trade again, as between one
misfortune and another he had lost all his slender capital. When
he had made a little by hiring out, he invested it in cattle, of
which he managed to have nearly 100 liead of various sorts. His
intention was to winter them out, and for this purpose he had put up
what, in his estimation, was a sufficient quantity of natural hay. The
result was that in spring he had only three animals alive out of tlie
lot. After these repeated losses, he still stuck to the country, and he
now seems to be, as already stated, in a comfortable condition. His
house is built of stone and lime, and is a good substantial building.
This man's story made a considerable impression on my mind, and is a
practical illustration '^f the great resources of the country. On leaving

PART Y. 0

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The Ayricultttral Resources of Canada.

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Mr. Frater's place, we entered on the Edgely Farm, 14,000 acres in
extent, owned by the Messrs. Sykes, Stockport, Oheshii-e, and managed
by Mr. W. C. Cameron, a native of Lochbroom, Ross-shiro. This
erttate lies in Township 19, and Eanges 16 and 16, and is for sale in
small portions at prices var}-ing from S6 to ftgS per acre : terms, one-
third cash down, and balance distributed over six years, at 6 per cent,
interest. Mr. Cameron works 1,600 acres, and his average returns are
about 20 bushels of wheat per acre; his calculation of cost of raising
an acre uf wheat, including seed and hauling grain to nearest station,
is $7. A good four-year-old horse, broken to work, will fetch about
$150 ; two-and-a-half -year-old cattle, fairly well bred, off the grass, will
make from S25 to IS30. Men's wages, with board, for the year round,
are at the rate of $15 per month; and if engaged for only seven
months, at the rate of $23 per month. The general appearance of f he
country is rolling prairie, with numerous bluffs, and a fair number of
marshes, in which hay can be cut ; the soil is black loam, resting on
clay. We reached Fort Qu'Appelle, an old Hudson Bay trading post,
at about noon. It is now a place of about 400 inhabitants, with
school, churches, and a flour mill. It is very nicely situated on a
chain of lakes similar to the Caledonian Canal ; indeed, it reminded me in
many ways of Fort Augustus. After the eye being so long accustomed
to the flat prairie, I can hardly describe the pleasing sensation of
contrast and relief it was to gaze upon a clear sheet of water sjparkling
in the sun. The valley this chain of lakes is situated in is, 1 should
say, about 400 ft. below the general level of the surrounding country,
and the ground dips down at about an angle of 45 degrees in many
places, and is cut into all sorts of peculiar shapes, resembling snowdrift.
All gullies and valleys leading up to the prairie are thickly wooded with
poplar, and the general effect, looking down from the brow of the hill,
IS very pretty and picturesque. After lunch Mr Steven and I were
driven out by Mr. Arch. MacDonald, factor for the Hudson Bay
Company, and a native of Glengarry, in Scotland. The rest of the
party were accommodated in vehicles belonging to other members of
the community. We visited the Industrial School for the Education
of Indian Children, situated about four miles east of Fort Qu'Appelle,
on the lake shore. It is one of many similar institutions supported by the
Dominion Government, and under the auspices of the various Chuwhes.
This one is Roman Catholic, and is managed by Father Hugouard,
supported by several assistants, both male and female. Accommodation
is provided for about 200 pupils, who receive, in the first place, a good
general education ; and, in addition, the boys are instructed in the various
trades and agriculture by qualified teachers, and the girls instructed in
domestic economy, sewing, &c. The whole place is kept scrupulously
clean, and the garden and surrounding grounds were a treat to look at,
Unfortunately, all the flowers which had been in full bloom yesterday
were destroyed by a severe frost last night, the mercury having sunk
several degrees below freezing point. One of the peculiarities of the
climate is sudden extremes from heat to cold. In 24 hours the
. thennometer sometimes varies as much as 40 degrees. This is the first
frost experienced here this season.

Mr. Alex. Fmifer''» Jleport,

hand available
for lIomeHtewlH.

Thoro is a considerable (luantity of land open for
lioineatoadiug to the north-wost of tiie town, suitablo
for both wlieat and cattle raising. The country \vh
saw round Indian Head and Qu'AppoUe is v«}ry
suitable for settlement. The soil is good, the yield of wiieat larger tlian
anything wo have yet seen, and the quality excellent. There appears
to be an immunity from early summer frosts, which is one of the worst
drawbacks the wheat-grower has to contend with, and all sorts of stock
thrive well. Land can be hoiuostoaded, or, still better, bought at a
flu'ap rate near the mil way.

On the evening of Wednesday, the 20th September, wo
liegina. reached Regina (population, 2,200), the capital of th<<
'. North- West Territories. The barracks of the North-

Western Mounted Police, who have their headquarters here, an^
situated about a mile from the town. We called, ancl were shown round
by the officer commanding. The full strength of the force is 1,000 officers
and men, all told, but at present they only number a little over 800.
The necessity for keeping these men is becoming less as the civilisation
of the country proceeds, and I heard an opinion expressed that before
long they would be very materially reduced. Their principal employ-
ment is to patrol the border between the United States and Canada, to
prevent smuggling, the importation of cattle, &c., to look after the
Indians, and keep order in the North- West generally. There is not
much difficulty in getting recruits, the majority coming from the Old
Oountrj. A great number of the men in the ranks belong to good
families in Britain. It was immediately outside the gate of the
barracks that Biel, the leader of the half-breed rebellion in 1885, was
executed. The Parliament Buildings and Governor's official residence
are situated on the road leading to the barracks, and are both handsome
and commodious buildings., Eegina, 1,875 ft. above sea level, is
situated in an immense plain, which extends all round as far as the eye
can reach, without a single tree or bush to break the monotony. The
soil is black loam, on a clay subsoil, and seems to be in most places
rather stiff; on getting away back from the town the soil became
rather lighter. I do not think this a suitable part for Scotch settlers,
being so unlike anything at home, and I should imagine that the bare
))lain would have a very depressing effect on the spirits of those
accustomed to a mountainous country.

A branch line for Prince Albert, a prosperous settle-
Farms about ment lying 240 miles in a northerly direction, joins
Prince Albert. the main line at Eegina. We got on board the train
at 7 p.m. on Friday for Prince Albert, which was
reached next morning at 9 a.m. The town (of about 1,300 inhabitants)
is situated on the north branch of the Saskatchewan Eiver, in a pleasant
valley. It is very straggling, being considerably over a mile in length ;
electric light is supplied by steam power. The river here flows at a rate
of four miles an hour, and no doubt will sooner or later be utilised as a
motive power for generating electricity. There is a probability that
the Hudson Bay route will be opened up, which will make a great
difference in the value of land m this district. The lengvJi of railway

m

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68

The Agriculturrtl Tlesmrcen of rfnnfnfn.

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roqiiirod 1o rmcb the noarcwt port on HudHon Bay is nhout 600 miloH.
From 8tati8tic8 talc(m there for th«i last two v«ar« by Goveniment
oHicialfl, it has hmn discovered that the bay would be ()pen for shipping
for an average i)eriod of at least five months a year ; if this railway ever
comes into operati'>n, Prince Albert will be nearer the British market
than Montreal. In the afternoon we drove out south of the town about
10 miles, calling at the farm occupied by Mr. MacKay, M.L.A. for the
district. lie has a considerable breadth under cultivation, and, in
aildition, keeps a large stock of cattle and horses. Wheat and oats grow
very well indeed here. Home fields we saw would compare favourably
with anything we have yet seen. At present, owing to the
absence of a good market, very little wheat is exported, tho
heavy rates charged not admitting of this being done at^ a
profit. Garden produce, such as cabbages, peas, turnips, and
pumpkins, grows splendidly ; indeed, roots of all sorts seem to do much
better here than at home, and seem freer from attacks of insects and
disfuise. Before returning, we ascended an eminence called Bed Beer
Hill, which commands an extensive view of the country all round,
places 25 miles distant being in sight ; the atmosphere is so clear that
objects can be distinctly seen for long distances. The whole country is
thickly studded over with bluffs, small lak'^s, or sloughs, and in some
parts is inclined to be hilly, though not too iiuch so for the purposes of
agriculture. In my opinion, however, I think that stock-raising and
mixed farming would be very much more profitable at present than
^rain-raising. The North-West Mounted Police Barracks are situated
on the plain above the town ; they are not so extensive as &t Begina,
being built to accommodate 1 00 men. The oflicer commanding, Major
Cotton, very kindly showed us round ; he makes a hobby of keeping
pet animals, and his collection includes bears, foxes, coyotes, or prairie
wolves, and jumping deer. The horses in connection with the force are
£jot from the horse ranches of Alberta, and are known as " bronchos."
They are fed on oats and natural hay, the former being supplied by
surrounding farmers at the rate of 26 cents per bushel, or 8s. per
quarter. The hay is put up principally by Indians, who are numerous
in this localitv.

On Monday, 25th September, the party, with the
exception of one, set out on police conveyance,
with the intention of camping out at a place 25
miles south-west of Prince Albert, and about 4 miles
south of the sou *^ branch of the river Saskatchewan. We had
lunch at a farm on the banks of the river, just before crossing the
ferry. All the available land contained between the forks of the
river has been taken up by settlers, and, although farms can be
bought at a reasonable figure, there is no land open for home-
steading. On crossing the river, we enter a country that as yet is
but very sparsely settled. In our drive of 10 miles to the camping ground
we only passed two houses. The land here is very rich, and suitable
for all kinds of farming. Water and wood are plentiful, and the pea-
vine and wild vetch grow thickly all over the place. Some herds of
cattle we passed were rolling fat, with bright, glossy coats; an improve-

A Drive in the
J>isirict.

'&

Alt'. Alex, FriiHfrx n^/tort. . ^

flO

ment in tho breed, however, would bn ileHimble. Our cleMtinatioii uum
I'eacheU at about fli |>.m., and iiiinuMliatnly preparatious wrrc umdo lor
paHtfin^ the night ; in a few minuter the camp lire was blu/iti^ and tliu
bell tent pitched. Our evenintf meal conHwted of IxM'f, ham, pniiric
chicken, tea, &c. ; the chickcju being part of our day a sport. A room
in a neichbouriug fann-houNe, which beU)ng.s to a luilf-breed settler,
WM kindly placed at our dJHpoHal for Hleeping quarterM, and we pro-
ceeded to make ourselveH as (tumfortabh^ an poNsibU) lor the night. We
placed as many rugs and buffalo skinu underniuith un m poNsible, and
slept with part of our clothes on. 1 was more fortunate than the
rest of my companiouN in being able to secure a down bed to place
between me and the floor. Under the circumstances, a very comfortable
night was passed. . ,

The following; day was devoted to investigating the sporting
A j)mf% resources of the land, and was given over wholly to shoot-
Shooting. ing. We started out at 0 a.m., and shot prairie
fi chicken, a bird resembling a grouse in evenything except

colour, which is a good deal lighter, with white feathtjrs. On our
return to camp, at 0 a.m., our united bag amounted to about 20 brace.
The birds are beginning to pack a good deal, aud some of the flocks we
flushed would number over a hundred birds. After a secoiid breakfast,
we set out on our return journey to town, going by a fresh trail to the
ferry. The country all along has very much the same appearance, and
seems to be a little more thickly settled than what we passed through
the previous erening. On recrossing the river, we entered the John
Smith Indian Reserve, and, following the river bank for a few miles in
an easterly direction, returned to town by a different trail from the
one taken coming out. On the way back we passed a great number of
small lakes, which literally abound in wild duck of all varieties. We
had a good deal of shooting, and our bag, on reaching Prince Albert,
amounted to 30 brace of chicken and 12 ducks. A considerable
number of birds escaped from the want of a good retriever: unless
chicken are shot dead, or their legs broken, they run very swiftly over
the ground, and disappear from view in the rank vegetation.

I looked over two river steamboats which are laid up
Steamboats. on the bank below the town for the winter. They are

i built on the same principle as the Mississippi Kiver

boats, with a stern paddle-wheel, and, though of considerable size, only
draw about 4 ft. of water. Owing to the number of shifting sand bars
in the river, navigation is rendered very difficult and uncertain. Since
the railway has come in the amount of traflfic by water has decreased
very much, and now there is hardly sufficient to give full employment

to one boat.

Prince Albert is a very good district for an emigrant
who has a little capital to go to, and who wishes to go
in for mixed farming. All stock do well, and thei-e is
no doubt that this part of the country has a great
future before it. All a man would have to do is to hold on, and he
would grow into wealth. There is some good society in the town, so
that nobody need be afraid of being cut off from the world by cmrimu^

Advantages of
Prince Albert,

70

77t<j Atjrioullni'al TtritoinrfA of Onuada,

Imro; nnrl, even with the pfeNent railway communication, a couple of
«la}N tttk«'M you fo WiiuiipH^.

Froui Pfine«« Aib'rt we proet«r{i«fd Htruight through to
To the Pucljic. tlie Tmiific Coant, onl^ waiting at liegina oufKciently

long to niitkt.' tho train connection. The latter place
was left at 6..37 |>.in. on Thursday, and Vancouver was reached at 7 p.m.
on Saturday — that is, after allowing for the difference of one hour in
tho time, ahout '18 hours to accomplish the journey, or at the rate of a
little over 2ii miles an hour. 1 may mention that on reaching Vancouver
our train was over three hours late. It is useless for me to begin to
descrilw the wild grandeur of th(j scenery passing through the moun-
tains, and I hu(;d only say that as good a description as can be given is
to b(! found in the Canadian Pacilic Railway time-table. At Ashcroft,
a station 204 miles from Vancouver, Mr. K. B. Mtuslennan, a native of
the Black isle, and who has lived in Inverness for some time, joined the
train. He has been from 10 to 12 years on this sId.. of the Atlantic,
and has r<!cently come over from the States, and now is engaged in
teaming from Ashcroft to the Caribroo Gold Mines. From his con-
versation I gathered much useful information as to the general
resources of tiie country, and the probtible success of young men coming
here. It seems a general opinion that there are plenty of labouring
inen here at present, and what is wanted is men with some capital.

"<.:'; i'-:

VANCOi;VBIt.

Vancouver.

Vancouver is a city of 18,000 inhabitants. Until 1886
its site was covered with a dense forest, and since then,
notwithstanding its being once burnt to the ground, it

IS

Mr. Ah.v. Fra»fr» lifiwri.

71

ban incroaned with «xtraordirmry rnnidity. Most of tho biiildinf^'i^ nro
mad» oi Htone, or brick and liiii(>, uiiu 8uiiie are very liandH()iii<> iiuired.
On Monday morning, it waH arranj^i'd that we Hhould pr()Co«'d down thr
Round in a Btcani launch, and Hail round tho coamt to th<* KriiNor Kivtr,
Mueing the fertile land at th« delta of the river. However, th»' inornin^
proved ho ntonny that it was c«)nsider«'d NJifer to go to N»'\v
WeHtminHter by the newelectric tramway, and from 1 here go down by boat .

New WestminHter (8,000 inhabitant«) iH Nituated on
^tw the Fraser Jiiver, at a diHtance of about 12 mlh'H

Wenimimtev. per the electric railway from Vancouver, imd, like

it, is chiefly built of Rton«<. W«' viHited tlie city
Diarket. The following are ti»e prices paid for the principal com-
modities sold, viz. :— Baled timothy hay, Htlii per ton of 2,000 lbs.;
butter, 25 cents per lb.; beef, 10 cents per lb. for hind-quHrt(?rM, and
8 cents for fore-quarters ; pears, $1.25 per box of liO lbs.; plums, (K>
cents per box of 20 lbs. ; apples, 881 per box of 40 lbs. ; spring phick«»ns,
S5 per dozen.

The chief industry of the town is in connection with sulmon-
canning and lumber. This year enormous numbers of fish luive be»in
taken, and prime salmon are selling just now retail at the rate of lo
cents for a 12-lb. fish. At 12 o'clock our party got on board the
steam launch " Minnie," and went down stn^am as far as liiidner's
Landing, so called after one of the original settlers. Tin* distance,
12 miles, was accomplished in about \h hours. On our way down
we could see that the river was simply teeming with tish, several
jumping out of the water close beside the boat. [ have never seen
anything like the number of salmon in this river : they in some parts
crush each other to death. At this ])oint we were within a few
miles of the American boundary, and, on proceeding for a short drive
round the country, were several times within sight of American ground.
The land is what wo would call " carse " land, and has at some time l)een
washed down by the river. It extends perfectly flat for many miles
in all directions, and is only a few feet above high-water mark. I
should say that drainage would be a difficult matter to contend with,
owing to the lack of a proper fall. The principal crops grown are
timothy hay, of which 3 tons are raised to the acre ; oats, giving 60 to
70 bushels ; and potatoes, average return being 12 tons. All sorts of
roots and vegetables flourish extraordinarily well : turnips are said to
give an average return of above 40 tons per acre, and some of the speci-
mens seen by us were of enormous size. The land here, which is all owned
by private individuals, can be bought at prices ranging from l|!50 to
$100 per acre. Fruit trees of all sorts grow well, and give good crops
where the ground is not too damp. The advantage of farming here
is that a ready market is got for everything produced. All sorts of
agricultural produce is imported into British Columbia, a good deal
of which comes from the States, in consequence paying a heavy duty.
This demand is bound to keep up, as the principal resources of the
province lie in its fish, lumber, and mineral wealth ; and the area of
land suitable for agriculture, though of a rich nature, is comparatively
limited, and confined to the bottom lands and valleys of rivers. Back

Wi

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72

The Agricultural Menources of Canada.

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from the railway line there are many fertile valleys, but as y«^t the
means of transport is very difficult and costly. However, the country
is being opened up every year by means of Government roads and
railways. Eecently, the gold mines which are found all over the
province are being developed by means of syndicates and limited
liability companies. On our return to Vancouver, the Mayor, Mr. F.
Cope, took us to one of the two fire halls in the town, in order to test
the efficiency of the Fire Brigade. The men were in bed, and 55
seconds after the a^.arm bell was rung the horses were ready yoked
to proceed to the tire. In connection with the bell there are electric
wires leading to the loose-box doors, and when the bell is struck the
doors fly open, the horses — which were in excellent training — rushed
forth and fell into their proper place under the harness, which is
always suspended in readiness. By this time the men, who slid down
a polished rod from above, clasped the collars, which fastened with a
spring below, fi- 3d the reins, which were furnished with spring hooks,
mounted the box, and were ready to proceed. The horses are always
kept with the bridles on. >'< >

On Tuesday, 3rd October, we left Vancouver for
Vancouver Island, Victoria, the capital of Vancouver Island, by the

steamer " To8emite,"at 3.30 p.m., and landed at Vic-
toria (population, .'^0,000) about 10.30 p.m. The Island of Vancouver
is very heavily timbered, principally \^'ith Douglas pine and cedar, and
the surface is inclired to be uneven and in some places mountainous.
Only a comparatively small proportion of the land is suitable for agri-
culf'ire. and now most of what is clear of timber has been taken up. In
consequence, settlers intending to take up land here would either have
to buy, or clear off the timber. Owing to the fertility of the soil and
the mild climate, land produces a good return of eveiy crop sown ; but,
taking into consideration the heavy rainfall, cereal crops are not the
best, in my opinion, to go in for. Fruit, hops, potatoes, and vegetables
of all rforts do rbraarkably well, and a remunerative market can always
be goc ior them. The first farm we stayed at was Braefoot, rented by Mr.
Henry King, whom we found busily engaged in harvesting his potatoes,
assisted by Chinese labour. The farm extends to about 250 acres, of
which 150 acres are cleared, and for this he pays a rent of SB50 per
month, and taxes which amount to $150 per annum. Potatoes give an
averngc return of 4 tons, oats 50 bushels, and wheat 30 bushels, per
acre ; and the average prices are $20 per ton for potatoes, 46 cents per
bushel for oats, and 90 cents for wheat. Wages for white men run to
$30 per month, and board ; and Chinese receive $1.10 per day, without
board. Milk, delivered in town, fetches 30 cents per gallon ; and cows
yield about the same quantity ;ts in Britain. Oil-cake costs $40 per ton,
bran $24 per ton, and timothy hay mixed with clover $14 per ton.
Butter sells for 40 cents per lb. From these figures it is at once
apparent that dairying is much more profitable than grain-raising. All
the farms we passed had orchards attached, and all the trees were
heavily laden with fruit— peaches, plums, prunes, pears, and apples,
all doing well. We stopped for lunch at South Saanich, which lies
about 12 miles north of Victoria, and will soon be connected with it by

Mr. Alex. Frasers Report.

73

the line of railway presently in course of construction. This line, which
is called the Victoria and Saanich Kailway, will be about 16 miles long
when completed, and is opening up a good tract of country. Naturally,
the price of land has gone up immensely along the line, and especially
near the proposed stations. Land which 20 years ago was bought for
$1 an acre is now worth from SlOO to S150. After lunch I
separated from the rest of the party, and was driven by Mr.
Green to see the hop garden and farm occupied by Mr. H. Breeds,
Oakhurst, North Saanich. Mr. Breeds came out from England a
few years ago, and intends to go in for hep-raising here on an
extensive scale. I saw a sample of this year's crop, which seemed to
me to be of excellent quality ; but, as I have s(^en only a very few
samples before, I am not in a position to judge. He estimates the
cost of laying down a garden here, 10 acres in extent, to be JS3,667-;
this includes the price of all the necessary implements for working,
and also a drying kiln. WorJcing Expenses. — On an average crop of
1,200 lbs. to the acre, the annual expenses, including cultivation,
depreciation of poles, picking, drying, and baling, may be estimated at
12 cents per lb., or, in round figures, $150 an acre. If the owner had
his own horses, and put in his own work as well, a very large portion
of this would not be incurred; but, taking it as it stands, it would
represent $1,500 on a garden of 10 acres. If an average crop of
1,200 lbs., and an average price of 25 cents per lb., are taken, we get a
return of $300 per acre, or $3,000 for 10 acres ; leaving a net profi.t of
$1,500, which represents interest at the rate of 42| per cent, on the
capital outlay.

On Thursday, 5th October, we left Victoria at
Eastward again — 2.30 a.m., and, passing through Vancouver, reached
Mission City. Mission City, a small town 43 miles inland, at

12.34 p.m. After lunch we were driven out
over the Matsqui Prairie, on the Eraser Kiver, opposite Mission
City. As only one "rig" was at our disposal, three of the party
had to ride, viz., Messrs. Smith, Sim, and myself. This is the first
ride I have had since landing, and I enjoyed it very much. I had
what is known here as a Mexican saddle, the same as is used by the
cowboys in Alberta; there is a horn in front, to which the lasso is
attached when roping cattle. As there was a considerable rainfall
previous to our visit, the ground we passed over was very wet, and in
some parts soft. Vegetation, for this time of year, was very luxuriant.
We passed through some fields of clover that would have fetched a long
price at home. We called on Mr. H. F. Page, who owns a farm about
three miles east of Mission City, on the opposite side of the river, which
is here about 600 yards wide. He owns 300 acres, of which 150 are
under cultivation, and goes in for mixed farming. Two h;mdred pigs
and 18 cows are kept. No milk is sold, all the produce of the vows being
made into latter, which sells at from 28 cents to 30 cents per lb.
Pigs, which are in great demand, make just now 7 cents p( lb., 1' e
weight, and if kept till spring would make 1 cent to 2 cents more.
Grain, bran, and feeding stuffs are about the same price as -t home.
Poultry thrive well, and lay a great number of eggs, which seldom fall

74

The Agricultural Resources of Canada,

'II

below 24 cants a dozen, and are often very much higher. Chinese
labour costs $16 a month, and board ; and white labour 8830, and baird,
for good men. This season there seems to be an ample supply in the
labour market, and wages are likely to come down. There seems to be
a very strong feeling against the Chinese; they are considered very
undesirable, and, I believe, shortly will not be allowed to come into
Canada at all. They live so cheaply and work for so little that white
men are not able to compete with them at all. In the evening we
were entertained to a banquet, at which I met Mr. MacSpae, a native
of the west coast of Scotland; he takes great interest in matters at
home, and frequently sei communications to the Scottish Highlander,
Inverness. Before leaving Scotland, 14 years ago, he was a shepherd
and game-watcher in several places in the Highlands, so that he knows
the people and their capabilities well. It is his opinion that a number
who are struggling at home would immensely improve their positions
by coming here. Hheep would succeed and pay well in many parts of
the province.

The advantages of settling in British Columbia are
British Columbia, shortly summarised in first, a good and ready market
" , .. for everything raised on a farm; second, the proba-

bility that this market will last, because agricultural land is compara-
tively scarce, and the mining, fishing, and lumber resources, which
necessarily employ a lot of people, are immense : and, third, the value
of agricultural land is very likely to increase from its scarcity. In the
interior large tracts are yet open for settlement at SI an acre, and near
the railways plenty of improved land can be got for from $30 to SI 00
per acre, according to qu^Jity. There is also a good opening just now
for men with a little capital in the lumber, mining, and fishing
induj;tries. This can easily be understood when it is known that
British Columbia, with an area of more than 380,000 square miles,
contains only a white population of 96,000, that its forests of Douglas
pine and cedar are practically inexhaustible, and that its fisheries are
unsurpassed in the world.

Our next stop on the homeward journey was at
A Ranch near Calgary, on the east side of the Rocky Mountains.
Calgary, The distance — about 600 miles — was accomplished

in 30 hours, or at the rate of about 20 miles an
hour. Calgary has a population of 4,500, and is 3,388 ft. above
sea level. It is from here that the lines of railway branch off- — to
the north to Edmonton, and to the south to Fort McLeod. All the
country round about is occupied by large ranches, for which it is
eminently suitable, because animals, as a rule, can pick up food outside
all the year round. Owing to the prevalence of the warm chinook winds,
which come across the mountains from the coast, the snow seldom lies on
the ground long in winter. As our time was limited, we only visited one
ranch, viz., the Chipman Ranch, situate a few miles out of town, and
now owned by Mr. R. Robinson. 500 horses and 1,000 head of cattle
are kept ; but, as at this time of year they run out over a stretch of
coujitry more than 30 miles in extent and 10 miles away from the
principal buildings, we were only able to see a very few of the stock.

Mr. Alex. Fraser's Bsport.

76

The horses principally bred are fchone known horo as <,nMiera] purpose
horsea, and resemble very much tlie i;laso ot Loi-ses UMd at iiouu' toi- tram-
way work. The stallions, some oF which \\v taw , are of various breeds,
including Clydesdale, American trotting, Nhire, Cleveland Buy, &v.
Mr. Eobinson used to get, a few years ago, ftJ^OC) a team for his four-
year-olds ; but now the price is not so good, and he has to content
himself with a good deal less. Two horses had been taken iji from the
ranch the day before our arrival, and were in course of being broken.
J.<or our benefit one of the men, a negro, mounted them and rode round
the yard. As far as I could see, they appeared quite quiet and easy to

RANCH 8CBNK, ALBBRTA

handle. I was informed that now they adoj)t genticr ireatwient in
breaking in wild horses, known here as " bronchos," than was the case
some years ago. The method pursued then was termed " broncho-
busting," and, as the name implies, consisted of thrashing out all the
spirit in the animal and ruling it by fear : the result usually was that
for years the animal was awkward in a stranger's hands, and was
inclined to be vicious. For the reasons ; I ready stated we were not
able to see any of the cattle, not even the bulls, but were informed that
they were principally Whorthorns and Herefords. Mr. Eobinscm puts
up as much hay as possible for winter feed, which may not be required
for a few years, until a severe winter comes on ; this usually happens
every four or five seasons.

At 11 a.m. on the 9th October we left Calgary for Red
Red Deer Deer, a station on the Ednnonton branch, situated about 96
Dlstrkl. miles north, which was reached in tlie eveni.ig. Next day

we drove out to the south-east. AW the odd-numbered
sections round the town for iivo miles or so on each side of this railuaj,

i

V'

It..

m

lu.

1^

m

m

The Agrimltnral Resources of Canada.

and extending about 15 or 20 miles along the line, are owned by the Calgary
and Edmonton Railway Company. This land has been hitherto held at
from S5 to »88 per acre, but a sale is to take place on the 17th inst.,
at Calgary, at which these lands are to be exposed at an upset price of
Si3| per acre. It is believed that this action on the part of the com-
pany will be attended by great benefit to the district. Most of the
land outside this belt is open for homesteadiug, and is already being
taken up by settlers. The land is of good quality, with plenty of
wood and water, the latter being got of excellent quality almost any-
where, both in springs and by digging wells. In the course of our
drive we passed numerous natural hay meadows, from which a large
crop had been put up this season. Cattle-raising and dairying are the
[jrincipal branches of agriculture pursued, grain only being raised in
sufficient quantities to supply the home demand. "We called on several
farmers, including Mr. John Gaetz— 22, 2S, 27— Mr. J. Cole- 6, 38,
26 — and Mr. A. Trimble— 34, 37, 27 — who all were getting on very
well, and were highly pleased with their locations. Mr. Gaetz owns 320
acres of land (40 of which are under cultivation), 20 head of cattle,
12 horses, and a few sheep and pigs. Oats give an average return of
from 50 to 60 bushels per acre, and the sample is the best we have
yet seen in Canada. The natural weight comes up to what we have at
home, in some cases exceeding it. Dressed mutton sells for from
9 cents to 10 cents, and beef at from 5 cents to 6 cents, per lb. ; cows
near calving make from 1^35 to $45 each. Just now the local market
is good, owing to the number of new settlers coming in, whose wants for
at least the first year must be supplied ; when the country gets settled
up the demand will to some extent cease. At present the rates charged
by the railway are very high, owing to the long distances, so that an
export trade — except in such things as butter, beef, &c., which are light
in comparison to their value — is rendered unremunerative to the pro-
ducer; but no doubt this will be rectified. Mr. Trimble goes in
fo'' butter-making, and just now milks about 28 cows. He keeps a
herd altogether of about 120 head, 47 of vhich are milkers. He gets
about 5 lbs. of butter a week for seven months a year from each cow,
and the average price he receives for this is 25 cents per lb. We tasted
several samples of butter which had been cured at different seasons of
the year, and found them very good, but, to my taste, inclined to bs a
little too salt. The following day was spent in driving out to the west
of the town across the Eed Deer Eiver. Only very little of the country
in this direction is settled, and in my opinion it offers exceptional
advantages to the dairyman and stock-raiser. Natural hay can be got
in almost unlimited quantities ; the pasture is luxuriant, and contains
a great deal of pea-vine and wild vetch. We passed numerous small
lakes, which were crowded with wild ducks and geese. In about
14 hours I bagged 15 prairie chicken, and could have shot many more
if it were not that ammunition was short. I have never seen the
birds more plentiful in any part we visited.

On the 12th October the annual fair— or, more
An Agricultural. properly speaking, show — in connection with the
^how. agricultural society of the district was held. Con-

sidering that the society is iu its infancy, this

Mr. Alex. FroMr's Repwi,

n

'being the second show held, the display was very creditable. Mr.
Shelton and I were associated with the local judges for the cattle,
sheep, and pigs. We had not much difKculty in arriving at our
decisions, but a considerable amount of trouble might be saved by
placing the various stocks competing in each section together. It
is rather confusing having to pick out the different competing
animals from among the general herd. The grass-fed fat animals
"were in excellent condition ; indeed, all the stock forward presented
a sleek, thriving appearance. A good deal remains yet to be done
in improving the various breeds, the only Hereford sire present at
the show being a rather plain animal. The exhibits inside the building —
which included grain, roots, dairy produce, needlework, &c. — were of very
good quality, and would compete favourably with anything shown at
home in the local shows. Messrs. Steven, Shelton, Smith, and myself
weighed a bushel of the prize oats grown last year, and found the
natural weight to be 51 lbs. to the bushel. In the evening we pi:oceeded
north by the train to Edmonton, a distance of about 100 miles.

The original town of Edmonton stands on the north
Edmonton. bank of the North Saskatchewan Eiver, and was an
old station of the Hudson Bay Company. It is now a
town of considerable size, being, like most rising towns in Canada,
lighted by electric light. The railway terminus is on the south side of
'the river, about a mile from North Edmonton, and is becoming rapidly
surrounded by a town. As it was so late before we arrived, we put up
lit the hotel on the south side. As yet there is no bridge across the
river, so that communication has to be made by means of cable ferry-
boats. I was led to understand that before long it is the intention of
the Government to have a bridge erected. Certainly it is very much
■required, as the present means of communication is both expensive and
tedious. On the morning of the 13th we had a short drive to the west
•of the station, calling on one or two farmers, and arriving back at our
hotel at about noon. The country passed through resembled in many
I'espects Ked Deer. Very little land in the neighbourhood of the town
is now open for homesteading, most of it already being taken up, or held
in the hands of speculators. The land is of good quality, and capable
•of giving heavy crops, the average return for barley being 40 bushels pet-
acre ; for 0".tz, GO ; and wheat, 35. In the afternoon we crossed the
I'iver, and attended the annual show of stock and agricultural produce.
•Unfortunately, we were too late to see the cattle, which had been
'removed before our arrival. We were, however, in time to see the
Toots, grain, needlework, and painting, &c. I thought a good deal of
one or two samples of barley, which were excellent in colour, but
deficient in weight, only making 52 lbs. per bushel. At the fair I met
a, good many Scotch people— among others, Mr. Hugh Mackay, from
"Caithness, who came here 12 years ago with only 3870 in his pocket, and
is now comfortably situated on a farui. He speaks in terms of the
highest praise regarding the capabilities of this district.

On Saturday we drove in a north-easterly direction to
Fort Saskatchewan, which lies from 18 to 20 miles down
the river from Edmonton. Here we crossed over to the
north bank, returning by that way to North Edmonton,

A Drive in
"Hie District.

TJie Ayflcultiwal Jtesoiwces of Canada.

and recM'ossiiig the river

m

I' '

H .

•}

to our liotel. I rode the distanc « Iroiu the
fort home, iiiosb of the journey being accomplished after irk. The
district through vvhieh we passed in the morning is called Ciaver Bar,
and is considered very line farming land. We called on Mr. Cars-
cadden— 14, 53, 20, west of the 4th meridian —ivho has been in the
country for the last 11 years. He started with little or no capital, and
possesses now 4 horses, 19 head of cattle, 18 to 20 pigs, and a large
flock of poultry. He now estimates his place to be worth $10,000.
Average yield is : wheat, 30 to 35 bushels per acre ; oats, 60 to 75
busliels per acre ; barley, 40 bushels per acre. One year as much as 92
bushels of oats was reaped per acre. Prices received last year were 65
cents for wheat, and 25 cents for oats, per bushel. We had lunch at
Mr. Walker's farm, which is situated within five miles of Fort Sas-
katchewan. Mr. Frank Walker, one of the family, accompanied us on
our drive, and gave us much useful information regarding the country.
The land here is very fertile, and admirably suited for mixed farming.
During our drive we crossed several creeks of running water. Home-
steads can be got all along the route to the east lying in and around
the Beaver Hills. As it was after five before we got over the ferry at
the fort, very little of the opposite side of the river was traversed
before darkness set in. Qold-washing is carried on all along the river,
both east and west of Edmonton. All the gravel bars are washed for
gold every year when the water is sufficiently low to leave them
exposed. Miners make from $2 to SS5 per day. We also saw the coal
seams which are exposed on the river bank, varying from 2 to 20 ft. in
thickness. One mine goes right in under the town, and yields coal of
very good quality. All the coal here is lignite, or soft coal.

8t. Albert is a picturesque village, situated about 74
St. Albert. miles north-west of Edmonton, on the banks of the

Sturgeon River. On a hill overlooking the town are
built the Eoman Catholic Bishop's palace, and a convent of the Sisters of
Charity, with the chapel in the centre. These buildings are nicely
arranged, and give an imposing appearance to the place. The
inhabitants are principally of French descent, and belong to the lioman
Catholic religion. We called on Mr. D. Maloney - 5, 54, 25 — whose farm
lies about 1| miles north-west of St. Albert, and here we were invited
inside, and got a great deal of information regarding the country.
Mr. Maloney has been in the North- West since the llebellion in 1870,
so that he has had considerable experience of the country, and,
from what I could judge, has made the most of his opportunititis.
Besides several other farms, he owns 600 acres (100 of which are
cultivated), 80 head of Polled Angus cattle, 20 general purpose horses,
and 50 to 60 pigs. His average returns, in bushels, per aere are : wheat,
30 ; barley, 50 ; and oats. 75 ; and the prices received for last year's
croji, which was not disposed of till this spring, were : oats and barley,
40 cents per bushel ; and for wheat, 60 to Qo cents, Mr, ^laloney
hand-feeds with hay during the wiiiter all the cattle which he purposes
selling for beef, but they are not housed, and he usually disposes of
them in the spring months. r»-eeiving from $35 to $40 a head. Pigs
sell for 8 eents ])er lb., chi^ssed : and pork makes from 16 to 18 cents per
lb. Natural liay meadows abound in this locality, and hay can be put

Mr. Alear. Fraser's Report,

■9

up in stacks at a cost of .181.10 per ton. To thoso intending to go in
largely for cattle, this is a matter of importance. We also .saw
numerous samples of timothy hay, which could not bfi beaten for quality.
Mr. Maloney left Manitoba in the year 1880, and, after being on several
locations, finally settled here nine years ago — principally on account of
the facilities offered for the education of his rising family. Land of
similar quality to Mr. Maloney's can be i)ought in the district for from
S4 to S5 per acre. On leaving here we went to St. Albert for lunch,
and afterwards proceeded to Edmonton by a circuitous route, going
down the Sturgeon Eiver for a few miles, and cutting across
country. The land on the south side of the Sturgeon Kiver below St.
Albert is principally occupied by half-breeds, and some of it is the
finest I have seen in Canada. We passed through parts of the original
prairie, where pea-vine and wild vetch formed a pasture as thick as clover
in ryegrass at liome. I should imagine that stock would fatten on this
in a very few weeks. Land for homesteading round Edmonton cannot
be got nearer than 10 miles, and in some directions further away. A
great number of settlers are arriving every train day, and the country
is settling up faster than any part we have yet visited. All the people
I have met are happy and prosperous, and are looking forward to a
bright future. I am of opinion that a person with moderate capital
would do better by purchasing land here partly improved, than going
far from town to locate* on a homestead. ,

CllOlTtKH rilKESHINa.

On Tuesday, 17th October, we left Edmonton for the
The Crofters. crofter settlement at Killarney, Southern Manitoba.
• ' We went by rail via Calgary to Brandon, and from
there drove across countrv to the town of Killarney a distance of 62
miles south— which was 'reached late on Thursday night. The drive
from Brandon to Killarney was one of the longest we accomplished m

80

f.

JT^^ Agnouttural Re«ouree» of Canada,

a singles (lay. Wo mivde a start about 8 a.m., passing through the
towns of Eoiinthvvaite, Methven, and lunched at Wawanesa, which
wo left at cJ p.m., I'eaching Killarney at 9 p.m. All the country w(^
passed through was settled, and the farmers seem to devote their
attention principally to wheat-raising. As darkness set in wlien we
were 18 miles from our destination, I could not judge the quality of
the land near Killarney.

The following day was devoted to an inspection of the
Killarney. crofter aottlement, on the shores of Pelican Lake.
These crofters came out live years ago from Lewis,
Eoss-shire, under the Government scheme of colonisation, by which
^120 was advanced to each, to be repaid in instalments — first instal-
ment duo in July, 1892. Thirty heads of families came out — 18
from the Lewis, and 12 from Harris — and the settlement now
numbers homesteads. We met Mr. John Nicholson — 25, 4, 17 — on
his way into town with a waggon-load of wheat, from whOm we got
the following particulars: — He has 150 acres broken (this year he had
65 acres in wheat, and 45 in oats), 4 horses, 4 cattle, and the usual
implements. He had been engaged in fishing at homo, and is quite
satisfied with his change. The year 1889 was dry, and in consequence
his crop was poor; in 1890 he had 900 bushels of wheat for sale, for
which he got 70 cents per bushel. In 1891 his yield had increased to
1,900 bushels of wheat, and 700 bushels oats ; he received 56 cents
per bushel for the wheat, but didn't sell any oats. The price for this
season's crop of wheat just now is 45 cents per bushel. Mr. Nicholson
has not repaid any of the principal or interest on his Q-overnment loan,
but expected that he would, with the help of Providence, soon be able
to do so. He has liad to purchase improved implements, including
binder, mower, &c., and had also to lay out money in stock. As
interest at the rate of 10 per cent, and upwards is charged on past-due
accounts, and as he has only to pay 4 per cent, on his Government
loan, he explained that he saved money by paying off his accounts in
preference to the Government loan. He would not care to return
home, and is now well contented with his prospects.

We called on Mr. John MacLeod— 23, 4, 17— who is a man well up
in years. He left Stomoway in May, 1888 ; himself and his son now-
own 320 acres, 100 of which are in cultivation ; this year's crop consists
of 70 acres wheat, 17 acres oats, and 3 acres barley. Stock, 2
horses, 4 oxen, and 4 pigs, and poultry. The crop this year has been
injured by hot wind in mid-summer, and is not nearly an average
return. John MacLeod, son of the above, values his place at iig800, anu
IS of opinion that at home he could do better than here. He is a cooper
by trade, and is sorry he left home. During the course of the day
we called on several other members of the settlement, and also inter-
viewed a good few who were working at a threshing machine. The old
men appeared contented, several significantly remarking that there is
always an abundance of good food here. I was struck by the amount of
expensive machinery which I saw lying round most of jihe homesteads..
At one place I observed three self-binders, a mower, horse rake„
buggy, waggon, &c., all exposed to the mercy of the elements. The

m:

Mr. Alex. I'Vaner^- 7lef>ort.

SI

land in most placos is of fair quality, and 1 was aftorwarris told that at
tho time the Canadian Government Ht'ttled them there it wa« worth .1ii7
an acre. Not one whom wo had interviewed had made any payment to
Government, and I am afraid a good many have but little chance of doiiii;
so for some time. There seems to bo a general fettling that Providenct*
will step in and do something for them, and a lack of seli'-dependenc(!.
It was a curious circumstance that in my wanderings all over Canada
I invariably found Scotchmen thriving, happy, and contented ; that
I used to meet, I should say, four of my own countiyiiuin for
every one met by other members of the Delcigation ; and that it
was only on this solitary occasion that 1 \umrd any grumbling.
Many other Scotchmen had come out from the Old Country in a
poorer stato than the crofters, and are now well off ; they had
only themselves to depend on and look to, and, in consequence, suc-
ceeded in attaining to the position they now occupy. I believe that
this settlement is now in about its worst state ; that the crofters are

per

fhe

A FABM-HOU8B, SOUTHERN MANITOBA.

only becoming acquainted with the ways of the country : and that, if
they hold on and manage to get rid of the incubus of debt which is
now crushing them down, they will yet attain to positions of compara-
tive wealth and comfort.

On Saturday, 21st October, we reached Winnipeg,
To Winnipeg where our duties practically closed. On our way down
and Home. to Montreal we stopped at Toronto, Niagara Falls,

and Ottawa, joining the s.s. " Sardinian " on Friday
night, the 27th October, and sailing tho following morning at daylight.
After a rather stormy passage, Liverpool was reached on the following
Friday week, at about mid-day.

In concluding this Ee^yort, I would like to make a
Emigrants likely few general remarks on the country, the class of
to Succeed. emigrants most likely to succeed there, and also to

give a general idea of the impressions conveyed to

my own mind during my trip.

As will be already obserred, the foregoing is an accurate account

PAET V. *

Il '

The Af/rieullural licftonrcrti of Cdnmht,

of my journey, written lit the time. l*('rliiii)N in Home ptirls it descends
too much into detnil. 1 have done thiM in order that pei-MouH intondinj,'
to emiKfttte may be in a position to judgi* for tiiem.sclvcH from the
actual factw. All the ligures hitherto given are taken fnxu the farmers,
and not from new8i)aperM or price listH. They vary to a conHidembh^
extent in the same district, but, I venture to say, not more so than
would bo the case if they were given by a number of farmers at home.

I have hitherto said very little regarding the climate of the
Climate. different parts visited, simply because 1 am not able to
write of them from actual experience. During the period
I was in Manitoba and the North-West Territories — viz., September
and October — nothing could surpass the beauty of the weather :
bright sunshine during the day, and the nights cool, with latterly a
little frost. This is known as the Indian summer, and is considered
the tinest time of the year. Without experiencing it, one ciin hardly
lorm an idea of the bracing effect it has on the system and spirits.
Work is got through with far less fatigue and worry than in a damp
climate. I was very much struck with the endurance displayed by the
horses, travelling 50 to 60 miles a day being considered only an ordinary
day's work. The seasons, on an average, are divided as follows : — Spring,
April and May ; summer, Junti to September ; autumn, October and
November ; and winter, from December to March. In winter most of
the trades and manufactures are carried on as usual, and, with the excep-
tion of a couple of months, most outside farming operations can bo
accomplished.

It is of the first importance that intending emigrants
should possess physical strength and powers of endur-
ance, with a fixed determination to succeed, which
must not be too easily upset by difficulties which are
certain to arise at the outset of a settler's career.
The amount of capital possessed at starting does not appear to
have so much influence as might be expected. Numbers of men
we encountered who went to the country with large sums of money
are now in comparatively poor circumstances; and, on the other
hand, numbers who have landed with very little are now in good
positions. Unless the settler is prepared to rough it and work out
for a considerable time, however, he ought not to go to Canada
without from £200 upwards. With this sum a man of resource and
energy could make a fair start. It is very much better to work out
for the first year, or, if this is not considered desirable, live on a farm
with friends until experience of the ways of the country, the prices of
stock and implements, and of the quality of land, is acquired. It
is ten chances to one that any person investing money on his arrival in
a strange country is imposed upon. It will be found a much better
plan to look about, even without working for the first year, if this can
be afforded, than to enter rashly into any undertaking ; and, best of all,
to hire out to farmers for a few months in different parts of the
country. In my opinion, the work is not harder than what an average
Scotch farm servant is asked to perform, and certainly not so telling on
the system, as most of it is accomplished by simply driving horses, and
does not consist of hard manual laboui*. No person need be afraid to

Cajyital
Eequired by
Settlers.

Afr. Ahx. I'hist'r/i Jt^fwri,

i

work on mrount, of his social |M).siii«Mi iM'inj; iil'ttTwanlH aft'i'dcd, hn in
('iiimdii it is llic rule I'or rvcry person to work, and as many (Mi-sons of
;>[ood education and laniily aiv to be found in Llio working' clanses as
idsewhere.

Il is diflicult to ^i\o advice iw to winch part an
Choice of LncaUtii. ('inip;raHl should j)roc«M'd to, as this n.'arly entirely

(lopends on liis inclinalions and capifai. I liav»«
endeavonnMJ 1o deHcrib(^ all the diiTer«Mit parts I saw as niirnitelv as
possible, and with that variety of soil and situation at his disposal, hu
must !)« dillieult to please who does not lind sonu^ part suitable. As a
f^'tMmral hint, I might say persons with ca|»ilal should romaii\ near thn
large centres in Manitoba and the JSorth-VVest, or go on to jiritisli
Columbia, as iliey would have more opportunities there for laying it
out to advantage than iji the more remote |)artH. Persons not so well
provided would do better further back, where land is cheap, and where,
if they g(>t once nicely located, they could wait for the advanct» of
)>opulation. It must always be boine in mind that Canada has
developed fast in the iiium>diate j>ast, and is likely to develop even
faster in the immediate future. Railways are opening up the country
in all directions; comparatively unknown places a few years ago an;
now becoming centres of commerce. Every year the ocean comnninica-
tion across the Atlantic is becoming cheaper and swifter ; and I am of
opinion that it does not take a ])rophet to l'or«*tell that ere many year."
have elapsed the price of land in even the remote i>arts of the Dominiini,
and the j)rico of land in liritaii , for agricultural purposes, must bc^come
very similar.

The soil in most [nuts we visited of Manitoba and the

Soil, North-AVest is very much alike. Jt consists of from I to

4 ft. rich black argillaceous mouid, or loam, resting on a

very tenacious clay subsoil, and is said to be the finest in the world

for the produce of wheat.

On the prairie, water for domestic purposes is chiefly
Water and got from wells, and is of good quality and healthy, in
Wood. some places it tastes rather peculiar to the new-comer,

but those who are accustomed to it do not observe this.
The water in most of the sloughs and lakes is not fit for domestic
purposes, on account of the alkali contained in it. Either firewood or
coal is got in abundance all over Canada, and no anxiety need be
entertained by settlers on account of a scarcity of fuel.

The healthy appearance of the people, and the amount of
Healthiness work they are able to get through, is the best i)roof of
of Climate. the healthiness of the climate. Several people I met in
the North-West have gone there in bad health, suffering
from lung diseases, and are now perfectly healthy. The clep.r, bright
weather, and dryness of the air, arc said to be particularly beneficial to
people having anything the matter with the lungs.

Within the last few years the price of cei-eals has fallen to

Mixed such an extent that there is now not very much profit

Farminfj. in their cultivation, and farmers in Canada are beginning

to turn their attention nu)re to mixed farming and

dairying. I would like, before closing, to say a few words on this head,

=1^

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

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£? 144 ■"
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Photographic

Sciences

Corporation

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 145S0

; 71 6) 873-4503

ft

84

The AfjricuUural Resources of Canada.

and point out to Scotch faruierf* who have a knowledge of cattle-
feeding and dairy farming the great advantages held out just now in
the Dominion to any pt^rsons having a knowledge of cattle and cattle-
feeding. It is a well-known fact that within the last few years
Canadian cattle have improved in breeding to a very great extent.
Those who have been connected with the trade for some years back
cannot fail to have observed it ; and this improvement, owing to the
introduction of pure-bred sires from Britain, will continue to a greater
extent in the future. Most of the original native breed of cattle have
boon eliminated, and their place is taken by half-bred cows, or, as they
are known, grade cattle. Owing to the restrictions that have been put
on sending Canadian stores to Britain, cattle must be exported in a fat
condition, and it is found tliat the feeding of these animals can be done
much cheaper in Canada than in Britain. The price of feeding stuffs
there, such as bran, corn, hay, ensilage, and roots, is less than half
what it is at home. The following estimate gives an idea of the profit
left to the feeder in Manitoba: —

£ H. d.
Price of u good two-year-old store bullock ... ... 6 0 0

Feeding five months, at 10s t' 10 0

Carriage to Glasgow and commission on selling ... y 10 0

£13 0 0

i'his animal would have been tied up in good condition oQl the
grass, and fed on ensilage, roots, and grain for five months, so that it
would be in prime condition, and should scale about 15 cwt., live
weight: this, taken at 28s. per cwt., will give a selling price of £2\,
leaving a margin of profit to the feeder of about £7 a head. Butter
and cheese fetch very nearly as much in most parts of the Dominion
just now as at home, and pork is also very nearly the same price.

Before closing, I wish to convey my thanks to those who so kindly
entertained me during my visit to Canada, and who spared neither time
nor trouble in supplying me with information regarding the country.

I

i

i>UUBLU>jyO«KOW AND 61K01.£-FU£fiUW WUKEL FLOD0B8.

-in ! ■ : ;

cattle-
now in

cattle-
years
extent.

i back

to the
greater
have
s they
en put
1 a fat
e done

stulfs
halt*

profit

85

APPENDIX A.

li

ve

I

i

I

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CANADA.

The Dominion of Canada includes the whole of British
General North America to the north of the United Stiites, and

Informahon. has an area of nearly 3,500,000 square miles. It is

divided into eight separate provinces, and the population
at the last census was ^,829,411 — viz.: Prince Edward Island, 109,088;
Nova Scotia, 450,523; New Brunswick, 321,294 ; Quebec, 1,488,586;
Ontario, 2,112,989; Manitoba, 154,472; the North-West Territories,
67,554; British Columbia, 92,767 ; and unorganised Territories, 32,168.
The extent of the country will be better understood by stating that it
is larger than the United States without Alaska, and nearly as large as
the whole of Europe.

The government of the country has at its head
Constitution and the Governor-General, the representative of Her
Government. Majesty. The Dominion Parliament consists of the

Senate and of the House of Commons, and the
government of thj day is in the hands of the majority, from whom the
Privy Council, or the Cabinet, who act as the advisers of the Governor-
General, are taken. The members of the Senate are nominated for life
by the Governor-General, and the duration of the House of Commons
is fixed by the Act as five years. Each province has also its local
Parliament, in some cases of two Houses, as in Prince Edward Island,
Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Quebec, and in others of-^only one,
as in Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia. The head of the
Provincial Government is known as the Lieutenant-Governor, and is
appointed by the Governor-General. The constitution of Canada is
contained in the British North America Act, 1.867, which defines the
powers both of the federal and of the local Jjegislatures. It may be
said, generally, that the former deals with matters concerning the
community as a whole, and the latter with subjects of local interest.
Twenty-seven years' experience has demonstrated that the country has
made ^ great progress under the existing institutions, and the prin-
ciple of union is recognised by all political parties as the sure foundation
on which the future of the Dominion depends. There is a free and
liberal franchise in operation, both for the Provincial and Dominion
Parliaments, which gives most men the benefit of a vote. Jn the
provinces there are county and township councils for regulating local
affairs, such as roads, schools, and other municipal purposes, so that
the government of the Dominion is decentralised as far as practicable.
in the spirit of the Imperial legislation before mentioned.

Nothing connected with Canada is so much misrepresented
Climate. and misunderstood as its climate, but it has only to be
*' li;; ii experienced to be thoroughly appreciated. It is warmer
in summer and much colder in winter than in Great Britain ; but

8

86

General Information about Canada.

the heat it* favourable to the growtli of fruit and the crops, and
ID every way ph'asant and beneficial, and the cold is jiot prejudicial
to health or life. In fact, Canada is one of the healthicjst countries
in the world. The winter lasts from the end of November or tiic
beginning of December to the 3nd of March or middle of April ;
spring from April to May ; K'ummer from June to September ; and
autumn from October to the end of November. The seasons varv
sometimes, but the above is the average duration of the different
periods. The nature of the climate of a country may be measured
by its products. In winter most of the trades and manufactures are
carried on as usual, and, as regards farming, much the same work
is done on a Canadian farm in autumn and in winter as on
English, Scotch, or Irisli homesteads. Ploughing is not possible, of
course, in the depth of winter, but it is done in tlie autumn and early
sjjring, and in the winter months cattle have to be fed, the dairy
attended to, cereals threshed, machinery put in order, buildings repaired,
carting done, and wood-cutting, and preparations made for the spring
work, so that it is by no means an idle season. One thing is perfectly
certain — that the country would not have developed so rapidly as it
has done, and the population would not have grown to its present
proportions, had the climate been unfavourable to the health, pros-
perity, and progress of the community. Of course there are good and
bad seasons in Canada, as everywhere else, but, taken altogether, the
climate will compare very favourably with other countries in similar
latitudes.

As the temperature in Manitoba and the North- West
Temperature. Territories is frequently referred to, it is desirable
to quote official statistics bearing on the question.
The mean temperature at Winnipeg in the summer is 60*3°, and during
the winter 1 ° ; Brandon, 58-1° and -1-8°; Eapid City, 62-2° and 27° ;
Portage-la-Prairie, 61-8° and 12-6°. In the North-West Territories, the
summer and winter piean temperatures at the specified places are as
follows:— Eegina, 59*2° and -2-4°; Calgary, 55*6° and 12-2°; Edmon-
ton, 55*2° and 11-3°. It is very evident the temperature only very
occasionally reaches the various extreme limits that are sometimes
mentioned, or the mean winter temperatures could not be anything liL..'
the figures above quoted.

Reference has been made elsewhere to the agricultui'al
Products of products of Canada. The country also possesses great
Canada. wealth in the timber contained in the iiumense forests, and

in the minerals of ail kinds, including coal, gold, silver,
iron, copper, &c. Then, again, the fisheries along the extensive coasts,
both on the Atlantic side and on the Pacific, and in the inlpud waters,
are most valuable and varied, and are valued annually at several millions
sterling. The principal fishes are salmon, trout, cod, herring, mackerel,
halibut, and haddock. Oysters and lobsters are also most nume-
rous. The manufacturing industry already occupies a most important
position, and is growing more extensive every year. Almost every
kind of manufacture is carried cm. This activity is not confined to
any one part of Canada, but is apparent in all the older provinces,

Oeneral Information about Canada.

87

s, and

udic.ia]

iin tries

or the

April ;

; and

viirv

fferent

asured

res are

work

LS

and will no doubt in time extend to the western parts of the Dominion
also.

liet'erence is sometimes made to some Canadian farms
Mortja(/es. being mortgaged. It should be borne in mind, liowever,

that a proportion of the Canadian farmers start with
little or no capital. In order to provide capital in such cases, the farm
is mortgaged, but the loan companies, as a rule, do not advance more
than half the value of the properties. The interest paid bears no com-
parison to the rent of similar-sized farms in the United Kingdom, and
the fact of the existence of a mortgage, in these circumstances, is not
detrimental to the position of the farmer. Not only is the interest
invariably paid, but the experience is that the loans are paid off as they
mature. The losses of the Canadian companies are comparatively small,
and the investment, therefore, is a good one to the lender, and an
advantage to the farmer.

Canada's trade — import and export — amounts to nearly
Trade Imports £50,000,000 per annum, and is largely with Great
and Exports. Britain and the United States, the balance being
exchanged with European countries, the West Indies,
South America, Australasia, China, and Japan. The figures given
above only include the outside trade, and do not embrace that done
between the various provinces. Free trade, in its entirety, exists
within the boundaries of the Dominion, and the local business is
very large, as the tonnage carried on the railways and canals and on
the coasting vessels will show. It may be stated that the revenue
now amounts to about »S36,000,000 per annum, of which about
$20,000,000 — equal to 17s. per head of the population — is obtained
from customs duties on ^oods imported into Canada.

Markets, either within or without the Dominion, exist
Markets. for all the products of the country, and no difficulty
is found Ia this respect. New markets have been pro-
vided by the establishment of lines of steamers to the West Indies,
Australasia, China, and Japan, which are now in operation. Canada
is well served with railway and water communication, and the
shipping owned in Canada is so large that it occupies a high place
in the list of ship-owning countries of the world. A railway extends
from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, and each province possesses
excellent railway accommodation ; in fact, there are over 15,000 miles
of line in operation at the present time. The rivers and canals have
been so much improved of late years, that the largest ocean-going
steamers can moor alongside the wharves at Quebec and Montreal,
and it is possible for a vessel of 500 tons burden to pass from the
Atlantic into the great lakes. The enlargement of the canals now
in progress, which is to be completed in 1895, will permit ocean
vessels of 2,000 tons gross burden to pass to the head of Lake
Navigation without breaking bulk.

The distinctions of class do not exist in Canada to the

Social same extent as in the mother country. There is no law

Distinctions, of primogeniture, and there are no paupers ; a feeling of

healthy independence pervades all classes, which no doubt

88

Oeneral Tnformaiion about Canada,

ftnses from the fact that every farmer is the owner of his acres, is his
3wn master, and is free to do as he wills — a state of things conducive
to a condition of freedom unknown in older countries. Then, again,
taxation is comparatively light, and many social dilKculties, still under
discussion in Great Britain, were grai)|)led with in Canada years ago.
Religious liberty prevails ; there is practically free and unsectarian
education; a free and liberal franchise exists; local option in regard
to the liquor traffic is in operation ; the duration of the Parliament
does not exceed live years, and the members are paid for their services ;
marriage with a deceased wife's sister has been legalised ; and there is
no poor law system, although orphans and the helpless and aged of
both sexes are not neglected, being cared for under the municipal
system. And, again, a good system of local government is at work in
every province. The system of education in force — under the super-
vision and guidance of the Provincial Governments — enables the best
education to be obtained at a trifling cost, and therefore the poor, as
well as the rich, can make themselves eligible for the highest positions
in the country. In principle the system in operation is the same in
the different provinces, although the details may differ somewhat. In
each school district trustees are elected to manage the schools for the
inhabitants, who pay a small rate towards their support, the balance
being met by considerable grants from the local governments.

British subjects settling in Canada do not require to be naturalised,
rhey are entitled to all the same rights and privileges as their fellow
British subjects who may have been born there ; indeed, the removal
3f a family to Canada makes no more difference in their position, as
British subjects, than if they had gone instead to any city, town, or
village in the United Kingdom. Of course it is a different thing if they
go to the United States or any other foreign country. In that case they
must renounce tneir birthright, and their allegiance to their sovereign
and their flag, before they can enjoy any of the political advantages
of citizenship ; and in many parts of the United States land cannot
be bought, or sold, or transferred, excepting by naturalised persons.

Intending settlers in Canada are strongly advised
to communicate, either personally or by letter,
with the nearest agent of the Canadian Govern-
ment in Great Britain (see Preface) before they
leave, so as to obtain the fullest and latest
advice applicable to their cases. Cards of introduction to the Govern-
ment Agents in Canada are also supplied to desirable persons. Any
information supplied by these gentlemen may be thoroughly relied upon.
Then, again, on reaching Canada, or at any time afterwards, the
nearest Government Agent should be consulted, as they are in a
position to furnish accurate particulars on all matters of interest to
the new arrival.

The Dominion Government has agents at Quebec, Mon-
treal, Halifax, and St. John, the principal ports of landing
ill Canada ; and the various Provincial Governments also
supervise immigration as far as possible. At Toronto,
Ontario, tho Superintendent of Immigration is Mr. D.

Oovemment
Agents in the
United Kingdom.

Government
Agents in
Canada.

General Information about Canada,

89

is his
lucive
again,
under

Spence, 65, Simcoe Street; and in Victoria, ]iritish Columbia, Mr.
Jessop, the Provincial Government Ag«'nt, should bo consulted. The
following is a list of the various Immigration Agencies under the
supervision of the Department of the Interior: —

i Commissioner of Dominion LandH, )
in charge of Outside Service in Manitoba - Mr. H. H. Smith.
and the North- West Territories )

Agents at Ports of Call for Steamships in Canada ; —

Mr. E. M. Clay ... Halifax, N.S. I Mr. P. Doylk Quebec, Q.

S. Gabdnbk ... St. John, N.B. | ,, J. Hooi-ahan ... Montreal, Q.

Domtnion Lands Agents in Canada who act as Immigration Agents: —

i»

W. H. HiAM

W. G. Pbntland
John Flesh ek ...

W. M. HiLLIARU...

W. H. Stevenkon

Amos RowB

J. G. Je8SUP

John MoTaooart

Brandon, Man.
Birtle, ,,

Deloraine, ,,
Minnedosa, ,,
Regina, N.W.T.
Calgary, „
Red Deer, ,,
Prince Albert,,

ThOS. ANDKKflON

C. E. Phipps ..
£. buokovski ...
Geo. Youno
T. B. Fkuouson
John McKenzik

E. A. Nash

Edmonton, N.W.T.
Oxbow, ,,

Battieford, „
Lethbridge, , ,
Saltcoats, ,,

New Westminster,

B.(^.
Kamloops, B.C.

The best time for persons with little or no capital to go out is
from April to July — the earlier the better. Domestic servants may
start at any time of the year.

There are no free or assisted passages to Canada. The
No Assisted full ordinary steamship fare.s must be paid by all immi-
Passages. grants, and they must also have enough money in

addition to pay for their railway fares from the port
of landing to their destination, and to provide board and lodging
until work is secured. The Government does not render any assistance
in these matters, and all new-comers must be self-supporting. The
Government Agents do not book passengers, and intending emigrants
are advised to consult the local steamship agents on that subject.
Neither do they recommend any one line more than another. They
are quite impartial in both respects.

It is not necessary to say anything in detail about the
Boohing various steamers going to Canada, or about the fares. All
Passages. such information can be obtained from the advertising

columns of the newspapers, or from the steamship agents,
who are to be found in every town or village. Passengers are
recommended to take through tickets (including ocean and rail
tickets) to their destinations in Canada. They are issued by the
steamship companies, and in this way it is often possible to save
money — as through tickets often cost less thrn the ocean ticket and
the Canadian rail ticket if taken separately. Many of the railway
companies in Great Britain issue cheap railway tickets from various
places to the ports of embarkation, such as Liverpool, London, and
Glasgow, and in these cases information may be obtained from the
railway booking offices.

Passengers should pay particular attention to the labelling
Luggage. of their luggage, and labels may be obtained from the

steamship companies. They should also bear in mind that
the steamship companies only carry free a limited quantity of baggage,

90

General Information about Canada.

according to tlu^ class of tickt;t taken, and that the railway corapaniea
may charge for anything over 150 lbs. weight. The Canadian Pacific
Railway carry 300 lbs. free for emigrants proceeding to Manitoba and
the North-West Territories. Care sliould be exercised in deciding
what had better be taken to Canada, l-'iirniture, and heavy and bulky
goods of that description, had better b(5 left behind, as the freight
charged for extra baggage makes it an expensive luxury ; all household
requirements can be purchased in the country. Agricultural implements
and tools should not be taken out, as the most improved articles of
this description adapted to the country can be purchased in any
village in Canada. Skilled mechanics and artisans, when recommended
to go out, may take their tools, but they must remember what in
stated above, and also that in the Dominion all these things can be
bought at reasonable prices. Emigrants may be safely advised to take
a good supply of underclothing, heavy and light, for winter and
summer wear, house and table linen, blankets, bed-ticks, and any other
articles of special value which do not take up much room.

Settlers' effects are admitted free of customs duty if
/Settlers' Effects they come within the terms of the following clause of
free of the customs tariff : — . /

Customs Duty. Settlers' Effects, viz. : — Wearing apparel, household fur-

niture, professional books, implements and tools of trade,
occupation, or employment, which the settler has had in
actual use for at least six monthn before removal to Canada, musical instru-
ments, domestic sewing machines, live stock, carts, and other vehicles and
agricultural implements in use by the settler for at Last one year before his
removal to Canada, not to include machinery or articles imported for use in any
manufacturing establishment or for sale : provided that any dutiable article entered
as settlers' effects may not be so entered unless brought with the settler on his
first arrival, and shall not be sold or otherwise disposed of without payment of duty
until after two years' actual use in Canada ; provided also that, under regulations
made by the Minister of Customs, live stock, when imported into Manitoba or the
North- West Territory by intending settlers, shall be free, until otherwise ordereil
by the Governor in Council.

Wages — which, of course, vary from time to time — are,
Wayes. as a general rule, from a quarter to one-half higher

than in Great Britain, but in some trades thev are
even more. The cost of living is lower, upon the whole, and an
average family will, with proper care, be much better off in Canada
than at home. There are very good openings in Canada for the
classes of persons recommended to go out, but it must be borne in
mind that hard work, energy, enterprise, and steadiness of character
are as essential there as in any other country. Indeed, perhaps they
are more necessary ; but, on the other hand, there is a much better
chance of success for any persons possessing these qualities, and who
are able and willing to adapt themselves to the conditions of life
obtaining in Canada.

Persons with capital to invest will find many openings

Capitalists. in Canada. They can engage in agricultural pursuits,

taking up the free-grant lands or purchasing the

improved farms to be found in every province, or in mining, or in

the manufacturing industries. Again, a settled income will be found

th

I

Oensral Information ahout. Canad^a.

91

to go much fartli t in Canada, and whiles th() clinmto is ht'althy and
the satncry nia^^nitiwnt, thuro are abundant opportuniticH Un' Hport ;
and thn tauilitios for education aro not to b(» excnlU'd anywhero.

\roung men sliould go to Manitoba, thn North-\Vo>st,
Whera to tjo. or Jiritiwh Cohimbia. Oldtu* men, with capital and
young families, should go to one of the older provinces,
ttud either buy or nmt an improved farm. This, however, is only a
general statement, and individual cases must be decided by the special
circumstances of each. In Manitoba and the North-West, and in
some parts of British Columbia, ])ioneer life on free grants,or away
from railways, is attended with a certain amouivt of incoDveaience, and
an absence of those social surroundings which may be obtained in Jie
older settled parts of these and other provinces, and this fact should be
borne in mind by those who are considering the subject. But even in
these districts improved farms may be purchased at reasonable rates.

It is difficult to lay down a hard-and-fast rule as to the
Capital amount of capital necessary for farm work. The answer
necessart/. depends on the energy, experience, judgment, and enter-
prise of the person who is to spend the money, the province
selected, whether free-grant land is to be taken up or an improved
farm rented or purchased, and many other details. It may safely be
said, however, that if a man has from .£100 to £200 clear on landing,
and some knowledge of farming, he is in a position to make a fair start
on the free-grant land in Manitoba and the North-West ; but it is
generally advisable to obtain some experience of the country before
commencing on one's own account.

There is a large and growing demand for male and
Farm female farm servants in every part of the Dominion.

Servants. Machinery of various kinds is in daily use, but labour is
scarce notwithstanding, and good hands can in the proper
seasons find constant employment. Many persons of this class who
started as labourers now have farms of their own in some of the finest
parts of the Dominion. Market gardeners, gardeners, and persons
understanding the care of horses, cattle, and sheep, may also be advised
to go out.

So far as numbers are concerned, perhaps the largest demand
Domestic of all is for female domestic servants. The wages are good,
Servants. the conditions of service are not irksome, and comfortable
homes are assured. Domestic servants should go at once
on their arrival to the nearest Government Agent. These gentlemen
often have in their offices a list of vacant situations, and will refer
applicants to the local ladies' committees, so that they may have th<s
benefit of supervision and guidance, until they are satisiactorily placed.
Servants should, however, take their characters with them, and must
bear in mind that good records are just as indispensable in Canada as
elsewhere. They may safely go out at any time of the year.

There is little or no demand for females other than

Other Glasses domestic servants. Governesses, shop assistants, nurses,

of Labour. &c., should not go out unless proceeding to join

friends able and willing to aid them in getting

92

Utiwral Infnrmafmi. ahout Canada,

ornploynrnuit. M(;ehanic8, i^j^iufpal lubounii's, and iiavvirs aro advisod to
obtain Mpecial infonnatioii us to their rt'M|)«'('tiv«( tradt'H bel'orn }»oin^ out.
Tluj demand in not now ho gr»'at us it was a few y<'ai's ago, and Niich
men, OHpecially with large familiefl, are not encouraged to Het out on the
chance of finding employment. They may be safely advised to Htart
when going to join friends who advise them to do no, or if they have
the inclination and the knowledge t/O ennhle them to change their
callings and become agriculturists.

Chirks, draftsmen, shop assistants, and railway employSH are not
advised to emigrate unless proceeding to appointments already assured.
Any demand for labour of these kinds is fully met on the spot.

No encouragement is held out to iiuMnbers of the legal and
medical and other professions, schoolmastc^rs, and persons desiring
to enter the military and civil services to go to the Dominion,
especially in cases where immediate employment is necessary. There
are always openings and opportunities for men of exceptional abilities
with a little capital ; but, generally speaking, the professional and
so-called lighter callings in Canada are in very much the same position
as they are in the United Kingdom, the local supply being equal to,
if not greater than, the demand.

'^■^^^^l^^^^^fflfY^^'iSi^''

OANOEINO*

'

isod to
n^ out.
(I such
; iin the
0 Htart
y have
their

iro not
ssured.

al and
GHiring
(linion,
There
bilities
al and
osition
ial to,

93

APPENDIX B.

THE CANADIAN EXHIBITS AT CHICAGO.

The Canadian exhibits at the Chicago Exliibition having been
referred to in several of the delegate's Keports, it has been considoreil
desirable to publish such facts as are available as to the success which
the Dominion obtained on that occasion in competition with the world.
The American Press are unanimous in conceding that Canada will
reap a greater benefit from the World's Fair than any other country.
The variety of the vegetable products of Canada served to illustrate
hi a jnanner, hardly to be shown in any other way, the climate and
the fertility of its soil; wnile the exhibits of mineral wealth, of its
fisheries, and of its manufacturing industries demonstrated the possibili-
ties of future development.

It may be said that Canada was unrepresented on many of the
juries connected with several of the groups of exhibits, and on others
the Canadian members were of course in a minority. It is eminently
satisfactory to find, therefore, that the awards in all classes of exhibits
have been so numerouo, and frequently coupled with remarks of a
flattering nature.

The following is an extract from the report of the British Consul

at Chicago to the Earl of Kosebery, Secretary of State for Foreign

Affairs, on the Chicago Exhibition : —

Canada has been brought prominently forward in a manner which can
scai-cely fail to assure permanent benefit. Its chief exhibits were natural pro-
ducts, though the colony was represented in every department except electricity.
Its cheese and butter exhibits were remarkable, and gained a disproportionately
large number of awards, beaming all competitors , Japan is understood to have sent
a special commission to examine and report on the methods adopted by the colony
in the.se matters. The show of animals, especially sheep, met with great approval.
The quality of Canadian frait was generally recognised. The exhibit of grain and
other products of the north-western provinces has shown what can be grown, and
as a result many inquiries have been made with a view to settlement in those parts.
The s(ime applies to British Columbia, regarding which province overtures have
been made by quite a colony of Austrian subjects for settlement, with a view to
fruit-growing and general farming.

The Canadian exhibits in this important department
Agriculture, were excelled by none in quality and appearance. The

excellence of the wheat was the subject of general com-
ment, and a considerable demand has already arisen on the part of
United States farmers for seed grain from Manitoba and the North-
West Territories. Canada obtained 1,016 awards in this group,
including 776 awards for cheese and butter. This does not comprise
the awards obtained by Manitoba, which have not yet been received.
It is understood that in the tests for quality, made under chemical
analysis on behalf of the Exhibition authorities, Manitoba No. 1 Hard
!Red F^fe wheat gave the verj best results.

8

H

Ths CftnaJidn Exhi^'ifa nt CJiiMgo,

Cheese, and
Jinlter.

Tli(< ('xliil)iti()H« oF cIh'pho and butter w(!ro tli<» ltirg»;8t of
tlioir kind over much* on the North Ainerican contiiHMit.
Two competitioiiH wer« Jirniii/^od for Clioddar or fuctory
chtniHc, in th(< monthM of .Iiiiu? and October. In th(^
lirst named, tlie United Htat«\s entries nuirdtered <">()'), and liie CunadiuM
162. Tliero wore 1I{S pri/oH awarded, of which Caiimia took l-iU, and
the United States t). Thirty-one exhihitH of Canadian cheese also
scored higlier points than the best Unitf'd Htalcs ciieiise. In the
October competition foi* tlus same ehiss of chocvse, tiuuh) previous to
1893, there were 82 entries from the United Htates, and r)24 from
Canada. Then* were 1 10 prizes offered, and Canada secti!'(ul them
all. There were also 414 awards for cheese made in l8U;i. Of these,
Canada obtained M6t), and the United States 4o. fn Mu.'se two com-
petitions, therefore*, the United States entered r)87 exhibits and took T)!
prizes, as against Canada's 686 entries and 008 prizes. There were three
judges for cheese, two for the United States, and one for Canada. Th<'
significance of this result is enhanced when considered in conjunction
with the difference in the population of the two countries — 65 millions
against 6 millions. Canada now exports several millions of pounds of
cheese per annum more than the United States to the English market,
her exports to the mother country having risen from M0,889,353 lbs,
in 1875 to 127,843,632 lbs. in 1892. \n the butter competition,
Canada took 27 awards. The great development of tlie cheese industry
in recent years has interfered, no doubt, with the expansion of the
butter trade. The steps, however, that have been taken of late years
toencoriage this industry are having effect; and the Dairy Commis-
sioner of the Dominion has expressed an opinion that within five years'
time the manufacture of butter in Canada will be equal to that of
cheese, both in quality and quantity. In 1893 Canada expoi-ted
43,193 cwts. of butter to Great Britain.

The absence of awards for Canadian agricultural
machinery is explained by the withdrawal of the
exhibits from competition, it having been decided
that machines adapted to field work should be judged
A.i this would have necessitated bringing duplicate;
machines to Chicago at great expense, or the spoiling of the actual
exhibits for show purposes during the remainder of the Fair, the
greater number of Canadian and United States exhibitors withdrew
from competition. Prolessor Thurston, the chairman '^f the jurors
on agricultural implements, and consulting mechanical engineer to
the Exposition, stated that in design, linish, and smoothness of
operation the Canadian machinery was equal to anything in the
Exhibition.

Canada obtained 65 awards. The list included seven
Horticulture, different awards for Canadian grapes— a valuable tribute
to the climate of the country. The small number of
awards is due to the fact that awards were only givi to collective
exhibits, and not to indiyidual exhibitors, or for each variety of fruit
shown. With regard to the vegetable display, it was admitted that the
Canadian exhibit was greatly f^uperior to any other. Both fruit and

Agricultural
Machinery.

by field tests.

Thf Canadian Krhihits ol Chlraffo.

05

It

ir<,'t;Ht of
ntiiKMit.

factory

111 tho
'untidiaii

L'U, and
('SO also

111 tl)t>
vioiis to
24 from
(I tlioiu
f tln'He,
vo coni-
took r)4
ni t hrcc
The
un(;tioii
millions
)unds of
market,
3r)3 lbs.
)olitioii,
ndustry

of tho
;h years
!!)oniniis-
0 years'
that of
xportcd

cultural
of the
decided

judged
uplicat(;
) actual
air, the
ithdrevv
) jurors
neer to
ness of

in the

d seven
tribute
nber of
dlective
jf fruit
hat the
uit and

vepf«'tHhleH won tlic lii^hest praise from the juror» for variety, excel-
leu(U', and (piality : and in this cunii<>ction the report of the 1^'itish
Consul is »'Hpe(Maiiy inlerusting.

('anada more than sustained nt Chicago her spl(>ndid
Live KtiH-k. record at Pliiladeipliia in 1870 in this department, the
live stock and poultry (exhibited having secured more
than one-half of tlu? total prizes offered, fn cattlo, with 184 entries,
Canada took 104 prizes, 17 medals, and M diplomas: against r).'{2 entries
of the United States, and MOO pri7,es and IJi medals. In horses, Canada
had DO entries, and 44 prizes, li gold medals, 10 medals, and M di|don>as ;
the United [States, 440 entries, 207 i)rize8, G gold medals, 12 medals,
and 4 diplomas. In shee]), Canada, with .'^52 entries, secured 2r)0
prizes, 5 silver cups, and 8 diplomas; against the United States' 47H
entries and lO.'i prizes. In swine, Canada's 68 entries obtained 64
prizes, and the United States' 90 entries 67 prizes, in poultry and
pet stock, Canada was awarded 501 prizes with 1,147 entries, and the
United Slates 071 prizes with 2,453 entries. The grand totals were :
Canada, 1,847 entries and 1,175 prizes; the United States, 4,005
entries and 1,404 prizes. This must be regarded as a very great success
especially when the populations of the United States and Canada are
taken into account. All the Canadian sheep and swine were bought
by the Commissioner for Costa lilca.

The committee of jurors considered the Canadian fish
exhibit the best and most complete in the Ex-
position. Tw(!nty-four individual exhibitors also
obtained medals.

No single exhibit in the mining building attracted
more attention, and came in for more favourable
comment, than the Canadian display ; and the fact
that there were 67 collective exhibits which to>;i». gold
medals and diplomas in competition with other countries, speaks highly
for the variety and richness of the mineral resources of the Dominion.
The collections of ornamental and precious stones were much admired,
and orders were subsequently received from two of the leading manu-
facturing jewellers of New York. The nickel ore exhibits wert^
mentioned as being higher in grade than any other shown at the Fair.
Canadian copper also obtained a flattering award ; and the fine exhibit
of anthracite and bituminous coal from all the mines in the North-
West Territories, now being worked, attracted a great deal of
interest.

The machinery exhibit was a small one, but almost
Machinery, every exhibit took a prize, 43 gold medals and diplomas

falling to the Dominion. Professor Thurston, chairman
of the jurors, and consulting mechanical engineer to the Exposition,
stated, in an address, that in design, finish, and smoothness of work-
ing the general machinery shown by Canada was equal to anything
shown ; and that, as compared with the exhibit made in 1876 at
Philadelphia, Canada had made greater relative progress in manufac-
turing, since that time, than any other nation taking part in the
Exhibition.

FinU and
Fisheries.

Mines and
Mining.

96

The Canadtan Exhibits at Chicago.

In this department Canada obtained 30 medals and
Transportation, diplomas. The Canadian Pacific Railway train was

referred to as the finest and most complete on exhi-
bition,, which reflects great credit on the position manufacturing
enterprise has reached in Canada.

The great development in the industries of the
Manufactures. Dominion is illustrated very aptly by the following

return, taken from the census of 1891 : —

1881.

1801.

Increase.

Per Cent.

Number of establishments ...

49,923

75,768

25,846

51-8

Capital invested

$165,302,623

$353,836,817

$188,534,194

114-0

N umbor of employes

254,935

367,865

112,930

44-43

Wages paid

$59,429,002

$99,762,441

$40,333,43!)

07-86

Cost of raw n<aterial

$17\,,91 8,593

$255,983,219

$70,064,626

42-3

, Value of products

$309,676,068

$475,445,705

$165,769 637

63-5

Canada had a most interesting exhibit of manufactures, which secured
124 awards, and drew an appreciative statement from the president of
the jurors on textiles — a member of the Austrian Commission, and him-
self a manufacturer of high-grade cloths in Austria- to the effect that
the progress made by textile manufacturers in Canada had been more
rapid during the last five years than that of any other country show-
ing industrial products. It will be remembered by many readers of
these pamphlets that Canada's display of manufactured articles at the
Colonial and Indian Exhibition in 1886 attracted much attention.

The educational system of the Dominion has a world-wide reputa-
tion, and the exhibits in that department were Tiaturally, therefore, an
object of sustained interest throughout the course of the Exhibition.
191 awards were obtained by Canada. No better evidence of the
excellence of the display can be had than that in a section supposed
to be the smallest among the Canadian exhibits, such a. large number
of awards should have been secured.

. v.- I

PK4UUIii CHICKKNS.

0 medals and
vay train was
iplete on exhi-
manufacturiiig

istries of the
the following

rease.

Per Cent.

25,846

51-8

534,194

114-0

112,930

44-43

333,43!!

67-86

064,626

42-3

769 637

53-5

which secured
le president of
ssion, and him-

the effect that
had been more

country show-
any readers of
articles at the
ittention.
Id-wide reputa-
r, therefore, an
the Exhibition,
vidence of the
ction supposed
a. large number

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