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14th

1398

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PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

FOURTEENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION

OF THE

Society of f\fr\er\QaT) plorists

AND ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURISTS

. OMAHA, NEBRASKA,
August J 6th, 1 7th, 18th and 1 9th,

1898.

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Copyrighted, 1898, by Wm. J. Stewart, Secretary.

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CHAPEL l^^%

OF=iI=ICERS

OF THE

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS

and Ornamental Horticulturists.

For J 898.

President. Vice-President.

W. F. Gri>E, Washington, D.C. A. Donacuiue, Omaha, Neb.

Secretary.

Wm. J Stkwaut, Boston, Mass.

Treasurer.

H. B. Bkatty, Oil City, Pa.

Executive Committee.

For One Year: For Two Yaars:

W. K. Harris, Philadelphia, Pa. Elmer D. Smith, Adrian, Mich.

J. G. EsLER, Saddle River, N. J. Geo. M. Kellogg, Pleasant Hill, Mo.

W. N. RuDD, Mt. Greenwood, Ills. Edmund M. Wood, Natick, Mass.

For Three Yearn:

E. H. CusHMAN, Euclid, O. John H. Taylor, Bayside, N. Y.

W. W. Coles, Kokomo, Ind.

For 1899.

President. Vice-President.

W. N, Ri'DD, Mt. Greenwood, Ills. Philip Breitmkyer, Detroit, Mich.

Secretary.

Wm. J. Stewart, Boston, Mass.

Treasurer.

H. B. Beatty, Oil City, Pa.

Executive Committee.

For One Year: For Two Years:

Elmer D. Smith, Adrian, Mich. E. H. Cushman, Euclid, O.

Geo. M. Kellogg, Pleasant Hill, Mo. John H. Taylor, Bayside, N. Y.
Edmund M. Wood, Natick, Mass. W. W. Coles, Kokomo, Ind.

For Three Years:
Three Members to be appointed by the President-elect, January 1, lH!»!t.

14

1

PROCEEDINGS.

Omaha, Neb., Tuesday, August 16, 1898.

The fourteenth annual meeting of the Society of American
Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists began at Omaha, this day.
The interior of the Convention headquarters, in the First Congre-
gational Church, was beautifully adorned with groups of decorative
plants. The sessions were held in the main auditorium, and the
adjoining church parlors were utilized, at intervals, for committee
meetings and clerical work. The trade exhibition was located in
the basement, and every available foot of space was occupied by
the various exhibits.

The preliminaries to the formal business of the Convention
were opened at 10.30 a.m. by Vice-President A. Donaghue, Sr.,
who was also chairman of the Reception Committee of the Nebraska
and Iowa Florists' Society. After organ music, prayer was offered
by Rev. Thomas J. Mack.w, of Omaha. In his invocation, he
prayed for the sunlight of the Divine love upon those who improve
the beautiful plants and flowers of God's creation, that their hearts
may blossom and expand toward each other and that they them-
selves may improve and grow to the stature of perfect men.

A WELCOME TO OMAHA AND A RESEONSE.

Hon. Frank E. Moores, Mayor of the city of Omaha, being
introduced, cordially welcomed the Convention to Omaha in an
eloquent and humorous speech, which was much applauded. He
said : —

Gentlemen of the Society of American Florists — It gives me pleas-
ure, as the representative of the citizens of Omaha, to extend to you a
cordial welcome to our city. As I look into the faces of the delegates

6 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

here present I can readily believe that the very flower of your organi-
zation rejiresents your Society here to-day. It has been said that,

In Eastern lands they talk in tiowers,
And they tell in a garland their loves and cares ;
Each blossom that blooms in their garden bowers,
On its leaves a mystic language bears.

If I but knew that mystic language, I would exj^ress my sentiments
on this occasipn by presenting to the Society of American Florists a
garland which would speak the word "Welcome" and which would l)e
redolent with the sweet perfume of hosi^itality.

We have had numerous societies and conventions meet with us this
summer. Some have sought to develop a stronger physical manhood
and womanhood, others have met to devise fresh advances in educational
methods, others have discussed the possibilities of future development
along technical lines, while still others have met in the cause of sweet
charity. The Society of American Florists differs from all these in that
it seeks to promote and enhance those beauties of nature which appeal
through the eye to the tiisthetic sense.

(xentlemen, I congratulate you ujjon the work which your Society
has accomjjlished. Let it be your object to aid nature, not to subvert it.
The grace and symmetry of nature is l^etter than the stiffness and heavi-
ness of what is sometimes called " art." The highest art in floriculture
and horticulture is that which makes the most of nature. I have been
almost 2)ained occasionally when I have seen the stiffness, precision and
exactness which have characterized the methods pursued in arranging
the trees, shrubbery and flowers in some parks. Such parks are no
parks at all ; they are monstrosities, and the sooner they are destroj^ed
the ])etter.

I am a great believer in liberal approjjriations for municipal park
systems. I believe that the influence of nature as expressed through the
trees, the flowers and the green grass, has saved our cities more money
in jails, reformatories and almshouses, twice over, than they have cost.
The person who delights to fi'ei|uent the shady park and see Mother
Nature face to face is one who, as the great poet and dramatist has said,
" Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones and
good in everything." Such a man is no miser, for nature floods his
heart with feelings of humanity ; he is no pessimist, for all nature
breathes to him hope and confldence ; he is no criminal, for nature speaks
to him the loftiest sentiments and touches his noblest emotions. America's
great 2)oet of nature, William Cullen Bryant, has expressed this thought
in these beautiful words.

To him who in the love of Nature holds
Communion with her visible forms she speaks
A various language ; for his gayer hours
She has a voice of gladness and a smile,
And elO(juenpe of beauty; and she glides

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLOHISTS. 7

Into his darker musings with a mild
And healing sympathy that steals away
Their sharpness ere Le is aware.

We are veiy glad to welcome the members of the Society of Amer-
ican Florists because of what they are doing in their respective localities
to comfort the bereaved, to cheer the sick, to give hope to the dis-
heartened and to bring joy and contentment into the lives of rich and
poor alike.

And now, gentlemen, to better express the welcome we would
extend to you, I present you with these golden Keys of the City. Use
them early and often, and if they wear out I will furnish yon with
another pair.

[The Mayor here handed over to Chairman Donaghue, amid
much applause, a pair of gilded wooden keys decorated with the
national colors.]

They will not only unlock the hearts of our citizens but if any of
our non-residents should try to play their "padlock" games on you,
these kej's will hel}) you to unlock any games they may approach you
with. The keys are also to be used for your protection in other ways.
I notice a great many gray-beArds and bald-heads here, and I don't think
they will need any assistance from me ; but some of the younger mem-
bers may be out bowling or enjoying some other games, of which there
are many in Omaha; and if they should disobey our " curfew law" they
may want to find me. We have a curfew law. so I am told, which says
that all the young men between the ages of 18 and 45 (I think that will
cover the most of you) who are not at home and in bed at or before three
o'clock in the morning are liable to arrest. Now, I am the holder of a
mystic number that is attached to my telephone, " 55 ''\ — " double 5 " is
the way the telephone girls have it, — and if any of you, boys, get in
troulile and are annoyed by our ethcient police you just call " 55" and I
will help you out of your trouble. [General merriment.]

Ladies and gentlemen, it is a source of satisfaction and pride to have
you with us, especially so many of you who have come from the far East
and West and, we know, are going to take in our exposition. This is a
hai^py, prosperous and, if I may be allowed to say it (perhaps some of
you may think I ought not to) a great Republican year for us out here, —
I assure you no "politics" is intended, — for "Bill" McKinley has
brought this war to a close ; and, thank God, we are one country, with
no East, no Xorth, no South, no West. The "boy in blue" and the
" boy in gray," toitching shoulder to shoulder, can march all over this
world from one end of it to the other ; and if any foreign countrj' wants
to knock a chip off our shoulder or tramp on the tail of our coat, let it do
it and see what we will do. [Merriment and applause.] I have said
something like this to ever}- assemblage that I have seen here, and this
is the twenty-sixth pair of keys that I have had the pleasure of delivering

8 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

over. They don't come back to me ; these keys belong to your President
and he can take them home Avith him if he sees fit. I repeat that this is
a great year for us with our bounteous crops and with the Avar over. We
all feel so happy ; and sometimes, when I see so many pretty faces before
me, I think of what Maggie Mitchell once said upon the stage, " I wish
that you boys had but one mouth that I might kiss it." I mean that for
the ladies, not the boys — of course my gray hairs will protect me in
saying it.

And now I again bid you welcome. I Avant you to ha\'e all of a good
time that you can have. If you don't see anything you Avant ask for it
or ring up " 55." And Avhen you go away you can take Avith you any-
thing you Avant except our ncAV depot. We never had one before and Ave
Avant to keep that. [Long continued merriment and applause.]

Mr. Edmund M. Wood, of Natick, Mass., made the response
to the Mayor's welcome, on behalf of the Coiweutiou. He
said : —

That it may please Your Honor — The hearty kindness of your wel-
come, and the gracious terms in Avhich it is expressed, sink deep into our
heart of hearts. For myself, permit me to say, in the Avords of Hamlet,
" Beggar that I am, I am even poor in thanks ; but I thank you."

We are here to-day, sir, pilgrims from almost every state in the
Union, to pay our annual tribute upon the altar of our patron Goddess
Flora, and to deliberate upon the Avelfare of the institution, and the call-
ing Avhich we have so much at heart. And I may perhaps l)e permitted
to say, sir, that Ave have another claim upon your kindness, inasmuch as
Ave represent — and this in itself is a proud distinction — the premier body
of gentlemen on the face of the earth ; for we have no less an authority
than the immortal Shakespeare for saying " There is no ancient Gentle-
men but Gardeners ; they hold up Adam's profession, for lie Avas the first
that ever bore arms."

But, sir, in speaking of and for my professional associates, I would
indeed prove selfish to m3^self and them, Avere I so ungallant as to make
no mention of the ladies Avho accompany us, Avho are a part and parcel of
us and Avho, in themselves, are the most enthusiastic as Avell as the great-
est lovers of all that is beautiful. Ah, sir, Avhat could Ave do and hoAV
could Ave get along without them? Going back through all time, sir,
you Avell knoAV that

Till Hymen brought his love delighted hour,

There dwelt no joy in Eden's rosy bower.
In A-ain t"lie A'iewless seraph lingered there,

At starry midnight charmed the silent air;
In vain the Avild bird carolled on the steep

To hail the sun, sIoav wheeling from the deep;
In A-ain to soothe the solitary sliade,

Aerial notes in mingled measure played;

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 9

The Summer wind that shook the spaugled tree,

The whispering wave, the murmur of the bee; —
Still slowly passed the melancholy day,

And still the stranger wist nowhere to stray.
The world was sad. The garden was a wild.

And man, the hermit, sighed, — till woman smiled.

Their smiles are with us to-day, sir ; their presence is an inspiration
to us and I trust that they will find that high estimation in your favor
that they most assuredly receive from us.

It was a happy thought, sir, as well as a wise and far-seeing i)rovis-
ion, which induced us to make at the present time our sojourn in your
famed, your hospitable, and yovir beautiful city, and we find ourselves
more delighted at being here present with you to-day. To those of us
who visit j^our city for the first time, the view of it while crossing the
Missouri River comes as a new revelation. Nature has done wonders
for you, in an unsurpassed situation for business facilities, but taste, liber-
ality and enterprise have done vastly more for you, while you are sur-
rounded on all sides by the most fertile region of the earth which is
constantly pouring tribute into your laj). You have speedy and ample
communication with every part of our cotintry, while at the same time
the entire universe is in business touch with you. Who was there, bitt a
little more than a generation since, who could have predicted, or even
dreamed of your marvelous growth, of your phenomenal^ l)rosperity ?
Why, sir, it seems but j-esterday since you were a village, almost un-
known, while to-day you are a thriving community', numbering fully, if
not more than one hundred and fifty thousand souls, with imtold wealthy
with undeveloped resources almost beyond the bovinds of possibility and
with a fame and a name which is carried to the uttermost parts of the
Avorld.

And this great development of yours, sir, has been brought about
within a comparative few years ; — for indeed the extensive public and
private improvements -which have made Omaha the great and queenly
city she now is, had scarcely a beginning before 1880 and since then
your progress has been as permanent as it is unprecedented. Your efforts
to organize a Trans-Mississippi Exposition and its phenomenal success has
filled the world with admiration. To have made the attempt and to have
succeeded after the great Chicago exposition required not only courage
and energy but a confidence in your ability to accomplish so stupendous
a work. It is a marvel. It is just such material that has made our
armies and navies invincible.

We of the East, are prepared to believe in the success of anything
the great West may undertake. You rival many an older community in
all that pertains to civilization and culture in all its varied ramifications,
and we, from the P^ast, while astounded at the rapidit}- of your growth in
population and prosperitj-, have no envies, only good wishes for your suc-
cess and can bid you a heartfelt (iod-speed at the same time firmly
believing that you will become the foremost community of our great
American continent.

10 PKOCEEDIXGS OK FOl'RTEENTH CONVENTIOX

" Westward the course of empire takes its way."

Where can it find a more fitting culmination than in your great, your
enterprising, beautiful and hospitable city of Omaha ?

I have said, sir, that nature has done much for you. Will you per-
mit me, without any egotism on my part, to say that we are doing much
for nature inasmuch as we profess an art which aids as well as improves
nature and

Over that art
Which adds to nature, is an art

That nature makes. You see we marry
A gentle scion to the wildest stock

And make conceive a bark of baser kind,
By bud of nobler race : This is an art

Which does mend nature, change it rather, but
The art itself is nature.

And in this respect I hold tliat we are public benefactors in so far
that we make what was alread}' beautiful still more .^o. The great poet
of all nations has told us that

To gild relined gold, to paint the lily,

To smooth the ice, or add perfume to the violet
Is wasteful and ridiculous excess.

But this is not a truth. Improvement adds to the value of every-
thing, and in improving even so insignificant a thing as a humble way-
side flower, we do not only add to its beauty in an ajsthetic sense but to
its value as a commercial product, and thus all that adds to the commerce
and trade of the country adds in a greater or less degree to the wealth
and perpetuity of the nation. We do not wear our hearts upon our
sleeves but in all candor I can say to you, sir, that it is not alone our
mission to combine the beai;tiful with the useful but to make that 'combi-
nation a source of profit to each and all of us.

We are here, sir, not alone for the purpose of carrying on the affairs
of our association but at the same time to show the glory of our art and
to display, as we do from year to year, the strides we are now continually
making in the art of floral culture. It is a work worthy of all considera-
tion, of all commendation and of all encouragement and we beg for it the
kindly countenance of all lovers of the beautiful, with the asstirance that
the aim will ever be on our part to make the " thing of beauty a joy
forever."

Mr. Mayor, as the representative of this city we lay our homage at
your feet. We bring to you the choicest products of our gardens and
conservatories.

Here's flowers for you ;
Hot lavender, mints, savory, marjoram;
The marigold, that goes to bed with the sun
And with him rises weeping; daffodils

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 11

That come before the swallow dares and take
The winds of March with beauty ; violets, dim,

But sweeter than the lids of Juno's eyes.
Or Cytherea's breath ; pale primroses,

That die unmarried, ere they can behold
• Bright Phoebus in his strength ; bold oxlips and

The crown imperial ; lilies of all kinds.
The Rose peerless among her peers.

These beautiful flowers we bring, but of greater interest and importance
and value to the society, we bring an art, the secret of the science of their
production.

I am sure, sir, that for the brief time we shall he with you our lines
shall lie in jDleasant places and all our paths shall be those of pleas-
antness and peace. For yourself, sir, and the noble city of which you
are the well-deserving pillar, I beg you once again to accept our most
profound thanks and to rest assured that you and yours shall have an
abiding place in our memories up to that supreme moment when for us
time shall be no more.

Mr. Wood's response was generously applauded.

PRESIDENT GUDE's ADDRESS.

Chairman Donaghue here vacated the Chair, whereupon Presi-
dent W. F. GuDE came forward and was cordially greeted.
President Gude then read his annual address, which was listened
to with strict attention and frequently applauded.

The address was as follows : —

Ladus and Gentlemen, Members of the Society of American Floi-ists —
Goethe, whose jjoetical imagination permitted him to strew " Flowers of
Rhetoric" around and about him, as well as probe into the mystery of
the metamorphosis of plants and flowers, and observe closely the evolu-
tion of shape, color, and function, is well entitled to his prerogative of
such figurative generosity-, but it never should be expected that " Flowers
of Rhetoric " could ever be conceived, cultured and culled by the Presi-
dent of the Society of American Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists,
organized to deal with substance, not shadows, with real earth and not
with ethereal elements of poetry. And yet, who has more beautifully
entered into the suljject, in presenting an annual address to you, than
our worthy and much loved president of a few years ago, brother W. R.
Smith, and my immediate predecessor, Adam Graham of Cleveland.

Therefore, in presenting to you this address, as a practical man fully
imbued with all of the interests of our Society, filled with the sense of
realization as to its great importance now and in the future, I come

12 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

with my greetings to you in i)ractical words expressing practical
thoughts.

First, I congratulate you upon the choice that j'ou have made in your
meeting place, enjoying as you are the generosity, kindness and whole-
souled hospitality of this growing city of the middle west which, in com-
parison to its population, has demonstrated since it has been recognized
as a city more " jjush " and enterjirise than any other city in our country.
It has opened its doors to assemblages of all kinds and natures and enter-
tained at its boards conventions, conferences, expositions, fraternities and
shrine caravans, which have made the name of Omaha known not only in
our own country' but throughout the civilized world. So to-day we must
feel somewhat the pride of Vjeing the guests of not only those who are
memV>ers of our Society, but all who are interested in floriculture and in
the progress and jirosperity of this city, and it must be a gratifying fact
for you all to realize that from every section of our country representa-
tives have come in such large num])ers to enjoy this reunion and the
pleasure of being at Omaha.

The organization has been well favored this year in having a most
efficient Executive Committee which, in the interim since the last meeting,
has been not only the deliberative l)ut likewise the legal body of our
Society .

It is usual that the P^xecutive Committee shall hold its jJreparatory
meeting prior to the annual assemblage of the Societj- in the city in which
the session is contemi:)lated . For many reasons this custom was not fol-
lowed and the meeting was held at the National Capital, with the hope
that the presence of our re])resentatives Avould have some mfluenee u^jon
Congress in securing action upon the National Charter which has been
so long anticipated and to which my predecessors have referred with a
great deal of feeling and in terms of considerable eloquence. But legis-
lation on this bill had to give way to war ap2>ropriations, " Free Cuba"
speeches and annexation treaties, so we submissively allow our iiiatter,
in sense of duty to our country, to go over until Congress meets again;
when we are assured that it will be a fact and become a law.

I need not assure you of your many friends in Congress, both in the
House and in the Senate, and that the oljject of chartering an organization
such as ours has, to its great credit, become tiiat of national consideration
Ijecause it is of national interest. Tlie sentiment, too, has found its way
into the Executive circle and among the advisers of the President in his
Caljinet we have there also our champions. No greater friend, however,
has ever been in public life than the present Secretary of Agriculture,
James Wilson, who in response to the lion. Redfield Proctor, of the
U. S. Senate, addressed a letter which I cannot refrain from embodying
here in full, because it expresses in stronger language than I could pos-
sibly command, ideas and purposes which are clear in statement and con-
vincing in reasoning and I feel sure that you will (-(^rtainly a))preciate my
reading it to you, coming as it does from one as able and as distinguished
as Secretary Wilson.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 13

April 2S, 1S9S.
Hon. Redfield Pkoctou, United Stixtet^ Senate.

My Dear Sir — Your favor of April 20th, enclosing a copy of Senate File
4415, '< An Act to Incorporate the Society of American Florists and Orna-
mental Horticulturists," is received.

The object of the bill is to create a l)ody corporate and politic in the
District of Columbia, by the name of the Society of American Florists and
Ornamental Horticulturists, for the elevation and advancement of horticul-
ture in all its branches, and to increase and diffuse the knowledge thereof ;
and the said Association proposes to report from time to time to the Secre-
tary of Agriculture, so that their proceedings may be communicated to Con-
gress.

I believe this is a useful and valuable act. The last Congress thought
so ; President Cleveland did not. This Association will operate along the
whole line of elevating the taste of our people. I believe their work is a
means of grace. It is healthful to people to ornament their homes, their
lawns and their surroundings generally. A love of the beautiful was im-
planted in tlie hearts of all of us by the Master, who, when he was on earth,
called our attention to the lilies and asked us to consider them. This Asso-
ciation proposes to cultivate that sentiment.

I am endeavoring to introduce new flowers into different latitudes of the
United States, from wherever I can find them in the old world. The work
of this Association will be helpful to the Department, I have no doubt. We
pay a great deal of money to foreign countries for bulbs, seeds, etc., because
we love the beautiful. My work here is entirely utilitarian. I desire to
have, and will have, through the wise appropriation of Congress, bulbs, seeds,
etc., brought here from foreign countries and produced here, so as to save
our people very large sums of money now being sent abroad for these things.
I consult with certain of the gentlemen named in this act, with regard to
these importations, and get much useful knowledge from them. The people
will gratify their love for the beautiful in flowers and shrubbery and I desire
that these things be grown in the United States. The Bermuda lily is an
illustration. We pay a very large sum of money to foreign countries for the
bulbs of that lily. I have set technical scientific divisions of the Department
at work studying the diseases of that plant, and to get information for the
people regarding the localities that may produce it at home and save the
money now paid out for it. While my main objects are the saving of money
to the American people, and the procuring of information for our producers
all along the line so that they may produce more economically, I recognize the
great assistance that the Department will get from these gentlemen who
study decorative plants, and so I would be greatly pleased to see you push
this bill and encourage this Association by giving them a name and a place
in our statutes and recognition by the United States.

Very truly yours,

James Wilson, Secretary.

This is not a matter of sentiment from this gentleman to gain favor
of you and yours nor is his interest measured by any glorification what-
ever that he might possibly get out of it, for he has demonstrated by his
great practical work, his interest in Agriculture, in Horticulture and in Flori-
culture, as through his instrumentality and his influence and his practical

14 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

work and encouragement has the Ames Agricultural Institute at Ames,
Iowa, his home, become the standard agricultural institution in our whole
country. I say, all glory to this worthy inspirer of thought and encour-
ager of action in all that pertains to the subjects in which we are so
heartilj^ interested.

Xever has there assemljled anywhere to consider any matter a more
intelligent, painstaking and interested comj^any of gentlemen than those
(•omposing your Executive Committee that held its meeting in Washing-
ton. Every subject of interest to the Society was considered, and many
practical suggestions are the result of this conference. Among them
is the suggestion, presented to you as the sentiment of the Executive
Committee, to have certain new departments under the supervision of
the Society, which I take pleasure in suljmitting for your consideration.
The Department of Credit Information, the duty of which shall be to
ascertain the tinancial standing and credit of persons in the trade, should
be under the control of a committee of three appointed l)y the President
with the approval of the Executive Committee. This sul)J£ct, to my mind,
has its advantages and disadvantages. It may redound to the credit of
the organization to endeavor to keep within the great active working
body of its meiubers throughout the country a certain esprit de corjis, with
regard to honest}' and fair dealing. Oftentimes, by reason of misrepre-
Bentation, much embarrassment and loss is caused to our members and in-
deed to the outside world, all of which reflects in part upon the association
at large. Integrit}' first in all things should l>e our motto, and that would
cause all dealings of every nature and kind and with every person, to be
had with a due regard for honor. On the other hand, we might say that
all who are members of our Society jjossess sterling integrity- and in the
highest sense and that for a moment to question financial standing and
business intercourse is an undue and untimely interference in the affairs
of private individuals. Such is the position that I should love to take
upon this subject, but none of us are infallible, none of us are stronger
than our weakest part. Temptation is a wily, seductive member of the
cabinet of his Satanic JNIajesty, and who can gainsay his mysterious power
and winning faculties when visited with full force upon some of our non-
suspecting and susceptible members ?

But especially do I commend to your favor the Department of Co-op-
erative Purchase, the object of which is made manifest, as it will secure
for the members of the Society reduced prices uj^on greenhouse supplies,
Avhich can be afforded by the co-operative purchase in large »iuantities.
This would be under the supervision of a special committee, but would
put no responsibility whatever upon it in the matter, except in obtaining
from the furnishers prices upon large quantities, and then to impart such
information received to the members of the association who would enjoy
such advantage as would arise therefrom.

There is also suggested a Legislative Department, which would have
charge of all legislation, State and National, concerning the departments
represented by our organization. A general committee could have sub-

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 15

committees in every state in the Union, which would be constantlj' on the
alert for the advancement of our interests and present the same to the
variovis legislatures. This would have an effect not oul}- upon floricul-
ture and tree-growing, Init it would also have its intlueuce in affecting
the exportation rates to growers upon the various common carriers in our
country.

Also, an Arbitration Department, Avhich, as the name implies, would
be for the amicable adjustment of controversies between members, saving
oftentimes long litigation at coui't and much notoriety of an unpleasant
nature which would reflect not at all well upon the credit of the individ-
uals engaged. This would be productive of peace and good feeling, and
a committee apjoointed from your own members would have the interest
of the individuals at heart and would settle all differences, Avhethcr finan-
cial or otherwise, with a due regard to both law and equity ; and lastly, a
Claim Department. This would have among its duties the adjustment of
claims against transportation companies, which to some of our members
would be a subject of considerable import. While in some sections the
fairest treatment has been meteil out by these companies to our organiza-
tion, yet in other sections it has been simjDly a continuation of oppressive
rates, surrounded by all the disadvantages of delay that can possibly
come through incompetent service. It is a surprise to aou, and was a
surprise to the Department of Labor, when approximating the statistics
of the amounts paid by florists for transportation, to find that it reached
up into the great lines of figures that exj^ressed many hundreds of thous-
ands of dollars. So, therefore, a florist, while estimating the cost of the
simplest flower produced by himself, is obliged to add oftentimes as much
as twenty -five per cent, to the cost in the item of transportation in sending
it to his customer.

" Honor to whom honor is due " should be the motto in all honest
emulation. The more difficult the jirize, in the attainment of it the
greater the reward ; the stronger the foe, the greater the victory. It has
been suggested that our system of awarding certificates of merit and
honorable mention is a little too lax, and awards have been made too
freely and without that close scrutiny and just determination which should
be devoted to the subject of awards. When the certificates are issued by
this organization they should mean something and the more difficult they
are to obtain the more they will be appreciated b}' the holder and the
more they will mean to the outer world. This may be- regarded by you
as a suggestion which, if it meets your favor, might at this session bring
forth some definite action which may govern this matter.

While the general subject of fioriculture is constanth' before us,
individually and collectively, I am of opinion that especial attention should
be given to the bulb culture in this coimtry, a business feature that would
keej) man}' thousands of dollars within our own domain and add greatly
to one of the most lucrative and comprehensive products of our industn,-.
The Roman hyacinth especially is commended to your consideration for
personal devotion at home.

16 PROCEEPINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

In the southwest we have a great State, Texas, as large as an
empire (it is called the " Lone Star State "), sending forth at the proper
season its sweet perfume of Cape Jessamine, which could it reach far
enough would waft its delightful odor over its sister States. Its climate
and its soil are such that if a great Chinese wall or a mountain barrier
shut ofi this State from the rest of our country', it could successfully grow
almost everything that the earth produces. It is in about the same
latitude as the islands of the sea around which now war's alarms are
sounding, and its rich lands, widespread as they are, offer a welcome to
our profession.

The tuberose and the gladiolus once were upon the import list but
now, as you well know, they are. exported in great quantities to various
countries and bring the revenue therefrom this way instead of leaving it
abroad. The crocus, polj^anthus, and the nai'cissus are candidates for
your kind solicitation and tender care. The calla, which once knew only
the confines of the narrow space of a pottery home, now is reckoned as a
free-earth, open-air California product, side by side with the fresia,
which under laasking Pacific suns and fanned by the Pacific air is suc-
cessfully developed and grown. The Lilivim longiflorum and Harrisii
should also be sent from this country abroad, instead of having them seek
their way to our shores. We will have in the near future araucaria
factories, as we already have various rubber factories, not for rubber
shoes nor mackintoshes, but the beautiful ficus, which is marvelously
well grown bj^ our well-known "Deacon" Harris of Philadelphia, who
was the first life-member of our Society. Forty years ago there were
only eight Latania Borbonica palms in the United States ; to-day there
are upwards of three million as potted plants. It is said tliat only two of
these palms have borne seed, one belonging to the Federal Government
and the other to the Corcoran estate, both of them in Washington, District
of Columbia, and from these two plants no less than sixty thousand young
palm seeds have been distributed throughout the cities and territories,
which coming from the United States Botanical Garden may really be
attributed to the one seeding plant rather than to the two.

I think also that generosity should be one of the virtues of the florist ;
that is, he should not be too narrow and selfish in the matter of discov-
eries. Being united for our common good, should entitle the wide-spread
distribution of thoughts and ideas concerning plants and flowers in every
particular, so that a new and rare :plant in one section should give the
benefit of its beauty- and of its rarity to all interested in the art through-
out the whole countrj'.

The time will come when the flower that is " born to blush unseen"
will be receiving the adulation of countless thousands of our people. The
evolution of the fi^ld daisy, once a common weed, and the chrysanthemum,
with its hundreds of varieties of gorgeous development, are probably two
of the most wonderful exemplifications of Avhat may be done by concen-
tration of thought and by experiment. Who knows but that the micro-
.scopic flowering plants of the prairie may in coming years become the

SOCIETY OF AJIERICAN FLORISTS. 17

glad adornment of the richest feasts ? Who knows l-ut that the tinj-
forget-me-not, with its sweet delicate shade of iieaveu-reliected blue, may
become a giant flower in company with those representing the hardi-
ness and strength and the beauty of some of the greatest botanical
specimens ?

Referring to strong flowers, color to the eye is the indication of force
and strength ; therefore red flowers should be more in evidence — the
rose, " queen of flowers," the red poppy, the red dahlia and red carna-
tions. Then also, as the coming flower, the orchid, marvellously mys-
terious in its growth, most delicate in its formation and most exquisite in
its tinting, should receive more general study in its cultivation. Hydran-
geas in their numberless varieties, for outdoor ornamentation, and hardy-
blooming plants for out-of-doors, form one of the grandest opportunities
for a profitable field of labor in the future.

It is useless, however, for me to take up your time with these sug-
gestions, as who among you is not familiar with the subject we so dearly
love and of which we are so great a part ? Individual interest and
advancement mean our united j^rogress. With genuine interest each
should enter into the knowledge, by any one of our members, of any
discovery or any advance in the development of floriculture that may be
made by him.

Our art has become one of the great bread-winners in the country
and for the country and its increase naturally becomes a matter of
national interest and national pride. It is your duty to encourage the
taste that is being manifested everywhere for the love of flowers and for
the use of them. Sho"\v me one who cultivates flowers and beautifies the
domestic hearth-stool, and I will show you a home in which love prevails.
Show me devotion to the growing plant and the budding rose and I will
show you maternal and paternal devotion in the rearing of the children
of the home. Show me flowei's without and I will show you the presence
of education and tlie taste and culture that belong to them within.

There is no more potent antidote to evil thoughts, corrupt natures
and low sensuality than the adoration of the beautiful ; and what can lay
greater claim to all that is expressed by the word " beautiful" than flow-
ers ? They are present in our midst upon almost every occasion, be it
joyous or sad. The wedding bells ring out their glad sounds of greeting ;
all around and about the bridal pair are the ornamentations of loveliness
and floral beauty. The muflled tolling of the solemn bells in mournful
strains, indicating the passing away of a soul,— and there, too, we find
the tributes of love, affection, and respect and tokens of sentiment
exjiressed in flowers. Come to the hapj^y feast where the songs are sung
and the wine goes round and there, too, shedding forth the lustre of their
beauty and speaking words of welcome and hospitality, are the sweet
products of our art.

Increase the love of flowers, develop the taste and in that propor-
tion is the demand greater. The Inisiness grows necessarily with the
demand ; therefore it behooves you to strive that this end may be attained.

18 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

There is no better place to set a good example than in and around and
about your own homes and gardens. A shoemaker, it is said, keeps the
poorest shoes upon his own wife's feet. Such reputation as that should
never be attributed to the floriculturist. Become a part benefactor on
your own premises, as he who plants a tree or Hower or cultivates a spot
of ground is a benefactor because the result being a delight to the eye
contributes to the pleasure of mankind. Don't fear the criticism of adver-
tising the business, as there is no occupation that could possibly be purer,
more benevolent or more godlike than our own. Therefore it is not
with shame but pride that all of you, at this occasion, at every place, and
in every section and among all people, say " I am a florist."

You should "let your light so shine before men that they may see
your good works." If London can produce monthly a great flower exhi-
bition, surely there is no reason why America could not have annually at
some great metropolis a flower Exposition, wherein the whole country
could join ; and before concluding I trespass this suggestion upon you
that steps will be taken here at this meeting looking to carry out this
idea.

In conclusion, while not endeavoring to enter into sentimentality, I
may be pardoned if I trespass a little into the poetry of our art and speak
in the language of the flowers the sentiment of the hour.

First, to Woman. Our devotion to her should be next to that to our
Creator, but I cannot pay more pleasing compliment to her than to spread
at her feet " the Austrian Rose," which silently expresses this sentiment,
" Thou art all that's lovely!" Woman! — our mothers, our wives, our
sisters and our sweethearts — how grandly glorious thy mission !

To give to society its liigliest taste —
Well ordered home, man's best delight to make —
And by submissive wisdom, modest skill,
With every additional care, deluding art —

To raise the virtue, animate the bliss,
And sweeten all the toils of human life: —
This be the female dignity and praise.

Next in adoration. Our Country. The sound of strife is never wel-
come, but the call to duty fell not upon deaf ears in the brief arbitrament
of arms through which we have just passed (and I beg to indulge the hope
completelj^ and entirely passed) , as alike to the victorious and to the van-
(juished it has about it much of sorrow, hardship and tears, for the booming
of cannon and the rattle of musketry is always followed by the sound of
muffled drums and the music of funeral dirges.

We express the return of peace Avith the olive, which has mythologi-
cally been sacred to Minerva, and always the emblem of peace since
before the Ark rested on Mount Ararat. Many of our flowers have
mythological creations with most beautiful legends. In the disijute
1)etween Minerva and Neptune it was decided by the gods that whichever
of the two should sfive to the inhabitants of the earth the most useful

SOCIETY OF AMERICAX FLORISTS. 19

present, great should be the reward. The olive was brought by Minerva,
being the emblem of peace, which was decided to be far superior to
Neptune's horse, the symbol of war and bloodshed. The olive, then,
to-day be with you, and could I stand and figuratively throw out the
emblem to all parts of the country and to the whole world, I would now
waft myriads of leaves and let the winds carry them to the uttermost ^jarts
of the earth.

And now, one more : To those who have fought the Xation's battles,
and who are returning again to their firesides to transpose the weapons
of war into the ploughshare and pruning hook, we offer the nasturtium,
which is a " warlike trophy." And so, Avith the bard —

"We bring flowers to strew in the conqueror's path ;
He hath shaken thrones with his stormy wrath.
He comes with the spoils of Nations back ;
The vines lie crushed in his chariot's track
The turf looks red where he won the day ;
Bring flowers to strew in the conqueror's way.

Finally as peace hath its victories as well as war, go on with A'our honest
emulation in endeavoring to insi^ire a greater zeal and interest in your
organization, a more widespread knowledge of our Art, and wherever it
is possible to cultivate a love of it among the enlightened and 2)rogressive
people of this our glorious Country.

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY.

Mr. "William J. Stewart, the Secretary, responding to the
call of the Chair, read his annual report.
The following is the report : —

Mr. President and Members — I am glad to be able to report a pros-
perous year for our Societ}-, in which we have not only held our ground,
but made also a slight gain over the record of the two jjreceding years.
The new method of assessing and collecting annual dues, which went into
operation with the beginning of the present year, simplifies the work of
collection and the discontinuance of the cumbersome delinquent list
removes a prolific cause of friction. As to the effect of the new system
on our treasury it is yet too early to say, and in the- present transition
period practical and useful comparisons of past and present conditions as
to finances or active memberships cannot be made.

One hundred and thirty five persons who paid in 1896, had, up to
August 10th, 1898, neglected to respond for 1897 assessment. The num-
ber of assessments collected for 1897 was .504, of which 108 were from
new accessions and 25 were renewals of membershiji by former delin-
(juents, each of the latter paying $2.00 extra for the privilege.

The additions were credited to the different States as follows : One
each from District of Columbia, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota,

20 PROCEEDIN(iS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

New Hiimpshire, Nebraska, Virginia; two each from California, Maine,
Wisconsin ; three from New Jersey ; four from Ohio ; five from Connec-
ticut ; seven from Rhode Island ; twelve each from Pennsylvania and
New York; fifty-one from Massachusetts.

Four deaths have been reported since we last met : Thomas Cart-
ledge, Philadelphia, Pa., died on May 17th, 1898 ; Morris A. Hill, Ansonia,
Connecticut, May 27th, 1898; II. Karlson, P^xeter, New Hampshire, July
4th, 1898; Philip Wielaud, Boston, Mass., July 8, 1898.

The Providence convention was a memorable one, creditable alike
to the Society and to the local fiorists and gardeners of Providence and
Newport. Its history has been fully told in the annual report of our
Society and nothing in" connection with it requires special mention at this
time, except that some of our members were once more made victims of
an untrustworthy photographer who collected money for pictures that
were only delivered months afterwards and under pressure exerted
through the Secretarj-'s oftice.

The trade exhibition at Providence was a large and comprehensive one
and managed with great ability. The competition for the Society's medals
brought out some exhibits of the highest educational interest, notal)ly that
of home grown rhododendrons and azaleas. The visit to Newport's
lovely gardens was ecpially valuable as an object lesson.

The printed list of new plants introduced to the American trade in
1897, as ordered by the Society, required much labor in compilation but
appears to have been a good move and the lists of succeeding years will
be more easily done and also more complete. There is a strong demand
for a system of ofticial registration of names given to new varieties of
plants on lines similar to the j^lan adopted l)y the Aiuerican Carnation
Society. Your secretary believes that something of this kind should be
provided for at this meeting.

Our life membership fund has been sul)scribed to by fourteen mem-
bers. It was hoped that this list would have reached larger proportions
b}' this time — forty or fifty at least — so that we might start off with a
substantial permanent fund.

Railroad transportation has been a most annoying and tedious prob-
lem this year. The railroads have moved cautiously because of the
entanglements that would follow^ rate cutting to the Exposition and the
concessions which were finally granted us, although very satisfactory
otherwise, came too late to materially affect our attendance from distant
points.

Rarely since the formation of this Society have we seen so much
interest manifested as was shown by those present at the Executive Com-
mittee meeting at Washington last spring. The holding of the general
session of the Committee at a place other than the location of the next
convention, for financial reasons which the Committee well understood
and the reference of local convention arrangements at Omaha to the
President, Vice-President and Secretary, although productive of some
unfavorable comment at the time, is now generally conceded to have

SOCIETY OF AMEKICAN FLORISTS. 21

been a wise course under existing circumstances and the question arises
whether this plan or a modification of it might not with advantage be fol-
lowed regularly hereafter.

On the most important results of the Committee's deliberations, the
proposed new special departments of purchase, credit information, arbi-
tration, claims and legislation, our programme calls for action at to-mor-
row's session. The importance of careful deliberation in deciding as to
whether the Society should strike out into these new fields of endeavor,
must be apjjarent to all and it is greatly to be desired that every member
in attendance shovild be present at this and every other business session
and do his part towards shaping wisely the future policy of the organiza-
tion. The sijccial field in which the Society labored so well in its young
day§ is now pretty well covered b}' our enterprising trade journals and
we are called upon to move on to live issues. Just in i)roportion as we
keep in close touch with the practical business prol^lems and present needs
of the fiorists of America so will the shifting character of our support and
membership be removed, we shall be strong where we are now weak,
and we shall obtain desired permanence and stability.

We meet this time in a locality far remote from the scenes of our
past activity and the wisdom of this new departure has naturally been the
theme of some discussion. Upon what we do here we shall be judged.
Let it not be said that we are trifiers. We are here to do something use-
ful ; let us all attend to that first, earnestly and in order. The ^Midway
will still be in the same place when we get through and we can enjoy it
all the more in the consciousness of having shown due courtesy to one
another and performed our duty to the Society and to our fellows through-
out the country' for whose interests we profess to work.

If, as has been said, the S. A. F. is heard from but once a year, let
that once be loud and strong this time. Whether the Executive Com-
mittee in its recommendations has struck the right chord, is for you to
determine. If their views as to the Society's scope and its power for
good do not apjieal to your sound judgment give us something that does,
and let us not think of adjournment until something practical has been
accomplished and the long sought key to the united support and sympathy
of our profession throughout the land has been found.

And, gentlemen of the AVest, do not forget that to the Secretary's
ejes the best evidence of prosperity is found within the covers of the roll
book. A steady decrease in the membership means 4:hat something is
wrong. We want you not only to join us but we want you to stay. You
have the oj^portunity to set a good example and let the county realize
that, so far as your influence goes, the Society is no longer forced to de-
pend for sustenance upon the temporary alfiliation of the man in whose
neighborhood the organization may happen to convene. Should our visit
to Omaha help to win for us your enthusiastic, loyal support and active
co-operation and at the same time infuse vts with a little of the courageous
resourceful spirit which dominates the hustling pioneers of our business
in the vast undeveloped Trans-Mississippi country and of which we, as a

22

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

society, stand so greatly in need, then indeed shall we have reason to ap-
plaud the good judgment and foresight that selected this as our meeting
place, and the Convention of 1S98, in the record of the good work accom-
plished, will stand pre-eminent in the annals of our beloved Society.

REPORT OF THE TREASURER.

Tlie President called for the Treasurer's report.

The Secretary responded that Treasurer H. B. Beatty had
forwarded his report with a letter stating his inability to be
present on account of some very important matters which he had
to attend to in the business with which he is occupied. The report,
which was read by the Secretary, was as follows : —

18117 .
Jan.

1. To Balance per Statement rendered Executive Committee
at Providence, and audited by Committee, — J. N.
May, Wm. Scott, and J. (i. Esler

$il021.19

Received.

Mar. 22.

Book 501-550, dues, 1896 .
Series 18!l6, dues, 1897

Aug. 2. Book 551-600, Series 1895.

Arrears

Dues, 1894, 2 at .'gS.OO

" 1895, 42 " "

Book 401-450, Series 1896.

Dues, 1896, 43 at .$3.00

" 1897, 7 " "

Aug. 7. Book 1-50, Series 1897.

Dues, 1897, 49 at $!3.00

Book 51-100, Series 1897.

Dues, 1897, SO'at $3.00

Aug. 30. Book 101-150, 1897, 49 at $3.00..
1898, 1 "

Arrears

Book 151-200, 1897, 50 at $3.00..

Arrears

Book 201-250, 1897, 50 at $3.00.

Arrears

Book 251-300, 1897, 51 at $3.00.

Arrears

Book 301-350, 1897, 51 at $3.00.

Arreaij's

Series 1896, Book 451-500.

1895, 3

1896, 46

1897, 1

Carried forward,

129.00
21.00

3.00

6.00

126.00

8.00

129.00

21.00

10.00
147.00

6.00
150.00
147.00

3.00

2.00
150.00

8.00
150.00

4.00

153.00

16.00

153.00

2.00

9.00

138.00

3.00

$2670.19

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

23

1898.
Jan. 1.

Brought forward, |!2670.19

Received W. J. Stewart, Book 601.

Dues, 1895, 9 at $3.00 27.00

Book 601, 1896, 6 " " 18.00

" 351,1897,50" " 150.00

Arrears 2.00

" 401,1897,48 at $3.00 144.00

$3056.19

Payments.

1897.

Mar. 29.

Paid A. Graham,

as per voucher Nc

.79,

$ .35.00

" Wm. Scott,

" "

80,

26.62

'• W. N. Rudd,

" "

81.

55.00

" Wm. K. Harris,

"

82,

18.10

" John G. Esler,

"

83,

11.05

" "NVm. J. Stewart,

" "

84,

2.00

" Jackson Dawson,

"

• 85,

2.00

" Elmer D. Smith,

" "

86,

45.50

" Wm. F. Gude,

"

87,

25.35

" E. A. Wood,

"

88,

2.30

" W. A. Manda,

"

89,

12.30

May 24.

" J. H. McFarland C

0., " "

90,

6.10

June 28.

" John F. Cowell,

"

91,

27.02

" N. Stafford,

"

92,

38.00

" Wm. J. Stewart,

" "

93,

375.00

Aug. 2.

" Wyckoff, Seamans

& Benedict " "

M,

15.00

" Wm. J. Stewart,

"

95,

184.;37

Aug. 30.

" Jos. I. Gilbert,

"

96,

110.00

Sept. 20.

" Wyckoff, Seamans

& Benedict " "

97,

21.00

" Wm. J. Stewart,

"

98,

132.96

Dec. 13.

" G. W. Bradlee,

"

99,

299.00

Dec. 21.

" Wm. J. Stewart,

" "

100,

375.00

1898.

Jan. 1.

" Wm. J. Stewart,

"

101,

77.08

" J. H. McFarland,

"

102,

2.95

1899.30

Balance,

1156.89

$.3056.19

Summary.

Received for the year 1894, dues .

$ 6.00

"

1895, " .

162.00

414.00

1389.00

3.00

61.00

«

1896, "

<<

1897, "

«

1898, "

<<

arrears

2035.00

Balance, Jan

. 1, 1897

1021.19

$3056.19

24 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Credit Summary.

Secretary's Salary ^750.00

Assistant to Secretary at Annual Meeting 31.34

Executive Committee Meeting 272.24

Stenographer's Report of Annual Convention 110.00

Printing Proceedings of Annual Convention 267.00

Miscellaneous Printing 85.80

Secretary's office expenses 189.40

Treasurer's office expenses 9.05

Annual Badges 44.35

Miscellaneous expenses 140.12

1899. ;30
S1156.89

GENERAL BUSINESS.

On motion of Mr. H. A. Siebrecht, seconded b}' Mr, W. W.
Coles, the reports of the Secretary and Treasurer were accepted
and ordered to be filed.

The Secretary made the following announcement of appoint-
ments made by the President of Committees to examine and report
upon the Trade Exhibition ; the first name in each instance being
that of the chairman of the committee : —

Class A, Plants — Edgar Sanders, Philip Gauges, W. E. Kemble.

Class B, Cut Blooms — D. B. Long, A. S. Swanson, William
Miller.

Class C, Boilers and Heating Apparatus — E. Weinhoeber,
W. II. Elliott, John Wunder.

Class D, Greenhouse Supplies and Flower Pots — George L.
Miller, George M. Kellogg, Robert George.

Class E, Florists' Supplies and Fancy Earthenavare — John
T. Temple, C. G. Anderson, Jacob Schultz.

Class F, Bulbs and Seeds — Emil ftehray, ^Villiam Clark, C. G.
Weeber.

Class G, Miscellaneous — Edgar Sanders, Emil Schray, E. Wein-
hoeber, George L. Miller, D. B. Long, John T. Temple. (This com-
mittee was constituted of the chairmen of the other committees.)

The Secretary also announced the appointment of ex-
Presidents E. G. Hill, Robert Craig, and Wm. Scott as Judges
to make the awards in the competition for the silver and bronze
medals offered by the Society, and called attention to the exhibits

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 25

made in this department, which were arranged in the adjoining
parlor and consisted of a display of American grown bulbs from
the State of Washington and two collections of photographs of
floral work.

REPORTS OF STATE VICE-PRESIDENTS.

At this point the roll of the States was called for reports from
the State Vice-Presidents. A number of these, iu writing, had
already been received by the Secretary, and several additions were
here presented.

The President announced that the reports would now be
read.

Mr. Robert Crakj, of Philadelphia ; As there is so much work
before the Society I move to dispense with the reading of the reports
unless the reading be called for. My puri:>ose is merely to economize
time.

Mr. W. W. Coles seconded the motion.

The motion prevailed notwithstanding a considerable negative
vote.

Mr. Wm. Scott, of Buffalo : I think it is very poor encourage-
ment for a Vice-President that we should decline to have his report read,
after he has taken the trouble to write it and send it here. It is proposed
not to have the reports laid over until a specific time but to dispense
with the reading of them entirely. I am opposed to that. I move to
reconsider the action just taken.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecut, of New Rochelle, jST. Y. : I agree with
Brother Scott and disagree with Brother Craig. I think that the office
of State Vice-President has been a kind of slip-sliod arrangement all
along, and I for one am sick and tired of the way in which its duties have
been ignored. I hope that our next President will make it a special
point to appoint, as Vice-President in each State, a ^nan who will dis-
charge the duties of the office and who will send in a report. There are
in every State men who are willing to make sacrifices of money and of
time to accomplish something in the right direction. The office ought to
be one of the most important in our Society. I hope there will be a vote
here in favor of reading those reports and that it may have some good
effect in bringing out reports in the future.

A vote was here taken, when Mr. Scott's motion to reconsider
the vote dispensing with the reading of the reports was agreed to.

26 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

The question being again presented, it was ordered, on motion of
Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT, that the reports be read.

The Secretary accordingly read the reports as received.*
Following are the reports in full : —

eastern new YORK.

To the President, and Fellow-Members of the S. A. F. 0. H. — In
fulfillment of the requirements of the office of State Vice-President, to
wit, to present a report of the progress and interesting horticultiiral events
that have occurred in my State during the preceding year, together with
such suggestions as, in my opinion, are calciilated to increase the popu-
larity and etficiency of the Society Avithin my jurisdiction, I beg leave to
submit the following :

While the progress in the horticultural Avorld, in that portion of New
York State of which you did me the honor to appoint me as State Vice-
President for the past year, has not been phenomenal, yet there has
been sufiicient of it in evidence to implant within us the belief that the
world doth move, horticulturally, in that locality.

Perhaps the surest indicator that points to the material progress mak-
ing is the quantity of greenhouse building that is doing in the State ; and to
give an idea in this respect, I cannot do better than quote from a letter
which I have received from one of the jDrincipal firms engaged in that
industry. They say: "We think that our business, since last August,
has been about the same as the previous years have averaged for eight or
ten yeai's back. We would say, however, that this result, for the last year
or two, has only been obtained by the greatest effort on our part, as gen-
eral business conditions have been in such a Ijad way that they have seri-
ously affected greenhouse building. Our experience has been that florists
have built as little as possible, and wealthy people have also l^een very
slow to decide to build."

Trade Conditions — Notwithstanding the fact that the dark clouds of
war have been hovering over our fair huid for a large portion of the time
that has intervened since we last met, and that business has suffered a
temporary check, amounting almost to stagnation in consequence, I am
pleased to report that the volume of trade done, in this industry, in my
locality, will compare favorablj- with that of former years. Business both
at Christmas and Easter was satisfactory, the latter particularly so ; the
only drawback being the stiffness of collections for the goods sold. The
war has had the effect of almost completely annihilating the steamer trade
this year ; and when at last signs of peace were returning, they came too

* Note. — The report from the Vice-President for Eastern New York,
Mr. Alex. Wallace, had been received but, liaving been borrowed for tem-
porary use by a member, was not presented at this time. It was subsequently
returned, and was read by its author at the morning session, Thursday,
August 18.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 27

late in the season to beuetit this branch of the business. A fact to be
noted is, that amid the general depression in the cut flower line, while
averages for stock in general will be lower than last year, carnations and
violets have averaged better than roses relatively.

Export and ImjMrt Traffic — The export and import iiorticultnral
traffic at the port of New York goes on apace, as the following extract
from the report of the Treasury Department, for the last tiscal year, will
show :

Total amount of plants, trees and vines exported .S47,826

" " " " " " " imported 515,625

" " " plants, orchids for forcing under glass

imported 21,425

'• " " seeds exported 168,013

The Auction Sales Rooms in the Citj^ have been patronized more
largely this season than in former years, both by consignors and pur-
chasers, but the prices obtained for stock sold through this cliannel have
been lower than usual, owing, no doubt, to the prevailing hard times and
the increased quantity of goods sent in for disposal.

As to the outlook I would quote the opinion of a large firm doing
a general business, and which may Ije taken as an indication of the feeling
prevailing around New York :

" Regarding immediate prospects for general business, they seem to
be pre-eminently favorable. The balance of trade is phenomenally in
our favor. Our visible crops are unusually large. A great proportion of
our wealthy traveling population have remained at home, and as a conse-
quence will purchase much at home that they have hitherto purchased
abroad.

"Foreign consumers will need our products at a fair price. New
markets will unquestionably l)e opened as a sequence of the war, and our
older foreign markets will be amplified in some countries.

" The chief detrimental effect that the war will have upon business
will l)e the scare. The facts are that Inisiness has been good in the United
States during all our previous war periods, save the first few months
succeeding the declai'ation of war.

"Weighing the favorable and unfavorable conditions against each
other, the favorable seems so strongly in the ascendency that it seems
safe to prophesy a highly prosperous business era, commencing with the
usual fall oijening of business, and I see no reason.why the florist trade
.should be denied its full' share of this prosperity."

As regards interesting horticultural events, the following are among
the most noteworthy that have come under my observation : —

Contest for Chri/mnthemnm Sociely of America'' s Cup — On October
21, 1897, occurred at the Madison Square Garden, New Y^ork, in connec-
tion with the exhibition given by the American Institute, the contest for
the silver cup offered by the Chrysanthemum Society of America for best
six chrysanthemums of six varieties, the object of the contest being to
encourage the exhibition of early chrysanthemums . The cup was won by

28 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. A. Herrington, ]\Iadi.sou, X. J., with the varieties Miss Georgiemie
Bramhall, Vi viand Morel, Mrs. Henry Robinson, Ethel Addison (an
English variety), Major Bonnaffon and Maj-tiower. This competition was
most interesting, demonstrating as it did the possibility of a satisfactory
display of chrysanthemums being made as early as the date on which the
contest occurred.

fertificaled Chrijsanthemiims — The committee of the Chrysanthemum
Society of America met in New York, October 23 and 30, and November
6, 13, 20 and 27, last, to insiDect and pass judgment on seedlings submitted
to them for the purpose of certitication. Twenty varieties were before
the committee, and out of that number six received certiticates. They
were : Solar (^ueen, Australian Gold, Pennsjdvania, Frank Hardy,
Autumn (41ory and W. H. Chadwick'.

Exhibitiojis — During the months of September and October the
American Institute gave a continuous display in the Madison Square Gar-
den, at which exhibition the most elaborate exhibit of dahlias probably
ever made anywhere was presented ; and which created popular interest.
In connection with this exliibition occurred the cup contest of the Chrysan-
themum Society of America previously referred to.

The flower show of the New York Gardeners' Society, held at the
Waldorf-Astoria hotel last fall, was probably the most unique ever given ;
certainly no floral exhil^ition was ever held among such gorgeous envi-
rons. Both of the foregoing shows were well jsatronized.

Flower shows have also been given in various towns adjacent to
the Metropolis — at Poughkeepsie, Portchester, Millbrook, and Mount
Kisco, N. Y., all being fairly well attended.

No flower show was given last fall by the New York Florists' Club,
or under its auspices, a fact which I very much regret to have to record ;
but I may state that the Club instituted a competition for its gold medal,
so as to create a greater interest in the Club's monthly meetings ; the
medal to be awarded to the party whose exhibits receives the largest num-
Iier of points during tlie year, 1898. This competition, unfortunately,
has not turned out so satisfactory, thus far, as was anticipated. The com-
petition, however, continues until the end of the year and conditions may
improve.

Pei'manent Plant Market — The establishment of what may be called
a permanent plant market under cover in New York City was effected
this past spring, the initiative in this matter having been taken by the
New York, Market Florists' Association, the members whereof supporting
the project having taken stalls in the old Clinton Market, Canal street, rent-
ing same from the city. The growers })atronising this mart have been
well pleased with the business done ; and it is expected that the institu-
tion will become a fixe4 one, and that the market will ere long l)e contin-
uous throughout the year.

Combaiing Adverse Legislation — Some important work in this
connection has been done this year. In Februar}^ last Mv. P. O'Mara, of
Peter Henderson & Co., New York, on l)ehalf of his Arm, appeared before

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 29

the Committee of Agricultiux' at Washington, and was heard in opposi-
tion to the proposed Federal statute to govern the inspection of plants
imported into the United States, and the inspection of plants grown within
the United States that become subjects of interstate commerce ; the object
of the bill being to prevent the spread of insect and fmigous pests. Mr.
O'lNIara was successful in having a proviso inserted in the Inll exempting
all Horists' stock from the provisions of the act.

Later, at Albany, New York, a committee of the Xew York Florists'
Club, consisting of Messrs. O'Mara, May and Allen, ap2)eared before a
committee of the Xew York Legislature and was heard relative to an act
relating to the prevention of disease in fruit trees and pests that infest the
same, some of the clauses of which covered plants. The gentlemen
named were successful in having a section added to this bill, exemjjting
all florists' stock from its provisions.

Horticultural Literature — There have been issued from publishing
houses in Xew York the following books devoted to horticultural sub-
jects : Garden Making, also The Pruning Book (Maemillau's) ; Green-
house Management (Orange Judd Co.) ; The Water Garden, also
Residential Sites and Environments (De La Mare Printing and Publishing
Company, Limited).

Obituary — Death has removed from our section, since the last meet-
ing of this Society, the following gentlemen, workers in and patrons of
horticultitre : Mr. Chas. A. Dana, P. E. McAllister, K. P. Lee, and Dr.
Lintner.

Miscellaneous — Other matters of interest that may be cited are the
advancement making with the horticultui-al buildings and the general
progress of the Botanical Garden in Bronx Park; the institution of a
series of ])ul)lic lectures on horticultural subjects, under the auspices of
the horticultural section of the American Institute — something that our
city has been sadly in need of, the lectures being very well attended ; the
monthly exhibitions of the same institution ; the inauguration of what
may be designated a ready cash commission house in Xew York, the out-
come of which is being anxiously looked forward to, as the success of this
venture will no doubt have a tendency to revolutionize, to some extent,
the terms ujjon which purchases of cut Howers will be made ; in other
words, to institute a new credit system, something that would be welcomed
by the many. This institution will, it is expected, also affect the prices
on certain classes of stock.

Suggestions — I can suggest no better way to increase the pojiularity
and efficiency of this Society, within my jurisdiction, than for this Con-
vention to vote that the Society hold its next annual meeting within the
State of Xew York, either in Saratoga, or in good old Xew York City
itself.

Respectfully submitted Ijy

Yours Fraternally,

Alex. Wallace, Vice-President.

30 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

WESTERN NEW YORK.

The year that has elapsed since our last convention can be called a
quiet uneventful time. We believe that the volume of business done,
however, was a considerable advance on the last four years, but the record
of occasions and events calling for large displays of flowers and decora-
tions is yet far behind what we experienced in the season of '92 and '93.

The jjlant trade was less affected by the hard times than the cut
flower and decorative department of our business. The general use of
plants for the dwelling house has been wonderfully increased and few
families noAv-a-days that aspire to smj degree of comfort are without a
I^alm, a fern or some plant that thrives in the house.

The business in bulbous stuff has been gradually demoralized till
last winter thousands of tulips and narcissuses were sold below cost of
bulbs and labor.

Many growers complain bitterly of the poor price that their products
realize, but the tendency of the age in our business is to demand an article
of first rate quality. If many wholesale growers would strive to grow
flowers of highest quality and in diminished quantities they would find
their returns far more satisfactory and it would be a mutual benefit to
grower, commission man, store man and purchaser.

In spite of nearh" all fall exhibitions l^eing a financial failure our
local society has attempted to take on a new lease of life and we are
making preparations to hold a chrysanthemum show in November.

There is not a great addition to the greenhouse area of Western New
York within the past year but still some increase, and the tendency with
all those who now build is to erect well-built, substantial structures. The
best materials and the most improved and modern methods of construc-
tion are now the rule.

In one of our parks of Buffalo a .f 100,000 range of conservatories is
being built and this Ave confidently believe will be a great medium not
only for the diffusion of knowledge but must increase the love and taste
for the beautiful and curious in the floral world.

While we hear no disparaging remarks about the S. A. F. and O. II.
we regret that the attendance from our locality will not be larger. While
in our opinion it is eminently proper to go West occasionally we can
hardly expect for several reasons that the attendance will be large. On
the return of the Society to a more central location (horticulturally) such
as Niagara or Saratoga we Avili find the great army of florists as loyal as
ever.

The auxiliar}' societies, the Hail and the Fire Insurance Associations,
are of great value to the trade and a credit to the j^arent society fi'om
which they sjjrang ahd a means of bringing many into the membership
of the S. A. F. The Fire Association is yet in its infancy but it could
bear much more advertising, ventilating and work. When once firmly
established and thoroughly organized it will be the means of saving the
trade hundreds of thousands of dollars.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 31

The department store evil is slowly making inroads into our business
in our locality, and why they are not yet seriously felt is because they are
not ready, not because they have anj scruples. The department store
may buy blocks of palms or rubbers or bushels of roses and carnations
and the man who makes the sale to them thinks he has done a great
business. Perhajjs he has, but indirectly he has hurt dozens of legitimate
tlorists. Department stores have closed up thousands of stores through-
out the land in all classes of business, greatly depreciated the value of
business property, thrown thousands of people out of employment,
degraded labor until their employees — especially the young women — are
little more than slaves. This is supposedly a free country and it will be a
free and manly act if every grower in the country says, " No, Mr. Depart-
ment Store, you cannot buy of me ; stick to your dry goods — T sell only
to florists ; they have to live as well as you."

Wm. F. Kasting, Vice-President.

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA.

As I will be miable to attend at Omaha I forward the following brief
report :

I am not aware of any great horticultural event during the past year.
Business has been steady — getting down to a substantial basis. The
excitement of the present war has had a depressing influence on trade,
but it is generally believed that when the pendulum of time swings back
again our business will be better than it has been for many years.

There has been considerable building during the past year, most of
which has been to rej^lace houses that had served their time.

I would suggest to the Society the propriety of lojjping off the Orna-
mental tail added last year as it is neither ornamental nor useful. Also
that in the future it would be well to hold the Conventions in the centers
of the i^opulation. I do not know of any other two things that would in-
crease the popularity and usefulness of the Society more than these.

Joseph Heacock, Vice-President.

AVESTERN PENNSYLVANIA.

There has not been anything done new or novel in the florist's line in
this vicinity this year that is worthy of mention, with the exception of the
formation of wholesale cut flower commission houses at Pittsburgh, a
feature of the florist's business never attempted in Western Pennsylvania
before. Two are exjiected to open in .September next.

The trade has been very fair most of the j'ear. The war has not
had as injurious an effect as was anticipated at first. The Easter trade
was the best we have had for years. The prospects for a good year to
come are, I consider, very flattering.

32 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Regretting I cannot offer any suggestions for the advancement of the
8. A. F.

I am very respectfully,

Glstav Lldwig, Fice-Prcsidoit.

NEW JERSEY.

In regard to the aminal report that State Vice-Presidents are exi)eeted
to make, I know of no occurrence that calls for special mention within
this jurisdiction except the recent muniticence of Mr. D. Willis James, of
Madison, who at a cost of not less than $100,000, bought out the slums
of Madison that happened to be right in the heart of the borough, con-
verted them into a jmblie Park and on July 4 presented it to the citizens
of Madison.

A. riERRiN(;TON, Vice-President.

CONNECTICl'T.

As regards business, it has been fair considering all things, what with
the hard times and war.

We are all looking forward for ])rosperous business this fall.

]Mi;s. II. E. Charter, Vice-President.

VERMONT.

In conformity with my duty as State Vice-President of Vermont, I
wish to make the following report :

Having heard from several of the florists throughout the State, I wish
to say that the most of them say business has averaged a little better.
For ni}^ own part I would say, in cut flowers much better but the sale of
bedding plants not ijuite as good. The greatest call was for carnations,
violets, daffodils, and lilies in winter and sj^ring. Easter trade was good ;
short on lilies and carnations ; could have sold a good many more of
each.

I expect when this war is over and peace again reigns over this land
that prosperity will come and that the florists will have their share. Trust-
ing this meeting of the Society will be a success both in number who at-
tend and subjects brought up and discussed, sorry I am not able to attend
this time and hoping the Society will have such a good meeting that the
Western florists will think so much more of the Eastern florists as to at-
tend in greater numbers than ever befoi'e.

Yours respectfully,

D. McCiiLLivRAY, Vice- President.

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 33

MINNESOTA.

The jjrogress of floriculture in the North Star State has flourished
during the past year. Trade has shown an ui^vvard tendency all along
the line ; prices have been better and the demand for our products greater
than for several years past. With this era of better prices and greater
demand we had a light winter, thus reducing fuel bills and other exjjenses ;
a most favorable sj^ring for trade and an excellent growing season since.
The dawn of better times is certainly at hand. The croiJ jj respects in the
great Northwest were never brighter than now, while a steady foreign
demand for our farm products insures good i^rices for some time to come.
When the country in general is prosperous, the florists are, in the nature
of things, bound to be also.

With the return of prosjaerity, however, and the consequent increased
business and activity I am sorry to note a decline in the interest formerly
shown in our local State Society. A few years since monthly meetings
were held — full of business and sociability. Now the interest in the
society appears dead. If the society were resurrected, the interest in the
meetings revived and the meetings held regularly, it would prove benefi-
cial to the trade here and indirectly l)enefit the S. A. F. in the State.

From the laest information at hand there is between 700,000 and
800,000 square feet of glass in the State. Many of the smaller gi-owere
make the mistake of trying to grow too many things. If each one would
devote himself to some particular line aggregate sales and profits would
l)e larger. What our people and what the trade in general need are a
broader education and a more friendly relation between members. This
tian be accomplished by the S. A. F. and its kindred and local societies,
(^uite a number alreadj' have hail insurance and others will make appli-
cation in the near future for fire insurance.

Building and other improvements this year are the best evidences of
{jrosperity ; while the paying off of mortgages is a most satisfactory fea-
ture of the times.

S. D. DYSiN(iER, Vice-President.

MICHIGAN.

In obedience to your request I exceedingly regret to say that my
report as Vice-President of the S. A. F. for this State can only be brief
and uninteresting.

Floricultural interest in the State is steadily increasing, and those
engaged in the w^ork are receiving a fair return for their labor.

The trade in general is in the hands of men with limited means,
and it is next to impossible to make those men believe that a membership
in the S. A. F. will be of as much real value to them as a sum of money
equal to the annual dues and the ^pense of attending the yearly meeting
would in their business.

It has occurred to me that if auxiliary branches of the National
Society were established in some of the States where horticultural inter-

34 rROCEEDIXGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTIOX

ests are large enough to sup2)ort them they might act as feeders to the
parent Society. Meeting once a year is not enougli for a body possess-
ing so little adhesiveness, and whose degree of intelligence is so varied
as that of the members of the S. A. F. If we could meet several times a
year at different parts of the State the tinancial and social side of the trade
in general would be enlarged and develoi^ed.

Trusting that the Omaha meeting will result in increased member-
ship and renewed interest.

I am ver}' truly yours,

Thomas Gunson, Vice-President.

ILLINOIS.

I beg to offer the following notes, as my report for the current
year:

The principal event of the year was the American Carnation Society
Convention held at the Auditorium in Chicago in February. The Con-
vention was largely attended, and the number of visitors at the exhibit
was very gratifying. AVith the most noteworthy features of the times
must be classed the remarlcable growth in jjopularity of preonies and car-
nations. It is doubtful whether the former have been able to pay thus
far, but good carnations have certainly been profitable. The Convention
here in February no doubt intiuenced some growers in its favor, but the
success of local men with tlie plant was always a i)otent factor.

Recent losses from hail show the wisdom of insurance.

Pot plants were in greatly increased demand at good figures.

Some growers of plants and fiowers are planning to cultivate earl}"
vegetables to some extent.

Present indications point to good i)rospects for the coming year.

The extensive building oj^erations of the present season indicate a
healthful condition of trade in general.

The losses in Harrisii lilies were very heavy last season, and diseased
bulbs are given as the chief cause.

Among florists pro2:)er tliere appears to have been a general increase
in trade with no appreciable increase in prices. In some cases the prices
ruled lower than ordinary. Nursery stock sold freelj' at low prices.

J. V. Merrion, Vice-President.

KENTICKY.

As Vice-President of your Society for the State of Kentucky, I have
the honor to submit the following report :

That the past year has been a fairly satisfactory one to Kentucky
florists and growers, is doubtless best evidenced by the quantity of new
glass being added this summer, together with the remodelling of old
houses ; most of which changes being for the cultivation of cut flowers.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 35

General interest is active and growers are striving to produce the maxi-
mum percentage of qualitj-.

Tlie demand for carnations has shown a marked increase, both as to
(juautity and price. Principal varieties: Scott, Daybreak, McGowau, and
Flora Hill — the last named promising to become quite a favorite.

The Farquhar Violet is being grown extensively throughout the
State, in place of ]\[arie Louise. The Princess of Wales is the favorite
single.

Xo material change in the rose situation except that Perle is on the
decline, and Kaiserin is much in demand as a summer rose.

Plant trade has been satisfactory, although not equalling that of the
preceding year, owing to the exceptionally cold, wet weather prevailing
last April.

An important movement is now on foot, namely, to combine the State
Horticultural Society and the Kentucky Society of Florists. As j-et, how-
ever, the plans have not suiliciently matured to warrant any enumeration
of particulars.

One of the innovations of the past year has been the opening of the
Louisville Florist Supply and Commission House, for the sale of cuttlowers
and florists' sujiplies. This establishment occupies the unique position of
being the first and the only commission house of its kind south of the Ohio
river. Local florists regard it as an important acquisition, and believe it
will centralize considerable stock.

The Chrj'santhemum show held in Louisville last winter by the Ken-
tucky Society of Florists was sufliciently satisfactorj' to induce the Society
to contemplate an " encore " for the coming season. It is hoped this will
excell its predecessors in all respects — not only as tending to awaken
and to cultivate among our citizens the greater love of flowers, but,
equally, to incite among growers that generous spirit of rivalry and
competition which, though perchance seemingly irksome at times, is
nevertheless both the " life of trade" and the key note to Progress !

Respectfully,

Alex. Galt Rokixsox, Vice-President.

ONTARIO.

To the President, Officers, and Members oj the S. A.'F. and 0. H., in
Convention at Omaha — Gentlemen, I herewith submit my report as Vice-
President for the Province of Ontario. I regret my inability to be with
you on this occasion, but wish you and your honorable body every suc-
cess and prosperity.

The most important horticultural event to take place during the year
has been the organization of the Canadian Horticultural Association.
This society was organized in Toronto on February 10th, on a basis some-
what similar to that of the S. A. F. Our first convention will be held in
Toronto on the 7th and 8th of September next, second week of the Indus-

36 PROCEEDINGS OP' FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

trial Exhibition, to which I, as jiresident of the Association, give you all
a cordial invitation.

Another important event in connection with horticulture in the
Dominion was the passage of the San Jose Scale Bill, by the Dominion
Parliament on March the 17th, prohibiting the importation of all kinds of
trees, shrubs, vines, rose bushes, etc., from the United States, Japan,
Australia, and Hawaian Islands. This act has had some severe criticism,
on both sides of the line, and we hear the estimate of some enormous
losses by United States nurserymen through the passage of the act at that
particular season.

Throughout the Province there has been a number of flower shows
and exhibitions, notably the Industrial at Toronto, and the Western at
London ; these two exhibitions are visited by hundreds of thousands of
people and are conceded by all to be second to none on the Continent.

The cold storage and refrigerator system inaugurated and subsidized
by the Government, for the shipping of dairy and fi'uit pi'oducts to the
English markets, has proved a success, consequently an almost unlimited
market for our fruit has been found ; this has given rise to renewed
energy on the part of the fruit growers.

The past year has been one of the most prosperous on record for the
florist, as witnessed by the numerous large additions which have been
added and are now under construction throughout the Dominion. A
marked increase in the number in our ranks is also noticeable ; every
town and village now has its florist, while in and around the cities those
already in the business are making large additions and otherwise increas-
ing their facilities. It is also noticeable that the business in these cen-
ters is graduall}' concentrating in the hands of the larger concerns.

Wm. Gammage, Vice-President.

On motion of Mr. John G. Esler, of Saddle River, N. J., the
reports of the State Vice-Presidents were received and ordered to
be published in the Minutes. The thanks of the Society were also
voted to the authors of the reports.

READING OF COMMUNICATIONS.

Secretary Stewart, at this point, read a number of com-
munications received from officials and other representatives of the
city of Detroit, inviting the Society to hold its next annual meeting
in that city. All of the communications were of recent date, and
united in extending the invitation in most cordial terms. The
following is a summary of each : —

From the Detroit Convention and Business Men's League (O. A.
Bierce, Secretary), on behalf of the business interests of the city, stating:

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 37

" You are probal)ly aware of the Convention advantages of Detroit, par-
ticularl}' its superb location, river attractions, tine climate and general
modern improvements, but the warm hospitality of Detroiters to strangers
you mvist Avitness to appreciate. We can assure delegates, members,
otflcers and their friends a pleasant visit, if you will meet with us/'

From Hon. Wm. C. Maybury, Mayor of Detroit, assuring the Society of
a hearty welcome, that its stay will be made as pleasant as possiljle ; that
not only will it be welcomed by those directly interested but the citizens
of Detroit generally will be pleased to have in their midst a convention
of so much dignity.

From Hon. H. S. Pingree, Governor of Michigan, stating : "The
location of Detroit commends itself favorably to all who attend conven-
tions, on account of its accessibility- by railway and steamship linos. The
natural advantages of Detroit as a Convention City are excelled by none
other. The climate, especially in the summer, is all that could be desired,
and the beautiful Detroit river affords the finest harbor in the world. It
can be truthfully said that no other city in the countrv' has the advantages
and convention facilities of the beautiful City of the Straits. In the past
half a dozen years Detroit has unconsciously made for herself the name
' The Convention City ' until to-day that title is applied to her b}- national
bodies as they seek out available places for holding coming meetings.
Her advantages are too numerous to mention in a letter but among them
are the excellent facilities for visiting the beautiful parks and Belle Isle ;
numerous waterways ; rapid railway service and splendidly paved streets
for carnage drives, etc. The citizens of Detroit and Michigan take especial
pains to make visitors welcome."

From Mr. Philip Breitmeyer, President of the Detroit Florists' Club,
stating that the facilities of the Detroiters for entertaining visitors are
equalled by few cities, reciting the special attractions of the city, and
expressing the regret of the writer that he had been unable to be at Omaha
to present the invitation in jjerson.

From the newsjoaper press of Detroit, of similar tenor, signed by the
following: The Detroit Free Press, Evening Xews, Detroit Tribune and
Detroit Journal Company.

On motion of Mr. Wm. Scott, of Buffalo, the communications
were laid on the table temporarily.

ILLXESS OF ex-president WILLIA.AI R. SMITH.

President Gude said he regretted to inform the members of
the Society of the absence of their fellow member and ex-President,
Mr. AVm. R. Smith, of Washington, D. C, of whose serious illness
most of them bad probably read in the trade papers. He explained

38 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

that with the exception of the Chicago meeting, when kept at home
by a like illness, Mr. Smith had attended all the Conventions of the
Society. The President continued : —

We should feel grateful that his life has been spared to us so long.
It is my good fortune to be able to convey to you the welcome intelligence
that Mr. Smith is now reported convalescent, his condition having taken
a decided turn for the better. After seven long weeks of close confine-
ment he is now able to sit up and is in a fair way toward jjermanent
recovery. He is already anticipating the pleasure of attending our next
Convention and working witli us as hard as ever. That his fond hopes
may lie granted Ijy the Ruler of our destinies and that he may live to take
l)art in our deliberations at many future meetings is the sincere wish of
your President. When I saw him last Saturday, for the first time in seven
weeks, I felt api)rehensive that he might not recover, but more recent
advices have been reassuring and show the confidence felt in his natiirally
strong constitution. He personally asked me to extend his regards to
each and every one of you, and to express the regret he felt for his
inability to be present here.

Mr. Robert Craig, of Philadelphia, moved the following
resolution : —

Resolved, That the members of the Society of American Florists-
in convention assembled, desire to express their jirofound regrets for the
absence of William R. Smith, our dearly beloved member and ex-Presi-
dent, who, by a long life of unselfish devotion to the advancement of
horticulture and by his constant courtesy and kindness, has endeared him-
self to us all.

Be.solvcd, That we have heard with gladness the good news from our
President of !Mr. Smith's improved condition, and hope that he may be
spared for many years to continue his work so long well done.

Mr. W. W, Coles, of Kokomo, Ind., seconded the reso-
lutions.

The resolutions were adopted by a unanimous vote.

On motion of Mr. J. G. Esler, of Saddle River, N. J., it
was ordered that a copy of the resolutions be wired to Mr.
Smith.

The Secretary, while making some announcements on routine
matters, called attention to the invitation extended to the members
to visit the Lininger Art Gallery, between the hours of three and
six o'clock p. M. this day.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 39

AMERICAN GROWN BULBS.

The Secretary : It was expected that at this Convention we would
have a paper by Mr. Kains, of the Agricultural Department, AVashing-
ton, I). C, on "American Grown Bulbs"; a promise to that effect having
been made by that gentleman as long ago as last Januar3^ Only ten
dajs ago a letter came from him, saying he would be unable to do any-
thing whatever about it and that his explanation of the cause was a per-
sonal one that he could not communicate at the time. At the suggestion
of a member of the Society, the Secretary telegraphed to Prof. W.S.
Massey, of Raleigh, N. C, asking him if he could not help us in the mat-
ter, as many members here would be disappointed if nothing was done on
that subject. Xo resjjonse was received until yesterday, when this came,
via my office, from Professor Massey: "Absent when telegram came.
Will do the Ijest T can." That may mean that Ave shall have a i>aper here
from Professor Massey, and if it comes it will be presented in due time.

Adjourned until the following day.

RECEPTION AT LININ<JER ART GALLERY.

The reception at the Lininger Art Gallery on Tuesday after-
noon, left one more pleasant memory of the visit to Omaha. It
was attended by nearly all the visiting delegates and their ladies.
The paintings, statuary and specimens of antiquity, which con-
stitute one of the most valuable private collections in America, are
the property of. Mr. G. W. Lininger, a public spirited citizen and
liberal patron of art. The gallery was built and thrown open to
the public, free, in November, 1888, since which time many
additions have been made and the collection as a whole materially
improved. It is estimated that more than fifteen thousand people
have visited the gallery during the past year, and eight years of
free art in Omaha have made a marked improvement on the people
who visit and study the pictures.

After an inspection of the gallery, the florista were the guests
of Mr. Lininger, on the cool and shady lawn adjacent to his
residence, where they spent several hours of solid enjoyment.
Refreshments were served under the supervision of a committee
of ladies consisting of Mrs. A. Donaghue, Sr., Mrs. W. H. Sanford
and Miss Donaghue, of Omaha, and Mrs. Charles A. Murphy of
Sioux City.

40 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

THE president's RECEPTION.

President Gude's reception, on Tuesday evening, in the church
parlors of the Convention building, under the auspices of the
Nebraska and Iowa Florists' Society, was a pleasant affair. All
the ladies and gentlemen present were given an opportunity to
shake hands with the President and become better acquainted
among themselves. Aside from the formal introductions, con-
versation was the principal feature of the reception. Mr. H. A.
Siebrecht, Secretary Stewart and President A. Donaghue, Sr., of
the local club, assisted the President in receiving the guests. The
local committee for the occasion consisted of Messrs. J. F. Wilcox,
John Petersen, A. Donaghue, Jr., L. C. Chapin, J. J. Hess and
S. B. Stewart. Music by the Apollo Zither Club occasionally filled
the edifice with agreeable harmonies that seemed all the more
appropriate in connection with the pretty picture presented by the
profusion of floral decorations.

PROFESSOR TAYLOR S LECTURE.

The principal feature of Tuesday evening's entertainment was
a lecture on "The Real Russia," by F. W. Taylor, Superintendent
of the Horticultural Department of the Trans-Mississippi Exhibi-
tion. It was illustrated with stereopticon views from photographs
taken by the lecturer. Speaking from actual observations made in
1892 and 1896 in trips from St. Petersburg to the Black Sea and
from the Polish frontier to the Ural Mountains, the lecturer cor-
rected some popular misapprehensions as to the severity of the
climate and the hardships of Siberian exiles. He said he did not
see a single convict in all his travels. Good crops and splendid
fruits were produced in a more northern latitude than our own.
The people, though in the main illiterate, were contented and loyal.
The public buildings, kremlins, universities and churches, sur-
passed in architectural beauty and size those of any other country.
The primitive modes of travel by rail and along the Volga, the
populous cities of Novgorod and Moscow with their market scenes,
and the characteristics of the Russian peasant, were also depicted.
An idea was given of the vast extent of the empire in Europe and
Asia, and finally an interesting description of the sage and sociolo-

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 41

gist, the world-famed Count Tolstoi. The audience, which was
very large, gave proof of its appreciation of the occasion in fre-
quent bursts of hearty applause, which was renewed with enthusiasm
at the close of the very interesting lecture.

SECOND DAY. — MORNING.

Wednesday, August 17, 1898.
The Convention met at 11.45 a.m.; President Gude in the
chair.

THE NOMENCLATURE COMMITTEE.

Prof. Wm. Trelease, of St. Louis, Chairman of the Nomen-
clature Committee, being called upon, presented and read the
report of that committee.

The report is as follows : —

Your Nomenclature Committee for 1898 respectfully submit the fol-
lowing report :

Early in the season the Chairman of the Committee sent to the jjrin-
ciiial trade journals a note requesting that cases of misnaming, double
naming and the like, or other matters properly coming before this Com-
mittee, might be jiromptly reported to its Chaii'man ; and some weeks
since a similar request was mailed to each member of the Committee. In
response to the requests, the appended letters have been received, and
they are hereby made a part of this reijort, in which their substance is
incorporated.

Botanical nomenclature unfortunately is in a transition state at pres-
ent, and no little diffei'ence is observable in the usage of writers on plants,
so that it is not at all surjirising that the same species or natural variety
should frecpiently occur in the catalogues of dealers under two or more of
the names by which it is known to botanists. In 1893 (Proceedings
S. A. F. p. 92) it was made the rule of the Society, on the advice of the
Nomenclature Committee for that year, that in such matters the Gardener's
Dictionary of Nicholson, or, on its comjiletiou, the com2)endious Index
Kewensis, sliould be followed in the acceptance of strictly botanical
names, so far as practicable. At that time it was also decided by the
Society to jJrepare and publisli a full catalogue of the decorative plants
handled by the American trade, comi)iled on this Ijasis, so that the trade
catalogues might more readily be Ijrought into line ; but unfortunately

42 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

for this purpose, in view of the expense involved, it was decided by the
Executive Comniittee at the Pittsburg Convention that it would be im-
practicable to publish the catalogue, the clerical work for which had
largely been completed by that time. As a result, uniformity in the use
of latinized plant names by the trade is still as far from being an accom-
plished fact as it was before the Society's rule was adopted, though it is
believed that more care is taken in this respect than formerly.

It is a matter for congratulation that such difference of usage as is
observable in the catalogues of the country, is apparently attributable to
the prevalent diverse custom of Ijotanists rather than to an effort by
dealers to make an old and familiar plant appear as a novelty by offering
it under an unfamiliar name.

So far as your Committee are informed, no reiorehensible misnaming
or double naming of florists" varieties recjuires presentation to the Society
at this time. The few cases noted in this report are rather the result of
accident or perhaps of over enthusiastic zeal to distinguish favorite seed-
lings which, while they may be separable by skilled specialists, are
scarcely to be regarded as distinct from other and earlier varieties so far
as the practical needs of the trade are concerned.

Chrysanthemums .

Jeannie Falconer * = Peter Kay

Miss Agnes L. Dalskov* = Ivoire Rose.

Fuchsias.

Gracieux* = Little Beauty.

Roses.

Climbing Kaiserin*= Mrs. Robert Peary.

Considerable uncertainty is reported to exist with respect to the ready
separability of some of the recent yellow and bronze sports of Chrysan-
themum, Mrs. Jerome Jones, and some contest may result as to the names
which are entitled to recognition; but as this matter is at present in the
hands of the Chrysanthemum Society of America for examination, your
Committee are not now prepared to report further on it.

In conclusion, your Committee wish to suggest to propagators the
desirability of promptly registering with the proper Committee of the
Society or with the appropriate Auxiliary Society any new varieties they
may decide to offer to the trade, thus avoiding possible contest subsequently.
And they would also call the attention of originators of new varieties to
the confusion which is caused to the cut-flower trade, by the too common
adoption of the same name, for, say, a rose, a carnation, a chrysanthe-
mum, etc.

Wm. Trelease.

E. G. Hill.

Rob't. George.

Rob't. Craig.

Albert M. Herr.

* Note. — The first-mentioned is recognized as the proper name.

SOCIETY Ol<" AMERICAN FLORISTS. 43

On motion of Mr. H. A. Siebrecht, the report was accepted
and a vote of thanks tendered to the committee.

FIRE insurance.

The President called for a report from the Committee on the
Fire Insurance Association.

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Lonis, Chairman of the Committee, said:
I wish to report that in October Ave had a meeting iu New York, the
object of which was to perfect preliminary arrangements for the organi-
zation of a Fire Insui'ance Association snch as was wanted by the florists.
Snch an Association was formed, and we trnst that the Society will sup-
port it. The officers of the Association are present and can explain the
situation.

Mr. J. G. EsLER, of Saddle River, N. J. : As President of the new
fire insurance organization I think it is my duty to say to this convention
that we have not been properly supported. I would say further that if
the florists of this country are not sufficiently interested in fire insurance
to give us proper support by the first of January next we will return the
dues and disband. Gentlemen, you can have fire insurance if 3- on wish to
have it, and our endeavor has been to give you fire insurance at first cost.
If you don't want it at first cost you can obtain it from the old line com-
panies. That is the way in which the proposition stands to-day.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecht: I was very glad to hear from Mr. Michel,
who has labored very long and hard, and also from Mr. Esler, who has
had ample experience in this matter, and has made the Hail Insurance
Association a great success ; and I wish to say that I looked over the
schedule very carefully and did not feel satisfied with the rates given
there or the terms and regulations as a whole. I cannot now specifically
point out any one of them but it has occurred to me that these gentlemen
Avere unfortunate with respect to the time at which they made their inqui-
ries of the insurance companies and sought to get information. The
insurance companies of the country had to combine, as doubtless you all
know, and they have not only doubled but trebled the premiums. In my
own case I have a quantity of property Avhich I did not insure for several
years; and lam running perhaps from $100,000 to $150,000 worth of
property on Avhich I do not have a dollar's worth of insurance, and on
Avhich I will not have, unless I insure myself, until they make proper
rates. That includes not only greenhouse propertj^ but ordinary property
such as dwelling houses, Imrns, stables and so on. The companies now
have receded : they have noAV, the most of them, re-established the old
rate. Where they charged 60 cents on $100 for a three-year policy, they
had put up the rate to $2. That I know to be a fact, for in several
instances in which companies of Avhich I am a director have insured prop-

44 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

erty — sohool, church and otherwise — that rate has been i:)aid ; but this
year many of those companies have reduced their rates. I think tliat if
tlie officers of this Association were now to renew their efforts, they might
be able to secure better rates and offer us something that we could more
readily take advantage of.

Mr. EsLER : I jiresume Mr. Siebrecht would not have us make rates
below first cost. Would he ?

Mr. Siebrecht : No, sir. I know you do not want to make any
money out of us but that you are going to give us insurance just as low
as you can — I appreciate that — but you have not got the rates as low as
you might have got them under other circumstances.

Mr. EsLER : Mr. Siebrecht is in error. We had to have money to
organize an Association — he will understand that — and, in order to get
that, we fixed upon a classification, a minimum rate of one per cent., and
ran our classification from that minimum rate. It does not of necessity
follow that those rates are going to prevail. If we do not have anj' losses
we can assess 25, 50 or 75 per cent, of that rate, as the occasion requires.
That is where we come in and give you insurance at first cost. But when
we start we want you to pay us a certain amount to start in with, to put
us on our feet. If the florists of the country do not want to do that they
ought not to have insurance at first cost ; that is all.

I have been an insurance agent for twenty years ; and while, in our
neighborhood, you can get insurance rates from the old line companies
for almost anything you please, that condition of things may not prevail
very long, the local boards over the country may not stick to that rate.
The great question is whether the fiorists want to stand by themselves, in
this matter, and help each other out or not. If they do stand by them-
selves this insurance arrangement will be a grand success. The trouble
we have here is the same that we had to meet in the movement for hail
insurance. The officers of the Hail Insurance Association, for three years,
had to stake their reputations in order to put that movement on a firm
foundation ; but we do not to-day feel like staking our personal reputa-
tions for three or four years to benefit the fiorists of this country, if they
do not want to benefit themselves.

Mr. W. J. Vesey, of Fort Wayne, Ind. (the Secretary of the
Fire Insurance Association) here called attention to the great dis-
parity in the rates of insurance throughout the country. He
thought it could not be said that the old line rates were high or that
they were low, as they were both high and low. He suggested that
those of the members' who came from Philadelphia did not perhaps
appreciate the necessity of coming into the Fire Insurance Associa-
tion because of the comparatively low rates on greenhouse property
(40 cts. per $100) which prevailed there, as he had been informed;

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 45

but he assured them that these rates did not prevail throughout the
country. He continued :

In the neighborhood in whicli I reside the companies charge $2 per
hinidred, per annum. In other neighborhoods they charge $3.50 to .$4
for first class risks and proportionately higher for poor risks. This Fire
Association was started last fall, and at that time the people who wanted
to insure in the Association could hardly wait until we got it into running
order, which we did not do until the first of July. Personally I was
gratified with the character of the risks the Association was able to pro-
cure through the West. Florists through the West, who stand high in
the profession and have first class properties, have become members of
the Association. Through the Eastern States they perhaps get lower rates,
and from that section they did not come in so largely. A reason given
by some greenhouse men for not insuring is that greenhouse property
cannot burn. That is diametrically opposed to the experience given by
the old line insurance companies. Greenhouse properties can burn, no
matter how well they are built ; but if we are able to secure the best class
of buildings the chances of loss by fire are comparatively remote. In our
one 3'ears experience there has been but one loss, and that occurred down
in Ohio. It was a very nicely built property and heated by hot water
throughout. Just how it happened to burn nobody knows. The owners
are excellent people and their loss was largely m excess of that covered
by the insiu-anee.

Now, I believe that, if gentlemen can see their own interests, they
Avill support the Association and that before the first of January not only
all of you who are here but many of your friends will be members of it.
If it should prove as good as the Hail Association you will have cause to
be gratified, and I think it will prove to be better. I think you ought to
understand that the officers have not received nor do they expect to receive
any compensation for their services. Certainly if this Society can estab-
lish an Association to furnish you with insurance at its actual cost, that
Association ought to be supported by everyone of you heartily and you
ought not to expect a few officers to devote their time for your, as Avell as
their, benefit without encouragement.

Mr. E. H. Michel expressed his concurrence in the statement
made by Mr. Esler, and added :

If you want insurance at what it actually costs, this Association will
give it to you. We have no personal interest in it except that commer-
cial interest in those buildings we have insured and that further interest
we feel in the success of an association that we have labored hard to
organize. A month or two before we began to organize and do business
we had applications (not accompanied by funds or money but simple appli-
cations) for several hundred thousand dollars of insurance. It does not
sound very well when I tell you now that we have only $175,000 of value
actually insured.

46 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

We have done our Ijest. We offer you the advantages of the Associ-
ation. Its officers have asked for no sahiry and will receive none, at least
so long as it is taking in no money. One officer who has devoted much
time to it is the Secretary*, and there has been a small exj^ense for clerical
hire. If yovi want j^rotection at tirst cost, take it before the first of Janu-
uary. If we cannot by that time get the sujJi^ort we must have, this
Association cannot be continued and it must die. If it dies it will not be
because the risks we have taken are bad, for we have taken and are going
to take only good risks. The character of the people who have insured
with us cannot be assailed, and the character of the buildings insured is
first-class. What then is the reason why we should have no insurance?
If these regular associations can take it at 40 cents a hundred rhere is no
reason why we should not. It is our candid expectation that, with the
small business we have now, we will not be (compelled to ask for more
than fifty per cent in the assessment we will have next year ; liut that is
not sufficient. With the small membershii3 we have we could not assess
money enough to pay the losses, and these would come very heavily on a
few people, whereas we would have a very few more losses to pay if we
had five times the membership we now have. If you Avill support the
Association and will do it right away, so that we may have the benefit of
it bj' the first of January', we will give you a good organization, and we
will stake our reputations upon it, but we are not willing to risk them as
the matter stands now. [Applause.]

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT: Mr. President, I offer the following
resolutions : —

Resolved, That the memljers of the S. A. F. accept the rei)ort of the
officers of the Fire Insurance Association and heartily thank them for their
unselfish and untiring efforts in l)ehalf of the interests of the Society.

And be it further liesolvcd. That every member hereby pledges him-
self not only to look into the matter, but if he sees his way clear to do so,
to give the Association his support between now and the first of January
next.

I pledge myself to do this. I have always advocated this matter. I
did so as far back as seven or eight years ago, when it was first brought
up. I am heartily in favor of the Insurance Association so that we may
ourselves protect each other.

A vote being taken, the resolutions of Mr. Siebrecht were
adopted without objection.

Mr. E. H. CuSHMAN, of Euclid, (). : I would inquire whether this
committee that has labored so faithfully for the last four or five years,
and which has earned the thanks of the Society, has been discharged by
this resolution of Mr. Siebrecht's.

Mr. Michel : Tliat is the understanding of the committee.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 47

The President : There is no doubt in the mind of the Chair that
they Avill be discharged on the first of January next unless there is more
tire insurance.

Mr. Michel: Let it be understood, Mr. President, that tlie Fire
Insurance committee wliich was appointed by this Society has been dis-
charged and that the work whicli the committee undertook is now left in
tlie hands of the florists' Fire Insurance Association, which has now taken
the place of that committee and will probably do much better work than
the committee did.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecht suggested that a formal motion to dis-
charge the committee seemed to be necessary.

Mr. CusHMAN : I move that the report of the Committee on Fire
Insurance be received and that the committee be discharged with the
thanks of this Convention for the energetic work they have accomplished
for the Society.

Mr. Cushman's motion prevailed without objection.

reports of exhibition committees.

The Secretary presented and read reports from the Committees
on the trade exhibits in the Exhibition room.

These committee reports are appended at the end of this
volume.

On motion of Mr. H. A. Siebrecht, the reports were accepted
as read.

PROPOSED change IN NOMINATING OFFICERS.

The next order of business was action on an amendment to the
by-laws, proposed by Mr. Lawrence Cotter, as follows : —

To amend Clauses 2 and 8 of Section VI. relative to Nominations
and Elections l^y the addition of the following words : " Provided, how-
ever, that any name, in order to be thus t)fficially declared for any office,
must have received, at least, ten per cent, of the total vote cast." So that
the Clauses 2 and 3 shall read as follows :

2. Members shall, in the blank spaces so provided, insert the names
of their candidates for the designated offices. These ballots shall be col-
lected by tellers duly appointed l)y the Chair, the results tabulated in the
presence of the meml^ers of the Executive Committee who may be pres-
ent, and announced by the Secretary; the two nominees receiving the
highest number of votes for each office being then declared the candidates
for election for the ensuing year; provided, however, that any name, in

48 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

order to be thus officially declared for any office, must have received at
least ten per cent, of the total vote cast.

3. Should either of the two nominees receiving the highest number
of votes decline to stand as a candidate, the nominee receiving the next
highest number of votes (if not less than ten per cent, of the total vote
east) shall be declared a candidate.

The proposed amendment was read by the Secretary.

Mr. J. T>. Carmody, of Evansville, Ind., said that the members
had frequently been puzzled as to the best method of selecting
candidates for the offices, and he regarded the proposition now
made as a very good one. He moved its adoption.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT seconded the motion, remarking that he
saw no harm in it.

Mr. J. G. EsLER explained that if what was now proposed had
been in effect last year it would have prevented the election of the
present President of the Society, as it would have cut him out.
He said that very worthy candidates could be knocked down by
such a provision, and he failed to see wherein it would be of
benefit.

Mr. E. H. Michel: Assuming that sixty votes were cast and that
one nominee received five and the other fifty-five, the one with five votes
could not stand because he would not have ten per cent, of the total vote
cast. Would the other nominee stand without ojiposition ?

The President replied that, according to his own under-
standing, there would be but one candidate, as the nominee receiv-
ing the smaller vote would be ineligible.

Mr. Michel : Then there would be a practically unanimous nomi-
nation. Or would it be necessary to Ijallot again ?

Mr. SiEBRECHT: Under the arrangement now suggested another
ballot would be necessary.

Mr. Michel : It would be if, as I understand it, the Constitution
recjuires that there shall be two candidates.

Secretary Stewart : Perhaps I can answer Mr. Michel's question.
The by-laws provide that, where there are several nominees, and all but
one withdraw, that one shall be declared to be the sole candidate ; and
the ballot for the election is prepared accordingly. But it seems to me
there is a misapprehension as to what these preliminary ballots or nomina-
tions mean. If Mr. A. has an unanimous nomination to-day and, at the
election to-morrow, a majority of the votes are cast for Mr. B, the latter

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 49

stands elected and his election would, I think, be accepted by any legis-
lative body or any court. The nomination is merelj- a ready Avay of get-
ing at the wishes of the members of the Society without too promiscuous
balloting and too much talk ; but you can elect anybody you vote for
regardless of those official ballots. That is the way I have alwaj^s looked
at it and I should expect the President to so riile.

Mr. Benj. Hammond, of Fishkill, N. Y., inquired whether a
nominee who had failed to receive ten per cent, of all the votes, in
the preliminary balloting, could be ruled out at the election on
the following day if his friends rallied to his support and elected
him.

Mr. Siebrecht replied that his election would stand. He said
the members could put up a new candidate and elect him regardless
of the previous balloting.

President Gude explained that the proposed amendment had
been suggested by an incident which occurred at the Providence
Convention, and was intended to prevent a recurrence of the
embarrassing conditions which had resulted in that instance.

Mr. W. H. Elliott, of Boston, said that at a previous con-
vention the members had been deprived of the right to discuss the
merits of candidates, and now an attempt was made, in the same
line, to further restrict their right to vote for whom they preferred
as officers. He thought the Society could be trusted to select its
own officers and was opposed to the existing rules which restrict
the number of candidates for each office ; he preferred to have
three instead of two and thought six would be still more pre-
ferable.

Mr. J. T. D. FuLMER, of Des Moines, Iowa, favored the
amendment as a means of curtailing nominations and facilitating
the election of officers. He suggested that a nominee who received
less than ten per cent, of the vote was not likely fo be a successful
candidate and that, as a sensible man, he would voluntarily with-
draw and leave the contest to those who had received more than ten
per cent, and from among whom a choice would be made.

Mr. Sanders, endorsed the position taken by the preceding
speaker (Mr. Fulmer) in favor of the amendment, the object of
which, he said, was to simplify matters and economize time by
reducing the number of nominees.

50 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. P. J. Hauswirth, of Chicago, contended that the argu-
ments of Messrs. Fiilmer and Sanders were fallacious, as they
assumed that all nominees receiving over ten per cent, of the vote
were to be regarded as candidates. He quoted the present by-law
providing that only the two nominees receiving the highest number
of votes shall be declared the candidates.

Mr. J. L. DiLLON, of Bloomsburg, Pa., said he could not see
that the amendment was of any practical use.

Mr. J. G. EsLER thought that the adoption of the proposed
rule might be a hardship to the bowlers who might be absent,
bowling, when the nominations were made and that, as a conse-
quence of this, their friends among the nominees might be deprived
of the vote they would otherwise receive and thus perhaps ultimately
lose the election on this account.

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Ind., opposed the amendment
as an unnecessary restriction upon the rights of members.

Mr. E. G. Hill, of Richmond, Ind., opposed the amendment
as affording a means for cliques or combinations to put forward a
nominee whom they favored. He preferred that every candidate
should have an equal chance.

At this point the discussion closed and, the question being
taken, the proposed amendment was defeated by a decisive vote.

department of credit information.

The next order of business was action on recommendations of
the Executive Committee to establish, under the supervision of the
Society, certain special departments, viz. of Credit Information,
Co-operative Purchase, Claims, Arbitration and Legislation.

The Secretary read the recommendation to establish the fol-
lowing :

"A Department of Credit Information, whose duty it shall be to fur-
nish information concerning the business standing of jjersons in the trade,
said information to be furnished at $5 per annum and to members of the
S. A. F. at $1 per annum. To be in charge of a committee of three,
appointed by the President, subject to approval of the Executive
Committee.'"

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 51

Mr. C. S. LoDER, of New York, (representing the National
Florists' Board of Trade) said he thought it would be unwise for
the Society to adopt the recommendation.

(At this point Mr. Loder suspended his remarks to enable the
matter to be brought more directly before the Convention by a
motion.)

Mr. A. GuDE then moved that the recommendation be not
concurred in by the Society.

Mr. J. G. EsLER said that, at the Executive Committee meet-
ing at Providence, he had favored a proposition made by Mr.
Loder on this subject, believing the Society would be benefited by
it, and he had favored turning the matter over to that gentleman.
He was then over-ruled, however, by the Committee. He^would say
now that he had not changed his mind at all in regard to it.

Mr. E. H. GiESY, of Cincinnati: After having made some inquiries
of members of this Society, I believe that it would be better if the Credit
Bureau was made entirely independent of the Society. While members
who are in the wholesale trade would be glad to have such a bureau, the
smaller dealers Avould perhaps be very antagonistic to it. I think that if
the men who are asking credit know that their affairs are being
reported upon by the Society, that fact will have a tendency to reduce the
membership of this Society ; and I believe that the wholesale men would
derive equal benefit from a Credit Bureau conducted entirely independ-
ently of the Society, at a reasonable charge, and to which no one could
object. I believe there is such a bureau in existence now ; and if it be
given proper encouragement all the information obtainable from a credit
bureavi Avould be furnished hj this one.

Mr. E. G. Hill : I think that, injustice to the Elxecutive Committee,
we ought to have a statement from them giving their reasons for this
recommendation ; and then 1 would favor hearing Mr. Loder's statement
and considering whatever he has to say, in order to approach the question
in an unbiased and impartial manner.

Secretary Stewart : Perhaps the Secretary can answer as well
as anyone now present as to the reasons which the J^xecutive Committee had
for adopting these recommendations. There has been a feeling, as you
all know, that the Society was not giving its members individually a
proper equivalent or return for the amoimt of dues they paid. The gen-
eral beneficent effect of the Society is not questioned. Every member of
the trade enjoys benefits from the Society's work to the value of consider-
able more than three dollars a year ; but it was felt that we needed to
have something of tangible individual value to put into a man's hands, as,

62 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

for instance, the Hail Insurance people have done. Many recommenda-
tions and suggestions have come in from members of the Society to the
Executive Committee, in response to requests for information as to the
member's wishes. Members have asked that we form a Credit Bureau;
that we form a Department of Co-operative Purchase and so on. These
letters were presented to the p]xecutive Committee, who acted upon them
with the result that is embodied in the recommendations now pending.

While on the floor I may say further that, in the case of two of these
departments, the Executive Committee went a little over the line and put
them in temjiorary operation, so that there might be some practical
demonstration of their workings, from which the Committee would be
able by this time to test the feeling of the Society and learn something as
to how the members Avould respond. We started on the Credit Depart-
ment work by sending out six or eight hundred circulars to prominent
firms throughout the country, asking them to give us rejjorts upon people
who had traded with them and who were considered untrustworthy.
Each circular was accompanied with a blank form giving spaces for the
name, the residence and the details of what the trouble was in the case of
the party comjolained of. I received, I think, 25 or 26 responses to
those hundreds of circulars; and those responses covered altogether 167
names of parties who were reported as delinquent or untrustworthy for one
cause or another. It was noticeable that nearly half of these 167 reported
names were those of private customers. The Executive Committee
wanted names of people in the trade who could not be trusted, but some
of those who made replies had given the names of ladies and gentlemen,
private customers, bujing flowers from them in their own localities.
The resolution was passed by the Executive Committee in March, and the
Secretary went to work at once, but all there is to show after these
months of effort is these 26 or 27 responses.

Mr. LoDER (being here called upon) resumed his remarks.
He said that those whom he represented had given much time
and thought to the line of work referred to and that they had
experience and ability to carry out any work they undertook. He
continued :

We not only have members of this Society as members of our Board
but we have many members of the trade, in the United States, not mem-
bers of this societj", who are subscribers to our Information and Credit
Department and are answering our in(juiries ; we also have thirty Euro-
pean houses, who sell foreign stock within the jurisdiction of the United
States and of Canada ; and we have three or four hundred houses for
whom we do business, who sell to other members of the wholesale job-
bing trade or to the retail trade. We do not cater to the business of
retail florists who sell to individuals, and while here, I have met probably
half a dozen to whom I have frankly stated that they would be of no use
in this line of work. Our list embodies members of the trade who are

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 53

buying largel}- from the wholesale or jobbing trade. We now have in
our employ, at our office in New York City, seven or eight clerks who
give their entire time to this class of work, others who investigate and
report upon the standing of the trade, one or two men who go out and
collect accounts, also two or three stenographers, a cashier and an office
boy. We have also in our employ two lawyers, who give their time and
attention to our legal work.

Mr. Edgar Sanders here interposed to protest that the Con-
vention did not want to hear further from Mr. Loder about his
private business and that that gentleman was unnecessarily con-
suming time.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT requested Mr. Loder to state directly
any proposition that he desired to present.

Mr. LoDER : The proposition made a year or so ago, and which I
make now, is this : that any member of the Society who wishes to sub-
scribe to the Information and Credit Department of the National Florists'
Board of Trade may do so (provided we know that he is member of the
Societs' and in good, regular standing) on a rebate of two dollars upon
our subscription price, which is ten dollars. I believe that covers the
whole jjoint in question.

The discussion here closed and, a vote being taken, Mr. A.
Gude's motion, that the recommendation of the Executive Com-
mittee be not concurred in, was agreed to.

The President announced : The effect of the vote just taken is that
the proposition for a committee of the Society of American Florists to
form this Credit Department is defeated.

DEPARTMENT OF CO-OPERATIVE PURCHASE.

The Secretary read the recommendation of the Executive
Committee to establish the following : —

"A Department of Co-operative Purchase, the object of Avhich will
be to secure for members of the vSociety the low prices on various green-
house supplies which may be obtained througli co-operative jsurehase in
large quantities. To be managed by a committee of three to be
appointed by the President, subject to approval of the Executive Com-
mittee."

Mr. Sanders: I move that, the recommendation be not con-
curred in.

The President invited discussion of the subject.

54 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. E. M. Wood (of the Executive Committee) opened the
discussion by reading a paper embodying a report from the sub-
committee on the subject. The paper, which was much applauded,
was as follows : —

At the meeting of your executive committee held at Washington,
D. C, March 15 and 16 last, among the new departments recommended
was the Co-operative Department of Purchase. A sub-committee, of which
I have the honor of being a member, was chosen to carry into execution
the objects of this department and as soon after appointment as possible
your sub-committee issued a circular to the Society\s members in which
was set forth the benefits expected to be derived by co-operative purchase.
Some time elapsed before this circular could be issued. As soon as issued,
one was mailed to each member of the Society, and to more than 800
persons not members of the Society. Few I'esponses were received,
twenty-eight in all, and their wants may be summed up as follows :

Glass 2287 boxes.

Anthracite Coal 3531 tons.

Bituminous " 4008 tons.

Pipe 39500 ft.

Valves and Fittings 96

Paints 5020 lbs. 38 gals.

Hose 5050 ft.

Nails 29 kegs.

Fertilizer ;. 37250 lbs. 5 bbls.

Insecticides 58500 lbs. 2 bbls.

Flower Pots 28725

Sash Bars 2200

Shipping Tags 10000

Paper 100 reams.

Steam Boilers 2

As they came so tardily, however, it gave the committee little or no
time to obtain proper estimates. This experience shows either that the
general average florist and grower of flowers did not feel the importance
of despatch in replies to the committee's circular, or that the objects of
this department were not fully understood, it being a new departure in the
Society's affairs. The committee are inclined to the latter belief — time
and the acquaintance Avith the objects and workings of this department
will indicate the wisest course to pursue.

Xo doubt some look with concern upon the objects to be obtained in
this new department recommended by the Executive Committee. Those
interested in the trade of some of the supplies may fear it may be an injury
to their trade and divert their business to other channels. With some this
may prove true, but the large majority of the Society's member's will reaj)
a substantial benefit.

Railroads, Sugar, Rubber, Lead| Linseed Oil, Cotton Seed Oil, Rope
and various other interests and manufactures co-operate, why not we as
consumers co-oj^erate in our jmrchases ? If all the members yearly would

SOCIETV OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 55

make up a list of their probable wants for the coming year, brino- or send
them to the Executive Committee at the annual convention, or mail to
them as soon as possible thereafter, it would give the committee ample
time to get estimates and to notify tlie members. If every member takes
an active interest and sends a list of his probable wants as herein suo-o-ested,
it will show their wants to be thousands of boxes of glass, thousands of
feet of rubljer hose and pijje and thoiisands of tons of coal. These are a
few of the important items. If the j'early increase is anything like the
ratio of increase of co-operation in the United Kingdom of Great Britain,
it would increase in thirty-two years twenty-five hundred percent.

The sales of Co-operative Societies in the United Kingdom of Great
Britain in the year 1862 were 2,333,593 pounds sterling or about .$11,667,-
965; in the year 1893, the latest official date available, the sales were
51,804,836 pounds sterling or .$259,019,160. The net profit, 4,610,657
pounds sterling, .$23,053,275, or about 31 per cent, profit on a share capi-
tal of 15,318.665 pounds sterling or aliout $75,593,460. Total sales for
thirty-two years 708,549,292 pounds sterling or about $3,542,745,460, and
total net profit 61,757,659 pounds sterling or $308,788,295.

The sales of the wholesale co-operative societies in the United King-
dom for 1894 were 9,443,993 pounds sterling or $47,219,965, and the
net profits were 126,192 pounds sterling or $630,960, or about 21 per
cent, on its share capital of 698,496 pounds sterling or $2,992,480.

It is not intended at present that the Society shall make a profit or
reap any benefit from the saving which will accrue in co-operative pur-
chase to its members, except what inducement it may })e to become mem-
bers of the Society, and thus reap a benefit indirectly. That it will be a
substantial and very material benefit to the members of the Society-, no
one can for a moment doul)t if they have given the subject any thought or
studied into the merits of co-operation.

It has been wisely said, " One must not be too much impressed with
the theoretical advantages of co-operation and expect large results almost
at the outset." You should be prepared for a period of neglect and
obscurity, of small internal disagreements, of mistakes of various kinds,
of unforeseen annoyances that are likely to come in the Ijeginning. To
succeed in co-operation, men must bear and forbear, persevere and learn
wisdom by their mistakes. Courage to hold on through the first year or
two of inexperience and possible adversity is the i^rice of success, — not
condemnation or adverse criticisms at the beginning. They bviild nothing.
I never knew a good thing but what was condemned by some. There
may be mistakes made in the execution of the department of purchase,
but with courage thej- all can be easily overcome. As experience is gained,
time will no doubt change methods and imi:)rove them. All men make
mistakes — none are exempt. It is the sum of all our successes being
larger than the sum of our failures which makes success an accomplished
fact.

Co-operation is the most admirable form of self help, because each
member is helping his fellow to climb as rapidly as he climbs himself.

56 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

and thus the progress of all is facilitated. In our case the smallest grower
will, when the department is perfected, get his supplies at the same
reduced price his rich competitor does ; and the disparity in prices
which he has had to hear will be wi2)ed away. This is one of the bless-
ings of co-operation, but it is not all. The members will not only get
their supplies as cheap as their rich competitors but all will reap a further
benefit which the large aggregate of purchases is sure to command.

In view of the facts here j^resented and in consideration of the few
responses to the Committee's circular, we beg further time in which to
set forth the advantages of co-operation to the members and demonstrate
its absolute feasibility. The committee, therefore, begs ah extension of
time with authority to continue their labors in perfecting the Department
of Purchase.

Mr. Sanders : It is well known that this co-operative system is a
wonderful thing in England, but there is not a horticultural society or a
society such as our own that would think of tacking on to it a system like
that. It is well in itself as an independent agency but not as connected
with the Society.

Mr. J. G. Esler: The Executive Committee thought, in view of
the amount of " kicking" that had been done, that the members of the
Society wanted to have facilities in this direction that would be of some
substantial benefit. Now, it cannot do any harm to tr}' this another year.
If it is a failure we can let it go. If it is not a failure nobody will be
hurt by it.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecht : While I appreciate the efforts in this direc-
tion and while there may be no harm in trying the scheme for another
year, I do believe it is about time we should leave off putting strings to
our bow. These special matters take up nearly all our time, and here it is
twelve o'clock and we have done so little at this session. I only wish to
utter a word of warning that Ave had better not undertake too much.
[Applause.]

Mr. J. L. Dillon: I notice by the committee's report that our
members are discriminated against. For instance, there is one item of
" sash bars." Several parties who belong to this Society are engaged in
the trade in those articles, and it is proi)Osed to take the trade away from
all of them but one. Now, I don't believe in anything of that kind and,
for my part, I shall vote against it.

Mr. Esler : I don't understand that there is any discrimination.
To what does the gentleman refer ?

Mr. Dillon: If tlijs applies to sash bars it applies to everything
else that is sold. It takes the trade from all the others and gives it to one.

Mr. Esler : How is that so ? Every man has an opportunity to jjut
in bids.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 57

Mr. Dillon : Certainly he has. But as it is now the trade is
divided ; as it woukl be then it would all be centralized in one person.

Mr. Wood : Of course the object of this department is to aggregate
the amount of purchase. All very well understand that if we have
50,000 boxes of glass to purchase we can get a price which is from 30 to
50 cents less than it would be otherwise, and of course whoever buys
glass will be benefited. Now, that purchase would naturally be given to
a single manufacturer of glass, and those who are able to pay for their
glass fore-handed would reap greater benefit because there are many
people who will deal with them, who have credit locally, and would not
enter into the arrangement. I am merely trying to explain the point
suggested by Mr. Dillon. But I have not looked on this Department of
Purchase except in the light of handling a few of the larger items that
would go all over the United States.

Mr. C. B. Whitnall, of Milwaukee: In consideration of the
immense amount of labor this committee has accomplished, I think it is
only courtesy to continue the committee, especially as they have made
the request to be continued.

The President : We will now hear from Mr. Giesy, a suiJi^ly man,
on the subject.

Mr. E. H. Giesy, of Cincinnati : I only want to say that, as a repre-
sentative of the Lockland Lumber Company, I am not in favor of the
proposition but as a member of this Society I am in favor of it. The kind
of goods that I represent could hardly be handled by the committee
because of the various styles, sizes and so on; but that is true of other
lines. Those details would adjust themselves. There are many articles
that can be bought to advantage by such an arrangement as this, and all
the small dealers among the members of the Society would get the bene-
fit of it. Those matters would work out when the thing got to working.
I believe that a large sum of money would be saved by co-operation.

President Gude : Before the vote is taken the Chair would suggest
to each and every member to bear in mind that this puts no responsibility
upon anj'one to the extent of a five cent piece except the three men who
constitute the committee.

Mr. Sanders : It will make a fine lot of work for that committee.

Mr. EsLER : The committee want to do it but you gentlemen seem
not to want them to do it.

Mr. J. T. D. Fulmer: I move, as a substitute for the pending
motion, that the recommendation of the Executive Committee be con-
curred in.

Mr. W. W. Coles: There is no need for that motion because it is
just reversing the other. If you vote doAvn Mr. Sanders' motion to non-
concur it will ba the same thing exactly as if you voted to concur. As a

58 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

member of the Executive Committee in charge of this matter, I would
say that I am of the opinion stated by Mr. Esler. We have gone to con-
siderable trouble to establish this department and it is costing the Society
nothing to continue it another year. I think it would only be a matter of
justice to us to let us show the Society what we can do. If we find in
a,nother year that we cannot do j^ou any good we will be very willing to
drop it.

Mr. Sander's motion that the Society do non-concur in the
establishment of this Department of Purchase as recommended by
the Executive Committee, was then put and was declared lost.

Mr. SiEBRECHT : That means that the committee will be continued ?

The President : That is the effect of it. The committee will be
continued.

Mr. Wood : I think we ought to have a vote specifically authorizing
this Committee on the Co-operative Purchase Department to continue
their labors another year.

Mr. SiEBRECHT : No time is fixed by the motion that Avas carried.
Let us continue the committee for a specific time and then we will know
just how long they are to work on that line.

Mr. FuLMER: I cannot understand why, after a motion has been
made and a substitute for that motion has been offered the President of
this Societj^ should put the question on the motion that was offered first.

The President : The Chair did not hear the gentleman's motion
seconded.

Mr. Robert Craig : The Chair was entirely in order. The gentle-
man's (Mr. Fulmer's) substitute, not being germane to the original
motion, could not be entertained.

Mr, Wood then moved that the committee be given a term of
one year with authority to continue their labors in perfecting the
Department of Purchase.

The motion being seconded by Mr. Siebrecht, a vote was
taken, and Mr. Wood's motion was carried.

legislative department.

The Secretary read the recommendation to establish the
following : —

" A Legislative Department, whose duty it shall be to discourage
adverse legislation, State or National, and encourage legislation favor-

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 59

able to the trade. To be'^ in charge of a committee of three, appointed
by the President, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee."

On motion of Mr. E. H. Michel, the recommendation of the
Executive Committee was concurred in.

Secretary Stewart : That the recommendation to establish this
department may be effective, I now make a motion that the special com-
mittee which the Executive Committee has alread}' appointed on that
matter be continued for the following year. That is the committee of
the New York Florists' Club, consisting of Messrs. Patrick O'Mara, C. H.
Allen and J. N. May. They have done some very good work for the New
York Florists' Club, and they would surely do it for the Society. It is as
good a committee as we can have. My motion is that the conduct of this
department be put in their hands.

A vote being taken, Mr. Stewart's motion was agreed to with-
out discussion.

arbitration department.

The Secretary read the recommendation to establish the
following : —

"An Arbitration Department, whose duty it shall be to promote the
amicable adjustment of controversies between members, when requested
by parties interested to do so. To be in charge of a committee of five,
appointed by the President, subject to the approval of the Executive
Committee."

On motion of Mr. H. A. Siebrecht, the recommendation of
the Executive Committee was concurred in.

On motion of Secretary Stewart, the President was empowered
to appoint a committee of five to carry into eflfect the Arbitration
Department.

The committee was afterwards constituted as follows : Messrs.
S. B. Stewart, Adam Graham, Edwin Lonsdale, P. Welch, and
^Y. A. Manda.

claim department.

The Secretary read the recommendation to establish the
following : —

"A Claim Department, whose duty it shall be to look after the
adjustment of claims of members against transportation companies. To
be in charge of a committee of three, appointed by the President, subject
to the ai)proval of the Executive Committee."

60 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

On motion of Mr. E. H. Michel, the recommendation of the
Executive Committee was concurred in.

On motion of Secretary Stewart, the President was empowered
to make effective the vote just taken.

The committee was afterwards constituted as follows : Messrs.
H. A. Siebrecht, Robert Craig, and E. G. HrLL.

to meet at DETROIT IN 1899.

The selection of a place of meeting for 1899 was the next
business.

Mr. G. A. Rackham, of Detroit, speaking on behalf of the
Florists' Club of that city, extended a hearty and cordial invitatioa
to the Society to meet at Detroit. He spoke of the location of
Detroit on the west side of the Detroit River, opposite the Canadian
border, of its Belle Isle Park and other attractions and its facilities
for entertaining many visitors. He added :

We will endeavor to use 30U well ; we may no<^ give you a lavish
entertainment but we will give you home comforts and perhaps some
other comforts.

Mr. D. B. Long, of Buffalo, remarked that there were other
places in the country besides Detroit and he would like to nominate
Saratoga, N. Y., as the next meeting place.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecht moved an acceptance of Mr. Rackham's
invitation.

The Secretary : In addition to the invitations, which were read
yesterday, from the Florists' Club, the newspaper jjress, the ]\Iayor and
the Business Men's League, of Detroit, and the Governor of Michigan,
two or three telegrams were received to-day. One is from the Committee
on Parks and Boulevards and one from the City Clerk of Detroit, also
one from Mr. C, W. Ward, all enthusiastically inviting the Society to visit
Detroit. Mr. Ward's is- supplemented by a letter in which he exjDlains
that his interest in Detroit is due to his having formerl}" resided there and
that he knows all about it. He also regrets his inability to stand up and
speak for it but predicts that, if the Society goes there, its meeting will
be a "howling success," and adds: "Go ahead with three cheers for
Detroit in 1899."

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 61

Mr. Long explained that the Pan- American Exhibition having
been postponed, the Niagara Falls Board of Trade had been com-
pelled to abandon their intention to extend an invitation to the
Society for next year.

A vote was here taken and the city of Detroit was chosen as
the meeting place for 1899 ; after which, under the lead of Mr.
Siebrecht, a round of cheers was given for Detroit.

Mr. Rackham was understood to say that special instructions
had been given him to include the ladies in the invitation.

Mr. Siebrecht remarked that, on his recent visit to Detroit,
his wife and other ladies who accompanied him were so enchanted
with the city that it was all he could do to get them away.

Mr. Dillon replied that it might be dangerous to take the
ladies there. [Merriment.]

NOMINATION OF OFFICERS.

Balloting for the nomination of officers for the ensuing year
was the next business. The following acted as tellers to collect
the ballots : Messrs. J. L. Dillon, D. B. Long, A. Gude and
E. H. CusHMAN. After some time the report of the tellers was
presented by Mr. A. Gude. The results were announced as
follows : —

For President 97 ballots were cast, of which W. N. Rudd received
59; E. M. Wood, 23; H. A. Siebrecht, 6; A. Douaghue, Sr., 4; E. H.
Cushman, 2 ; E. H. Michel, 1 ; W. F. Gude, 1 ; H. B. Beatty, 1.

For Vice-President 94 ballots were cast, of which Philip Breitmeyer
received 71 ; H. A. Balsley, 11 ; J. F. Sullivan, 5 ; G. A. Rackham, 2 ;
J. F. Wilcox, 2; CD. Ball, 1; W. W. Coles, 1; H. A. Siebrecht, 1.

For Secretary 91 ballots were cast, of which Wm. -J. Stewart received
66 ; E. H. Michel, 13 ; J. A. Shaw, 5 ; C. C. Pollworth, 4 ; E. Sanders,
1 ; John Westcott, 1 ; A. M. Herr, 1.

For Treasurer 87 ballots were cast, of which H. B. Beatty received
46 ; John G. Esler, 28 ; John Westcott, 10 ; E. G. Hill, 4 ; J. C. Vaughan,
1 ; J. A. Shaw, 1 ; A. M. Herr, 1 ; E. H. Giesy, 1.

During the announcement of the result a number of gentlemen
for whom ballots had been cast without their knowledge withdrew

62 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

their names. Others who were not present at this time withdrew
subsequently.

Mr. E. M. Wood, in withdrawing from the nomination for

President, remarked :

Members of the Society have come many miles West and I think that
the West deserves to have the next President. I hope that my friends
will vote accordingly. If at any future time the members come East,
as they will, and the Society would like to make me President, I will be
pleased to accept the honor they confer.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT declined a nomination for President in
favor of Mr. Rudd, remarking that he was content to be one of
" the boys," that he wanted only something to do for the Society
and that, for him, there was honor enough in doing it.

Mr. H. Balsley, of Detroit, in declining to be named for
Vice-President, returned his thanks to his friends for their con-
sideration and said he withdrew in favor of the right man in the
right place, Mr. Breitmeyer.

Mr. John Westcott, in declining a nomination for Treasurer,
said he was not an applicant for and would not accept an office ;
that his only ambition was to do his part in being of use to the
S. A. F. He said he was satisfied to come here as one of "the
boys," to be known simply as an active member and to have a good
time. He said he did not want the votes of his friends, and if cast
for him they would be thrown away.

Messrs. Esler, Hill and Herr, who had been named for
Treasurer, withdrew their names. The remaining two nominees
receiving the highest number of votes for each office were declared
the candidates for election.

In the nominations for Treasurer three names had received one
vote each, and it was determined to select from these in alpha-
betical order.

routine matters.

The Secretary here read the report of the judges appointed
to award medals of the Society for special exhibits. The report
was as follows : —

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 63

We find on exhibition a collection of bulbs raised by Mr. (ieorge
Gibbs, of Orcas, San Juan Co., Washington. This includes Xarcissus,
three varieties ; Iris, two varieties ; Roman Hyacinths, red ; Dutch Hya-
cinths, three years old, six varieties; Crocus, yellow and white: Tulips,
four varieties ; and Lilium candidum.

The bulbs are all of very fine quality, being solid, heavy and well-
ripened and in size comparing favorably with first-class Holland grown
stock.

The lyilium candidum deserves special mention, as they are the larg-
est and finest ever seen by your committee.

The whole exhibit is extreme!}- interesting and valuable as indicating
the possibilities of bulb culture in some sections of our country.

Awarded the Society's Silver Medal.

Mr. D. B. Long of Buffalo, N. Y., makes an exhibit of various photo-
graphic designs suitable for catalogue covers, cards, calendars, and other
commercial purj^oses. The majority of the exhibits are of unique and
original conception, and have, we believe, a decided commercial value
deserving the award of the Society's Silver Medal.

There is on exhibition some very excellent photographic work ]}y
Mr. R. L. Blair of Des Moines, Iowa, one piece in particular, a deco-
rated mirror, which shows good artistic taste in the arrangement. These
photographs are commended by your committee.

E. H. Hill,
ROBT. Ckaig,
Wm. Scott,

Jtidges .

On motion of Mr. H. A. Siebrecht the report was accepted.

The Secretary here called attention to the rule of the Society
providing that exhibits in the Trade Exhibition not in position
before one o'clock p.m. on the first day of the Convention may be
excluded from the report of awards. He said that one or two
exhibitors who had not arrived until after the hour named had now
made application to the Society to permit a subsequent examination
of their exhibits by the proper committee and a supplementary
report upon them.

After some discussion, on motion of Mr. E. H. Michel,
authority was given and the request of the exhibitors complied
with.

An announcement was also made of the arrangements for a
carriage ride for the visiting ladies of the S. A. F., as the guests
of the Omaha ladies, on Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock.

64 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Attention was called to a bunch of nasturtiums on the Presi-
dent's table, which had been presented by a daughter of Mr. Allen,
late President of the Nebraska Horticultural vSociety.

The Convention at 1.15 o'clock p.m. adjourned until evening.

SECOND DAY — EVENING.

Wednesday, August 17, 1898.
The evening session opened (at 8.30 o'clock) with a small
attendance, due to the protracted bowling tournament at Krug Park
and the great interest felt in the result.

A FEW REMARKS ON THE DAHLIA.

A paper with this title, prepared by Mr. L. K. Peacock, of
Atco, N. J., was read (in the absence of its author) by Mr. E. H.
Michel, and the subject was briefly discussed.

The paper was as follows : —

With the revived popularity of dahlias comes a renewed interest in
anything jiertainiug to their development and culture. I regret recent
ill health prevented my presence with a more exhaustive article but I will
be pleased to give any further information in my power or answer ques-
tions in any of the trade papers.

During the present year there was an increase of fully 50 per cent,
in the sale of dahlia plants and bulbs and during the past six years over
500 per cent., or an average of nearly 100 per cent, for each year since
1892.

In reference to the different classes I am compelled to say that the
cactus type has been a source of great disappointment in many ways.

First, they are not so free in blooming as the other classes ; second,
they will not keep so long after cutting ; third, except in a few cases they
have very short stems miless disbudded ; fourth, they are the latest of all
dahlias to bloom.

There are of course some exceptions, that is, some of the true cactus
dahlias do not have all of the above failings. For instance the cactus
dahlia, Heni'y F. Michell, is an immense flower of perfect form and an
early and continuous bloomer but like other cactus varieties will not stand
up well after being cut. Of their form, however, it can be said that with

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 65

their beautiful forms and exquisite blending of colors they are the most
delicate and graceful of all dahlias. Of the cactus dahlias Delicata, Perle
de la tgte d"()r, Lady Penzance, Gloriosa and Countess of Pembroke (if it
can be called cactus) are the most valuable.

Show and fancy dahlias still seem to be the favorites judging from
the bulk of sales but they are closely followed by the decorative class, or
as they are sometimes called, semi-cactus, decorative cactus, etc. This
is perhaps the most valuable type of dahlias for florists' use. They are
strong, vigorous growers, free bloomers, full range of colors and have
long stems. The most valuable of this class are Clifford W. Bruton,
Wm. Agnew, Grand Duke Alexis, Mrs. E. C. Monroe, Henr}^ Patrick,
Maid of Kent, Xymphaja and Black Prince. Another fine variety is the
weeping dahlia. Lemon Giant. It is of pale yellow color, 5 to 6 inches
in diameter, deep and full ; they are borne on long drooping stems and
from a distance resemble large fluffy balls.

The pompon dahlia seems to be holding its own in the race and with
such beautiful varieties as Eleganta, Snowclad, Rosalia, Daj'break, Fairy
Queen, Little Beatrice, Little Prince, Little Diavalo and a score more of
equal merit it is not surprising. Little Beauty is the name of a new deli-
cate pink variety to be introduced in 1899. The petals are perfectly
quilled and it is a valuable acquisition.

In single dahlias great advance has been made Avith a corresponding-
increase in popularity. The greatest objection to Paragon, Nance, Cloth
of Gold and other old favorite single dahlias, were their great height and
lateness of bloom. AVe now have single dahlias, larger size and same
length of stem and plants 18 inches to two feet high. Of these varieties
St. George leads all ; color pure yellow, height '2yi feet, size 4 to 5 inches
in diameter, a strong sturdy grower, free, early and continuous bloomer.
Ada Edina, Irene, Luxury, Vernie, Little Dorothy, Corinne and others in-
cluding Xovelty. a new fragrant dahlia, combine in making the new dwarf
large, early flowering, long-stemmed, single dahlia one of the most valu-
able sections of the entire dahlia family.

I had not intended to say anything regarding our single-stemmed
branching system, but after the past heavy storm I must mention it, even
at my own expense. During April and May we had rain almost every
day for six weeks which prevented early planting. This was followed
by a severe drouth broken only two weeks ago with thunder storms and
very heav}- winds. Xow, as we were late and very Imsy we concluded
that our dahlias — 31 acres — ^ would bloom earlier if not pinched back.
This was a big item, as we had a large number engaged as soon as ready.
We were perhajis two weeks ahead by not pinching, but had taller plants
by one-third and shorter stems by one-half. On Thursday evening, Aug.
4th, we had an acre and a half of Clifford W. Bruton coming into full
bloom, standing about 5 ft. high. During the night we had a heavy storm
with wind blowing a gale. On Friday morning, Aug. 5th, our block of
Bruton dahlias were flat and it took six men a half a day to stand them
up. A friend of mine, Mr. C. E. Varnum, had two rows of specimen

66 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

blooms grown to the single stem branching system. Out of 300 plants
exposed to the gale one i)lant was blown over and two or three leaned a
little; the balance was standing as erect as ever.

In conclusion I would like to call attention to the possibilities of the
dahlia as a florist's cut flower, both for bou(]uetsand decoi'utions. Varie-
ties like Coiuitess of Pembroke, Nymjihtea and Clifford W. Bruton, have
size, color, and length of stem, all that can be desired. Also to the possi-
bilities of the dahlia as an exhibition flower ; the exhibitions of the past
two years, in both Philadelphia and Madison Square Garden, New York,
have demonstrated their value better than I can exjjress.

I sincerely trust that at the next meeting of this Society the American
Dahlia Society will be ofticially represented and I think it would be a good
thing if it could work in conjunction with the Society of American
Florists.

Mr. Michel oiJened the discussion. He said : I know little on the
subject, less than I formerly knew, and the reason I know so little about
it is because I have not found, as Mr. Peacock claims to have found, that
there has been an increase in popularity of the dahlia in the last few
years. There does not seem to be any use for them in the locality from
which 1 come. We cannot get anything for them in the market and are
selling less of them every year, though there was formerly a good
demand for them. Of their roots or bulbs we sell quite a few to the seed
houses l)ut I do not find the florists ordering them very largely. It may
he that there is a revival in the East but it has not shown itself in the
West.

Mr. H. A. SiEi'.RECHT : A\'e have almost discarded them as far as cut
flowers are concerned. They do not seem to take excepting with the
smaller florists and the poorer classes. I know of several gentlemen who
grow half an acre or an acre of solid colors — of jMnk, white oj: yellow,
Ijrincipally 3*ellow — and they sell them at some profit; b\it dahlias are
no longer requisite for a first-class florist's business, I think, excepting on
extraordinary occasions and in large, coarse decorations. Of coui'se as
far as the bulbs are concerned there is still a market for them, I think —
a limited market — and it is all right for one or two concerns to keep up
a good collection. Mr. Peacock, I find, and a friend of mine up my way,
old Dr. Bolton — one of the greatest dahlia showers in the country, at
exhibitions, — have good collections. So that if I want any dahlias I
send to one of those gentlemen and get them ; but it is almost extinct as
a business with us.

Mr. E. G. Hill: I think the dahlias have a place in garden embel-
lishment. In my little city there is a party who has three or four clumps
of dahlias, and I don't know how he manages it but it seems they are
blooming in a week or two after the frost disappears, that is, the late
frost. It is to me a source of jjleasure to look at them. I think there is
a i)lace and use for dahlias. I would regret very much to think they

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 67

were goiug out of favor to such an extent that we would see nothing
more of them in this country.

Now, there is considerable valuable information in that paper of Mr.
Peacock's ; but the point he makes or the information he gives in regard
to the cactus dahlia in this country is likely to cause any one interested to
make a serious mistake. In England, when I was over there, the cactus
dahlia was being grown all over the island, and it was most magnificent.
I shall never as long as I live forget the l)right colors and beautiful forms
of the cactus dahlia at Chas. Turner's Slough Nurseries. The care given
to them and the way in ^yhich they are handled was really a revelation
and a marvel to me. I thought that if we could go back and grow dahlias
in this country as they were growing there, they would surely become
popular favorites, but their lateness in blooming in this country would
preclude them from becoming popular.

Mr. Sanders : They have a very moist atmosphere over there.

Mr. Hill : A moist atmos2)here has something to do with it. I
might state that, the day I was there, a mulch of four or tive inches of
old rotten manure was being put over the dahlia plots two or three acres
in extent. We may not like to go to the same expense and devote the
same time, but the result in line dahlia flowers was am))le compensation,
from their standpoint at least, for all the outlay in money and time.

Mr. Siehrecht : I did not mean to say that I did not like to see
dahlias, l)ut I was speaking from a business standpoint, and of course we
are looking a great deal at the financial end. I agree with Mr. Hill, I
like to see them. T think that one reason why our customers in the retail
line, the buyers and consumers, do not go into dahlias more is the very
fact that we cannot start dahlias as early as they do in Euroj^e. We run
chances of a killing frost at any time before the 15th of May in our sec-
tion, and further p]ast it may be still later than that. I used to grow the
cactus dahlia and I think it is a very handsome flower, that it will have a
place and probably Avill always remain. A gentleman in Massachusetts,
Mr. Burt, makes a specialty of them, also Mr. Peacock and Mr. Bolton ;
and we used to have several like them around New York, old Mr.
Stephen Pell and also Mr. Burgess at J^vergreen Cemetery, Brooklyn.
In the days I speak of we did not have so many other flowers ; the dahlia
was a stand-by and a great deal was made of it ; but now we have so
many other things which grow so easily. We did not then have the
French cannas, for instance. But it will pay a few concerns to keep up a
nice collection of dahlias because we all want a few dozen or a hundred
or two now and then, and it is very satisfactory to know Avhere to get
them. I don't think that it would pay for all of us to keep up a collection
of those things.

The discussion here closed and, on motion of Mr. J. D. Car-
MODY, the paper was received and a vote of thanks was given its
author.

68 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

THE QUESTION BOX.

The subject of Trade Exhibitions, which had been assigned for
this evening, was not taken up because of the absence of Mr. E. H.
Cushman, who had prepared a paper upon it. The Question Box,
being always in order, was opened and the following subject was
taken up for discussion: "Is there any way to prevent State
institutions from selling flowers in competition with the florists?
If so, what is the best way to do it? "

Mr. E. H. Michel said he presumed, from the question, that
the condition of affairs which it suggested was one that existed
somewhere. He did not think this was true of the State from
which he came. There was a question, however, that was sug-
gested by the sight of a beautiful bedding in a public park. He
said that he did not see that the eleemosynary institutions, in which
the insane and paupers were supported, grew their own vegetables
or things of that kind or wove the clothing for the inmates, but it
was a fact that when the public authorities ornamented their parks
they grew their own stock for that purpose.

He continued :

Think of how much revenue is taken away from practical business
men, citizens who are paying for the privilege of doing business in grow-
iniy stock, by the cities entering into competition with them in growing
that stocK. We are beginning to feel that we are losing a lot of trade.
For the State to enter into competition with private business interests is to
follow along the same line. If our Legislative Committee can reach the
people in such a way as to influence them to see the injustice of doing
this, I think it will have done a good service to the Society.

Mr. H. A. Siebrecht suggested that the remedy was to be
found in fighting the practice in the same way that the manufac-
turers had been fighting convict labor, which had been successfully
fought in the State of New York. He said he believed that convict
labor was proper in certain directions, and one was in the making
of public roads. ,He thought that when the people, in every State,
became of one mind on this point the country would get good roads
and there would not be so many felons to be supported at the
public expense.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 69

Mr. E. G. Hill took issue with Mr. Michel as to the correct-
ness of his statement about public institutions. He said :

Speaking for the institutions in the State of Indiana I want to say
this. Tliey bu}^ glass, they buy sash bars, they build greenhouses and
they emplo}^ florists. They put their patients to work, those whom they
can trust. I speak more particularly of the Insane Asylum because I
have to do with one of the State institutions there. Those of them that I
have visited and witli whose workings I have become acquainted are
really an educational factor in filling the minds of the people of our State
with a love for floriculture. At all these institutions they have their
cows and use the milk from them and they raise hogs, corn, vegetables,
etc. It is their business to do it. Of course where the State institution
enters into competition with those engaged in selling greenhouse products,
that is all wrong ; I draw the line there ; but I think it is a mistake to
censure the management for producing the things that are consumed and
that are necessary for use in the institution or for the embellishment of
the grounds surrounding it.

Mr. Michel, in reply, explained that his own remarks had
reference not to plants grown in almshouses, insane asylums and
places of that kind, where the labor is the labor that is there, but
to public parks where the people who are employed are receiving
large salaries which the citizens have to pay. He said be had
found very often that the cost of production, in these places,
exceeded or at least equalled the ordinary market rates for the
product.

Mr. Hill said that the conditions referred to- by Mr. Michel
did not exist in the good old State of Indian;?,, where the benevolent
institutions are economically managed under non-partisan control
and where the State gets an equivalent for every cent its puts into
them. He added :

I believe there has l)een a Avonderful change in our State since those
institutions came under the non-partisan management. I, a good Repub-
lican all my life, happened to be aj^pointed by a Democratic Governor
and I have held on through two or three administrations. I think that
the gentleman (Mr. Michel) has taken hold of the wrong end and that he
needs to reform the politicians of his State instead of the in.stitutions.

Mr. C. B. Whitnall : I do not l)elieve there is a State of any size
in whii'h the florists' profession could supply at any price what the
park systems require. It certainly could not be done unless a contract
for it has V)een taken a year in advance ; and where that has been under-
taken, so far as I know, the contracts have not been satisfactorily filled.

70 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

I do not think there is any other way for the park administrations to have
what they really want, when they know what they want, than to prodnce
it themselves. In one way I would not care very much if they did com-
pete with the florists, but when supported by the public the}- should not
compete against those who helj) to support them, and as long as they con-
sume the product themselves I think it would be a mistake for us to
interfere at all. Moreover, I think we should interest ourselves and the
public as far as possible in the management and care of the public parks ;
and I believe it would be advisable, where it can be done in our cities,
for the local florists' clubs to branch out and form horticultural societies
for the purpose of inducing peojjle outside the florist profession to take
an interest in the parks and their evolution, in order to back up and hold
on to good superintendents and good managers when thej- get them. 1
think that by creating a support in that way this political influence will l)e
overcome more effectually than in any other way.

The discussion here closed.

The Secretary : I have here a letter which perhaps belongs in the
Question Box. The writer has prefaced it with a statement that he
would like to attend the present Convention but does not expect to come.
He did come, however, and has been present here. Still. I think he
would like to have this letter presented and therefore I will read it. It
is as follows :

"There is one thing I wish the Society to look into, and that is the
express charges. Our Express Company refuses to give special rates. The
agent claims that the rate was changed, in June, 1897, to merchandise rates
in the following States : Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado.
Now. I don't see why we can't have the special rate in these States. One of our
companies gave me ' special' and the other refused, and the Pacific and U.S.
Express compelled Wells, Fargo to charge me the merchandise rate. Will
you please see that this matter is brought up in the Convention? I do not
think all the agents charge the full rate, as there is a loop-hole for them to
crawl through in case it is Ijrought to their notice."

Mr. J. G. EsLER moved that the subject of the letter just read
be laid before the Claims Committee when appointed.

Mr. Esler's motion was agreed to.

Mr. C. B. Whitnall : It seems to me that matters of that kind should
go to the proper committees without special action by tlie Society. And
it would be interesting to the members of the S. A. F. to have reports
from the committees from time to time, upon what is going on and what
they are doing, so that we may know what is being accomplished. For
instance, if uiDon investigation it should be found that the express com-
panies were in error, and if our committee rectifies the error, I would
like to learn of that fact, and I think we would all like to be informed of
it, without waiting another year, until the next meeting of the Society. I

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 71

don't think that this matter has been provided for but it seems to me that
it ought to be ; and, if it was, it would help to strengthen the machinery
we are putting in motion.

Mr. H. A. SiEBUECHT suggested that the committee could make
known the results of its labors, from time to time, through the
trade papers. He thought this the quickest way of disseminating
the information. If a report was made to the trade papers as soon
as the committee had done something, the members of the Society
would be kept informed as to the progress made.

Mr. E. G. Hill : The committee that acted on this matter of special
express rates was one headed by Mr. Patrick O'Mara. He has by his
personal efforts accomplished wonders, and the credit is largely due to
Mr. Patrick O'Mara for this reduction of twenty per cent from the regular
merchandise rates. It was my understanding that the action taken this
morning would refer all matters such as this to the Legislative Committee
of which Mr. O'Mara is Chairman.

Mr. Alex. Wallace of New York : I think you will tind the record
of the work of the Committee on Express Rates in the report of the pro-
ceedings of the Society made a year or two ago. Mr. O'lNIara was Chair-
man of that committee also and, through his efforts largely, as Mr. Hill
has said, the reduction was accomplished. It was then understood that
all the express companies were jiarties to the arrangement that was
effected at that time. I think that if, in a particular case, the party him-
self was to take up the matter with the express company, he could get
the overcharge or error rectified without the Societj^ having to do anything
in the matter at all because there is, I think, a standing order to all the
companies notifying them that the reduced rate is in effect.

Mr. J. G. Esler : Any trouble would probably be due to the local
agent.

Mr. Wallace: Yes. There was some trouble heretofore through
a misunderstanding on the part of an agent.

The discussion here closed.

The Secretary (as the Question Box was still in order) quoted
the following additional paragraph' in the letter from which he had
read, viz. : '' Another thing is how to deal with white ants. They
are in the soil and destroy my carnations. What is the best way
to get rid of them? "

Mr. Sanders : The ants want to milk the aphis. I think he Avill
have to keep the aphis down.

72 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

The Secretary read the following from the Question Box and
called on Mr. Whitnall to reply to it, viz. : " How can the Society
best interest the regular florist storekeeper enough to make it
essential and beneficial for him to join our ranks?"

Mr. C. B. Whitnall responded : By convincing him how little he
knows. [Merriment.]

BULB GROWING IN AMERICA.

The Secretary presented and read a paper on this subject
from Prof. W. F. Massey, of Raleigh, N. C. ; to whom application
had been made upon Mr. Kains' delinquency becoming manifest.
The paper, which was greeted with applause, was as follows : —

Americans have long been noted for their fondness for far-fetched
things. An article of any kind has been assumed to be better because
imported from a foreign country. Years ago one of the leading seeds-
men of an pjastern city printed on all his seed packages " English Garden
Seeds." His successor in the seed business has long ago learned better.
Our growers have learned that with many varieties of the seeds we culti-
vate, better results can be had from seeds grown in our own climate. But
even now there is an impression abroad that seeds grown in this country
are all better for being produced in the far North, and it is a common
thing for seedsmen to advertise that their seeds are " Northern grown."
And yet only recentlj^I met a gentleman in Southern Geo-rgia whose busi-
ness is the production of seeds for a dealer in New York who sells only
Northern grown seeds, but who is wise enough to have certain kinds of
seeds grown in the climate that suits them best. Georgia and California
are beginning to make a rejjutation for flower seeds that will lead to the
use of their flower seeds to the exclusion of the European in the near
future.

We are gradually learning the varied capacity of our soils and cli-
mates North and South, and are seeking to get the best no matter where
they are grown. We all remember well when no florist would have any
tuberose bulbs but those grown in Italy, but now -the tuberose industry
has moved from Italy to North Carolina, and with the decreased demand
for these, the North Carolina growers are fully able to supply the world
with tuberoses. This decreased deniand for the tuberose has made the
culture rather more unprofitable and the men who control tlie tuberose
output in North C'arolina pay .$2.00 per thousand for Inilbs such as I
formerly furnished to London houses at $60 per thousand.

I have for some years been endeavoring to get the bulb growers of
eastern North Carolina to experiment with other and Avinter grooving
bulbs. So far the effort has not met with very great success, not because
the bulbs cannot be grown, but because the growers have been inexpe-

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 73

rienced in the different methods of growing and curing demanded by
hyacinths, narcissi and lilies, and because of the lack of capital to engage
in the industry on a scale large enough to affect the trade. In mj' experi-
ments at the North Carolina Experiment Station I have been hampered
by the indifference of those in authority. They can easily see the impor-
tance of experiments in farm products and cattle, but they fail to realize
that there is money for their people in things of an ornamental character,
and that there are people who will spend money for things they cannot
eat.

My experiments have mainly been confined to Lilium candidum, nar-
cissi, and Roman hyacinths. The largest Romans I ever saw were grown
by one of our tuljerose growers in eastern North Carolina, but his inex-
perience in curing them led to gumming and worthless bulbs and he be-
came discouraged. Narcissus Tazetta, the sacred lily of the Chinese, I
have produced in such shajie that my bulbs bloomed more quickly and
better than the imported. Some time back I sent to Messrs. Peter Hender-
son & Co. quite a large lot of Lilium candidum. Wishing to ascertain the
results from these bulbs after they got into the hands of the growers I wrote
recently to the house. They replied that they were sorry that they had not
kept up with the bulbs after they were sold, but that they were certainly
very satisfactory, and thej- could see no reason why they should not have
done as well at least as the French bulbs. These bulbs were 13 inches in
circumference and as solid as an apple. At the same time the lily bulbs
were sent to Henderson's I sent samples of other bulbs. These were
noticed in Garden and Forest, and the editor remarked that no bulbs of
equally fine appearance had been seen from Europe.

Latterly the Department at Washington asked me to experiment with
the Bermuda lilj. At the time the only bulbs to be had were a few badly
diseased ones of very small size. These were planted last fall. They
grew healthil}% and made some bloom, and produced small but very clean
and healtliy looking bulbs, which were ripe and dug the last of July.
The diseased condition of the original bulbs doubtless had something to
do with this precocity. But we feel sure that after we have grown the
Bermudas a while we can get them into a perfect!}- healthy condition, and
can get them ready in full time for the early forcing. In all the eastern
section of North Carolina all the varieties of the narcissus do remarkably
well. The polyanthus section has a re2)utation for tenderness, but I find
that with the proj^er treatment they are among the hardiest. If they are
planted in the early fall, they start to grow at once and when our Janu-
ary cold comes they are hurt badly. But when the planting is deferred
till the soil is cold, say about Christmas or the first of January, they remain
below ground till the danger has passed and start off healthily in Febru-
ary, making fine bulbs. The upland red clay regions of the South are
the best for the Roman hyacinths, especially of the White Italians, which
at Raleigh grow to the size of fine Dutch hyacinths. My Dutch hyacinths
this year are finer than any of the new crop coming from Holland, which
are rather inferior to their usual standard. But our people lack cajiital,

74 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

and are not inclined to take hold of anything on which they cannot realize
at once. I have jiroved in a small way that the bulbs can be grown here,
and grown to greater perfection than those imported, for the bulbs of
Lilium candidum grown at our Station have produced three times the
number of flowers that were i^roduced on imported bulbs right alongside
of them.

What we wish to accomjjlish is to get the Agricultural Department
at Washington to divert some of the money now wasted in scattering tur-
nip, seed all over the countr}- to experiments here in bulb-growing on a
scale large enough to convince the dealers that we can grow them and
thus induce them to invest capital in the industry in the South. Eastern
!North Carolina can grow the Bermuda lily as well or better than Bermuda.
She has a fine soil and a climate better adapted to the proper ripening of
the bulbs than Bermuda, and all Ave need is for some one to put money
into the business here.

I have prepared this brief statement more as a suggestion to the flor-
ists assembled at Omaha, than as a history of what has been done here.
Had time allowed, I would have entered more fully into the subject, but
at present am too badly croAvded with work to do more than suggest that
the South Atlantic coast country offers conditions more favorable for the
bulb industry than any part of the country.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT said this very valuable paper came, he
thought, at about the right time. He said that Congress had given
a little encouragement in an increase of duty on bulbs from ten per
cent., as it was years ago, to twenty-five per cent. ; and he would
be glad to see it made fifty per cent, as it would encourage the
trade, but he thought the time for that had not yet arrived. He
said he agreed with the author of the paper that it would be well
for the national government to divert for the benefit of American
growers some of the money that was being squandered in many
ways, so that the}' might have a chance to see what they could do.
He suggested that, as soon as the S. A. F. saw that it could secure
legislation properly, it should make another effort to have the duty
raised on all bulbs such as can be grown in the south Atlantic
States.

On motion of Mr. Siebrecht, the thanks of the Society were
voted to Professor Massey for his valuable paper.

The President : The Chair would state that it is evident we will
get the necessary legislation ultimately. The projjer course to be pursued
is through Secretary AVilson, of the Department of Agriculture, who is a
great friend of the florists and a much better friend than i^erhaps the
majority of us think. He is very deeply interested in this subject. If

SOCIETY OF ASfERICAN FLORISTS. 75

the Department only knew just where to get the money, I don't tliink
there would be any trouble in having the necessary experiments made,
not only for one State but for eight or ten States, to find out where the
bulbs can be best grown. In a recent conversation with him, Secretaiy
Wilson assured me that, if it was thought he could do anything to encour-
age the l)ulb growing industry of the United States so that we would
export rather than import, we should call on him and he would l)e willing
to do anything in his power.

Mr. J. D. Carmody : I think the best place in which to start an
experimental station for the growing of bulbs is Posey County, Indiana.
I have often seen bulbs raised there of the different sorts now displayed
in the exhiljition here. A number of years ago, when I first went into
the florist business, an old lady living in Posey County, who had a nice
little farm there, brought into my greenhouse, one day, a whole sack full
of all kinds of bull)s which, she said, had grown in her garden. She
said she would bring me her surplus stock every year if I would give her
a few new roses. She brought in as tine bulbs as any I had ever seen;
they were Holland l)ulbs, hyacinths, tulips, narcissus, lilies and such
things as those. I of course was ready to make a swap, and I benefited
largely by her generosity in experimental gardening. The soil is pecu-
liar there and is used largely at present in the cultivation of the water-
melon. To such an extent has that traffic grown there that a railroad
about thirty miles long has been built for the purpose of bringing the
watermelons out of that district. The soil is a black, sandy loam, and it
grows anything in the bulb order to a wonderful perfection. I have often
thought tiiat in this country there are hundreds of places where the soil
and climate will produce just as fine bulljs as any we have imported from
the old country. I had samples of such products many years before this
Society was organized. The subject, however, has not been brought up
before this Society before, and I never thought to speak of it, but I am
satisfied that Ave can grow at home just as good bulbs as we can get from
the Island of Bermuda or in the flats of Holland.

Mr. J. G. ESLER : I think it would be a good idea, when he makes
the attempt, for Secretary Wilson to get some good Holland Dutchmen
to do the bulb growing. [Merriment.]

Mr. E. G. Hill : One thing that must not be forgotten is the exhibit
of bulbs that we have here from the State of Washington. I think that that
is a wonderful revelation of what can be done in that State. If any one
of the fiorists present will examine those bulbs he will find, I think, they
are as solid, hardened and well ripened as any bulbs with which he has
ever had anything to do. I was a member of the committee that passed
upon them ; and, after I got to investigating and looking at them, I felt
more deeply impressed with the fact that those bulbs were par excellence
first-class. If they can be produced on a larger scale in this country, I
hope that every encouragement will be given to the party who grew

76 proceedinCtS of fourteenth convention

those bulbs and that aid may also be given to growers, in the coast dis-
tricts of the Carolinas as well as to growers in Mr. Carniody's Posey
County.

Mr. Siehrecht. I concur in what Mr. Hill has said about the
bulbs from the State of Washington. I have examined them and can say
that I marvelled at their quality and solidity.

Mr. J. G, EsLER suggested that the consent of the exhibitor
of the bulbs be obtained to permit of their being forwarded to
Washington, D. C, for inspection by Secretary Wilson; that
President Gude be constituted a committee of one for the purpose
of calling the attention of the Secretary to what seemed to be the
proper localities in which to grow bulbs.

Mr, C. B. Whitnall asked whether it would not seem advis-
able to request the Committee on Legislation to take up the matter
with what data had been collected, including Mr. Massey's com-
munication, and invite Mr. Massey's and perhaps Secretar}^ Wilson's
co-operation in the carrying out of some plan in regard to it.

President Gude said that the gentleman (Mr. Kains) from
whom the Society had expected to receive information and co-
operation, held a position in the Agricultural Department, in which
it was his duty to investigate and report upon the home culture of
bulbs such as are imported from abroad. That gentleman had been
sent by Secretary Wilson to interview Mr. Massey and others on
the subject; and his failure to attend the S. A. F. Convention or
to make report to it was a serious disappointment.

On motion of Mr. Hill, the question as to the disposition of
the bulbs and any arrangement in regard to their use temporarily
was referred to the President and Secretary of the Society.

The business of the session having been completed, an adjourn-
ment was ordered (at ten o'clock) until the following morning.

THIRD DAY — MORNING.

Thursday, August 18, 1898.
The session opened punctually at ten o'clock ; President Gude
in the chair.

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 77

A MODEL REPORT AND A VOTE OF THANKS,

The report of State Vice-President Alex. Wallace (the pres-
entation of which had been unavoidably delayed) was read by its
author. [For report see Reports of State Vice-Presidents.]

Mr. C. C. Sanders moved the acceptance of the report and a
vote of thanks to its author for the ability and care shown in its
preparation.

Mr. E. G. Hill said he regarded the report as a model paper
of its kind and one well worthy of imitation. He suggested that
State Vice-Presidents who had complained that they did not know
how to get up an interesting report would profit by a reference to
it, and that, on this account, the Society was much indebted to
Mr. Wallace.

Mr. C. W. TuRNLEY moved, as an amendment, a vote of thanks
to the chairman of the committee in New York which had success-
fully combatted adverse legislation, Mr. P. O'Mara, for his inde-
fatigable and efficient labors.

Mr. E. H. CusHMAN suggested that the complimentary mention
of Mr. O'Mara be extended to include the members of the com-
mittee who had co-operated with and assisted him.

Mr. TuRNLEY accepted Mr. Cusliman's suggestion as a modifi-
cation of his amendment.

The amendment was agreed to ; and Mr. Hill's motion, as thus
modified, was adopted by a unanimous vote. The thanks of the
Society were accordingly voted to Mr. Wallace and to Messrs.
P. O'Mara, John N. May and C. H. Allen, the committee of the
New York Florists' Club.

trade exhibitions.

The next subject considered was that of "Trade Exhibitions,
their value to the florist business," which was presented by a paper
prepared by Mr. E. H. Cushman, of Euclid, O.

Mr. Cushman prefaced the reading of his paper with an
apology for his absence at the bowling contest during the session

78 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

on the previous evening, at which time the subject had been
assigned for consideration. His treatment of the subject was
much applauded.

The paper was as follows : —

The subject of trade exhibitions is of vital importance to ever}' one of
us wlio lias anything to sell. They furnish a good opportunity for every
plantsman and dealer, who would make a business success. They are a
gathering of the same lines of business under one roof, for the jnirpose of
showing Avhat we have to'sell, and giving an opportunity for comparison
and the extension of business ac(|uaintance not otherwise possible.

These gatherings of commercial men with samples of their goods, in
conjunction with a large gathering of consumers of those goods, is one
of the very best advertisements possible. The wideawake and practical
soon get the rough corners worn off at these shows, and usually the con-
ceit taken out of them if they have any. There are so many good things
in connection with these trade gatherings, I am sure it is a ]Joor man who
does not get value received for exhibiting or attending our conventions.

Just cast your e3'es about in the Trade Hall, and see what a Ijusy
place it is. What introductions these exhibits give. Men who never
would hnd each other, do so when they see the trade sign out, or they are
interested in the same line and fall to conversing about it. In this way
many pleasant business and other relations are formed, which terminate
only Avhen the mortal jiart is put to rest.

Gentlemen, I do not wish to be cranky on this subject, but our trade
shows have done so much for me, and I see such possibilities in them for
others and the trade at large, that I Avish as far as jjossible to create
greater interest in this vital organ of the S. A. F. I ask you gentlemen
to throw yoiu' efforts for the building up and improving of this branch of
our woi'k. What the eyes see is retained longer than evidence taken in
through any other of the senses. Show the best that customers will know
when thej' are getting the best, and you will make it more dilRcult for
poor stock to be palmed off on purchasers. Exhibitors at our conventions
are doing more than just selfish work. These exhibitors are keeping up
an education among florists themselves, of incalculable Ijeneht. Brother
exhibitors and florists, I ask of you to do all you can for this feature of
the convention. If you see points that are weak, seek in a wise way to
strengthen them. If we tear down let us have something better to put in
its place. The discussion that will follow this, I hope will bring out
man\- valual)le thoughts, and indicate lines of improvement.

I had thought to give you a few of the requirements of a successful
exhibition, but I fear that Avould be only a " drug on the market " as you
all know how to " get there." If I could tell you how to conjure impos-
sible conditions so as to bring a" harmonious combination. Oh my, what
shows we would have ! No ill feelings, no debt to wipe out and every-
one with first. There are great oi^portimities for the trade to develop
thi'ough exhibitions and shows. It behoves us, as wide-awake S. A. F.'s

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 79

to endeavor to take advanced ste2:»s in exhibitions. We must have
national exhibitions in keeping -vvitii o\ir national i^rogress ; they will be
trade promoters, and we must watch and work with our government and
the management of future great expositions, and see that our interests
are second to none. I Ijelieve our Trade J^xhibition is the most important
feature of our meetings. See to it then that it receives due consideration
in the future. It is worthy of the best hall and management this orga-
nization can command.

There is another sort of a trade exhibition, which it might be well to
call to mind — the efforts individuals may and do make at home in their
everyday business. The chief end of a display is to create a desire, and
offer an ojjportunity for comparison. No honest dealer can begin to con-
vey, by a description in type, what he has to sell, as he can by placing
the thing itself before the would-be purchaser. This being fully realized,
the up-to-date florist, or dealer, is always ready and anxious to show his
skill at every 02)2>ortunity. This applies to the local florist of a small
town, as to the leading city establishment ; to our country fair, as to our
grand exi^ositions and trade displays. If you are a market florist, it
stands you in hand to study your display, so as to make it catch the eye
and cash, as well as to study how to jn-oduce. Only the smartest are
capable of running the retail end of the florist business, and at the same
time conduct the growing successfully. I am sure increased business will
come to mail}- who give these sales exhibits .more attention. Get out of
the ruts, be different, so a fellow will know just when he has come to
Smith's stand by its style and make uj). Give it an individuality in some
wa}', so that you will be known from the half-dozen neighbors near by.

Trade requires you to show the newest and best you have. You
must fulfill this requirement, or lose custom. Show your goods, is a law
of trade as essential to us as any other line. Business men fully realized
this, hence the great combination.? spending millions of dollars and result-
ing in our great expositions. Go into our cities and see the quantities of
valuable goods placed attractively in large show windows, placed with all
the skill and art tliat trained helj) and costly fittings can command, and
you can form some idea of the value placed on trade displays in other
lines of business. Our retail flower stores are not behind in this grand
effort at display, for they, too, are abreast of the times in showing their
beauties, with all the accessories of glass, gilt and electric lighting.

Trade displays, yes, these are the very essence ol trade displays. It
is not possible for me to approximate the value of these displays to the
business itself. I know a prominent florist who estimates the actual
value of his window display at not less than fifty doUars per day ; what its
direct value to him is I cannot say, but that this one windoAv has been of
great indirect value to the balance of the city's flower trade, I have but
little doubt. Through blistering summer and frosty winter, that grand,
beautiful live flower picture is feeding the hungry, who cannot po'ssess,
and drawing the dollars from the rich who see only to possess. In the
language of the proprietor of this store, "they walk right in and buy."

80 PROCEEDINGS OF FOUKTEEXTH CONVENTION

Truly I believe this display is richer than the eye can see, and he who
makes it is a benefactor of his race, be he the individual taken as an
illustration, or anj- one of the hundreds making the same efforts.

Florists should be strong supporters of every effort to beautify public
grounds, for thej' bring to the public eye the uses and beauties of our
goods, and in a measure are trade exhibits. A beautiful plant, flower or
combination of both, seen for the first time at some park or exposition,
stamps itself on the memory, awakens a neAV interest and desire which at
the first opportunity will be gratified and some tradesman will have
made a sale.

Realizing the value of showing our goods, it behoves us as a society
and as individuals to let no opportunitj^ pass that we can utilize for the
purpose of these displays. Many local clubs and individuals are, and
can do much to increase trade by holding exhibitions. We can greatly
increase the love for flowers by showing the people what to have and
hoAV to have it and when they have it at its best. I hope to see this trade
feature extended, improved and worked up to the highest degree of
effectiveness.

Mr. Benj. Hammond, of Fishkill, N. Y., opened the discussion
of the paper. He said :

On Monday I came over, on the Michigan Central railway, by day-
light. At Ypsilanti thenj is one of the most beautiful exhibits of the
florist's skill that I have had the pleasure of seeing for some time. '
Among other things was the battleship Maine with cannon and such
things in keejiing with the leading feature. Nearly every one stepjjed to
the windows as we passed the station and enjoj'ed the spectacle on those
beautifully laid out grounds, and for perhaps half an hour aftenvards it
was the topic of conversation. When we reached Niles the car was
almost emptied because I knew, from previous experience, the display
there would be well worth the attention of everybody. Close to me was
a lady of middle age who, pointing to a number of the plants, spoke of
their beauty and asked where she could get any of them when she returned
home.

At my home in Fishkill I have taken a piece of ground that was
slate and rock and, at some considerable expense, have made some canna
beds by digging and manuring until now we have a spread there that
brings all the children in the neighborhood to look at it. Those in my
particular neighborhood are not children who have special home advan-
tages, for we have not the good fortune to have a Euclid Avenue ; but
those children all in rags and tatters, without faces washed or hair
combed, will come there early in the morning to look at the flowers.
Kow, the exhibit of tulips in the early spring and the cannas surrounded
by ge'raniums furnish an object lesson that is doing a vast amount of
good. Those of you who remember the paper read bj- IMr. Farquhar, at
Washington, on the subject of floriculture for the children, will realize

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 81

that it is possible to increase the volume of sales through the medium of
exhibits such as Mr. Cushman has so warmly and properly advocated.
Where they see a little plot of ground laid out by the florist, the people
are led to think whether they cannot have a good thing like that about
their own back doors or yards. Almost every neighborhood, no matter
how small, gives some evidence of the popular taste for floriculture. The
percentage of those who can raise flowers themselves is very siilall.
They must go to the home florist to get the supply and that makes busi-
ness. In the State of New York, to-day, the Cornell University is giving
what might be called "Nature studies," to train the children of the public
schools to an appreciation of the value of the beautiful things that are
around and about them and that make life so much more enjoyable than
it would otherwise be.

In regard to the trade display, I believe there is a great deal of force
in the point made by Mr. Cushman when he says that, when we come to
the trade disj^lay, we have the conceit knocked out of us. When we
stay at home we are apt to conclude that we " know it all," but at the
trade disijlay we find somebody a little brighter than we are ourselves,
and if we are smart we take away with us a desire to find out more about
the things we have seen. So, too, in this Convention we sometimes hear
papers read that are called " dull," but I may say that 1 have learned
something from every pajjer to which I have listened because the paper
that was read was the best work that the writer of it could give ; and
there is not one of them that does not contain some suggestion that, if
taken home and acted upon, will develop and make things better.
Every time you make a good showing of plants and flowers you create a
desire to possess the beautiful on the part of the people who do not own
them and who are willing to lay aside more or less of their means in
order to possess them. Consequently a display, wherever it is made,
means good business. If we have good business we can afford to have
conventions, and by means of conventions we are enabled to grow flowers
in better shajDc than we ever did before.

Mr. G. A. Rackham, of Detroit: I am glad the gentleman (Mr.
Hammond) has spoken of Ypsilanti and Niles. As they are in my native
State and only a short distance from Detroit, the "florists will have an
opportunity of seeing the displays at those points when they come to that
citv, next year.

Mr. A. WiNTZER, of West Grove, Pa., expressed the pleasure
with which he had listened to Mr. Cushman's suggestions. He
narrated an incident which, he said, gave a practical illustration of
what could be accomplished for the advancement of floriculture by
a new departure. He had prepared for a neighbor a canna bed,
patterned after his own, which was circular in form and had as a
centre piece a canna growing seven or eight feet in height. He

82 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

said this canna bed caused a great sensation, thousands of people
having driven around in their carriages to see it. As a result there
were sold last spring, of those varieties, in that country district,
more than fifteen hundred roots.

The President here remarked that the importance of trade
exhibitions, in their effect upon the florists' business, was such
that too much time could not be given to the subject. He sug-
gested that the Convention would like to hear from some of the
exhibitors.

Mr. E. H. CusHMAN (in the absence of a response to the
Chair's suggestion) said :

If at any time this year or prior to the meeting of the Executive
Committee next spring, any of the exhibitors or anyone else interested in
a trade exhibit has any suggestion to make, I would be jjleased to have
him consider me, as one member of the Executive Committee, ready to
receive his suggestion; and I will see that it receives due consideration.
I feel verj' much interested in the Trade Exhil)ition. I do believe that it
draws fully as many to our conventions as does any other one feature and that
more good is to be derived from it than from any other feature. We can
read, at home, in the reports of the Convention ijroceedings, the papers
that are presented here, but it is only by actual observation that we can
appreciate the valuable exhibits. The Exhibition and the Convention
should be mutually dependent on each other for success ; and by building
up the attractions of the one we shall build up the attendance on the other.

Another consideration is the opportunity afforded for visiting large
establishments of interest to the trade, while attending or en route to or
from the convention. A young man who is with me, who came all the
way from Cleveland to Omaha to attend this Convention, learned one
thing in Chicago when he stopped there ; and that single idea, if he had
picked up ho other, on the whole ti'iiJ, will compensate him for the time
he has exi^ended in coming here. I do not think there is any one who
does not receive full yalue in return for any expenditixre he may make in
attending the Convention. I think it rests with individuals themselves.
Improve your opportunities, help us to build up the Trade Exhibition,
and in that way help us to build up the Society. [Applause.]

Mr. H. A. SiEBKECHT : I regret not having been present in time to
hear Mr. Cushman read his paper. I may say that I was one of the first
exhibitors, having had an exhibit at what might have been called " a
Trade fexhibit" or "Exhibition of Novelties" at our first Convention, at
Cincinnati. The thought occurred to me, while listening here, to suggest
to the Executive Committee to make a call for a paper with a title some-
thing like this, " What can one learn while going to, attending and
returnine: from the Convention." Mr. Cushman struck a kev note when

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISXa. 83

he suggested that it is not alone when we are here but on the way that we
learn something of value. The older I grow the more I realize how little
I know and how much I have to learn. The trade exhibitions have an
extraordinary educational value. Why, that table of crotons we had last
year was an object lesson that was worth going five hundred miles to see.
The trade exhibitor, who is broad and lilieral minded and who has energy
and push in him, will get his pay in the end. It is true we cannot see
the dollars and cents coming right back to us for what we as exhibitors
exjiend in this direction, but we are bound to reap a reward.

Mr. D. B. Long, of Buffalo (being called upon by Mr. Michel
for a few remarks) said :

It is my belief, from quite a little experience as an exhibitor and also
as a member of the Executive Committee for a series of years, that the
S. A. F. can well afford to give liberal attention to the Trade Exhibition
and to make it a more i^rominent feature. Just how that can be best
brought about I do not know. It might be brought about by creating a
committee to confer with the Executive Committee and to hold consulta-
tions with some of the more prominent exhibitors. Sometimes there are
points in an exhibitor's mind that, for some reason or another, do not come
before the Executive Committee. I believe to-day that if the matter of
the trade exhibits was handled and worked up as it should be, it might
be made of a value far greater than it has been in the past to members of
the 8. A. F. and the florists all over the United States. This is a mere
general suggestion and I offer it for what it may be worth.

The discussion here closed.

GRAFTED ROSES FOR GROWING UNDER GLASS.

This subject being next in order on the program, it was pre-
sented in an able paper by Mr. Robert Craig of Philadelphia.
Mr. Craig, upon being introduced, was cordially greeted. His
paper, which was much applauded, was as follows : —

This is a subject which is exciting very great interest in the minds
of many rose growers of America at the present tima. The business of
forcing roses for cut flowers has assumed vast' proportions, the comjjeti-
tion is so keen, and the supply frequently so large, that the markets are
often glutted, so that only the very finest lilooms command remunerative
prices, except in the now very rare occasions when there is a scarcity in
the market. Any method, therefore, which gives promise of better results
is eagerly discussed, and the most progressive are ready to adopt it as
soon as it is shown to be of value.

Grafting of fruiting, flowering and ornamental plants is a very old
art and has been practised for thousands of years ; but it is only recently

84 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

(within the past ten years) that any extensive experiments have been
carried on in houses used for forcing roses for cut flowers. In tliis country
as early as 1887 the subject was discussed in the columns of the Ama-icait
Florist by several prominent growers, some of wliom Avere of the opinion
that grafted roses gave better results than those on their own roots ; and
others just as prominent, maintained the contrary oiJinion. Now, after
all these years, the fact that a few of our most successful growers, cater-
ing to the severely critical markets of New York, Boston and Philadelphia, ■
have, for the past three years, been gradually and greatly increasing the
quantit}' of certain varieties grown in this way, is, in itself, sufficient
reason for imjuiring into the subject. I will endeavor briefly to give
you the results of my own experiments and observations, in the hope
that the matter may be further discussed by the growers present at
this meeting.

I think it may be safely said that certain varieties, in a great major-
ity of instances, show decidedly better results when grafted than when
grown on their own roots. This is most noticeable in three very impor-
tant roses. Bride, Bridesmaid and Kaiserin Augusta A'ictoria. The ad-
vantages are in the increased vigor of growth, resulting in the production
of better blooms, on longer stems, and a greater quantity of them. I
have also seen Mme. Iloste and Souvenir de Wootton do remarkably well,
also Mme. Caroline Testout and President Carnot when grown for summer
bloom. I now have two houses of grafted Kaiserin, each 130 feet long
by 22 feet wide, planted on benches, from 3-inch pots on April 20,
and the plants have been j^aying well for the past two months. This
is the best white rose for summer and therefore fills an important place.
I must say I never saw young plants do so well as these have done and
are now doing. The plants average three and one-half feet high and have
been continually producing an alnmdance of good blooms. I have noticed
this variety, grafted, doing particularly well in other jjlaces. I may say
hei'e that I last winter examined a house of Brides planted on benches,
one-half of which were grafted and the other half on own roots. There
was in this case very little difference in the growth of the two lots, both
doing exceptionally well, the grower, a very jirominent one, remarking
that he " could see no advantage in grafted jjlants." In all the other lots
I examined, in different sections of the countr}^ the grafted roses showed
notable superiority. In the cases of Mme. de Watteville, Mme. Cusin,
Mrs. Morgan and Meteor, no difference could be noticed between those
grafted and thoso on own roots.

In the cases of Perle and Sunset, those grafted on Manetti were in-
ferior to those on own roots. A good stock for these varieties and others
that do not thrive on Manetti may yet be found. In 1888 Mr. Peter Ball
of Maiden, Mass., had a house of Perles grafted on the Yellow Banksia,
which did remarkably well. I am of the opinion that no advantage is to
be gained by grafting American |Beauty, as that variety usually makes
wood fast enough on its own roots. It may be worth a trial, however,
by those who cannot grow the Beauty successfully on own roots.

SOCIETY OK AMERICAN FLORISTS. 85

I have noticed experiments with roses grafted on Rosa Carolinensis,
multitlora japonica, La Grifferae, polyantha, Banksia, canina (used
largel}- in Europe as a stock for Teas), Carmine Pillar and Climbing
Wootton. In the cases of Bride, Bridesmaid, Kaiserin and Wootton, the
Manetti has proven decidedly the best. It is not affected by eel-worms
and is so vigorous it will stand very rich feeding. As to other varieties,
a suitable stock may j^et be found.

The Cherokee rose might be good, as it is extremely vigorous and
an evergreen variety. The stocks may be readily grown here, but it is
much cheaper to obtain them from Europe. They should be ordered of
as nearly uniform size as possible and not exceeding live-sixteenths of an
inch in diameter. When they arrive in the fall they should be heeled in
in a cool place, but where the}- will get no frost, which frequently injures
them, until the time for potting them into 2^-ineh pots arrive. After the
stocks have been potted and j^ut in a temperature of 45 to 50 degrees (it
is better to start them in this low temperature) until they are well rooted,
they are ready to graft. After the sap has started in the stocks, they
should be kept from freezing, or failure will result.

The best method is what is known as splice grafting — that is, the
stock should be severed by a long diagonal cut and the scion cut of corre-
sponding shape to fit as nicely as possible. The important point is to
form a direct contact between the layers of inner bark, as the pithy part in
the center never unites. It is well to have the scion and stock as nearly a
size as possible, and the union should be made as soon as possible after
the scion is taken from the parent plant. The scion should not be kept
for any length of time in water, the absorption of which prevents a good
union from being made. The wood used for grafting may be kept in a
box with damp moss or covered with damp jjaper. The scions may be
tied with either string or raffia ; the latter is preferable, as the string is
apt to cut into and injure the graft. The operation should be carefully
done, as the more nearly perfect the union the better for the future wel-
fare of the plant.

The best time to graft roses is during January, Februar}- and March.
After the latter month the sun gets strong and the top heat is likely to .be
too great. After the plants are grafted they should be put in a tight case
in the greenhouse, with strong bottom heat, which may be had by enclos-
ing steam or hot water pipes under the case. For a case five feet wide,
six 1 34^ -inch steam pipes, regulated by valves, would be ample. First
whitewash thoroughly the inside of the case with lime and sulphur as a
preventive of fungus. This should be repeated every time a crop is taken
out. There should be put in the bottom of the case an inch of coarse
cinders or other rough material, as drainage. This should be covered by
two inches of sand in which to plunge the pots and the sand should be
well soaked with water before the plants are put in ; this will obviate the
necessitj' of watering for several days.

In placing the pots in the case, it is well to leave an inch space be-
tween the outer row of plants and the side of the case, as fungus, the

86 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

greatest obstacle to success, frequently starts in the woodwork. If fungus
should appear it may be washed off with clear, cold water. After the
plants are put in the case a steady temperature of 80 to 85 degrees should
be maintained until the grafts have taken, which will be in from two to
three weeks. No air should be given for the first three or four days ;
after that the sash may be raised an inch or tAvo to admit air. As soon
as the grafts have taken they may be removed from the case into a green-
house with a temperature of 60 degrees, and staked up Avith light stakes
to prevent the grafts from breaking off. It is well to shift them into
three-inch pots and establish them before planting on the benches.

The President called attention to the paper just read as one
of much value, and invited Mr. E. G. Hill to take the lead in the
discussion of the subject.

Mr. Wm. vScott said he had been requested by members to sug-
gest that Mr. Hill speak from the platform in order that his
remarks, which were anticipated with interest, might be heard by
all present.

Mr. Hill appeared on the platform and said :

Mr. Craig has covered the ground so fully that I don't know that he
has left anything to be said. I can speak somewhat from experience but
only in a limited way. Observations made last winter led me to believe
that grafted roses were producing better results than roses on their own
roots in the same house and appai'ently treated alike. Xow, it is but jus-
tice to own root roses to say that the conclusions arrived at, and which
perhaps have been arrived at by Mr. Craig, are hardly fair from the fact
that o-rafted roses have a distinct advantage in practically a year's start of
most roses that are forced on their own roots. The correct or redl test,
that which would give us important results bearing on the relative merits
of each, would be to take one-year old roses, — for instance. Brides,
Bridesmaids and Kaserins that have been growing in the open air one
year — pot those roses up, keep them cool until planting time and start
them on even terms with roses that have been grafted. Then you have a
fair test. I think that in every instance that came under my observation
the parties had taken the cuttings of own root roses that had been put in
the bed, along, say in January or February. I would like to know if
any one present has tried two-year old own root roses, as from the results
of their experience we could better arrive at correct conclusions, I think.
But, aside from that, I am inclined to believe that there is a distinct and
decided advantage in grafted roses of the varieties mentioned by Mr.
Craig. We all know that Brides and Bridesmaids do not have the root
action that some of the other Tea roses have in winter time ; and by put-
ting them upon Manetti, upon this strong grooving stock the scion seems
to be improved and the flowers benefited in size.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 87

When I was at ISIr. Wood's, last winter, Mr. Montgomery called my
attention to one important fact bearing on this subject, and that was that
he was cutting out of two houses of grafted I'oses, if I remember aright,
sixtj'-two per cent, of first-class extra liowers, while out of two houses of
roses on their own roots he was getting only thirty per cent. Now, if
such a result can be produced in other parts of the country by grafting
roses, why then by all means graft. But before we jump into tliis thing
— plunge into it rather — we ought to give two-year old own root roses a
further trial and shake-up with the grafted roses.

I have experimented somewhat with the variety Wootton and with
the more tender growing Tea roses, and I have found these very benefi-
eial in promoting a rapid and (]uick growth ; but I have only used this
stock for purposes of propagation and not for the production of winter
flowers. As I said before, my personal experience with grafted roses has
l)een somewhat limited and I have now said jjerhaps all that I have to say
on the subject.

The President : The Chair is sure that all the members would like
to hear from Mr. Scott of Buffalo. Can that gentleman give us some
light on this subject?

Mr. Wm. Scott: No, sir. I grow roses, but in such limited quan-
tities that I would not be considered an authority. I think we ought to
be very thankful to Mr. Craig for the explicit way in which he went into
details as to the instructions and the care required in this operation.
Before the Chair mentioned my name I had risen to interrogate that gen-
tleman on one point, though perhaps not one of great consequence. He
told us that the scion, which is the graft, and the root should be about
equal in size but he did not tell us how many eyes the scion should have.
That is a point on which I and, I think, others would be glad to hear Mr.
Craig in explanation.

Mr. Crakj : As far as I have noticed I think it does not make any
difference, if the wood is good, strong and healthy, whether you have a
one eye graft or two or three. I should prefer not more than two and I
think one is ample, but there is no objection to your using two eyes if the
stock is nice and clean ; and probably there may be a little advantage if
you get two branches instead of one and it may be a little quicker. But
the most striking thing about grafting roses is the rapidity with which
they grow after they are estal)lished on the stock. Now, it will take a
cutting on its own root a couple of months to make six inches frequently,
and it will make three times that growth on the stock. You can see the
effect of the vigorous root action, I think, immediately. There is quite a
difference as compared with those on their own roots.

Mr. Hill here remarked that the comparison made by Mr.
Craig was hardly a fair one.

88 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. Craig : I am glad that Mr. Hill has brought up the matter of
comparing a two-year old rose with a rose grafted on a stock a year old.
I do not know of any rose grower in this country who keeps a rose over
to the second year and then plants it. You will lind that all our crack
rose growers, all the most successful ones, make a start with a very tine
cutting in January or later for the following year ; and those who have
tried keeping them over for the second year have, as far as I know,
abandoned the practice. There is nothing in it ; they do not get increased
vigor in that way ; so that that really would have no bearing on the sub-
ject; that is, in my view of it. I say that I am very glad that Mr. Hill
brought that up ; and I hope that everybody in this meeting will bring up
anything that has a bearing on this question, so that we can interchange
opinions on the matter because that is what we are gathered here for.
There are many gentlemen in this room, old gardeners, who know a
great deal about grafting roses, and now is their opportunity to tell us
things they have learned in their experience.

Mr. Wm. Scott: One more question. What would be the relative
difference in price as between those propagated in the usual way, on their
own roots, and the grafted plants. At present it is to me a formidable
job to raise two or three thousand grafted roses. I used to be acquainted
with the operation but that was many years ago, in the early part of the
century. [Merriment.] As it is a novel operation with many of us we
would like to know something about the price, for the price would be a
great consideration with many growers. Possibly a plant on its own
roots would cost the grower four or five cents to raise it, and a grafted
plant must cost more. Now, is the price for i3roducing a grafted plant
to be double or treble that of the other?

Mr. Craig : The Avay I tigure on grafted roses is this : the Manetti
stock may be imported and laid down in this country for about $10 or
$12 a thousand ; i.e., about a cent a jjiece or possibly a little more fot stock
selected to a uniform size and not exceeding five-sixteenths of an inch in
diameter. Anything larger than that, I think, is not very suitable for the
wood you are likely to have ; you will not have any wood larger than
that, but from that size down. I am speaking now of the actual cost of
establishing these roses before they are grafted. I think it is worth two
cents a piece to root them in the jjots and establish them. I don't think
there is any profit at that sum but I think you could do it for that. That
Avould make the stock cost, uj^ to the time it went in the case, before it
was grafted, about three cents. After that you could do the Avork for
about six cents.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT : The grafting is worth something.

Mr. Craig: That is what I say; the grafting is worth six cents.
I am speaking noAv of the actual cost. A finished plant in a three-inch
pot would cost me about nine cents. If I wanted to sell the plants I

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 89

wouldn't take a contract for them at less than twelve and a-half cents
because there is a certain amount of risk in it and you naturally want to
realize something to compensate you for supervision . I think they prob-
ably will not be sold in this country, in quantities, for less than $125 a
thousand. I don't think that a business in them could be made or that it
would be worth while for anybody to bother with them at a lower rate.

Now, as to the other side of the question, whether it would pay the
buyer to pay the difference : I think you will have to pay for first-class
roses in three-inch pots, about $70 a thousand. I have never been able
to buy them, such as pleased me, for any less money. We have roses
advertised in the papers as low as $40 and $50 a thousand but I have
always, when I had occasion to buy, paid the higher price. Seventy dol-
lars a thousand is about the best figure I have been able to get on the
kind of stock that suits me. That would make a difference in the cost,
as between first-class roses in three-inch pots and those grafted roses in
three-inch pots, of about five cents, according to my estimate. My judg-
ment is that you would get that five cents back three or four times over
before the own root roses began to bloom at all. So far as I am con-
cerned, I would not now think of planting a Bride or Bridesmaid on its
own roots, in my soil, under the conditions which exist there; I would
cheerfully prefer to pay the five cents extra to get grafted stock and
would consider myself a great gainer thereby. [Ajiplause.]

Mr. E. M. Wood, of Boston : Replying to Mr. Hill's question about
two-year old roses grafted or on their own roots, I have to say that we
have grown own root roses at two years old or rather one-year old plants,
and that the grafted rose maintains its supremacy, whether it is one year
or two years or three years old. We have abandoned growing roses on
benches and grow them in borders. We have grafted roses for a long
time, and oi;r present tea roses — good roses, first-class roses, — are very
much larger and grow (luicker than do those on their own roots. But
there is a danger to which we are exposed, in New England, with grafted
roses. If they get a check in the fall they are liable to " shut down," as
we call it, and give you a limited crop. I know that some of my neigh-
bors who have used grafted roses are about to abandon them for the
simple reason, they said, that they could not get nearly as many roses
from grafted stock as from those on their own roots. The cause with
them was that the roses had got a check in some way, from mildew or
from fall in the temperature.

Perhaps our success has been largely due to the manner in which we
have run our houses. Our houses are all piped, so that we can put on
one pipe or two, three, four and so on until they are all put on. They
are pipes with manifold valves. We have a man whose special duty it is
to look after the temperature and the j^ressure of the steam on the boiler.
He has a sheet of paper on which he must make a record, every hour, for
every house, showing how the temperature is and also the temperature
outside . If the temperature outside falls three or four degrees he is in-

90 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

structed to go in and put on a pipe so as to maintain the temperature as
evenly as possible from night until morning. I think that that is in one
measure the secret of some of our success.

Mr. Antoine Wintzer. of West Grove, Pa : My experience has been
more in the line of a propagator than as a grower of roses for cut flowers.
There are various methods of propagating roses from cuttings. When I
first became interested in it, in 1860 and 1862, all roses were grown
merely from buds or grafts. The old root grafting system for roses was
then in vogue, and it was supjjosed that roses could not be grown on their
own roots to advantage. Thirty-six years of active jiractice in the rose
field has demonstrated to me that if you grow any rose from a healthy
cutting, giving it the same chance with the grafted rose and adding on to
the own root cutting the age of the stock on which the rose is grafted,
giving them equal chances, in nine cases out of ten the own root cutting
will prove the better in the long run. To begin Avith, the grafted rose,
after it becomes sick and diseased, has no recuperative power. The roses
grown on their own roots always have a chance to recuperate from their
own roots. A great many of them throw up suckers from the root and,
in the long run, make strong bushes. Now, I will ask Mr. Craig one
question, viz., has anyone made this test with own root roses grown in
the old-fashioned way from one year hard wood cuttings, and given them
the same age as grafted roses with the age of the plant and stock com-
bined.

Mr. Crak; : In reply to Mr. Wintzer's question as to whether there
can be any comparison between roses struck in what he terms " the good
old-fashioned way," viz., from hard wood, and roses grafted, I may say
that, in the experience of all the rose growers in this country, in growing
roses for cut flowers under glass, that old system has been discarded
entirely. That was a grand way to grow roses for planting out in the
field. It was what we used to do when I was a boy. My father had his
rose cutting house kept at a temperature of 45 degrees, in a tan bed, to
produce bottom heat for rooting hard wood cuttings. We used to keep a
cool top temperature Avith an even moderate bottom heat, and we used to
get grand cuttings of the kind that Mr. Wintzer has in his mind ; and
those plants, when planted out in the open air made great growth. But
that is not the subject we are considering here to-day. I don't think that
hard wood cuttings of that kind would be suitable for forcing under glass.
The best results have been brought about in this country fiom cuttings
from soft wood, vigorous cuttings, grown regularly on without any cheek
whatever.

Mr, Wintzer : , Properly handled, soft wood rose cuttings will make
nice plants strong enough to fill a three-inch or a four-inch pot by spring.
But supposing that the rose is well grown, that it is put in the bench say
in May or June and is kept in good condition, will not that rose produce
as good results as a grafted rose, and does it not cost less to produce it?

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 91

I have always been an advocate of roses on their own roots simply because
that it is the only method that has made the rose what it is to-day in
America. I have handled roses under all conditions and yet I feel that I
am only in the beginning and I am glad to learn from the experience of
others in their particular lines.

Mr. J. L. Dillon, of Bloomsburg, Pa. : I had some experience in
grafting roses, last year, and will state it so that it may l)e available for
the benefit of others. I procured some .2500 stocks but it was rather late
in the season and consequently I had very poor success in grafting them.
The varieties were Perle, American Beauty, Meteor, Wootton, Kaiserin,
Bride and Bridesmaid. It was Manetti stock. They were planted out on
solid benches in July. The Perle never came up to those that were on
their own roots and were planted out of four-inch pots. The Meteors,
though ver}' fair as far as they had gone, met with poor success ulti-
mately, the temperature of the house having probably been a little too
cool for them. As to the Kaiserins, we could see very little difference, if
any, between those and others that we planted out of four-inch pots on
their own root.s, in the same place. But the grafted Brides and the
Bridesmaids far surpassed Brides and Bridesmaids on solid benches
planted near them. One trouble we had was that a great many plants died
from the union not being perfect. They grew up two feet high, some of
them, and then would die out; so that I am not positive that they showed
any increased number of fiowers over those on their own roots in the same
place. We are continuing that bed this year, so as to see what they will
do the second year.

The Perles, this season, (this was just before I came away from
home) were showing four times as many flowers as tho.se on their own
roots. They were literally covered with red shoots and looked as if they
were going to do remarkably well this winter. The American Beauties
were dried off and I cannot speak for them. The Kaiserins were doing
better than those on their own roots, at least they looked so. The Brides
and Bridesmaids, although the flowers were very poor, were full, and
there were plenty of them. I shall continue this bed with a view to com-
paring Avith the other houses next season. We grafted some 2,000
plants in March. There was some mistake in our not getting the stock
as early as we had ordered it, l)ut when I left home I could not see any
difference between the grafted stock and that in the four-inch pots on their
own roots.

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Iml. : I would say, Mr. President,
that Mr. Craig's mode of grafting in the box differs somewhat from my
mode of treatment. I don't know which is the better. Mr. Craig states
that he keeps the plants in his box three or four days before giving them
any ventilation. Now, my experience has been that if you keep them
close for that length of time it creats a sweat all over them and the leaves
get mouldy. My mode of treatment is this : for the first twenty-four
hours I close them up tight and do not give them any air ; then on the

92 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

second da}- I open the sash fully — instead of giving them a little air I
open it up completely — so as to dry the leaves off. After they have been
dried we spray them with fresh water and then draw the sash down ; and
in that way we have been quite successful in grafting roses.

I remember buying from Robert Craig, some years ago, just one lit-
tle plant of Mrs. John Laing, and, though what I tell you may seem
incredible to some |persons, it is a fact that in less than eleven months
from that time I had, from it, 1350 grafted plants rooted and established
— good, salable plants — ready to ship. That is a pretty good way to
hustle u]) stock.

It may be interesting to you to know how it was done ; and after
being explained it appears ver}- simjile. Mrs. John Laing is a very free
grower. The one we got was i^lanted in a ten-inch pot, I believe ; it
grew up quite large, and after it had been hardened up we grafted about
250 from the first hard wood of the plant. That was done about the last
of November. As has been said here, after they are grafted thej' grow
very rapidly ; and from these first 250, about the first or middle of Feb-
ruary, we were able to cut an average of ten to twelve green shoots to
the pot. From the way they multiph* it is easy to to propagate stock in
that way.

Now, while on this subject of grafting, I may say that I have been
growing Kaiserin, both grafted and on their own roots. I have these in
a solid bed planted two or three years without being disturbed, and they
have done better every year. The first year the grafted roots had a little
the advantage, but since then I have not seen that the}* have had any
advantage whatever ; the own roots produced just as good flowers as the
grafted ones.

Mr. H. A. SiEBRECHT : I remember about that great and extraordi-
nary propagation in the grafting business. I Avant to ask the gentleman
(Mr. Coles) whether that was not brought about under the inspii^ation of
a bet.

Mr. Coles : Yes, it was ; that is how it caiue about. I wagered
with a Philadelphia florist a champagne supper for twelve that I would
get up 500 plants. I only had to get 500 but, instead of only 500, I got
1350. [Applause.]

Mr. A. WiNTZER : In my younger days it was my fortune to have
as an instructor one of the best grafters in this country ; and in grafting
I was always instructed that the method was to put all grafted stock under
double glass, to have it kept close. But every day there was enough ven-
tilation given to allow the moisture to be released; that is, the accumu-
lation of moisture was always allowed to escape.

In regard to the rapid multiplication of roses by grafting, I would
say that we can beat that almost every time by the showing that is made
by those on their own roots. I will give you one example of what I
mean. On the first of last November I commenced with one plant that

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 93

came from the open ground. I started by j)Utting in about two hundred
hard wood cuttings — " old-fashioned cuttings," as Mr. Craig calls them,
but not any more old-fashioned than the grafting — and then in January
the stock i^lant produced another crop of green wood cuttings. They
were also rooted. Now, I cannot tell you how many plants we have of
this variety but I am safe in saying that, since the tirst of November up
until to-day, we have in the open field, in the beds and in the propaga-
ting bench at least tive thousand. [Applause.]

The President here interposed to confine the discussion to its
legitimate subject, viz., " Grafted roses for growing under glass."

Mr. "Wintzer : I beg to be excused if I branched off, but a little
diversion sometimes is only natural and serves to broaden our ideas.

Mr. R. F. Tesson, St. Louis, stated that he had been growing
all his Bridesmaids the past four years as old stock, only growing
enough young stock to replace any of the old stock that had to be
removed for one cause or another. His experience the last year in
growing grafted roses was, that there was no comparison between
results obtained between the one-year-old stock as ordinarily grown
and the grafted stock. When the comparison was made between
one, two or three-year-old stock and four-year-old stock and grafted
stock, he found no advantage in favor of the grafted stock, so that
this season he did not take the trouble of grafting any stock to
replant his benches.

Mr. Siebreciit thought that this subject was one of such
importance that it might be well to have reports from the different
growers who had used grafted stock, giving the results of their
practical experience and observations, presented at next year's
meeting.

Mr. E. G. Hill: I would emphasize the point brought out by Mr.
Wood in regard to the tendency of the grafted stock to receiA'e a check
because of lack of attention to essential points. I think that those who
use roses grafted on Manetti stock cannot be too careful in this particular
because the Manetti, if it receives a check in the fall of the year, has a
tendency to go to rest. That is one thing that ought to be watched very
carefully in order to obviate the tendency of the stock, under some condi-
tions, to become more or less dormant in the fall and winter months.
Personally I believe that, from a financial point of view, the grafted rose
has an advantage ; that is, if we can produce good grafts we can get satis-
factory' results for less money than we can by growing roses on their
own roots for two years, as suggested.

94 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. E. M. Wood: We have changed our method to grafted roses,
and we did that because we got a larger per cent, of long stem, first class
flowers. These flowers we sell in Boston market, and we obtain $4 a
dozen for Brides and Bridesmaids from the middle of December until
March first.

Mr. H. A. SiEHRECHT : That is the wholesale price ?

Mr. Wood : That is the wholesale price. We make our price and
we do not change it. Of course we would not use these grafted roses
unless we got more off this stock than off the other. We gel a very much
larger percentage more. But the danger, as I have said, is that if they
get a check, then we do not get a crop.

Mr. Wm. H. Elliott, of Brighton, Mass: 1 would like to ask Mr.
Craig one question in regard to the grafting of Kaiserin. He advocates
the growing of Kaiserin on the Manetti stock, as I understand. That is
a rose which is sufticiently strong in its growth without grafting. It seems
to me a point to be gained with Kaiserin and a great many of the hybrid
tea roses is to check their tendency to drop their leaves. I ask if he has
noticed whether the tendency of the grafted stock is to stop that or what
particular benefit he has most noticed in grafting Kaiserin on Manetti
stock.

Mr. Craig : Tlie advantage I see in grafting Kaiserin on the Manetti
stock for summer bloom is to get results quickly. We grow our Kaiserin
just for a summer crop, run them up to Christmas, when they are thrown
out to make room for a houseful of hydrangeas or a houseful of lilies or
something else in the spring. I don't think that Kaiserin is a good rose
to keep in all winter, in competition Avith Bride ; I grow the rose
just for the summer, for a crop up to Christmas and then dispense
with it. I know that Mr. P^lliott has noticed that when Kaiserin is in the
ground for two or three years, on its own roots, it becomes extremely
vigorous in a solid bed. In that case I don't think there is any particular
advantage in having them grafted ; but there is a decided advantage by
putting them on Manetti for one season's summer bloom in getting that
(|uick growth. Now, our Kaiserin house was planted about the 20th of
April and it has been nine weeks perhajis since we began to cut from it.
We cut them freely up to Christmas and then we are done Avith them. I
don't keep Kaiserin all winter, in competition with Bride, as some of our
growers do. They figure that although in January and February, in the
dark days, thej' do not get any flowers worth speaking of, after February
and all through the following spring and summer it comes in fine.

Mr. Wo< >D : We do not graft Kaiserin ; we grow it in a solid bed ;
and, as Mr. Craig says, the second year they are ver}^ strong. And we
run it, in the winter, only in a cold house, cutting nothing from it. By
running it for the summer flower trade and letting it rest for the winter,
we get just as many out of that cold house as we get out of the others.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 95

Mr. Craig : I am verj- glad that we have had Mr. Wood here with
us this moruing. I had notes of some suggestions that I got from i\Ir.
Montgomery, regarding roses cut off the Bridesmaid, in one house or two
houses, but I unfortunately left them at the hotel. The results they show
are remarkable. Many of you know that at Mr. Wood's place roses are
grown finer than anywhere else in this world for cut flowers. Xow, I am
speaking advisedly.. I say that at that place rose growing is a little in
advance of what it is at any place we know of. And it is very interesting
to hear Mr. AVood say that they can see an advantage in grafting Brides
and Bridesmaids, because for many years they had grown these roses on
their own roots. If they can see an advantage in grafting roses it is
worth while for us all to think something about it. The prices Mr.
Wood tells us they get for roses there in the Avinter seems astounding to
most of us, but they actually get those prices — that is, for the first
selection. They get it only because the roses are worth it, and what they
have grown have been, for the last three or four years, on the Manetti.

Mr. Edgar Sanders, of Chicago : If Mr. Wood realizes $4 a dozen,
I can readily understand that he is better off with only one-fourth of a
crop of first-class roses than he would be with a full crop at the price
that the best would be sold for in Chicago. If he can get twenty-five
cents a piece for them he need not grow over one-quarter as many roses
as are generally grown in the same house.

Mr. Craig: I would like to add a word for fear of having been
misunderstood. I did not mean to have any of you infer that if you put
the roses on the Manetti you are in any imminent danger of getting $4 a
dozen for them. [Merriment.] We must not overlook the fact that, up
there at Mr. Wood's, the important element is the skill in cultivation,
which is something that the rest of us do not possess. We can get the
Manetti, and that is one factor in the problem, but the skill is a little
more difficult to get. [Merriment.]

Mr. Elliott : I would like to correct one impression that may have
been created here, and that is that these roses that Mr. Wood has spoken
of and which he sells for $4 a dozen are something that has been brought
about since he began grafting his roses. That is not true. Mr. Wood's
roses sold for $4 a dozen before he had any grafted roses on hie place.
Now, there are other advantages which Mr. Wood possesses, which are
superior to the grafting process, and I think we need to jjossess the
same advantages if we would obtain the results he has obtained. It was
to those superior advantages over what are enjoyed by any of the rest of
us that Mr. Craig referred. To speak to the point and sum them all up
in a word, they are simply " Montgomery."

The discussion here closed.

96 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

ELECTION OF OFFICERS.

The next business was the election of officers for the ensuing
year.

Mr. Hill announced the withdrawal of Mr. A. Donaghue, St.,
as a candidate for President; and, on motion of Mr. Adam
Graham, a ballot was cast by the Secretary as the unanimous vote
of the Society for Mr. W. N. Rudd, of Mount Greenwood, 111. ;
whose election as President was then announced.

Mr. D. A. Rackham, of Detroit, withdrew as a candidate for
Vice-President. He explained that his nomination had been made
without his knowledge and that he declined in favor of Mr. Breit-
meyer, the choice of the Detroit delegation.

On motion of Mr. Rackham, a ballot was cast by the Secretary
as the unanimous vote of the Society for Mr. Philip Breitmeyer, of
Detroit; whose election as Vice-President was then announced.

The election of Secretary was next in order ; the candidates
being Wm. J. Stewart, of Boston, and J. Austin Shaw of New
York. A ballot was taken with the following result : Mr. Stewart,
80 votes; Mr. Shaw, 27; Mr. Reed, 1; Mr. Michel, 1; and one
vote defective; total, 110. The election of Mr. Stewart was
announced.

Mr. E. H. Giesy's withdrawal as a candidate for Treasurer
was announced ; and, on motion of Mr. Benj. Hammond, a ballot
was cast by the Secretary as the unanimous vote of the Society for
Mr. H. B. Beatty, of Oil City, Pa. ; whose election as Treasurer
was then announced.

THE TROPHY IN THE BOWLING CONTEST.

Mr. John Westcott, of Philadelphia, at this point exhibited
to the Convention the trophy (known as " the P^vans' Cup") that
had been competed for by the bowling teams in the contest on the
previous afternoon. He said :

This handsome cup was presented by Mr. Evans, of Richmond, Ind.,
with the understanding that the teams competing for it would number six
members each, that they would roll three games and that the one making
the highest total score would own the cup for one year. In order to

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 97

retain the cup permaneutl}- the successful team must win it twice.
Philadelpliia has won it once, and lier representatives came here fully
expecting to take it back with them. In one way or another — I am sorry
to say it — they failed. The cup therefore will keep on going the rounds
and will continue, as heretofore, to keep up the good fellowship which is
characteristic of these occasions. I take great pleasure in congratulating
our successful competitors, the St. Louis Club, represented by Mr.
Kuehn, to whom I now hand over the trophy,

Mr. E. G. Hill here asked what the Philadelphians expected
to do with the decorated case they had prepared and in which they
anticipated carrj'ing the cup back to Philadelphia.

Mr. Westcott good humoredly replied that he was very glad
to answer the question ; that the Philadelphians were going to
Detroit next year, that they were going "ten thousand strong";
that they would not only take a parlor car but a whole train with
them and also the best men of their team.

Addressing the Convention and speaking in a more serious
tone, Mr. Westcott continued :

Gentlemen, many of you may say this is nonsense, that it has nothing
to do with horticulture or with the real business of the Convention ; but
in that you ai'e mistaken. Men who play hard work hard ; those who do
not indulge in play do very little actual Avork. My object has been to get
people to attend the conventions. If you do not have people to attend
them you practically can have no conventions. Xow, the bowlers have a
strong inducement to be present because of the bowling contest. It is
necessary for them to come and bowl on their teams ; they must be flor-
ists and they are supposed to be members of the S A. F. I may say that
if we had had a gun shoot at this Convention, we Avould have had another
half dozen members from Philadelphia, and the probability is that those
six would have brought another half dozen along with them. Now that
is m}' argument. My strong point is to get the people to the Convention,
to hold out an inducement to them in the jirosiiect of having lots of enjoy-
ment and in helping others to enjoy themselves.

I may say, for myself, as I said yesterday in declining a nomination
for Treasurer, that I am not looking for an office. I don't want to bother
myself about those little things. As many of you know, I live close to
one of the most prominent cemeteries in Philadelphia, and I want to have
some fun Avhile in this world because I won't have far to go when I
am taken out of it; only across the street. [General merriment and
applause.]

Mr. C. A. Kuehn (the representative of the St. Louis bowling
team) received the trophy with the statement that good care would

98 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

be taken of it at St. Louis, that the team from there would meet
the others at Detroit, next year, and that they expected then to
take the cup home with them again.

PRESIDENT-ELECT RUDD.

Mr. W. N. RuDD, the President elect, was here escorted to
the platform by a committee of two and, in responding to a cordial
greeting, said :

I don't see how a man who has just had conferred upon him the
greatest honor that he can receive can be expected to immediately get
upon his feet and make a brilliant speech. I am sure that I cannot do it.
I thank you all, gentlemen, for this honor that you have given me and beg
to assure you that if, one year from to-day, when my successor ajjpears,
you cannot say to me " Well done, good and faithful servant," it will be
simply because I have not had the ability to till the office properly. My
best efforts and undivided attention shall be at the service of your Society.
[Applause.]

Mr. Wm. J. Stewart, the Secretary (responding to calls),
said :

Gentlemen, I Avould be very unappreciative if 1 did not feel very
deeply ^he confidence which you have reposed in me so many years and
have now renewed. All I can say is that I am glad to have your confi-
dence and that I will do all I can, in the coming year, for the success and
prosperity of the Society whose Avelfare you have once more entrusted
to me.

The Secretary here made a number of announcements .relating
to the trolley ride in the afternoon, admission to the Trans-
Mississippi P^xhibition,. etc., etc.

Adjourned until evening.

TROLLEY RIDE TO COUNCIL BLUFFS.

On Thursday afternoon the visitors and their ladies were
treated to a trolley ride from Omaha to Council Bluffs. A short
stop was made at Fairmount Park, and then the party was conveyed
to the establishment and residence of Mr. J. V. Wilcox. After an
inspection of the greenhouses and outdoor planting, the party,
numbering nearly three hundred, were entertained at luncheon on
the lawn, one of the following named ladies officiating as overseer

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 99

of each table: Mrs. Frank True, Mrs. C. L. Felt, Mrs. J. E.
Hunter, Mrs. A. J. Coughy and Mrs. L. A. Casper. Hearty
cheers were given for the host and his wife, and the former, in a
few appropriate words of welcome, expressed the hope that every-
one present would have a pleasant time.

Brief speeches expressing appreciation of the enjoyable affair
and returning thanks for the hospitable entertainment were made
by Messrs. Wm. Scott, of Buffalo, N. Y., Robert Craig, of Phila-
delphia, H. A. Siebrecht, of New Rochelle, N. Y., J. D. Carmody,
of Evausville, Ind., E. G. Hill, of Richmond, Ind., and Adam
Graham, of Cleveland, O.

The impromptu remarks of Mr. Robert Craig were well worthy
of reproduction. Being repeatedly called for and heartily cheered,
he mounted a chair and eloquently expressed the sentiments of the
guests in appreciation of the hospitality of Mr. Wilcox and of the
uniform consideration and kindness extended to the visiting dele-
gates since their arrival. He continued :

I am very glad I came to Omaha, and my only regret at this moment
is that Ave have such a small delegation from the extreme East. All that
we have seen has impressed us with a sense of the unparalleled growth
and the increasing importance of your great Western country. Your
broad grain fields and limitless pastures with their vast mineral riches ;
your magnificent cities, especially that of Omaha, with their rajnd acqui-
sitions of wealth and population, and your prosperous communities have been
a revelation to us. As I rode along for mile after mile, on my way hither,
and gazed upon hundreds of immense cornfields read}- for the harvest,
my thought was that these were typical of the West, for all your under-
takings are upon a large scale and all your energies are directed by a
whole soul and a full heart. Your great Exhibition is but one more
illustration of your achievements in the arts of peace and enlightened
progress.

It was my privilege to be somewhat identified with the World's Fair
at Chicago, in 1893. I took part in the preliminary arrangement of the
grounds on which the Exhibition buildings were afterwards located and
which at that time were a swamj). I assisted in laying out the green-
houses, in figuring on their extent and like details. When I returned
there, a year later, I beheld that Great AVhite City. It had grown up like
a mushroom, in a night. My mind has often since reverted to the spec-
tacle then presented as an expression of Western force, as a demonstra-
tion of Western enterprise and spirit. In the East it would have been
hardly possible to accomplish so much in such a short time. Standing
there on the bridge, opposite the Administration Building, and looking
toward the South, there was visible from that point the materialized

100 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

expression of more architectural grandeur than could be seen anywhere
else on earth. And all this was the work of a year. Ah, the people of
the West are a great i^eople. I wish that our business associates on the
Atlantic coast could come again to the Mississippi Valley, and go further
"West, that they might become better actpxainted with the noble people
here.

But my heart is full at this moment and I am unable to utter my
thankfulness to those gentlemen who, setting aside all personal concerns,
liave catered to our welfare in this magniticent way. These expressions
of hospitality are as grateful to our hearts as is the falling dew to the
flower of the field. I am glad that I came among you because I can carry
back with me the story of your kindness and your hospitality.

After three hours of social enjoyment the florists returned to
Omaha and enlivened the return trip by singing and making
merry.

THIRD DAY — EVENING.

The President called the meeting to order at 8,15 p.m.
A mantel decoration, put up by Mr. J. F. Wilcox, to the left
of the platform in the Convention ball, was specially commended.

PRESENTATION TO PRESIDENT GUDE.

At this point the business program was informally interrupted
to permit of the presentation to President W. F. Gude of a hand-
some silver four-piece tea set, water pitcher and tray, knives, forks
and spoons.

Mr. J. D. Carmody made the presentation address. As the
pieces of silver were being brought forward, he said :

Mr. President, there are some gentlemen here who are my cup
bearers and who are ready to present to you, in behalf of your many
friends in the Society of American Florists, a few articles which, in your
daily contact with life, will constantly remind you of the affection you
have won from the hearts of the American Florists.

We all know, ladies and gentlemen, that tljere are jolly good fellows
in every walk of life, but it isn't often that we have at the head of any
organization such a "■ Ooody-yoody'''' (Gude-Gude) fellow, as we have
here. [Merriment.] And when we do find a Ooody-goody fellow, it is
right that we should treat him as such and impress upon his mind and

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 101

heart through all time that we have recognized his goodness, his ability,
his energy and the delightful manner in which he has served our Society
through the past year. We have here one silver tea set, one silver butter
dish, one silver water service, a half dozen pearl handled knives, forks,
tea spoons and table spoons, one silver tray, one silver sugar bowl and
one silver butter knife. In fact, we are just going to butter him all over.
Here is the tea-pot — may it ever be warm. Here is the sugar bowl —
may it ever be filled with the sugar of love. Here is the milk j^itcher —
may it ever be full of the milk of human kindness. Here is the butter
dish for him and his wife — luaj' he ever love none (l)utter) biit-her.
[Laughter.] I think young people are very spoony, and it is but just
and right that he should always be spoony toward that companion of his ;
in fact, he need not eat with his fingers as long as he is well supplied
with spoons. These knives here are not to sever friendship but to spread
the butter of human kindness over every ill of life. These forks he will
use to convey food from the plate to the lip, and I hope he may ever find
everybody who is indebted to him /orki7ig over their just dues. Here is
the water pitcher — that will always be, I hojje, a fountain to him and
his. It holds but water, but the water is pure and far l)etter oftentimes
than the sparkling wine that leads to inebriety. There is no fight in a
barrel of this. I never knew of the contents of a water pitcher liringiug
about a divorce. May it ever lie readj- and filled with the sparkling fiuid
to quench his thirst and that of his family. With these few remarks, ]\Ir.
Gude, I present these little articles as evidences of the overflowing love
of the Society for you and yours.

President Gcde replied: Mr. Carmody, ladies and gentlemen —
Words fail me to express my appreciation of this beautiful gift. Twelve
months ago, when you honored me by electing me j'our presiding officer
for the year 1898, I hardly expected that I should be able to give very
much satisfaction. But my heart has always been in the right place, and
this token from you to-da}- is an expression that errors, if any, are for-
gotten and good, if any, remains to my credit. In a position of this kind,
presiding over various departments and giving due weight to dissimilar
ideas, the greatest responsibility naturally devolves upon him who wields
the gavel. If I have succeeded in doling out justice and doing my duty
to each and every member of fhe Society of American Florists, the con-
sciousness of that fact will be for me comjiensation sufficient. I accept
this beautiful present and will take it home with me as a constant memo-
rial of one of the happiest and most pleasant years of'mj- life. I sincerely
thank you. [Applause.]

IMPROVEMENT AS EXEMPLIFIED IN HIGH (IRADE FLOWERS.

The next business T^as a discussion on "Improvement in
Varieties and Improvement in Cultural Methods as Exemplified in
High-grade Flowers," which was opened by Mr. E. G. Hill.

102 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Mr. Hill's paper, which was received with much applause, was
as follows : —

The subject assigned me is one mvolving; questions that lie at the
root of all real progress in our profession.

The pessimist declares that there has been no real progress either in
the production of new varieties or in the origination of better methods,
that old things are the best things .

That there are numbers of florists, good men and fair growers, who
hold this view, is unquestionalilj true. It is unfortunate that such an
opinion should hold sway over any considerable number of gardeners and
.plantsmen, but one has onl}- to look about with his eyes and listen with
his ears to be convinced that such a condition of mind exists among a
great many florists both East and West, and the position taken by them,
and their utterances of such views, have a retarding and clogging influ-
ence upon our trade life, much as we dislike to acknowledge it.

The point of view may make a great difference with our conception
of the relative progress or lack of progress of our craft.

The indiffei'ent florist, the florist lacking in energj*, the florist only
partially interested in his work, these are the men who measure the efforts
of their fellow craftsmen by their own short yardstick and defective
scales.

Notwithstanding their assertions, we claim that there has been progress
in the production of new varieties of plants and this can be proven by a
reference to the revised lists. Take the carnation ; note what advance
has been made since American growers have taken hold of this winter
flowering plant. Yet, palpable as has been the gain, there are still
grumblers who claim that we have only added size and at the expense of
quantity, and the gain is only superficial — nothing that can be computed
in dollars and cents.

This line of argument can be refuted )jy the reply that secpnd and
third quality flowers remain unsold, while flowers of large size and per-
fect form find a ready market.

It is tnie that the production of new varieties and the improved cul-
ture of plants must go hand in hand, and we make the claim that they
have very nearly kept pace together, although there are certain lines of
plants of which this cannot yet be asserted ; but take the rose, which is the
flower upon the production and sale of which the florist is, jjerhaps, most
dependent. It can hardly be asserted that the origination of new varie-
ties has kept pace with the imjjroved culture as exemplified by a large
number of our best growers both East and West. We can count on the
fingers of one hand the varieties of forcing roses which are necessary for
the trade of the present day : Bridesmaid, Bride, American Beauty, Meteor
and Kaiserin Augusta Victoria. Perle, Sunset, Mme. Cusin, La France,
Testout, Gontier, Mrs. Pierijont Morgan have all declined in favor, as did
Bon Silene, Isabella Sprunt, Safrano, and Cornelia Cook in a former
decade ; we have not been favored with new sorts that can take the place

SOCIETY OK AMKRICAN FLORISTS. 103

of those named above. Kaiserin is the only hite addition, and this is not
as productive as eoiild be desired in mid-winter under our jn'esent condi-
tions of rose forcing.

Dame Fashion desires and insists upon having novelty and change in
bonnet and gown, in house and furniture, in neai'ly everything which
ministers to our sense of pleasvire.

A city lady speaking recently of her floral decorations said : " I am
very tired of seeing on my table Scott carnations and Bridesmaid roses,
flowers which have become so common that they are flaunted in one's face
at every street corner and ferry crossing ; yet often there is little else to
choose in this color."

One reason for the complaint of the lack of proflt in rose growing
heard at many of the large rose growing centres, comes from the fact that
there is not variety enough in our roses, hence the increased sale of other
kinds of cut flowers, and the greatly increased demand for flne plants.
If the i^roportion of cut roses is to keep up to the volume sold in previous
years, it is manifestly evident that new varieties amenable to our present
growing conditions must be forthcoming; roses for blooming in pots, for
home and garden adornment, have been produced and have proven very
popular as will be noted further in this paper.

The efforts of Mr. Jackson Dawson and of Mr. W. A. Manda are to
be commended, for, if they continue in their line of improvements, we
shall soon possess garden and climbing roses which shall combine fine
decorative qualities with hardiness to withstand our severe winters and
trying spring weather.

To revert again to carnations ; from the best attainable data, it is fair
to conclude that the art of producing fine flowers lias kept pace, in measure
at least, with the finer varieties of carnations introduced in recent years.
The time of lifting the plants from the field, l^enching, preparation of the
soil, feeding, staking, Avatering, and other details carefully looked after,
have to a great extent revolutionized the method in vogue but a few years
ago. If one wishes to be convinced that superior methods of culture pre-
vail and that the new varieties are finer in size and form, with better
stems and more varietj- in color, he has only to attend the annual exhibi-
tion of the American Carnation Society. This Society is doing a com-
mendable work in diffusing knowledge tending toward better culture, and
especially is its work valuable for the wise, fair, and cautious methods of
bestowing certificates and honorable mention upon new varieties. It is
only fair to say that the greatest advance has lieen mad'e in carnations as
compared with other flowers, and that the e(juality between the improved
methods of culture and the improvement in varieties is very marked.

In chrysanthemums, the production of new varieties and the steady
improvement in the form and finish of the cut blooms has been marked
each year, despite the high grade flowers produced and exhibited the j^ear
of the World's Fair. Among the newer sorts are varieties more suitable
for handling as cut flowers, varieties that bloom earlier, choicer sorts for
very late growth, together with new colors.

104 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

The general production of liner floAvers both for sale ami exliibition
as well as for decorative purposes, has been very marked.

In orchids, great strides have Ijeen made in tailtural methods ; the old
coddling process has given way to a common-sense and economical system
of management. This genus of plants will grow in favor with the public
as i^eople become better acquainted with its charming colors, imique
forms, and simj^le requirements. Prediction is made that they will be-
come an important factor in the cut flower market as soon as the new
methods of culture are more generally known and practised.

To decorative and bedding plants there are constant additions of val-
uable varieties ; some of the notable things are to be found among the
new Brazilian caladiums ; these are marvels of color combination.
Among newer crotons are many brilliant and valuable additions to
standard sorts ; crotons grown under the new conditions prevailing, with
artificial heat in summer, and suitable soil, are destined to perform an
important part in all decorative plant work. Asparagus Sprengeri will
prove one of the most valuable plants of recent introduction when
once its diversified usefulness becomes known.

Everything indicates a marked improvement in all cultural methods
as applied to the development of plants for the production of cut flowers ;
progress is the watchword; every wide-awake florist questions, " Is there
a better way than the method I am using? "

Plants and their re<iuirements are l)eing studied and understood as
never before and we in America are standing on the threshold of a new
era in their growth and production. Let us be fully alive to the possibili-
ties that lie before us in Flora's grand domain, and like our gallant tars
and brave soldiers, not be content to simply keep aljreast of the general
line, but like the true American show that there is a " man behind the
gun" who can and who does hit the mark.

In our endeavors to create new forms in plant life let us bear in mind
the wants of the American people. We Avant new roses that shall supple-
ment our too meagre list of really suitable varieties for cut flower produc-
tion. Let us seek a tea rose of the shape, form, and productiveness of
Bridesmaid with the color of a Jacqueminot ; we also need a yellow Mer-
met. If the rose growers would seek as persistently, as have the carna-
tion men, to produce choice seedlings, these two forms and tints would soon
fill our eyes with gladness and our hearts with joy. Let no American
rose grower use the names of Admiral Dewey or Commodore Schley until
he has a scarlet Bridesmaid or a yellow Mermet with which to honor and
adorn the names of these two gallant Americans !

Noteworthy evidence of recent advancement :

(1) The houses of grafted roses at the Waban Conservatories, at
Natick ; results showed stouter canes than under similar conditions on
own roots, and oO per cent, more of Al blooms.

(2) A house of Crimson Rambler rose at Robt. Craig & Son's, Phila-
deljihia, flowered in i)ots for Easter sales ; those grown in pots for two

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 105

years gave even better results than those potted from the tield the pra-
ceding autumn.

(3) Dracaena Sanderiana as grown by W. K. Hari'is, Philadelphia,
is one of the choice things for the center of jardinieres and fern pans.

(4) A bench of Mrs. Lawson carnations as grown by Mr. Peter
Fisher of Ellis, Mass. ; observed early in February, shoAved extraordinary
good cultural results ; the bed shaded by cheese cloth in the middle of the
day.

(5) Bench of Hector carnations as done by Dailledouze Bros., Flat-
bush, N. Y. ; under their method of culture very jJrolific in bloom with
good large flowers.

(6) Growth and bloom of American Beauty and other roses as grown
on common drain tile benches by Bassett & Washburn. The perfect
drainage i:)roduced bj- the tile is certainly an important factor in cultural
conditions.

(7) The exhibit of carnations by W. X. Rudd at the Chicago meeting
of the American Carnation Society, varieties Mayor Pingree, Mrs. McBur-
ney. Jubilee and Flora Hill.

(8) The bench of bedded dracienas at Mr. DressePs, Weehawken,
N. J. ; indicates the possibility of growing this class of plants at a mini-
mum of cost and in a most expeditious manner.

(9) The geraniums grown in pots by C. AV. Johnson, gardener for
W. N. Rudd, and exhibited in bloom at the Chicago Chrysanthemum Ex-
hibition in November last. Their development showed what could be
done with geraniums at our autumn exhibits.

(10) Chrysanthemum blooms grown by Alex. Montgomeiy, Waban
Conservatories, and shown at the autumn exhiliit of the Pennsylvania
Horticultural Society. These were esjjecially noteworth}- on account of
their line finish and perfect contour.

(11) Bougainvillea glabra, as propagated, grown and flowered by
Theo. F. Beckert, Glenfield, Pa. ; especially pi'aiseworthy.

I might go on indefinitely and cite instances of improved cultural
methods as shown at various places, but the above will give some slight
indication of the onward movement in plant development. Surely " the
world do move," even in the floricultural world.

Recent noteworthy introductions :

Asparagus Sprengerii. This will prove of very wide value ; it makes
grand sprays for the table, for general use, and especially for flat bouquets,
as it supports the flowers combined with it ; its greatest beauty is seen as
a i30t or vase plant, standing as it does our hot suns. The two fine bas-
kets hanging on the porch of Mr. O. P. Bassett's, Hinsdale, HI., show its
adaptability to this particular use.

Rose, Crimson Rambler. For the adornment of porch, trellis or pillar
this is one of the most valuable introductions of recent years. As a plant
for growing in jjots for Easter and for spring sales, this beautiful rose
fills every requirement. The other varieties called ramblers, of different
colors, Avill not bear comparison with the first varietj-.

106 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Begonia Gloire de Lorraine. This beautiful plant has all the charm
and excjuisite beauty of the flowering begonia. Extraordinarily tine when
well done ; requires special treatment during a portion of the year on ac-
count of its herbaceous habit and character.

Carnation, Mrs. Geo. M. Bradt. This variety, on account of its great
size and freedom of bloom, is one of the most striking of all Mr. Dorner's
seedlings. This is unquestionably one of the desirable new things.

Cai'nation, Evelina. This promises to be an ideal white variety.
The magnificent vases of flowers shown at various places the past season
give promise of great value ; it will have an extensive trial.

Chrysanthemum, Autumn Glory. This is one of the most charming
of all pink chrysanthemums, having all the attributes of a splendid flower ;
its fine growth, but more especially its unique and beautiful color, places
it in the front rank.

Rose, Lawrence Allen. An English hybrid; one of the last i^roduc-
tions among the seedlings of the late Mr. Henry Bennett. This for pots,
or forcing under glass, is one of the most charming roses sent out. A
light satin-pink, of exquisite coloring, will prove excellent for Easter pot
sales.

Geranium, Dryden. This is a novelty of the Mirande or Corona type.
The flowers approach in size the larger of the single zonales. Coloring
very intense. Has stood our hot summers with impunity. Will be exten-
sively grown when better known, for its value both as a bedder and for
l^ot culture.

Kose, IL P. Bladud. A very near apjjroach to the long looked for
white H. P. This is also one of the late Mr. Bennetfs seedlings and is
destined to be extensively grown when its good qualities are knoAvn.
Seems to l)e more free in production of flowers than most hybrids.

Two show crotons, Reidi and Baueri, both high in color and fine
companions.

Deutzia Lemoinei. A fine addition to our forcing varieties of
shrubs .

Cannas, acalyphas, geraniums, begonias all show fine varieties of
recent introduction. A candid review of the whole matter shows, how-
ever, that much of the credit belongs to the plantsmen across the water
for these fine novelties in general lines, and the fact also stands out plain
and distinct that Ave are much better off, relatively, in regai'd to new
plants, than we were even two or three years ago. May the wheels of
progress move on. Let us all be wide-awake, ready to take advantage
of the evolution of the new condition of things, as we see it coming our
way.

On motion of Mr. W. W. Coles, a vote of thanks was ten-
dered to Mr, Hill for his very able paper; Mr. Coles remarking
that it was one of the clearest and most satisfactory he had ever
heard.

SOCIETY OF AJIERICAN FLORISTS. 107

Mr. Wm. Scott, of Buffalo, responding to the call of the Chair,
said :

The excellent paper by Mr. Hill slioukl receive some remarks of
favor. We are greatly indebted to the patient and hard working hybri-
dizers; and they are, in many cases, but poorly rewarded for their long
years of work and care. The .surface of the earth is now pretty well
explored. "Dark Africa" is no longer dark to the botanical collector.
Some parts of South America are as yet as little known as any region, but we
can expect to find few more original species of value to the horticulturist.
The Asparagus Sprengerii alluded to by Mr. Hill i;i from Abyssinia and is
a great acquisition bvit soon we must expect new discoveries to be
exhausted, and then we will have to depend on the work of the hybridist
for new and improved varieties. The abuse of sending out many varie-
ties of a popular flower in one year soon mends itself. Flowers, fruits
and vegetables wear out in time by our artificial methods of propagation.
Therefore we should have nothing but j^raise and thankfulness for him
who is striving with hand and brain to give us new and improved
flowers.

The discussion here closed.

registration of new plants.

The Secretary : Mention was made at the opening session, of a
demand that had been made, through corresijondence, for some method
of official registration of new varieties of plants of American origin.
Something on the basis of the Carnation Society's work has been sug-
gested. I would like to see something done because I believe it to be a
work that we ought to do for our members, and it only requires the
Society's sanction to ))ut tlie machinery in motion in the Secretary's
office.

Mr. Robert Craig, of Philadelphia : I can see great value in such
an official register as is proposed by the Secretary. As far as chrysan-
themums and carnations are concerned the respective societies take good
care of them and they do very good service but there are many other
varieties of plants which they take no note of and for which there is just
as great a necessity for an official register as there is in the cases of the
carnation and the chrysanthemitm. I therefore move that such an official
register be placed by the Society under the charge of the Secretary. You
cannot tell how many geranitims there will be with the names of Dewey
and Schley, this year, but the one entitled to the name will be the one
that is first registered b}- this Society. It is certainly a very necessary
thing.

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Ind. : I think it a good idea to adopt
it. I second the motion.

108 PKOCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

The President : It has been moved and seconded that the Secretary
open a register wherem all new plants may be registered by members,
through the Secretary, officially.

The President, after taking the vote, announced that the
motion had been adopted.

Mr. Coles : I suppose it is understood that no one but members of
this Society will be allowed to have their new varieties registered offi-
cially. Wouldn't that be your idea, Mr. Secretary?

The Secretary : I should like to see that rule followed out. I
don't think we ought to register for people wiio do not support the
Society. We are under no obligation to protect them.

Mr. A. GuDE : If it is a recognition of a new thing, that thing is worthy
of a new name. It seems to me that if you are going to open a register
for the purpose of establishing names for new plants, outsiders ought to
have just as much show as members of the Society. Any individual out-
side of the Society has as much right to give us a new dower as anj-body
in the Society.

The Secretary : I think the Society has done its full share for the
public and it is time that others in the trade did something for the Societj'.
[Applause.]

Mr. Edgar Sanders : There is no doubt that the Society, as a
Society, can make these rules ; but they would not prevent any one out-
side of its membership from using precisely the same name and advertis-
ing it. Hence a couffict would be caused there. If this Society was
recognized as a national organization, under the sanction of Congress, you
might do what 3'ou propose ; but in the condition in which it is now to say
that the Society shall recognize only the names of plants originated by its
own members and not those of outsiders I don't see how the duplication
of names is to be prevented.

Mr. A. Gude : It seems to me the Society must recognize a name given
to a plant by an outsider or condenm it, one or the other. Whether the
Society has a right to do that or not I do not know.

Mr. Coles : My idea would l)e for the Secretary to register those
names for members onh-, and my I'eason for it is that we want to do
something to encourage the large body of florists who are not members to
come in. That would be one inducement and a great inducement, I
think. There is nothing to prevent an outsider from using any name for
any plant he might introduce ; we could not stop it, but we would not
officially recognize the name. I am in favor of the Secretary taking no
notice of any but members.

Mr. C. W. TuRNLEY : Those are my views exactl}-.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 109

The President : I suppose the object could be accomplished by the
party making a deposit of five dollars. We could make him a member
afterwards.

Mr. Coles : I move that no names be registered in this new regis-
try other than those received from members of the Society.

Mr. A. GuDE : Now, suppose an outsider originates a new rose and,
two years afterwards, a member of the Society orginates the same rose
and puts it out under a different name. In the meantime the rose has
had its name and has been spread over the United States and the world.
Are you going to wipe out the original name ?

The Secretary: I think that, after this resolution has been put
into effect, it will be well worth live dollars to any originator of a plant
to have an oittcial recognition of that plant in the name of this Society,
and that he will pay it very gladly. If this is adopted, I don't think that
any new and really meritorious variety will be propagated in this country
without the sanction of this Society, for I believe the party interested will
gladly pay the cost of membership.

Mr. A. Gl'de : I don't wish to be understood as having opi^osed the
proposition at all. If we can carry it out successfully, well and good. I
only wanted to know the law on the suljject.

Mr. F. J. King, of Ottawa, Ills. : I think it is pretty near time that
a member of this Society can get something from the Society that an out-
sider cannot get. I cannot call to mind a thing that an outsider cannot
get from this Society as well as a man who has joined it and who pays
his dues.

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis: Let it be remembered that the
Society of American Florists was organized to advance floriculture. We
are here to find what is new and to help along what is new. It would
be selfishness not to the outsiders but to our own members for us not to
do justice to the introduction of a creditable novelty' grown by an outsider.
We want to publish all the novelties that come along. It would be better
to charge a certain price for registration than to insist that the jjerson
should become a member of the Society.

Mr. Adam Graham, of Cleveland : It appears to me that there is no
room for discussion on this question. It is a matter that will regulate
itself. If a part}- has a new plant for introduction and it is of any value,
he will not hesitate to pay the admission fee as a member of this Society,
so that he may have the seal of approval on that introduction. If the
plant is not of sufficient value to justify him in paying the entrance fee,
that fact is j^retty good evidence that it is not of sufficient value to justify
us in taking notice of it.

Mr. W. N. RuDD, of Chicago: I would like to know what would be
the effect of this register when published. Will it be a list of new varie-

110 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

ties of plants introduced by members of the Society of American Florists
or will it Ije a list of new varieties of plants introduced during tlie year?

The Secretary : The Society already has a list of new plants intro-
duced during the year, which is i^ublished officially in the Rei^ort. It is
not proposed to have this coniiict with that in any way. This will be
nothing but a register, so that a man who selects a name for a new variety
may 2)lace that variety on the market under that name, saying that it has
been registered witli the Society of American florists and claim a right
which we can moi'ally accord him by recognizing the plant under that
name wherever we can. I think Mr. Rudd and all the gentlemen know
what has been done by the Carnation Society. It will be identical with
what has been done by that Society'. I think the Carnation Society charges
one dollar for the registration of every name.

Mr. Rrui) : It seems to me to be perfectly right and proper for
this Society to make a charge for the registering of any novelty, whether
that charge be $5, $10, $20 or whatever sum may seem to the members
to be proper ; but I Avould make it a charge. Let it be put in that way but
do not limit your registration to members of the Society. It seems to me
that that would be altogether too narrow. Make a charge for registering ;
and if j'ou make the charge for members different from that for those
who are not memljers you will practically cover the point and the whole
arrangement will be less liable to misconception.

]Mr. E. M. Wood, of Boston: I move an amendment by providing
that there shall l)e a charge for registration, viz. : the amount to be paid
by a member of the Society to be one dollar and the amoimt to be paid
by anyone not a member of the Society to V)e five dollars.

The Secretary : I must rise to oppose that amendment. I don't
want to see another dollar charged to the members of the Society of
American Florists ; they are paying enough. Let the outsider pay for
this registration ; let the charge be five dollars with a rebate of five dol-
lars or let the charge be five dollars to everybody but members and free
registration for members. I do not believe in charging another dollar to
a member of this Society. [Applause.]

Mr. Wood : I agree with the Secretary, and withdraw so much of
the amendment as pertains to a charge upon our own members, leaving
the charge of five dollars upon those not members at the time.

The President : Then tJie amendment is that there be a charge of
five dollars to outsiders and registration free to all members of the Society
of American Florists who are in good standing.

The Chair here put the question to a vote, when the amend-
ment was agreed to ; after which the original motion as amended
was carried without objection.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. Ill

Mr. F. J. King: I Avant to say that I am glad I came to this Con-
vention because I see now for tlie first time something that a member of
the Societj^ can have which an outsider cannot have. It is the first case
of the kind I liave noticed. [Merriment.]

Mr. Coles: We have, in the State of Indiana, many florists who
have a little business, whom I have begged to join this glorious Society-
and have tried to show them wherein it would be advantageous to them
to belong to it; but they would say " What good do I get out of it —
where do I get any revenue out of it?" If I tell them they can get the
reports of our proceedings, they say, "We read them in the trade
papers." I cannot advance a single thing by which a member is benefited
more than an outsider. Therefore I am thankful for the action just
taken.

The President said it was true that the energetic trade papers
placed the sayings and doings of the Society before the public in
advance of any official report : but he would feel sincerely sorry
for a member who did not get " full value received" for his little
three dollars. With respect to outsiders having an advantage, he
knew it had happened at some of the conventions that smart per-
sons attended and took part in all the pleasures without paying any
dues — he did not know that that had occurred in Omaha, but it
had happened in other cities — and he was much mistaken if no
damage had been done to the consciences of those people. He
added that, for one, he had not missed a convention for the last
eight or nine years and that the convention trip, which was his only
excursion in the year, was always profitable to him.

CREDIT AND INFORMATION DEPARTMENT.

Mr. C, S. LoDER, of New York, obtained the floor for a few
minutes. He said :

I wish to offer a proposition in writing, which is similar to the one
made verbally a day or two ago and is also similar in a few respects to
one sul)mitted at Providence, last year. If the members here decide that
it will pay to accept this proposition, there will be another wheel to be
added to those that are already turning for them to receive benefits from.
The projjosition is this :

" The National Florists' Board of Trade of the United States, through
its Secretary, herewith submits to the members of the Society of American
Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists assembled in convention at
Omaha, Neb., August 18th, 1898, the following proiwsition ; and the
same is submitted because of a desire on the part of said Board for a

112 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

closer and more brotherly feeling of unity and co-operation with said
Society along Credit and Information lines.

The National Florists' Board of Trade will, until further notice through
trade jDapers, receive subscrii^tions to their Credit and Information Depart-
ment from memljers of the Society of American Florists and Ornamental
Horticulturists at an amount of two dollars less than the regular author-
ized and advertised rates. Members at time of making application must
notify the Secretary of their desire to take advantage of the above conces-
sion and be prepared to show that they are in good and regular standing
in said Society. This advantage may accrue to old members of the Board
on their renewal. Parties who have joined during the time of this con-
vention Avill be given the concession as stated above. This proposition is
respectfully submitted for the courteous consideration of the members of
the Society of American Florists, for their acceptance or rejection."

Mr. W. W. Coles : I move that Mr. Loder's proposition be accepted
by this Society'.

Mr. E. H. CusHMAN seconded the motion.

Mr. W. N. RuDD : I move, as an amendment, that the Society
thanks Mr. Loder for his courteous proposition and makes known to its
members, through its forthcoming report, the nature of the proposition,
without comment.

Mr. E. G. Hill: I think it all right for any of the members of the
Society to accept Mr. Loder's proposition. Beyond that I don't think we
ought to go.

Mr. E. M. Wood : I am heartily in accord with Mr. Rudd's amend-
ment. The Society does not want to commit itself to any proposition,
and Mr. Rudd's amendment relieves it.

The President put the question on the amendment and, after
taking the vote, announced that it had been carried.

Subsequently, a vote was taken on the original motion as thus
amended and the same was carried.

The business program having been gone through with, the
Convention (at ten o'clock p.m.) adjourned.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 113

FOURTH DAY — AT THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI
EXHIBITION.

Friday, August 19, 1898.

All day at the Trans-Mississippi Exhibition was occupied by
the florists and their ladies in inspecting and discussing the display
of the resources of the great West. Their headquarters was the
Horticultural Building, where every convenience was provided for
them by Mr. F. W. Taylor, the Superintendent of Horticulture.
Formal addresses of welcome were delivered in the Nebraska
Building, in which the visitors assembled soon after the noon hour.
Vice-President A. Donaghue, Sr. (representing the Nebraska and
Iowa Florists) presided on the occasion and introduced the
speakers.

President G. W. Wattles, of the Trans-Mississippi Exhibition,
after a few words of greeting, said :

For many years the West has been engaged more particularly in the
production of corn and wheat and the other products that have brought
money into the pockets of the farmers of this Western country witli which
to pay for their farms and grow their crops ; but in recent years we have
been giving more attention to those refining and educating influences that
come along with the acquisition of wealth and popvilation.

It is extremely gratifying to the citizens of Omaha and of the West
that your Society should hold its meeting here this year. It is hoped that
out of this meeting may grow a 2)opular sentiment for the cultivation of
the flowers and plants that adorn and make beautiful our homes. We
have, under the supervision of one of the ablest florists and horticulturists
of this country, worked out on these grounds a beautiful design which
charms all visitors. No part of this Exposition is a greater success than
the landscaping and the flowers and the crops we have here ; and to many
of the delegates here present we are indebted for contributions in this
line.

If you will stay with us a few days and study here' something of the
progress and prosperity of this great Western country, I hope many of
you who have come from the East may conclude to cast your lot here and
come to live among us. The West is made up of the progressive, daring,
ambitious young men who came here from the East. They have turned
this Western Avilderness into a garden. But a few years ago the very
grounds that are now adorned by these beautiful buildings — filled , as they
are, with every product of this Western country — were occupied by wild

114 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Indians. Within the memory of some of the residents of this city the
Indians encamped on these grounds. That such a change should come
about within a generation is one of the marvels of this age.

We have pictured here, in the products of this Western country,
something of the progress and the attainments of the great West; and to
these exhibits we invite your careful consideration. Those of you who
come from the East will, I hope, study well the lesson to be learned here
and, if you find this Exhibition Avorthy of the jjatronage and sxipport of
your neighbors, will publish at home and abroad the beauties that you
may find here, that others may come and enjoy them.

Major T. S. Clarkson, General Manager of the Exhibition,
was the next speaker. He referred to the President's cordial
welcome, and said :

I renew that welcome because I believe that no feature of this Expo-
sition is more attractive and more beautiful in its entirety than the work
of the florist that has been done here. It has been the admiration of every-
one. I have heard it spoken of so many times that, in the walk back and
forth, around the lagoon, about these great white buildings and the colon-
nade, the eye became weary but that some artist had placed just at the
right spot to relieve the vision a beautiful little flowerbed or a little green
sward or a flower.

I, for one, believe that the profession of the florist is as elevating as
any other profession known to man. The preacher does his work in a
certain direction, so, too, the physician; but I believe that the florist, in
his work in bringing forth the beauties of the flower, elevates the mind
more directly and brings us nearer to God than does the member of any
other profession. [Applause.] The little child goes out into the woods,
trami^ing aroimd with its parent, and the first thing it does is to spot a
little wild flower, and it will pluck it, and it will treasui'e it as it treasures
nothing else it sees on its rambles. It loves a flower, and I believe that
every man and woman loves a flower, better than any other object in
Nature's handiwork, because it is elevatiiag.

You who are interested in floriculture seem to me to be peculiarly
associated with all the pleasures as well as with all the pains of life. If
there is a funeral the first one sent for is the florist; if there is a wedding
the first man to be hunted up is the florist ; if a baby comes into the house-
hold mother must have a rose ; so that in whatever we do we are always
hunting for the florist. When a young man wants to pay a visit to his
' ' best girl " the first thing he does is to get a little flower and put it in
his coat lapel.

I trust, my friends, — you who are from the more thickly settled por-
tions of the country and who think that the world centres around the com-
munity in which you live — have learned something since you came to
this broad Western country. You will find that we not only raise corn
and wheat here but we raise pretty women and lots of them. They all

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 115

want flowers. We have artists in that line ; and there is plenty of room
to expand here, botli in floriculture and horticulture. "W'e welcome you
here to our new country. Here is a field for you all in your earnest work
of building up your profession.

Mr. F. TV. Taylor, Superintendent of Horticulture, good
humoredly remarked that he had wondered whether he dared to
confront the florists in view of the promises made by him last year,
upon the faith of which his invitation to Omaha had been accepted
and they had made the long journey thither. He congratulated
them, however, upon the prospect that their trip would be satis-
factory and profitable to them. He also thanked many members
of the Convention for the assistance they had rendered him in his
work of building up the bureaus of agriculture and horticulture and
for the materials they had sent for flower beds, etc.

Mr. Bexjamin Hammond, of Fishkill, N. Y., in responding to
the speeches of welcome, said the visitors were not only pleased
with their visit but that it had enabled them to acquire much
valuable knowledge. They had been treated handsomely, and
every one whom they had met seemed to be only too anxious to do
them a favor.

The exercises at the Nebraska State Building were followed by
a lunch at the Markel Restaurant. The menu was appetizing and
substantial. Before leaving the restaurant, Mr. William Scott, of
Buffalo, was the recipient of a silver medal offered by the Omaha
Bowling Team for the highest average scored in the contest for the
Evans Cup, The presentation was made by Mr. A, Donaghue, Sr,,
who said :

In presenting to Mr. Scott this medal as a proof of his skill in bowl-
ing, I Avisli to express the hojje that it may prove a " mascot" for him
except on one occasion, and that is when he comes in competition with
the Omaha boys. I hope, too, that, whenever he wears it, the medal will
recall pleasant memories of his trip to Omaha.

Take it, Mr. Scott, and with it the good wishes of all the Omaha
boys.

Mr. Scott accepted the gift in some pertinent and eloquent
remarks.

116 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

The Committee on Final Resolutions then presented the follow-
ing report, which was unanimously adopted.

Whereas, The members of the Nebraska and Iowa Florists' Club and
the citizens generally have extended to us the most hearty welcome and
have striven with success to make our stay in this beautiful city an occa-
sion loug to be remembered with the greatest pleasure.

Resolved, That to His Honor the Mayor, we owe the most cordial
thanks for the hearty welcome accorded us.

Resolved, That we wish to especially thank Mr. and Mrs. J. F.
Wilcox for the most pleasant meeting of the Society at their beautiful
home and for the enjoyable collation given us.

Resolved, That we shall long remember with the keenest gratitude
and pleasure the reception and view of the wonderful art collection so
handsomely extended to us by Mr. Geo. AV. Lininger whose gems of art
are worth alone a journey to your city.

Resolved, That we wish to thank and appreciate the services and able
manner in which the trade exhibit was handled by Mr. S. B. Stewart.

Resolved, That we owe to Prof. F. W. Taylor, Superintendent of the
Horticultural Department of the Trans-Mississippi Exposition our sincere
gratitude for the many courtesies extended to us and particularly for the
very instructive and amusing lecture given us in " The Real Russia."

Resolved, That especial thanks and kind remembrance is due to our
worthy "\"ice-President, Mr. A. Donaghue, Sr., for his courtly and whole-
souled welcome to us and to the Ladies of Omaha and Council Bluffs
who b}- their thoughtful kinthiess afforded the visiting ladies the greatest
enjoyment by a ride around this beautiful city. The good qualities of the
Omaha friends are suri:)assed only by that of their wives, sweethearts, and
sisters.

Finally Resolved, That on returning to our homes, however distant
from here, we shall ever cherish in our hearts the kindness and untiring
efforts that the local florists have put forth to make our stay here a round
of pleasure. We thank them all and trust the day is near at hand wlien
we can reciprocate the great kindness that has been bestowed on us by
the Nebraska and Iowa brother florists.

Robert Craig,
E. G. Hill,
William Scott,

CominUtee.

WILLIAM J. STEWART,

Secretary.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 117

REPORTS OF EXHIBITION COMMITTEES.

CLASS A, PLANTS.

Your committee tind five entries, mostly confined to sucli ornamental
plants as are suitable for and may be required by retail florists in their
business.

II. A. Dreer, Philadelphia, Pa ; a very fine exhibit of j^alms in variety
and size, araucarias in variety, including some extremely well-clothed
and grown young plants ; a quantity of small ferns, suitable for filling
ferneries, vases, etc. ; a young plant of Dracaena Godseiiiana, apparently a
very useful plant for small decorative work.

Carl Hageuberger, Mentor, Ohio ; a variety of coleus, named
Klondike.

E. H. Michel, St. Louis, Mo. ; group of finely grown ferns, some
of large size ; Ficus elastica and a number of smaller miscellaneous
plants.

Siebrecht & Son, New Rochelle, X. Y. ; a fine group of palms, ferns,
jiandanuses in variety, dractenas, arecas, very fine specimen tree ferns
and other ornamentals.

Ellis & Pollworth, Milwaukee, Wis. ; group of palms and other orna-
mental plants, comjirising a very general collection.

W. J. Hesser, Plattsmouth, Xeb. ; groui)s of psalms, ferns, cacti, and
succulent plants in variety.

(Signed) Edgar Sanders,

Philip Gauges,
W. E. Kemble,

Comyniltee.

CLASS B, CUT BLOOMS.

Sunset Seed and Plant Co., San Francisco, CaK; exhibit of sweet
peas ; upwards of ninety vases in large assortment, including many new
and distinct sorts ; a lack of substantial labelling prevented a careful
judging of the individual varieties.

Cushman Gladiolus Co., Euclid, O. ; a merited display of seedling
gladioli in good variety.

W. H. Elliott, Brighton, Mass. ; Asparagus plumosus, including sev-
eral strings more than twenty feet in length, of uniform and strong
growth, the quality of which is highly commended.

B. Haas, Omaha, Xeb. ; a vase of gladioli.

118 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

J. F. Wilcox, Council Bluffs, la. ; seven varieties of roses of merito-
rious quality, considering the time of year.

(Signed) Dan'l B. Long,

Aug, S. Swanson,
William Miller,

Committee.

CLASS D, GREENHOUSE APPLIANCES AND FLOWER POTS.

Lincoln Pottery Co., Lincoln, Neb. ; a fine display of standard rose
pots, also seed pans.

John C. Moninger Co., Chicago, 111. ; cypress lumber for greenhouse
construction. We especially note the fine quality of material.

J. G. & A. Esler, Saddle River, N. J. ; a three-ply rubber hose that
seems to be exceptionally well made. The extra thickness of rubber on
inside lining is particularly noticeable.

Quaker City Machine Co., Richmond, Ind. ; Challenge ventilating
apparatus. The committee finds that for ease of management and dura-
bility it is especially noticeable.

Yeats & Bacon, Champaign, 111. ; an alarm attachment designed to
give notice to watchman of a change of temperature in pipes.

(Signed) Geo. L. Miller,

RoBT. George,
Geo M. Kellogg,

Comviiltee.

CLASS E, florists' SUPPLIES AND FANCY EARTHEN WARIJ.

Your committee on Florists' Supplies make mention of Mr. A. Herr-
mann's display of florists' supplies, and esijecially of a creditable display
of metallic designs which are of American manufacture.

Ellis & Pollworth of Milwaukee, Wis. ; a creditable display of florists
supplies.

The Dayton Novelty Paj^er Box Co., Dayton, O. ; an exhibit of very
useful boxes suitable for the jjacking and transmission of cut flowers.

Daniel B. Long, Buffalo, N.Y. ; florists' photograi^hs, calendars,
etc. ; very fine.

W. W. Coles, Kokomo, Ind. ; paper leather-board box for shipping
cut flowers, which is worthy of esjjecial mention.

(Signed) J. T. Temple,

Jacob Schulz,
C. G. Anderson,

Committee.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 119

CLASS F, BULBS AND SEEDS.

Yaughan's Seed Store, Chicago and New York ; a very fine display
of florists' bulbs.

(Signed) Emil Schray,

Wm. Clark,
C. G. Weeber,
Committee ■

CLASS G, MISCELLANEOUS.

Boston Florists' Letter Co. ; a frame, covering their style of florists
letters.

(Signed) Edgar Sanders,

Ernst Weinhoeber,
Emil Schray,

Committee.

AN OMISSION.

Record is here made of the death of Reinhardt Maitre, which was
accidentally omitted from the Secretary's report, page 19. Mr. Maitre
died at New Orleans, April 14th, 1898, aged 67 years, 9 months.

William J. Stewart,

Secretary.

120

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF TRADE
EXHIBITION.

To the President, Officers, and Members of the Society of Avierican
Florists.

Gentlemen : — Now that my duties as Superintendent of the Trades
Display, recently held in the city of Omaha, are done, I can look back
and see where perhaps changes might have been made, for the benefit of
the Society. But it is always thus through life ; by exjDerience we learn to
improve. On the whole I believe that the Omaha Convention was a
" Record Breaker." Not a complaint or " kick " from an exliibitor. The
only recommendation that I would suggest to the Society is that the for-
mer prices for space be restored the same as previous to 1897 ; as I believe
it to be a useless reduction, working no benefit that I can perceive to the
Society or trade in general, while it does make it somewhat of a hardship
upon the Club entertaining the S. A. F.

Our Exhibition Hall was altogether too small. I am satisfied that I
could easily have filled twice the space. The following is a list of
exhibitors and amounts contributed for space :

Receipts.

Boston Letter Co.
Blague, L. B. .
Ciishman Gladiolus Co
Dayton Paper Box Co.
Dreer, H. A. .
Esler, J. G. and A
Elliott, W. H.
Ellis & Pollworth
East Side Floral Co.
Florists' Review
Hesser, W. J.
Herrmann, A. .
Herendeen Mf g Co
Joosten, C. H.
Michel, E.H. .

Lumber
Printing .

Carpenter, helper, etc.

Stami>s

200 Circular Letters

Telegrams

Freight, Cai-tage, etc.

Ice ....

$2.50
2.00
5.25
9.50

36.00
2.00
2.50

14.25
2.00
8.40
9.50

22.50
4.00
2.50

18.00

Moninger Co., John C.

7.55

McCarthy, N. F. & Co.

5 04

Plant Tonic Co.

2.00

Quaker City Machine

Works

5.25

Siebrecht & Son

18.00

Sunset Seed Co.

,4.20

Scabcura Dip Co. .

2.00

Vaughan, J. C.

11.40

Wilcox, J. F. .

3.00

Long, D. B. .

5.25

Lincoln Pottery Co.

9.50

$13.05
1.50
3.25
6.50
2.00
1.50
1.30
3.38
.75

Total, .

Expenditures.

Brought forward .
Less Received for Lum-
ber Sold .

IVIiscellaneous Expenses
Rent of Hall .
Superintendent's Salary

$33.23

Total

$214.09

$33.23

7.00

$26.23
50.00
75.00

$151.23

SOCIETY OP AMERICAN FLORISTS. 121

Contributed for Space ■ . $214.09

Less Expenses 151.23

Balance, 62.86

Of this Balance there still remains unpaid .... 36.00

Leaving in hands of Superintendent Net Cash Balance . . $26.86
Respectfully submitted,

S. B. Stewart, SupermtendeiU.

122 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

FLORISTS' HAIL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA.

A meeting of the members of the Florists' Hail Association
was held in the First Congregational Church at Omaha on August
17th, 1898.

Amendments to the by-laws giving the Secretary $50, the Treas-
urer $20 and the President $7.50 per million square feet of glass as
annual salary were passed. John T. Temple of Davenport, Iowa,
and Wm. Scott of Buffalo, N. Y., were elected Directors. After
the Annual Meeting, a meeting of the Board of Directors was held
and the following officers were elected : J. C. Vaughan, President ;
E. G. Hill, Vice-President; John G. Esler, Secretary; and Albert
M. Herr, Treasurer. J. C. Vaughan and E. G. Hill then resigned
as Directors and the Chairman appointed E. "VYeinhoeber of Chicago
and G. M, Kellogg of Pleasant Hill, Mo., to fill vacancies.

The Florists' Hail Association has been in existence over 11
years and has paid every loss promptly. It possesses the confi-
dence of all its members, has a reserve fund of $6000, and grows
more rapidly each year.

Secretary's Report,

The Florists' Hail Association at this date consists of 762 members.
The risks are upon 2,594,982 square feet of single thick glass, 5,468,067
square feet of double thick glass, an extra one-half insurance ujjon 162,-
213 square feet of single thick glass, and 301,078 squai'e feet of double
thick glass, an extra whole insurance upon 556,697 square feet of single
thick glass, and 1,337,706 square feet of double thick glass, the whole
being equivalent to a single insurance upon 10,189,097 square feet of
glass.

The Reserve Fund consists of $5,200 in securities (all of which are
worth at least par and some would command a premium of 8 per cent.),
and $662.48 cash in the hands of the Treasurer, making a total of
$5,862.48.

The amount of Emergency Fund in the hands of the Treasurer on
August 1, 1898, was $?, 318.45, making a total cash balance of $2,990.98.

The eighth assessment levied March, 1898, amounted to $5,780.18.
Other receipts have been from interest on investment, $235.32. Money
drawn which had been temporarily invested, $2,500. Refunded by R.
Brown & Sou on re-adjustment of loss, $360.21. Evanston school fund

SOCIKTY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 123

paid before due $500. New business for year ending August 1, 1898,
$1,650.14. Tliese items with last year's balance of $5,581.05, make a
total of $16,616.90.

The expenditures have been: Losses, $7,585.88. Investments,
$5,200. Running expenses, $850.09, making a total of $13,635.97, leav-
ing a cash balance of $2,980.93 in the hands of the Treasurer, of which
$2,318.15 belongs to the Emergency fund.

The losses during the past year have exceeded any previous year,
77,311 square feet of single thick glass having been broken, and 48,711
square feet of double thick glass.

One square foot of single thick glass has been broken to every
33 f fill feet insured and one square foot of double thick glass has been
broken to every 110 j%Wt square feet insured. The feature of the past
year has been the large percentage of breakage of double thick glass as
opposed to the small percentage last year. Also the large percentage of
delinquents on the eighth assessment, which was largely due to deaths,
failures, removals, dissolution of partnerships, retirement from business
and other causes. The large volume of new business had more than
taken the place of the delinquents who retired.

Your Secretary has also to report the discovery of two errors in proofs
of loss.

A recount of glass was made by a special agent employed by the
Secretary and a re-adjustment of losses was made. R. Brown & Son, of
Kansas City, promptly refunded to the Association $360.21. The re-ad-
justment of the loss of Baker Bros., of Kansas City, amounting to a bal-
ance of $85.62 in favor of the Florists' Hail Association, is still jiending,
owing to their absence from home. The Association has the assurance of
their attorney, that it will be attended to promptly upon their return.

The annexed table may be of interest to those who are desirous of
locating the hail belt. Your Secretary does not suppose for a moment
that he has been able to locate every hail storm for the j^ast eleven j-ears,
but he has done so as far as he has been able, and the information fur-
nished is interesting to those who are willing to study statistics.

STATES.

Maine

Vermont

New Hampshire..

Rhode Island

Connecticut

Massachusetts

New York

New Jersey

Pennsylvania

Delaware

Ohio

Indiana

No. of hail
Btornis from
June 1, 1887,
to August 1,
1898.

No. of losses
paid from
June 1,1887,
to August 1,
189S

No. of hail
storms for
year ending
Au a;u 8 t 1,
1898.

No. of losses
paid for year
ending Aug
1, 1898.

3

'....

3

3

1

i

3

1

4

7

i

49

6

3

36

5

4

1

36

19

4

3

1

1

1

1

34

27

4

3

9

4

2

2

124 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Illinois.

42
9

29
3

4
1

4

Michigan

Wisconsin

15

14

3

2

Minnesota

16

5 ■

1

1

Iowa

23

27

3

2

Missouri..

39

27

59
44

5

7

14

Kansas

10

Nebraska

13

17

1

2

Colorado

20

16

7

6

North Dakota

5

8

1
4

2

1

1

South Dakota

1

Montana

1

Wyoming

1

1

Maryland

6

3

2

2

Virginia

2

1

1

1

West Virginia

10

2

1

North Carolina

3
5

1

Kentucky

Georgia

3

5

1

Louisiana

2

Tennessee

1

1

Florida

1

Mississippi

1

Oklahama Territorv

4
1

4

2

2

Indian Territory

District of Columbia

3

2

1

Canada

Three violent storms doing great damage have been noted this year :
one at Kansas City, Mo. ; one at Harrisburg, Pa., and one at Auburn,
N. Y. The Association lost heavily at Kansas City, because nearly every
florist was insured. At Harrisburg and Auburn they lost nothing because
no one Avas insured.

The value of hail insurance may be inferred.

John G. Esler, Secretary.

Aug. 1, 1898.

Treasurer's Report.
Losses.

July 13, 1897. Green & Nicol, Fremont, Neb $ 16 40

July 19, F. Heath. Hunter, S. Dakota 4 20

July 22, E. C. Newberry, Mitchell, S. Dakota 77 26

August 19, R. Pabst, Rutledge, Pa 12 50

J. R. Goldman, Middletown, Ohio 5 97

" " Henry Engler, Philadelphia, Pa 16 45

" " A. M. Troxwell, Knightstown, Ind 21 25

" " Jos. T. Sullivan, Moorestown, N. J 15 82

" " Henry Baker, Pueblo, Colo 26 00

" 23, Lizzie Lindsay, Lake View, Minn. 7 25

" " Button Bros., Lake Geneva, Wis 91 00

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 125

Sept. 13, Fred. Bishop, Sioux City, Iowa

E. C. Newberry, Mitchell, S. Dakota

22, C. G. Turner, Wilmington, Del

Feh. 5, 1898. James Frost, Greenville, Ohio

21, Furrow Bros., Guthrie, Oklahoma

Apl. 8, B. Henshon, Lawrence, Kan

" Junction Floral Co., Junction City, Kan

IG, Henry Schwartz, Cincinnati, Ohio

May 11, Charles Kraatz, Linwood, Mo

20, Furrow Bros., Guthrie, Oklahoma

23, Junction City Floral Co., Junction City, Kan.

25, Robt. S. Brown, Kansas City, Mo

" Mrs. Mary Ackerman, Kansas City, Mo

" A. F. Barbe, Kansas City, Mo

" Humfeld Floral Co., Kansas City, Mo

26, Baker Bros., Kansas City, Mo

27, James Payne, Kansas City, Mo

28, Heite Floral Co., Kansas City, Mo

" Jno. S. Morris, Miriam, Kansas

31, W. P. Ranson, Junction City, Kan

" Henry Smith, Kansas City, Mo

" W. J. Barnes, Kansas City, Mo -

A. B. Davis & Son, PurceUville, Va.

" J. M. Longsdorf, Mechanicsburg, Pa

June 2, John Eberhart, Franklintown, Md

" Mrs. S. E. Luther, Kansas City, Kan

6, Emil Buettner, Park Ridge, 111

7, Mrs. S. H. Bagley, Abilene, Kan

" Geo. "W. Kline, Anderson, Ind

10, Aug. Blankenfeld, Kansas City, Mo

" Wm. Clark, Colorado Springs, Colo

11, Edward T. Owen, Madison, Wis

" Samuel Feast & Son, Baltimore, Md

14, E. W. Hicks, St. Louis, Mo

" A. Jablonsky, Wellston, Mo

20, Lyle C. Waterbury, University Park, Colo

" Junction City Floral Co., Junction City, Kan.

Chas. Duer, Park Ridge, 111

23, Jas. Aldous & Sou, Iowa City. Iowa

" Paul R. Brooks, Lawrence, Kan

27, J. F. Amman, Edwardsville, 111.

" C. E. Kern, Kansas City, Mo

" A. T. Shotwell, Fargo, N. Dakota.

July 6, J. J. Soper, Rockford, 111

" Jas. L. Varnum, (trustee), New York, N. Y

13 F. Keuchenmeister, Wichita, Kan

Aug.

19, 1897.

Sept.

13,

«

17,

"

27,

Oct.

15,

"

18,

4 00

5 07

71 38

28 01

194 08

3 50

21 70

8 74

5 00

38 28

186 76

1978 19

162 68

398 91

826 72

557 50

236 45

347 84

91 55

27 35

172 05

353 34

43 85

32 21

24 22

51 24

54 17

10 00

43 99

89 85

204 26

37 35

129 52

27 70

30 00

164 25

31 08

16 13

8 30

7 52

54 00

335 82

14 08

6 35

51 75

96 92

7 52

,585 88

Expenses.

A. T. DeLaMare, circulars with coupons $ 2 10

New England Florist Co., advertising 1 00

American Florist Co 28 70

John G. Esler, Cram's Atlas 7 00

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads and orders 5 50

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads 1 65

Albert M. Herr, printing reports and expressage 2 15

126

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Oct.

18, 1897

"

27,

Nov.

3,

"

27,

<i

29,

Dec.

18,

Jan.

3, 1898

"

19,

"

26,

Feb.

8,

March

15,

April

1,

May

2

"

26,

"

31,

June

10,

"

20,

'•

23,

July

6,

"

7,

«

13,

15,

C. A. "Wilden, Sec. Tri. State Building and Loan

New England Florist Co., advertising

Wilson, Humphreys & Co., entry book

A. T. DeLaMare, assessment papers

Lancaster Trust Co., box rent

Hackensack Republican, 1000 envelopes

Florists' Exchange, advertising

New England Florist Co., advertising

John G. Esler, 6 months' salary

J. M. Jordon, 6 months' salary and postage

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads

Lancaster Trust Co., money on interest, 6 months

Frank J. Faesig, envelopes

John G. Esler, postage

A. T. DeLaMare, stationery

Frank J. Faesig, 1000 envelopes

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads and envelopes

New England Florist Co., advertising

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads and envelopes

A. T. DeLaMare, circulars and affidavits

A. M. Herr, overcharged reinsurance

The Hackensack Kepublican, Certificates

A. T. DeLaMare, letter heads and applications

Florists' Exchange, advertising

Albert M. Herr, Government bond

John G. Esler, salary and postage

Albert M. Herr, salary and postage

S. Murray, expenses for readjusting loss

J. C. Vaughan, salary

2200 00

2 13

5 00

24 60

5 00

3 00

7 50

4 55

200 00

27 00

2 08

2500 00

1 75

25 51

10 45

2 50

6 00

3 15

6 00

15 20

20 12

11 00

7 00

6 50

500 00

224 20

130 00

6 75

25 00

$6030 09

Receipts.

Interest on Evanston Bond

Evanston Bond

Interest on two Orville township Bonds

" " School Bonds

" City of Chicago Bond

" on Tri State Building & Loan, Ft. Wayne, Ind.

" on $2500 drawn before expiration of time

Money placed on interest and drawn for use July 7

" i)aid Brown & Sons of Kansas City, Mo., in
excess of loss

" received from 7tli Assessment

" " " Membership Fees

" " " First Assessments

" " " Additional Assessments

Extra One-Half

Extra Whole

" " " Reinsurance

Balance of last year .

Less exi^encjitures

S 12 27

500 00

50 00

50 00

20 00

58 05

25 00

2500 00

360 20

575)0 18

647 22

480 93

230 01

33 46

164 06

94 46

5581 05

$16,596 90

$13,615 97

Balance.

$2,980 93

SOCIETY OP AMERICAN FLORISTS. 127

Investments.
Orville Township Bond, N. J., 5%. Valued, $1.08 $ 500 00 face

School Bond, Dist. of 111., " Co. of DuPage

" " " '< II (1

City of Chicago Bond. i%.

Invested in the Tri State Building

and Loan Association, of Fort

Wayne, Indiana, 5^.

U. S. Government Bond. 3%.

500 00
600 00
500 00
500 00

2200 00
500 00

$5200 00

Signed, Albert M. Herr,

Treasurer.

128 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

AMERICAN CARNATION SOCIETY.

Omaha, Neb., Aug. 17th, 1898.

This Society held an informal meeting on the above date and
m the absence of the President the meeting was presided over by
our Past President W. N. Rudd of Mt. Greenwood, 111.

The Secretary reported having secured Professor Britton of the
New Haven Experiment Station to give us a paper on the
Experiments being conducted at that Station on Carnations grown
in various forms of Commercial Fertilizers. Also that the Society
was better financially than it has been any time since its organiza-
tion, that there has been quite a few additions in the way of new
members since the meeting last February ; showing that the efforts
of the Society were coming to be better appreciated by the growers
throughout the country. He also reported that an effort would be
made to get up the most attractive premium list for the coming show
that the Society had yet issued. Also that there had been no addi-
tions secured to the contributors to the permanent fund of the
Society but that there was a likelihood of the list of contributors
being increased to quite a respectable showing by the end of another
year.

The Secretary was instructed to secure a retail store man to
give us an essay on Carnations from his point of view and sugges-
tions for the increase of their use. He was also instructed to get as
complete a report as possible of the results attained by the various
growers who are experimenting with sub-irrigation to present at the
meeting.

A committee was appointed consisting of E. G. Hill and A.
M. Herr to get the S. A. F. to award a silver medal, for the next
show held by this Society, under such rules and regulations as they
may see fit to place for governing the award.

E. H. Michel of St. Louis, Mo., offered a cup to be competed
for by the various Florists' Clubs or State organizations under such
rules and regulations as he would suggest after giving the matter
due consideration.

The Secretary was instructed to secure advertisements for the
Premium list and Program and the meeting was adjourned to meet
in Philadelphia, Pa., February 16th and 17th, 1899.

(Signed) Wm. Nicholson, President.
Attest : Albert M. Herr, Secretary.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 129

CHRYSANTHEMUM SOCIETY OF AMERICA.

New chrysanthemums disseminated during 1898 are as fol-
lows : —

By John N. May, Summit, N. J. : Alice F. Carej', Cherapwec, Dolores,
Minnewaska, Miss Gladys Yanderbilt, Robert G. Carey, Spotswood.

By E. G. Hill & Co., Richmond, Ind. : Autumn Glory, Black Hawk,
H. W. Long-fellow, Boundless Snow, Solar Queen, Quitto, Christmas
Gift.

By Hugh Graham, Philadelphia, Pa. : Pennsylvania.

By F. Dorner & Sons Co., Lafayette, Ind: Mrs. C. H. Peirce, Snow
Queen, Merry Christmas.

By Theo. Bock, Hamilton, O. : Mrs. Wm. B. Brown.

By G. P. Rawson, Elmira, N. Y. : Wm. H. Chadwick, The Yellow
Fellow, Madeline Pratt.

By C. W. Ward, Queens, X. Y. : T. H. Spaulding.

By A. Herrington, Madison, N. J. : Frank Hardy.

By J. C. Yaughan, Chicago, 111. : Yellow Mrs. J. Jones.

By F. R. Pierson Co., Tarrytown-on-Hudson, N. Y. : Mrs. O. P.
Bassett.

By Theodosia B. Shepherd, Ventura, Cah : Susan B. Anthony, Vic-
toria, Theo. B. Shepherd, Viola, Miramar, White Wings, Dazzling, Fly-
Away, Darling, Madomia, Firefly.

By McDonald & Steel, Crawfordsville, Ind. : Mrs. A. F. Wienold.

By E. J. Paddock, Cleveland, O. : Adam Graham.

By N. Smith & Son, Adrian, Mich. : Arline, Thornden, Merza,
Rustique.

By W. N. Rudd, INIt. Greenwood, 111. : Mrs. A. J. Caton.

Of the fifty-two seedlings exhibited before the committee,
twenty-five scored eighty-five points or more, and have been awarded
certificates. The varieties are as follows :

Mrs. Arthur J. Caton, Boundless Snow, Solar Queen, H. W. Longfel-
low, Australian Gold, Bessie Hollis, Autumn Glorj-, Black Hawk, Penn-
sylvania, Mrs. O. P. Bassett, Frank Hardy, Chas. W. Crouch, Mrs. Samuel
Higdon, Snow Queen, Mrs. C. H. Peirce, Alice F. Carey, Robert G. Carey,
Spottswood, Miss Gladys Yanderbilt, Arline, Thornden, Rustique, Merza,
Our Dear Friend, W. H. Chadwick.

Elmer D. Smith, Secretary.

130 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

FLORISTS' INTERNATIONAL TELEGRAPH DELIVERY
ASSOCIATION.

The annual meeting of this association was held at Omaha on
AYednesday afternoon, August 17th. The meeting was called to
order by the President, H. A. Siebrecht of New York. Reports
were received from the Clearing House manager as well as from a
number of members, which showed that the method of working
through the Clearing House was not as satisfactory as was the old
one, i.e., of each member settling his own account with all members
and making a report of the business transacted for the year at the
annual meeting. A committee of three was appointed to adjust all
matters outstanding as well as to settle up all Clearing House mat-
ters and to notify every member to send in his report, and any
member not complying with this rule, a resolution was passed to
drop him from the association. Several new members were elected,
also three directors. The ofllcers for the ensuing year are : H. A.
Siebrecht, New York, President ; W. J. Smyth, Chicago, Secretary
and Treasurer.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 131

PLANT INTRODUCTIONS IN AMERICA IN 1898.

ROSES.

Burbank, (Burpee) cherry crimson.

Climbing Marie Guillott, CI. (Dingee & Conarcl Co.) white, sometimes
tinged yellow.

Everblooming Prairie Queen, CI. (Dingee & Conard Co.) dark carmine
rose; originated with P. H. Meehan.

Ferd. Ilatel, H. T., soft yellow, centre deep orange.

May Queen, H. CI. (Conard & Jones Co.) Mrs. De Graw x Wichuraiana,
coral pink.

Mme. Cadeau Ramey, H. T. pink, centre flesh white.

Mrs. Robert Peary, CI. (Dingee & Conard Co.) white, sjiort from Kai-
serin Augusta Victoria; originated with DeVoecht & DeWilde.

Muriel Graham, T., creamy white, suffused pink; sport from C. Mermet.

Prince Theodore Galitzine, T. (Ketten) orange yellow.

Princess Bonney, H. T. (Dingee & Conard Co.) Bon Silene x Wm. Fran-
cis Bennett. Crimson.

Ruby Queen, H. CI. (Conard & Jones Co.) Queen's Scarlet x Wichuraiana,
ruby red, white centre.

Santa Rosa, H. B. T. (Burbank) shell pink, a cross between a second gen-
eration Hermosa and a seedling of Bon Silene.

Souv. d'August Metral, H. T. red, shaded crimson.

White Bougere, (Dunlop) pure white.

CARNATIONS.

Alba Superba, (Burton) Avhite.

Argyle (Stollery) carmine pink.

Bon Ton, (Ward) Portia x Cfesar, scarlet. Raised by F. A. Blake.

Conch Shell, (Grout) shell pink.

Empress, (W. Swayne) crimson, base of petals scarlet.

Evelina, (Witterstaetter) white.

Firefly, (Hancock) scarlet.

Gold Nugget, (Dorner) yellow.

Happy Day, (Hake) pink.

Jack Frost (Ed. Swayne) Avhite, large.

John Young, (Ward) Scott x Storm King, white, deei)ly fringed.

Kathleen Pantlind, (Hopp & Lempke) Daybreak x Scott; pink.

Mrs. Jas. Dean, (Ward) Scott x Storm King, silvery pink.

Mrs. Northway, (Simmons) shell pink, becoming white.

New York, (Ward) ; Scott x Daybreak ; cerise jjink.

Painted Lady, (Hill) cherry pink, at times laced lighter pink on edges.

Psyche (Hill) white, flaked scarlet.

White Cloud, (Dorner) Daybreak x E. A. Wood; white.

132 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

CHRYSANTHEMUMS.

Alice F. Carey, Ref . (Carey) jjink.

Anna Held, Anem. (Henderson) rosy pink.

Arline, Inc. (Smith) white, dwarf.

Australian Gold (Calvat) yellow.

Autumn Glory, (Hill) reddish salmon changing to shrimp. Shape of V.
Morel.

Beaute Grenobloise, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) lilac white passing to yellow.

Bird's Nest, Anem. (Henderson) yellow.

Black Hawk (Hill) dark crimson scarlet, form V. Morel.

Boundless Snow, Jap. (Yoshiike) (Hill) flushed pink, gradually becom-
ing whiter.

Chempwee, (May) j^ellow sport from Silver Cloud.

Christmas Gift, Inc. (Hill) nankin yellow.

Congres de Bourges, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) purple.

Directeur Liebert, (Calvat) pearly mauve ; long florets.

Dolores, Inc. (May) deep yellow.

Fee de Champsaur, (Calvat) white.

Florence Turner, Ref. (Henderson) pale yellow.

Frank Hardy, Inc. (Herrington) white.

H. W. Long-fellow, Inc. (Hill) white, flushed pink.

IdoFs Eye, Jap. Inc. (Henderson) shrimp pink.

Iserette, (Calvat) white.

Klondike, Ref. (Henderson) golden yellow.

M. Massange de Louvrex (Calvat) yellow.

M. B. Verlot, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) pale lilac.

M. G. Chavanne, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) golden yellow.

M. W. H. Fowler (Calvat), silvery pink.

Madeline Pratt, Inc. (Rawson) white.

Marfa, (Calvat) orange yellow ; petals slightly twisted.

Matterhorn, Ref. (Henderson) white.

Merza, Jap. Inc. (Smith) white, dwarf.

Merry Christmas, (Dorner) white, late.

Minnewaska (May) deep pink, late.

Miss Gladys Vanderbilt (Maj^) peai'l white, lemon centre.

Mile. Lawrence Zede, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) lilac.

Mile. Lucie Faure, Jap. (Calvat) white.

Mme. A. Brun (Calvat) lilac white, striped lilac.

Mme. A. Rosseau, (Calvat) lilac-mauve ; outer petals drooping.

Mme. Bergier, (Calvat) soft rose.

Mme. Deis, (Calvat) white.

Mme. Ed. Roger, Inc. (Calvat) pale sea green.

Mme. Ferlat, Jap. (Calvat) plum amaranth.

Mme. G. Bruant, (Calvat) white, tinted purple,

Mme. J. Smeers, (Calvat) white.

Mme. X. Ray Jouvin, Inc. (Calvat) deep pink, slightly hairy.

SOCIETY OV AMERICAN FLORISTS. 133

Mrs. Arthur J. Catou, Jap. Inc. Yellow Queen x Mrs. E. G. Hill ; bright

bronze, shaded red on inside of petal.
Mrs. C. F. Diehm, Jap. (Henderson) blush white, petals irregularly

marked with pink.
Mrs. C. H. Pierce, (Dorner) deep yellow.
Mrs. H. Weeks, Inc. (May) white.

Mrs. W. M. Massie, Jap. (Henderson) white, tinged pink.
N. C. S. Jubilee, Inc. (Calvat) silver Y>\nk, reverse lavender pink.
Oncle Michel, (Calvat) carmine amaranth, silvery reverse.
Pennsylvania, (Graham) bright yellow, sport from Philadeljjhia.
President Nonin, Jap. Inc. (Calvat) chamois yellow, paler reverse.
Princess de Galles, (Calvat) white.
Quito, (Hill) pink, late, raised by Brydon.
Robt. G. Carey, Inc. (Carey) white late.
Rustique, Jap Inc. (Smith) golden brown.

Secretaire Fierens, (Calvat) crimson red, yellow reverse, drooping petals.
Setting Sun, Jap. (Henderson) deejJ yellow, shaded bronze.
Snow Queen, (Dorner) snow white.
Solar Queen, (Hill) j-ellow, earlj*.
Soligl d'Octobre, (Calvat) canary yellow.
Souv. de Mme. F. Rosette, (Calvat).

Souv. deMolines, (Calvat) crimson bronze, tips and reverse gold.
Spotswood, (Carey) light yellow.
T. H. Spaulding, Jap. Inc. (Ward) wine, self color.
The Yellow Fellow, (Rawson) bright yellow.
Thornden, Jap. (Smith) intense yellow.
Topaz Oriental, (Calvat) pale yellow.
W. H. Chadwick, (Rawson) waxy white, tinted pink.
Wasserfall, Ref. (Henderson) early, white.
Werther, (Calvat) purple amaranth.
Y''ellow Mrs. Jerome Jones, Jap. Inc. (Vaughan).

CAXXAS.

Abel Chatenay, (Crozy) orange red, foliage dark purple.

Acme, (French) j^ellow, dwai'f.

Adonis, (Dammann) red, sometimes spotted yellow, foliage bordered with

a reddish band.
Africa, (Dammann) purple scarlet, yellow and orange inside ; leaves

bronzy.
Alliance, (Crozj-) coppery red, chrome reverse.
Albert Millaud, (French) cherry red with yellow throat.
Albino, (Conard & Jones Co.) pink centre.
Alkmene, (Dammann) orange, bordered yellow.
Alemannia, (Dammann) scarlet, outer petals bordered yellow.
America, (Dammann) red purple, flamed and striped, foliage bronze.
Annie Laurie, (Conard & Jones Co. ) silver rose, white throat.

134 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Aphrodite, (Dammaun) yellow, si^ottecl salmon.

Asia, (Dammann) yellow, inner petals dotted scarlet.

Aug. Nonin, (Crozy) vermillion, spotted carmine, yellow border.

Augusta (Conard & Jones Co.) scarlet, widely bordered yellow.

Auguste Chantin, (Crozy) copper colored.

Bayard, (French) chamois shaded yellow.

Bavaria, (Dammann) yellow, with scarlet spots ; leaves bluish.

Baltimore, (Conard & Jones Co.) bright red, yellow throat, leaves edged

purple.
Blazing Torch, (Conard & Jones Co.") crimson scarlet.
Brahma (French), cinnabar red, tall.

Bronze, (Crozy) purple red, foliage purple with bronze reverse.
Borussia, (Dammann) canary yellow, small red spots.
Burgundia, (Dammann) yellow, with scarlet spots, red llamed ; glaucous

leaves.
Buttercu]), (Conard & Jones Co.) buttercup yellow.
Caprice, (Blanc) cream, spotted lilac rose ; lower i^etal cherry red.
Citoyen de Cronstadt, (Crozy) flame, s^jotted rose, copper reverse.
Clivioeflora, (Crozy).

Crown Prince of Italy, (Dammann) maroon scarlet, glaucous foliage.
Cuba, (Blanc) chrome j-ellow, blotched vermillion red.
Daniel Gerard, (Crozj-) carmine, yellow spots.
Damocles, (French) solferino pink, purple foliage.
Depute Jounard (Vilmorin) carmine scarlet.
Derviche, (French) yellow, pointed red.
Defender, (Ward) yellow, spotted and strij^ed scarlet.
Dr. JSTansen, (Conard & Jon^s Co.) yellow.
Dubreuil, (French) dark orange red.
Edouard Andre, (Dammann) red, orange yellow spots; stalks dark red;

leaves dark spotted on back.
Enchantress, (Conard & Jones Co.) clear pink.
Escarbovicle, (French) scarlet.

Feu d'Artitice, (Vilmorin) yellow, mottled orange red.
Fraicheur, (French) rosy flesh, long petals.
Frere Henri, (Cretien) orange, edged yellow.
George Lechaud, (French) nasturtium red, shading to rose.
George Sand, (French) light pink, edge white.
George Washington, (Conard ife Jones Co.) crimson, shaded.
Gloire de JVIontet, (French) nasturtium red.
Goliath, (Dreer) crimson, dwarf.
Gringoire, (French) jjinK, long petals.
H. Seidl. (Dammann) fiery red, with a yellow border spotted with

purple.
Iberia, (Dammann). outer petals yellow with a red border ; inner petals

crimson; glaucous leaves.
Ideale, (French) pale yellow, spotted pink.
Inglewood , (Vaughan) a Canadian novelty, vermillion, foliage plum purple.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 135

J. D. E^isele, (Dreer) vermilliou scarlet, overlaid orange.

Klondike, (Blanc) golden orange.

Kronos, (Danimann) sulphur yellow, spotted red.

Le France, (Danimann) orange scarlet, leaves purple.

Lighthouse, (Blanc) pale yellow, llanied pink and scarlet.

Martha Washington, (Conard & Jones Co.) bright rose.

Mistress F. Dreer, (Crozy) yellow and vermillion.

Mme. Musset, (Crozy) carmine, yellow border.

Mme. Fr. Paul, (Crozy) yellow, spotted carmine.

Model, (Crozy) orange, red and yellow, dwarf.

Moonlight, (Blanc) sulphur changing to white.

Mount Etna, (Conard & Jones Co.) crimson, dark leaved,

Oceanus, (Dammann) flame colored with broad yellow bordei', spotted.

Panache d'Or, (French) (!anary, faintly marked orange, tall.

Papillion, (French) carmine red.

Paul de Mortillet, (French) orange, lighter toward centre.

Pandora, (Dammann) dark red bordered and the inside gold flamed ; pur-
ple leaves, dark green stripes.

Pearl of Bedders, (French) orange red, marbled darker.

Perseus, (Dainmann) canary yellow, with scarlet pencillings ; leaves
glaucous.

Pluto, (Dammann) scarlet purple, flamed red inside ; foliage purple red.

Profusion, (Blanc) scarlet faintly edged gold.

President Cleveland, orange scarlet; raised by Pfister.

President McKinley (Ward) scarlet ; with crimson shading.

President Yiger, (Crozy) fiery red, darker shaded.

Pygm;^a or Yellow Flamingo, (Dingee & Conard Co.) yellow, lower
petals faintly dotted carmine.

Rosin e, (French) rosy flesh.

Rosy-Morn, (Conard & Jones Co.) buff salmon, boi-dered and mottled
canary yellow and deep rose.

Rosemawr, (Conard & Jones Co.) rosy pink, mottled, yellow at throat.

Robt. Christie, orange scarlet.

Sam Trelease, (Dreer) scarlet, edges and centre marked yellow.

Sang Gaulois, (French) very dark red.

Souv. de Robert Owen (Crozy) apricot.

Souv. de Mme. Leonie Viennot, (Crozy) rose and carmine.

Sunray, (Dreer) yellow, striped scarlet.

Suevia, (Dammann) canary yellow, bronzed inside. -

Tarrytown, (Pierson) cherry red.

Tendresse, (French) -palj rosy flesh.

The Burlington, (Vaughan) orange scarlet, bronze lustre.

Topaz, (Blanc) yellow.

Vertumne, (P'rench) rosy red.

Virginie, (French) delicate rosy flesh.

Victoria, (Blanc) upper segments lemon, feathered in centre with rose
spots on pink ground ; lower petal yellow with amaranth blotch.

136 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Vice-President Savoj'e, (Crozj^) copper and yellow, reflex carmine.
Virginia, (Conard & Jones Co.) rose pink.

Wilhelm Beck, (I)ammann) sulphur yellow, scarlet pencillings
Zephyr, (Conard & Jones Co.) light rose, passing to deep rose, dwarf.
Zebra, (lilanc) yellow, blended and striped orange, scarlet and lilac.

DAHLIAS.

Ada, Sing. (Peacock) pink and amber, pencilled crimson.

Cycloj)s, Cac. (Peacock) scarlet maroon, light tips.

Edina, Sing. (Peacock) white, spotted and veined crimson.

Folia variegata (Peacock) foliage margined and tipped creamy white,

edged red.
Gilt edge. Show (Blanc) ivor3^white, edged with deep yellow.
Irane, Sing. (Peacock) white, suffused pink, striped crimson, scarlet

disc.
La Favorite, Cac. (Peacock) snow white.
Little Dorothy, Sing. (Peacock) Avhite or straw, suffused pink, pencilled

crimson.
Lilapina, Cac. (Blanc) lilac.
Luxury, Sing. (Peacock) scarlet shading to maroon at tips, striped yellow

straw.
Novelty, Sing. (Peacock) pink, mottled crimson ; fragrant.
Purite, Show, (Peacock) white.

Vernie," Sing. (Peacock) white, shaded pink, spotted and striped crimson.
Wilhelm Miller, Dec. Cac. (Peacock) purple.
Xanthia, Dec. Cac. (Peacock) crimson, petals tipped or banded jjurple.

GERANIUMS.

Atlantis, rose marbled white, single.

Col. Barre, (Hill) rosy pink, upper petals darker, marked scarlet at base,
semi-double.

Commandant Yzarn}', fiery red, carmine at base of petals, single.

De Quirielle, cochineal red, reverse silver, double.

Dr. Verneuil, orange scarlet, double.

Dr. Marmoteck, violet and carmine, marbled and tipped Avhite, single.

General Wolseley, rosy red, single.

Gustav Droz, magenta, semi-double.

Jacquerie, crimson scarlet, single.

Lavienne, white, scarlet edge, veined rose, single.

Le Cygne, snow white, dark foliage, double.

Louis Mayet, red, double.

M. J. Girardeau, rosy mauve, ujij^er petals blotched white, dotted car-
mine, double.

M. Ott, magenta, up^jer petals blotched crimson, double.

Madame Bruant, (Henderson) white, veined carmine lake, bordered sol-
ferino.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 137

Marquise de la Costa, orange, shading into soft rose and white ; double.
Mile. Victorienne David, white, with salmon centre and white eye,

double.
Mme. Alcide Bruneau, milk white, striped rose and lilac, double.
Mme. Coralie Bajac, violet, bordered carmine, centre white, single.
Mme. Laugguth, (Vaughan) silver leaved ; tlowers double red, large.
Mme. Rozain, white, double.

Mme. Torterne, orange, upper petals blotched white, single.
Negus Menelik, white, deep pink border, single.
Phj'llis, pale salmon rose, single.

Profusion, (Henderson) seedling from Beaute Poitevine.
Satin, pearly pink, double.
Tippecanoe, (Hill) salmon scarlet, single.
Trilby, cerise and scarlet, overlaid darker red; single.
Vincennes, (Hill) pink, shading to salmon, single.

SWEET PEAS.

Bertie Hamilton, (Walker) hooded, white, waved dark oxblood.

Black Knight, fEckford) improved Stanley.

California, ( Vaughan) Daybreak pink, self color.

Celestial, (Lorenz ) light dove.

Chancellor, (Eckford) salmon, suffused orange.

Colonist, (Ecldord) dull rose.

Dawn, (Walker) light gray.

Dolly Varden, (Burpee) standard purple magenta, wings white, edged
purple magenta.

Duchess of Sutherland, (Eckford) light pink.

Duke of Sutherland, (Eckford) royal purple.

Earliest of All, (Burjoee) like Blanch Ferry, but two weeks earlier.

Emil}' Lynch, (Vaughan) wings buff cream, standard rosj-, tinted prim-
rose ; very earl}^

Golden Gleam (Sunset S. & P.) similar to Mrs. Eckford.

Ladj' Mary Currie, (Eckford) orange.

Light Gaiety, (Walker).

Lottie Hutehins, (Burpee) cream ground, flaked pink.

Minnehaha, (Henderson) white, waved j^ale pink.

Modesty, (Burpee) delicate pink.

Mrs. S. T. Walker, (Walker) pale pink.

Nita, (Walker) violet.

Oriental, (Burpee) orange salmon.

Pink Cupid, (Buri^ee) pink and white, dwarf.

Prince of Wales, (Eckford) dark rose.

Sensation, (Burpee) standard cream, wings white.
Striped Tennant, (Walker).

Stella Morse, (Burpee) deep cream.

The Bride, (Vaughan) pure white, selection from Mrs. Eckford.

Wawona, (Burpee) heliotrope, striped Avhite.

138 PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

PETUNIAS.

Amethyst, (Henderson) double, white and violet.

Garnet, (Hendei'son) double, garnet.

Ruby, (Henderson) double, white and ruby red.

Sea Foam. (Henderson) double, white.

Sunrise, (Henderson) double, white suffused rosy pink, blotched carmine

White Mrs. Sander, (Sander) double white.

MISCELLANEOUS.

Abutilon Pygmy, (I)ingee & Conard Co.) dwarf, orange.

Acalypha Sanderi (Sander) long pendulous tassels of crimson flower.

Acalypha Godseffiana (Sander) foliage white bordered.

Ageratum Princess Pauline (Dreer) white, stamens sky blue, dwarf.

Areca Ilsemanii, (Sander) red stems.

Aster Daybreak, (Vick) sea shell pink.

Balsam White Defiance, (Burpee) double white, petals reflexed.

Begonia Frilled Tuberous-rooted, (German}^) single petals, wavy and
frilled on edges.

Begonia Duke Zeppelin, (Dreer) scarlet, tuberous rooted, dwaii, double.

Browallia Giant, (Henderson) indigo blue.

Calla Fragrance, (Burbauk) a fragrant flowered seedling from Little
Gem.

Calla Pentlandii, True, (Manda) yellow.

Calla Elliottiana, (Manda) yellow, foliage mottled white.

Cosmos Klondyke (Smith) yellow.

Cuphea Llava? New Giant, (Henderson).

Dracaena Godseffiana (Sander) dark green densely marked with irregu-
lar spots of creamy white.

Geonoma Pjaiaertiana, (Sander) spreading gigantic foliage.

Helenium Prandice2)halum striatum, (Dreer) striped and l)lotched crim-
son, hardy ijerennial.

Kentia Warteliana (Sander) long slender growing species.

Kentia Sanderiana, (Sander) dwarf, bushy.

Kentia Kirsteniana, (Sander) dense growing.

Leea lloehrsiana (Sander) greenhouse climber, long foliage.

Linospadix Petrickiana (Sander) dwarf, low spreading foliage.

Linospadix Micholitzii, (Sander) in way of Geonoma aeaule.

Pansy Pres. McKinley, (Burpee) yellow, petals blotched dark violet.

Phlox paniculata Tom Thumb (Manda) hardy, white, very dwarf.

Phlox Comtesse de Sarnac, (Dreer) foliage irregularly bordered with
creamy white ; rosj' white flowers.

Scilla campanulata Rose Queen, (Krelage).

Tall Nasturtium Sunlight, (Burpee) golden yellow.

Tall Nasturtium Moonlight (Burpee) pale straw.

LIST OF MEMBERS, J 898-9.

Those marked with an * are life members.

CALIFORNIA.

Sidney Clack, Menlo Park, Vice-President.

Clack, Sidney, Menlo Park.
Johnson, Frank, Meulo Park,
Box 49.

Lee, Thos., Del Monte Garden,
Monterey.

COLORADO.

Clark, William, 818 E. Platte ave.,
Colorado Springs.

Wise, L. IL, 323-i Elizabeth st.
Denver.

CONNECTICUT.

Mrs. H. E. Charter, Meriden, Vice- President.

Bindloss, T. Palmer, New London.
Brainard, Chas., Thompsonville.
Brainard, D. Wm., Pease St.,

Thompsonville.
Champion, J. N., New Haven.
Charter, Mrs. H. E., Meriden.
Coombs, John, 118 Benton St.,

Hartford.
Ernst, Otto J., Est. G. Gednldig,

Norwich.

Horan, Stephen D., Bridgeport.

Reck, John, Bridgeport.

Rowden, Geo. H., Wallingfoi'd.

Smith, Jos. F., 62 Main St., Nor-
wich.

Spalding, John, New London.

Taylor, Edw. J., Southport.

Whiting, A., Farmington ave.
Hartford.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.

W. H. IviNii, Langdon, Vice-President.

Durfee, Benj., Washington.
Ernest, Wm. H., 28th and M. sts.,

N. E., Washington.
Gangeg, Philip, Botanic Garden,

Washington.

* Gnde, Adolphus, 1224 F st., Wash-

ington.

* Glide, Wm. F., 1224 F. St., Wash-

ington.

Hitz, John, 917 R st., N. W.,

Washington.
King, W. H., Langdon.
Kramer, F. H.> Washington.
* Schellhorn, C, Washington.
Small, J. Henry, 14th and G. sts.,

Washington.
Smith, W. R., Botanic Garden,

Washington.

FLORIDA,

Shepard, W. 0. H., Pensacola.

140

PROCEEDIKGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

GEORGIA.

Guien, A., 1483 Broad St., Augusta.
Tait, C. S., Brunswick.

Thaclen, Herman, Atlanta.

ILLINOIS.

J. V. Merriox, Chicago, Vice-President.

Barker, Michael, 324 Dearborn St.,

Chicago.
Baur, S. A., Rockford.
Buckbee, H. W., Kockford.
Buettner, Emil, Parlv Ridge.
Deamud, J. B., 51 Wabash ave.,

Chicago.
Genteraann, C. F. W., Quincy.
Grant, G. L., 334 Dearborn st ,

Chicago.
Hartshorne, Jas., Jolict.
Hausworth, P. J., 318 Wabash ave.,

Chicago.
Heller, J. A., 1117 North 8th St.,

Quincy.
Kanst, Fred, South Park, Chicago.
King, F. J., Ottawa.
Kraft, Julius, 317 No. Court St.,

Rockford.
Merrion, J. V., Cliicago.

Phelps, H. L., Springfield.

Ringier, Arnold, 10 No. Clark St.,
Chicago.

Rudd, W. N., Mt. Greenwood. .

Rupp, N. J., 297-307 Hawthorne
ave., Chicago.

Sanders, Edgar. 1639 Belmont ave.,
Chicago.

Smyth, W. J., 270 31st St., Chi-
cago.

StoUery, Geo., Argyle Park, Chi-
cago.

Vaughan, A. L., 47 Wabash ave.,
Chicago.

Vaughan, J. C, 84-86 Randolph St.,
Chicago.

Weinhoeber, E., 417 Elm St., Chi-
cago.

Yeates, J. E., 3d st. and Champaign
ave., Springfield.

INDIANA.

W. J. Vesey, Fort Wayne, Vice-President.

Bertermann, John, Indianapolis.
Bertermann, William G., Indian-
apolis.
Bullock, Mrs. E. M. Elkhart.
Carmody, J. D., Evansville.
Coles, W. W., Kokomo.

Doruer, Fred., Lafayette.
Evans, J. A., Richmond.
Hill, E. Gurney, Richmond.
Vesey, W. J., Fort Wayne.
Wiegand, A., 7th and Illinois Sts.,
Indianapolis.

IOWA.

J. C. Rennisox,

Anderson, C. G., 900 Chestnut st,

Atlantic.
Fulmer, J. T. D., 910 Des Moines

St., Des Moines.
Greene, W., Box 58, Davenport.
Hall, W. S., Osage. '
Harkett, W. A., Dubuque.
Kemble, W. E., Oskaloosa.
Kramer, Judson A., Cedar Rapids.

Vice-President.

Laisle, Christ, Keokuk.
Larson, P. L., Fort Dodge.
Marshall, J F., Des Moines.
Perry, W. B., Cresco.
Renuison, J. C, Sioux City.
Symonds, W. T., Decorah.
Temple, J. T., Davenport.
Wilcox, J. F., Council Bliifls.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

141

Coventry, M. J., Fort Scott.
Meyers, Hiram, Willingtou.
Mueller, Clias. F., Wichita.

KANSAS.

Moore, W. H,. Manhattan.
Whitcomb, A., Lawrence.

KENTUCKY.

A. Galt Robinson, Louisville, Vice-President.

Baumer, Aug. R., Louisville.
Robinson, Alex. Gait, Louisville.

Schultz, Jacob, 606 Fourth ave.,
Louisville.

MAINE.
H. W. Dyeh, South Portland, Vice-President.

Dirwanger, Albert, Portland.
Dirwanger, Joseph A., 719 Congress
St., Portland.

Dyer, H. W., South Portland.
Sprague, E. B., Bowdoinhani.

MARYLAND.

R. Vincent, Jr., White Marsh P. 0., Vice-President.

Bester, William, 205 So. Potomac
St., Hagerstown.

Cook, John, 318 North Charles St.,
Baltimore.

Hahn, Gottlob, Embla Park, Balti-
more.

Halliday. Robt., HE. Baltimore st.,
Baltimore.

Millman, F. X., Green st. station,

Cumberland.
Seidewitz, E. A., 36 W. Lexington

St., Baltimore.
Vincent, R., Jr., White Marsh,

P. 0., Baltimore Co.

MASSACHUSETTS.

Lawrence Cotter, Dorchester, and P. J. Donohue, Lenox,

Vice-Presidents.

Anderson, George M., Wayside

Farm, Milton.
Anderson, James, Swampscott.
Beals, E. B., Greentield.
Becker, Frank, 1730 Cambridge st.,

Cambridge.
Blomberg, Carl, No. Easton.
Bock, W. A., North Cambridge.
Brague, L. B., Hinsdale.
Breed, E. W., Clinton.
Butterworth, J. T., So. I"raming-

ham.
Cameron, Robt., Botanic Garden,

Cambridge.
Chase, Chas. S., Elm St., Digliton.

Clapp, E. B., 169 Boston street,

South Boston.
Clark, John, Jos. Breck & Sons

Corp., Boston.
Comley, James, Lexington.
Cook, H. A., Shrewsbury.
Cotter, Lawrence, Dorchester.
Crawford, H. F., 975 N. Main st.,

Brockton.
Donald, Wm., Corey St., W. Rox-

bury.
Donoghue, P. J., Lenox.
Edgar, William W., W^averlv.
Elliott, W. H., Brighton.
Ewell, Warren, 38 Waylaud st.,

Roxbury.

142

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

MASSACHUSETTS — Continued.

Farquhar, Robt., 16 So. Market
St., Boston.

Fewkes, A. H., Newton High-
lands.

Fletcher, Fred W., Auburndale.

Foster, L. H., 45 King St., Dor-
chester.

Fuller, J., Leominster.

Galvin, John, 124 Tremout St.,
Boston.

Goodell, L. W.. D wight.

Gordon, Geo., Beverly.

Grey, Thos. J., 32 So. Market St.,
Boston

Guinevau, D. H., Beverly.

Harbison, Geo., Brighton.

Harris, F. L., Wellesley.

Hatch, Ed., 22 Devonshire St., Bos-
ton.

Hayden, E., Marblehead.

Haynes, J. C, Boston.

Hews, A. H., North Cambridge.

Holbrow, C. E., Brighton.

Hopkins, Frank E., Salem.

Howard, J. W., Somerville.

Huss, J. F., Ventford Hall, Lenox.

Hutson, A. R., Brighton.

Ingram, Chas., Reading.

Ireland, R. D., 24G Boylston st.,
Boston.

Junkius, Geo. S., Lawrence.

King, Geo. T., 145 Arlington St.,
''Hyde Park.

Knapp, W. H., Newton ville.

Lange, Albert H., Worcester.

Lange, Carl C, Worcester.

Lange, H. F. A., Worcester.

Leveque, Thos. A., 672 E. Globe St.,
Fall River.

Loveless, Alfred J., Lenox.

Mann, Mary S., Florence.

Manning, J. Woodward, 1150 Tre-
mont Building, Boston.

Manning, W. H.,~125 Tremont St.,
Boston.

Marshall, Chas. L., Lowell.

Martin, Wm. J., Milton.

* Mathison, Fred R., Waltham.

McCarthy, N. F., 84 Hawley St.,
Boston.

McMulkin. Edw. J., 124 Tremont
St., Boston.

Meyer, J. C, 87 Sumner St.,
Boston.

Miller, James L., 882 Western ave.,
Lynn.

Miller, Wm., 882 Western ave.,

Lynn.
MoUoy, William F., Wellesley.
Montgomery, Alexander, Natick.
* Montgomery, Alexander W., Jr.,

Natick.
Moseley, F. C, Neponset.
Murdock, H. L., West Gardner.
Newman, J. R., Winchester.
Nichol, J as., 29 Coddiugton st.,

Quincy.
Nicholson, William, Framingham.
Norton, M. H., Hotel Berkeley,

Boston.
O'Brien, Chas. J., 63 Union St.,

Jamaica Plain.
Ormsby, E. A., Melrose.
Palmer, Ernest B., No. Easton.
Pasell, F. H., New Bedford.
Patten, Geo. W., Lowell.
Patten, M. A., Tewksbury.
Pettigrew, J. A., Franklin Park,

Boston.
Pierce, William, 232 Union st.,

New Bedford.
Playdon, J. H., 35 Lowell st.,

Andover.
Rea, Charles H., Norwood.
Rea, Frederick J., Norwood.
Riebe, F. C, Webster.
Rose, Edwin F., Bay St., Taunton.
Shaw, Chas. F., No. Abington.
Slinn, Jas , Fall River.
Staftbrd, Wm., Fall River.
Stearns, Geo. H., Greenfield.
Stewart, William J., 67 Bromfield

St., Boston.
Sutherland, Geo. A., 67 Bromfield

St., Boston.
Tailby, W. W., Wellesley.
Thompson, Geo. N., Lenox.
Tucker, Harry A., Ware.
Walsh, M. H.,' Woods IIoll.
Warburton, C, 81 New Boston

Road, Fall River.
Ward, W. S., Salem.
Welch, D., 15 Province St.,

Boston
Welch, p]. J., 15 Province st.,

Boston.
Welch, P., 15 Province st,, Boston.
White, John, Pittsfleld.
Whitney, Charles A , Upton.
Wingate, Chas. E., 8 Fulton St.,

Lawrence.
Winkler, Edw., Wakefield.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

143

MASSACHUSETTS — Continued.

Wonson, John F., 88 Mt. Pleasant

ave., E. Gloucester.
Wood, E. A., West Newton.
* Wood, E. M., Natick.

Wood, Harvey C, West Newton.
Woodford, J. H., Horticultural

Hall, Boston.
Zirngiebel, D., Needliam.

MICHIGAN.

Thomas Gunsox, Agricultural College, Vice-President.

Balsley, Harry, Detroit.
Breitmeyer, Philip, Detroit.
Brogan, Thos., 26 South University

ave., Ann Arbor.
Gunson, Thos., Agricultural College,

P. 0
Kackham, Geo. A., 880 Vandyke

ave., Detroit.

Smith, Elmer D., Adrian.
Sullivan, J. F., 220 Woodward ave.,

Detroit.
Taplin, Stephen, 930 Fort St.,

Detroit.
Van Bochove, J.E., Kalamazoo.

MINNESOTA.

S. D. Dysinger, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Vice-President.

Monson, John, 3501 Portland ave.,

Minneapolis.
Nag el, E., Minneapolis.
Nussbaumer, Fred, St. Paul.
Sw^anson, A. S., 117 Endicott

arcade, St. Paul.
Windrailler, Fred, Mankato.
Wunder, John, Winona.

Busch, Fred, 9.50 Lyndale ave.. So.

Minneapolis.
Dysinger, S. D., care L. L. May &

Co., St. Paul.
Hansen, Christian, Dale St., St.

Paul.
May, L. L., St. Paul.

MISSOURI.

C. A. KuEiiN, St. Louis, Vice-President.

Armstrong, Luther, Kirkwood.
Brown, R. S., Box 99, Kansas City.
Cotmon, Chas., St. Louis.
Dalley, Miss M., St. Louis.
Fillmore, F. J., Nebraska ave..

South St. Louis.
Jordan, J. M., 706 Olive St., St.

Loiiis.
Juengel, Chas. A., 1841 South 14th

St., St. Louis.
Kuehn, C. A., 1122 Pine st., St.

Louis.
Kellogg, Geo. M., Pleasant Hill.
Koenig, Julius, 6471 Florisant av.,

St. Louis.
Michel, E. H., Magnolia and Tower

Grove ave., St. Louis.
Murray, Miss Jennie, Kansas City.
Reichard, D. M., St. Joseph.

Rock, W. L., Kansas City.
Sanders, C. C, 5600 Delmar ave.,

St. Louis.
Schray, Emil, 4101 Penn ave., St.

Louis.
Schray, Wm., 4101 Penn. ave., St.

Louis.
Tesson, R. F., West Forest Park,

St. Louis. '
Trelease, Prof. Wm., Missouri

Botanic Garden, St. Louis.
Waldbart, Alexander, 3538 Chest-
nut St., St. Louis.
Weber, F. C, 4326 Olive St., St.

Louis.
Windier, G. B., 4059 Delore ave.,

St. Louis.
Wors, C. W., 313 No. Leffingwell

ave., St. Louis.

144

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

NEBRASKA.

W. J. Hesser, Plattsmouth. Vice-President.

Berlinghop, F., Omaha.

Chapin, L. C, Lincoln.

Davy, li. C, Omaha.

Donaghue, A., 5425 No. 24th St.,

Omaha.
Douaghue, A. Jr., 109 So. 16th St.,

Omaha.
Hadkiuson, J. H., Omaha.
Henderson, Lewis, 16th and Far-

uum sts., Omaha.

Hess, J. J., 140 Farnum st.,

Omaha.
Hesser, W. J. , Plattsmouth.
Peterson, Henry, Florence.
Stewart, S. B., 119 No. 16th st.,

Omaha.
Swoboda, Geo. H., 5807 No. 24th

St., Omaha.
Taylor, F. W., Paxton Bldg.,

Omaha.

NEW HAMPSHIRE.
F. W. Raxe, Durham, Vice-President.

Chase, Benj., Jr., Derry.
Ellis, Marcus, Keene.
Gaedeke, Aug., Nashua.
Hoitt, C. W.,"~Nashua.
Paul, J. R., Nashua.

Paterson, Robt., care Hon. Frank

Jones, Portsmouth.
Rane, F. W., Agricultural College,

Durham.

NEW JERSEY.

L. B. CoDDixGTON, Murray Hill, and A. Herhington, Madison,
Vice-Presidents.

Asnius, Ernst G., West Hoboken.
Asmus, Rudolph, New Durham.
Atkins, F. L., Orange.
Bobbink, L. C, Rutherford.
Boehler, Oscar, W. Hoboken.
Buttei'back, N., Oceanic.
Coddington, L. B., Murray Hill.
Du Rie, W. B., Rahwaj;.
Edwards, Theo. E., Bridgeton.
Eisele, J. D., Rivertou.
Esler, Andrew, Saddle River.
* Esler, John G., Saddle River.
Fleraer, \Vm., Springfield.
Herrington, A., Madison.
Howatt, D. E., 148-156 Randolph

ave., Jersey City.
Hulsebosch, A., Englewood.
Jones, Hiram T., Elizabeth.
Lager, John E., Summit.
Leuly, E., West Hoboken.

Lovett, J. T., Little Silver.

Macrorie, D., So. Orange.

McMahon, Frank, Seabright.

Manda, Joseph A., Jr., South
Orange.

Manda, W. A., South Orange.

May, J. N., Summit.

Mott, Walter, Riverton.

Nash, S. C, Clifton, Passaic Co.

Noe, L. M., Madison.

O'Mara, P., Grand st., Jersey City.

Ouwerkerk, P., 206 Cambridge ave.,
Jersej' City.

Patch, Thos., Short Hills.

Roehrs, Julius, Carleton Hill.

Steinhotl", Herman C, West Hobo-
ken.

Strohlein, George A., Riverton.

Turnley, C. William, Haddonfleld

NEW YORK.

Alex. Wallace, New York City, and W. F. Kasting, Buffalo,

Vice-Presidents.

Allen, C. H., Floral Park.
Allen, R. W., Hudson.

Armitage, Chas., 233 Mercer St.,
New York.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

145

NEW YORK — Continued.

Ashmead, C. W., care of H. M.

Johusou, Bay^hore, L. I.
Barrv, William C., Rochester.
Bodciingtoii, A. T., 503 W. l;3th St.,

New York.
Bunyard, H. A., 53 W. 28 St., New

York.
Burns, Alexander S , Woodside.
Burr, M. L., Sawens.
Bussard, Henri, 24:8 New Union St.,

Yonkers.
Clearv, J. P., 60 Vesey St., New

York.
Cooke, Thos. N., White Plains.
Cottam, Geo. T. N., 44 Pine st.,

■ New York.
Dailledonze, Eugene, Flatbush.
Dailledouze, Henry, Flatbush.
Dailledouze, Paul, Flatbush.
* Dean, James, Babylon.
De La Mare, A. T., Rhinelander

Building, New York.
Devoy, Peter T., Poughkeepsie.
Dingwall, John, Troy Road, Al-
bany.
Donaldson, John, Newtown, Long

Island.
Eger, William C, 825 Union St.,

Schenectady.
Elliott, W. J., 54 Dev St., New

York.
Florey, James, Medina.
Fotheringham, John R., Tarry-
town.
Gibbons, H. W., 136 Liberty St.,

New York.
Gindra, David, Poughkeepsie.
Hammond, Benjamin, Fishkill.
Harmon, H. W., Sawens.
Hatcher, John C, Amsterdam.
Henderson, Alfred, 35-37 Cortlandt

St., New York.
Henderson, Charles, 35-37 Cort-
landt St., New York.
Henshaw, Sam'l, Botanical Gardens,

Bronx Park, New York.
Hewson, C. J., 1673 Abbott Road,

Buffalo.
Herrmann, A., 404-412 E. 34th St.,

New York.
Jansen, Ed., 124 West 19tli St., New

York.
Johnson, Mrs. Fred IL, 45 Whitney

ave., Olean.
Joosten, C. H., 193 Greenwich st.,

New York.

Kadletz, J., Dongan Hills.
Kasting, W. F., 495 Washington St.,

Butialo.
KatoU, Fred, 121 Lin wood Ave.,

Buffiilo
Keller, J. M., 65th and 5th Ave.,

Brooklyn.
Knickman, C. B., New York.
Knight, C. W., Glen Cove.
Koffman, E., Walden, Orange Co.
Krause, H. M., Glen Island.
Kretschmar, H. G., Box 99, West

Nyack.
Krick, W. C, 1287 Broadway,

Brooklyn.
Kromback, Charles, 181 25th St.,

Brooklyn.
Langjahr, A. H., 19 Boerum pi.,

Brooklyn.
Loder, Cornelius S., 271 Broadway,

New York.
Logan, Jas. M., White Plains.
Long, D. B., Buffalo.
Lynch, M. J., Poughkeepsie.
Mackay, Andrew, Cedarhurst, L. I.
Manker, Frank, Winsor Terrace,

Brooklyn.
Mellis, D. Y., Flatbush.
Miller, A. L., Sta. E., Brooklyn.
Nelson, A., care F. R. Pearson Co.,

Tarry town.
Neubrand, E. W., Tarry town.
Nilsson, Wm., Woodlawn, New

York.
O'Hora, Wm., Huntington Harbor.
Palmer, W. J., 304 Main St., Buff-
alo.
Palmer, W. J., Jr., 304 Main St.,

Buffalo.
Parker, T., 32 So. 6th street, Brook-
lyn.
Penman, J. Arnot, 7 Warren st..

New York.
Pierson, F. R., Tarrytowu.
Pierson, Paul M., Scarborough.
Plumb, Wm., throgg's Neck.
Powell, I. L., Millhrook.
Rath, H. C, Flushing.
Rawson, G. P., Elmira.
Reid, Robt., 126 Cambridge PL,

Brooklyn.
Reynolds, Herbert J., 136 W. Pul-

tenev St., Corning.
Roehrs, 'Theo., 494 'E. 176th St.,

New York.

146

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

NEW YORK — Continued.

Rolker, Jos. E., 52 Dey St., New

York.
Rolker, Winfried, 52 Dey St., New

York.
Schmntz, Louis, Clarkson street,

Brooklyn.
Scott, John, Keap St., Brooklyn.
Scott, W. 479 Main St., Buttalo.
Sexton, S. B., Hycle Park.
Shanley, James, 216 25th street,

Brooklyn.
Shaw, J. Austin, 409 5th ave., New

York.
Sheridan, W. F., 39 W. 28th St., New

York.
Siebrecht, H. A., New Rochelle.
* Siebrecht, W. H., Astoria.
Smith, John, Woodhaven.
Snyder, Anthony J., 215 2oth St.,

Brooklyn.
Steflfens, Emil, 335 East 21st St.,

New York.
Sutton, E. B., Jr., Babylon.
Taylor, J. H., Bayside.

* Thorne, Samuel, 43 Cedar St., New

York.
Thrall, A L., Janiestown.
Turner, Wm., Tarrytown.
Wallace, Alexander, Rhinelander

Building, New York.
Ward, C. W., Queens.
Weathered, C. B., 46 Marion St.,

New York.
Weeber, C. G., 114 Chambers St.,

New York.
Weir, Fred, Bay Ridge, L. I.
Weir, John R., 324 Fulton St.,

Brooklyn.
Wincott, Wni., Effingham Park,

Babylon.
Withers', J. W., 13G Liberty St.,

New York.
Wollmers, A., 215 and 217 25th st ,

Brooklyn.
Wood, L. E., Fishkill.
Zeller, Alfred, Lefterts ave.,

Brooklyn.
Zeller, Charles, Lefterts aye.,

Brooklyn.

NORTH CAROLINA.

Bottomley, Robert, Biltmore.
Deake, J. W. C, Asheville.

Deake, Mrs. J. B., 324 Charlotte
St., Asheyille.

OHIO.

E. H. CusHMAN, Euclid, and H. H. Ritter, Dayton, Vice-Presidents.

Beck, Chas., National Military
Home, Montgomery Co.

Cushman, E. H., Euclid.

Eadie, Jas., 97 Euclid ave., Cleve-
land.

Erhardt, Charles, 358 Erie ave.,
Cleveland.

Gasser, J. M., 101 Euclid ave.,
Cleveland.

George, E. B., Paine^ville.

George, Robert, Painesville.

Giesy, E. H., Lockland.

Gillett, E. G , Cincinnati.

* Graham, Adam, 2849 Euclid ave.,

Cleveland.
Hagenburger, C, Mentor.
Hail, W. E., Clyde.
Hart, H. A., 1262-1272 Detroit St.,

Cleveland.
Heinl, George A., 337 Summit St.,

Toledo.
Hippard, E., Youngstown.
Hoyt, A. T., Warren.
Imiay, John D., Zanesville.
Joseph, Miss Rosa, Pataskala.
McCuUough, Albert, 134 Walnut

St., Cincinnati.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

147

OHIO — Continued.

McCullongli, J. Chas., 2d and Wal-
nut sts., Cincinnati.

Miller, Geo. L., 12 E. Park PL,
Newarli.

Pentecost, S. N., 707 Republic St.,
Cleveland.

Ritter, F. W., Sr., 435 W. North
are., Dayton.

Ritter, Herman H., 435 W. North

ave., Dayton.
Sandiford, Robt., Mansfield.
Schmitt. A., Glenville.
Suder, Mrs. E., 304 Summit St.,

Toledo.
"Witterstaetter, Richard. Sedams-

ville.

PENNSYLVANIA.

Jos. Heacock, Wyucote, and Gustave Ludwig, Allegheny,
Vice-Fresidents.

Anderson, George, 5230 Woodland

av., Philadelphia.
Baker, Phebe A., Media.
Baker, W. J., 1430 So. Penn sq.,

Philadelphia.

* Ball, Charles D., Holmesburg.
Ball, Lemuel, W'issiuoming, Phila-
delphia.

* Beatty, H. B., Oil City.
Beckert, Theodore F., Glenfield.
Blind, H. L., West View.
Bruntou, F., 153 N. 10th st.

Philadelphia.

Burki, Fred., Bellevue P. 0., Alle-
gheny.

Burpee, W. Atlee, 5th and Willow
sts., Philadelphia.

Burton, John, Chestnut Hill,
Philadelphia.

Butz, Geo. C,
Centre Co.

Campbell, Edw.

Cartledge, A. B.
Philadelphia.

Connell, Benj., West Grove.

Craig, Robert, 49th and Market sts.,
Philadelphia.

Dillon, J.L., Bloomsburg.

Downs, Alex., Wissahickon Hts.,
Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia.

Dreer, William F., 714 Chestnut st.,
Philadelphia.

Eicholz, Henry, Waynesboro.

Eisele, C., 11th and Jeflerson sts.,
Philadelphia.

Eisele, John G., 20tli and Ontario
sts., Philadelphia.

Falconer, Wm., Supt. of Parks,
Pittsburg.

Fancourt, George E., Wilkesbarre.

Habermehl, John P., 22d and Dia-
mond sts., Philadelphia.

State College,

Ardmore.

1514 Chestnut st.,

Hageman, Wm., ISth and Dauphin
sts., Philadelphia.

Hahman, F., Harrowgate Lane,
Frankford, Philadelphia.

Hamburger, Simon, 811 Fair-
mount ave.

Harper, Wm. Warner, Chestnut
Hill, Philadelphia.

* Harris, W. K., 55th st. and Spring-

field av., Philadelphia.

* Harris, W. K. Jr., 55th st. and

Springfield Ave., Philadelphia.
Heacock, Joseph, Wyncote.
Heukel, Fred, West View.
Herr, Albert M., P. 0. Box 338,

Lancaster.
Joyce, Morris A., Pottsville.
Kahlert, C. W., 1514 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia.
Kift, Robert, 1725 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia.
Kleinhans, Howard P., Easton.
Krueger, Augustus, Meadville.
Langhans, T. P., 190 North av.,

Allegheny.
Lauch, Wm. F., Carrick P. 0.,

Allegheny.
Leow, Wm., 84 East St., Allegheny.
Loban, John, Harrisburg.
Lonsdale, Edwin, Chestnut Hill,

Philadelphia.
Ludwig, Gustave, 208 Allegheny

Market, Allegheny.
Ludwig, J. W., Allegheny.
Maule, Wm. H., 1711 Filbert St.,

Philadelphia.
Mayer, Jacob M., Lancaster.
McLean, Geo., 4217 Haverfordave.,

Philadelphia.
Michell, H. F., 1018 Market St.,

Philadelphia.
Moon, S. C, Morrisville.

148

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

PENNSYLVANIA — Continued.

Moon, W. H., Morrisville.

Murdock, A.M., 510 Smithfield St.,
Pittsburg.

O'Brien, M. L, Sharon.

Paget, Jolin, Locliiel Park, Harris-
burg.

Randolph, P. S., Pittsburg.

Reineman, E. C., 305 Lowry St.,
Allegheny.

Rice, M.^, 25 N. 4th st., Philadelphia.

Rockwell, W. C, Bradford.

Rohrer, A. D., Lancaster.

Rohrer, H. D., Lancaster.

Rosengren, J. A., Monongahela
City.

Rust, David, Hort. Hall, Philadel-
phia.

Rutty, J., 517 Banango St., Phila-
delphia.

Schwartz, J., Brighton Road, Alle-
gheny City.

Schroyer, Geo. W., Lancaster.

Scott, A. B., 19th and Catharine
sts., Philadelphia.

Shellem, John A., 17th and Tasker
sts., Philadelphia.

Shelmire, W. R., Avoudale.

Sibson, J. F., Germantowu.

Siebert, Chas. T., Stanton av.,
Station B., Pittsburg.

Smith, A. W., Boggs ave., Pitts-
burg.

Strong, b. H., Oil City.

Taplin, W. H., Holmesburg.

Walker, John, 49th and Market
sts., Pliiladelphia.

Westcott, John, Ridge and Lehigh
aves., Philadelphia.

Westcott, William H., Ridge and
Lehigh aves., Philadelphia.

Wildey, "j. L., 2752 Howard st.,
Philadelphia.

Wilson, Davis, Chester.

Winters, Thomas J., 1016 Com-
niei'ce St., Harrisburg.

Wintzer, A., West Grove.

Young, John W., Frank St., Ger-
mantowu.

RHODE ISLAND.

Thos. J. Gibson, Newport, Vice-President.

Appleton, W., Jr., 294 Broadway,

Providence.
Butcher, William, 20 Pitman st..

Providence.
Byrnes, Peter S., Wickford.
Chappell, W. E., 333 Branch ave..

Providence.
Christie, Robt-, Newport
Gibson, Thos. J., Bellevue ave.,

Newport.
Greene, R. W., Warwick.
Johnson, George, 18 Earl st.,

Providence.
Jurgens, Carl, Newport.

Laurie, Robt., Newport.
Leach, Herbei't A., Pawtucket.
Leach, M. J., Pawtucket.
MacLellan, Alex., Ruggles ave.,

Newport
Martin, Alvertus, 147 Waterman St.,

Olneyville
Macrae, Farquhar, 1138 Smith St.,

Providence.
Millar, A., 595 Pawtucket ave.,

Pawtucket.
Rennie, A. M., (> Exchange place.

Providence.
Renter, S. J., Westerly.

SOUTH DAKOTA.

Newbery, E. C, Mitchell. | Schumakei*, J. J., Sioux Falls.

TENNESSEE.

Meyer, Herman, Carthage.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

TEXAS.

149

Comstock, Mrs. M. F., El Paso.

Evans, R. E., Salt Lake City.

UTAH.

VERMONT.

D. McGiLLiVKAY, Brattleboro, Vice-President.

Mass, Geo. H., Woodstock.
McGillivray, D., Brattleboro.

Wilson, John, 124 Church St.,
Burlington.

VIRGINIA.

Blick, Lloyd G., 51 Granby St., I Davis, W. S., Box 2, Purcellville.
Norfolk. I Whelan, F. A., Mt. Vernon.

WASHINGTON.

Geo. Gibbs, Orcas, San Juan Co.

WISCONSIN.

C. C. PoLLwOKTH, Milwaukee, Vice-President.

Ellis, 'W. H., 137 Oneida St.,
Milwaukee.

Freytag, J., Forest Home ave.,
Milwaukee.

Haentze, E., Fond du Lac.

Hunkel, H. V., Milwaukee.

Klokner, A., 930 Grand ave., Mil-
waukee.

Pike, Mrs. Chas. W., 408 Main St.,
Racine.

Poll worth, C. C, Box 75, Milwau-
kee.

Salzer, John A., La Crosse.

Turner, Lewis, Kenosha.

Whitnall, C. B., 1184 Humboldt ave.,
Milwaukee.

Zweifel, N., 14tli st. and Groeling
ave., Milwaukee.

DOMINION OP CANADA.

■ ONTARIO.

Gammage, W., 213 Dundas St., London.

IRELAND.

Dickson, Hugh, 55 Royal av., Belfast.

ALPHABETICAL LIST OF MEMBERS.

Those marked with an * are life members.

Allen, R. W., Hudson, N. Y.
Allen, C. H., Floral Park, N. Y.
Anderson, George M., Wayside

Farm, Milton, Mass.
Anderson, James, Swampscott,

Mass.
Anderson, George, 5230 Woodland

av., Philadelphia, Pa.
Anderson, C. G., 900 Chestnut st,

Atlantic, la.
Appleton, W., Jr., 294 Broadway,

Providence, R. I.
Armstrong, Luther, Kirkwood, Mo.
Armitage, Chas., 233 Mercer St.,

New York, N. Y.
Ashraead, C. W., care of H. M.

Johnson, Bayshore, L. I., N. Y.
Asmus, Ernst G., West Hoboken,

N.J.
Asmus, Rudolph, New Durham,

N.J.
Atkins, F. L., Orange, N. J.

Baker, W. J., 1430 So. Penn sq.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Baker, Phebe A., Media, Pa.

* Ball, Charles D., Holmesburg,

Pa.

Ball, Lemuel, Wissinoming, Phila-
delphia, Pa.

Balsley, Harry, Detroit, Mich.

Barker, Michael, 324 Dearborn St.,
Chicago, 111.

Ban-y, William C, Rochester, N. Y.

Baumer, Aug. R., Louisville, Ky.

Baur, S. A , Rockford, 111.

Beals, E. B., Greenfield, Mass.

* Beatty, H. B., Oil City, Pa.
Beckert, Theodore F., Glenfleld, Pa.
Beck, Chas., National Military

Home, Montgomery Co., 0.

Becker, Frank, 1730 Cambridge St.,
Cambridge, Mass.

Berlinghop, F., Omaha, Neb.

Bertermann, John, Indianapolis,
Ind.

Bertermann, William G., Indian-
apolis, Ind.

Bester, William, 250 So. Potomac

St., Hagerstown, Md.
Blick, Lloyd G., 51 Granby St.,

Norfolk, Va.
Blind, H. L., West View, Pa.
Bindloss, T. Palmer, New London,

Conn.
Blomberg, Carl, No. Easton, Mass.
Bock, W. A., North Cambridge,

Mass.
Boehler, Oscar, W. Hoboken, N. J.
Bobbink, L. C, Rutherford, N. J.
Boddington, A. T., 503 W. 13th St.,

New York, N. Y.
Bottomley, Robert, Biltmore, N. C.
Brague, L. B., Hinsdale, Mass.
Brainard, D. Wm., Pease St.,

Thompsonville, Conn.
Brainard, Chas., Thompsonville,

Conn.
Breed, E. W., Clinton, Mass.
Breitmeyer, Philip, Detroit, Mich.
Brogan, Thos., 26 South University

ave., Ann Arbor, Mich.
Brown, R. S., Box 99, Kansas City,

Mo.
Brunton, F., 153 N. 10th st.

Philadelphia, Pa.
Buckbee, H. W., Rockford, 111.
Buettner, Emil, Park Ridge, 111.
Bullock, Mrs. E. M. Elkhart, Ind.
Bunyard, H. A., 53 W. 28 st., New

York, N. Y.
Burki, Fred., Bellevue P. O., AUe-

glieny. Pa.
Burns, Alexander S., Woodside,

N. Y.
Burpee, W. Atlee, 5th and Willow

sts., Philadelphia, Pa.
Burr, M. L., Sawens, N. Y.
Burton, John, Chestnut Hill,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Busch, Fi'ed, 950 Lyndale ave. So.,

Minneapolis, Minn.
Bussard, Henri, 248 New Union St.,

Yonkei's, N. Y.
Butcher, William, 20 Pitman st.,

Providence, R. I.
Butterback, N., Oceanic, N. J.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

151

Butterworth, J. T., So. Framing-
ham, Mass.

Butz, Geo. C, State College,
Centre Co., Pa.

Byrnes, Peter S., Wickford, R. I.

Cameron, Robt., Botanic Garden,

Cambridge, Mass.
Campbell, Edw., Ardniore, Pa.
Carraody, J. D., Evansville, Ind.
Cartledge, A. B., 1514 Chestnut st.,

Philadelphia, Pa
Champion, J. N., New Haven, Conn.
Chapin, L. C, Lincoln, Neb.
Chappell, W. E , 333 Branch ave.,

Proviilence, R. I
Charter, Mrs. H. E., Meriden, Conn.
Chase, Benj., Jr., berry, N. H.
Chase, Chas. S., Elm St., Dighton.

Mass.
Christie, Robt., Newport, R. I.
Clack, Sidney, Menlo Park, Cal.
Clapp, E. B., 169 Boston street,

South Boston, Mass.
Clark, William, MS E. Platte ave.,

Colorado Springs, Col.
Clark, John, Jos. Breck & Sons

Corp., Boston, Mass.
Clearv, J. P., 60 Vesey St., New

York, N. Y.
Coddington,L. B., Murray Hill, N. J.
Cook, H. A., Shrewsbur3% Mass.
Cook, John, 318 North Charles St.,

Baltimore, Md.
Coles, W. W., Kokomo, Ind.
Comley, James, Lexington, Mass.
Coombs, John, 118 Benton st.,

Hartford, Conn.
Comstock, Mrs. M. F., El Paso,

Texas.
Connell, Benj., West Grove, Pa.
Connon, Chas., St. Louis, Mo.
Cooke, Thos. N., White Plains, N. Y.
Cotter, Lawrence, Dorchester,

Mass.
Cottam, Geo. T. N., 44 Pine st..

New York, N. Y.
Coventry, M. J., Fort Scott, Kan.
Ci'aig, Robert, 49th and Market sts.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Crawford, H. F., 975 N. Main St.,

Brockton, Mass,
Cushman, E. H., Euclid, 0.

Dailledouze, Eugene, Flatbush, N. Y.
Dailledouze, Henry, Flatbush, N.Y.
Dailledouze, Paul. Flatbush, N. Y.
Dalley, Miss M., St. Louis, Mo.
Davis, W. S.,Box 2, Purcellville, Va-

Davy, R. C, Omaha, Neb.
Deake, J. W. C, Asheville, N. C.
Deake, Mrs. J. B., 324 Charlotte

St., Asheville, N. C.
* Dean, James, Babylon, N.Y.
Deamud, J. B., 51 Wabash ave.,

Chicago, 111.
De La Mare, A. T., Rhinelander

Building, New York, N. Y.
Devoy, Peter T., Pousrhkeepsie,

N. Y.
Dickson, Hugh, 55 Royal ave.,

Belfast, Ireland.
Dillon, J.L., Bloomsburg, Pa.
Dingwall, John, Troy Road, Al-
bany, N. Y.
Dirvvanger, Albei't, Portland, Me.
Dirwanger, Joseph A., 719 Congress

St., Portland, Me.
Donaghue, A., 5425 No. 24th St.,

Omaha, Neb.
Donaghue, A. Jr., 109 So. 16th St.,

Omaha, Neb.
Donoghue, P. J., Lenox, Mass.
Donafd, Wm., Corey St., W. Rox-

bury, Mass.
Du Rie, W. B., Rahway, N. J.
Donaldson, John, Newtown, Long

Island, N. Y.
Dorner, Fred., Lafayette, Ind.
Downs, Alex., Wissahickon Hts.,

Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.
Dreer, William F., 714 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Durfee, Benj., Washington, D. C.
Dyer, H. W., South Portland, Me.
Dy singer, S. D., care L. L. May &

Co., St. Paul, Minn.

Eadie, Jas., 97 Euclid ave., Cleve-
land, O.

Edgar, William W., Waverly, Mass.

Edwards, Theo. E., Bridgeton, N. J.

Eger, William C, 825'^Union St.,
Schenectady, N. Y.

Eicholz, Henry, Waynesboro, Pa.

Eisele, John G., 20th and Ontario
sts., Pliiiadelphia, Pa.

Eisele, J. D., Riverton, N. J.

Eisele, C, 11th and Jefferson sts.,
Philadelphia, Pa.

Elliott, W. J., 54 Dey St., New
York, N. Y.

Elliott, W. H., Brighton, Mass.

Ellis, Mai'cus, Keene, N. H.

Ellis, W. H., 137 Oneida St., Mil-
waukee, Wis.

Erhardt, Charles, 358 Erie ave.,
Cleveland, 0.

152

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Ernest, Wm. H., 28th and M. sts.,
N. E., Washington, D. C.

Ernst, Otto J., Est. G. Geduldig,
Norwich, Conn.

Esler, Andrew, Saddle River, N. J.

* Esler, John G., Saddle River, N. J.

Evans, R. E., Salt Lake City, Utah.

Evans, J. A., Richmond, Ind.

Ewell, Warren, 38 Wayland St.,
Jioxbury, Mass.

Falconer, Wm., Supt. of Parks,
rittsburg, Pa.

Fancourt, George E., Wilkesbarre,
Pa.

Farquhar, Robt., 16 So. Market
St., Boston, Mass.

Fewkes, A. H., Newton High-
lands, Mass.

Fillmore, F. J., Nebraska ave.,
South St. Louis, Mo.

Flemer, Wm., Springfield, N. J.

Fletcher, Fred W., Auburndale,
Mass.

Florey, James, Medina, N. Y.

Foster, L. H., 45 King St., Dor-
chester, Mass.

Fotheringham, John R., Tarry-
town, N. Y.

Freytag, J., Forest Home ave., Mil-
waukee, Wis.

Fuller, J., Leominster, Mass.

Fulmer, J. T. D., 910 Des Moines
St., Des Moines, la.

Gaedeke, Aug., Nashua, N. H.
Galvin, John, 124 Tremont St.,

Boston, Mass.
Gammage, W., 213 Dundas St., Lon-
don, Ontario, Canada.
Gasser, J. M., 101 Euclid ave.,

Cleveland, O.
Gauges, Philip, Botanic Garden,

Washington, D.C.
George, E. B., Painesville, 0.
George, Robert, Painesville, 0.
Gibbons, H. W , 136 Liberty St.,

New York, N. Y.
Gibson, Thos. J., Bellevue ave.,

Newport, R. I.
Gibbs, Geo., Orcas, San Juan Co.,

Wash.
Giesy, E. H., Lockland, O.
Gentemaun, C. F. W., Quincy, 111.
Gillett, E. G , Cincinnati, O.
Gindra, David, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.
Goodell, L. W.. Dwight, Mass.
Gordon, Geo., Beverly, Mass.

* Graham, Adam, 2849 Euclid ave.,

Cleveland, O.
Grant, G. L., 334 Dearborn st ,

Chicago, 111.
Greene, R. W., Warwick, R. I.
Greene, W., Box 58, Davenport, la.
Grey, Thos. J., 32 So. Market St.,

Boston, Mass.

* Gude, Adolphus, 1224 F St., Wash-

ington, D. C.

* Gude, Wm. F., 1224 F. St., Wash-

ington, D. C.
Guien, A., 1483 Broad St., Augusta,

Ga.
Guinevan, D. H., Beverly, Mass.
Gunson, Thos., Agricultural College

P. 0., Mich.

Habermehl, John P., 22d and Dia-
mond sts., Philadelphia, Pa.

Hadkinson, J. H., Omaha, Neb.

Haentze, E., Fond du Lac, Wis.

Hagemau, Wm., 18th and Dauphin
sts., Philadelphia, Pa.

Hagenburger, C, Mentor, 0.

Haiin, Gottlob, Embla Park, Balti-
more, Md.

Rahman, F., Harrowgate Lane,
Frankford, Philadelphia, Pa.

Hall, W. E., Clyde, O.

Hall, W. S., Osage, la.

Halliday. Robt., 11 E. Baltimore st.,
Baltimore, Md.

Hamburger, Simon, 811 Fair-
mount ave. Pa.

Hammond, Benjamin, Fishkill,
N. Y.

Hansen, Chi'istian, Dale st., St.
Paul, Minn.

Harbison, Geo., Brighton, Mass.

Harkett, W. A., Dubuque, la.

Harmon, H. W., Sawens, N. Y.

Harper, Wm. Warner, Chestnut
Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.

Harris, F. L., Wellesley, Mass.

* Harris, W. K., 55th st. and Spring-

field av., Philadelphia, Pa.

* Harris, W. K. Jr., 55th st. and

Springfield ave., Philadelphia,
Pa.

Hart, H. A., 1262-1272 Detroit St.,
Cleveland, O.

Hartshorne, Jas., Joliet, 111.

Hatch, Ed., 22 Devonshire St., Bos-
ton, Mass.

Hatcher, John C, Amsterdam,
N.Y.

Haus worth, P. J., 318 Wabash ave.,
Chicago, 111.

SOCIETf OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

153

Haynes, J. C, Boston, Mass.
Hayden, E., Marblehead, Mass.
Heacock, Joseph, Wyncote, Pa.
Heinl, George A., 337 Summit st.,

Toledo, O.
Heller, J. A., 1117 North 8th St.,

Quiiicy, 111.
Henderson, Lewis, 16th and Far-

mmi sts., Omaha, Neb.
Henderson, Alfred, 35-37 Cortlandt

St., New York, N. Y.
Henderson, Charles, 35-37 Cort-
landt St., New York, N. Y.
Henkel, P'red, West View, Pa.
Henshaw, Sam'l, Botanical Gardens,

Bronx Park, New York, N. Y.
Herr, Albert M., P. O. Box 338,

Lancaster, Pa.
Herrington, A., Madison, N. J.
Herrmann, A., 404-412 E. 34th St.,

New York, N. Y.
Hess, J. J., 140 Farnum St.,

Omaha, Neb.
Hesser, W. J., Plattsmouth, Neb.
Hewson, C J., 1673 Abbott Road,

Buffalo, N. Y.
Hews, A. H., North Cambridge,

Mass.
Hill, E. Gurney, Richmond, Ind.
Hippard, E., Youngstown, O.
Hitz, John, 917 R St., N. W.,

Washington, D. C.
Hoitt, C. W., Nashua, N. H.
Holbrow, C. E., Brighton, Mass.
Hopkins, Frank E., Salem, Mass.
Horan, Stephen D., Bridgeport,

Conn.
Howard, J. W., Somerville, Mass.
Howatt, D. E., 148-156 Randolph

ave., Jersey City, N. J,
Hoyt, A. T., Warren, 0.
Hunkel, H. V., Milwaukee, Wis.
Hulsebosch, A., Englewood, N. J.
Huss, J. F., Ventford Hall, Lenox,

Mass.
Hutson, A. R., Brighton, Mass.

Imlay, John D., Zanesville, O.
Ingram, Chas., Reading, Mass.
Ireland, R. D., 246 Boylston st.,
Boston, Mass.

Jansen, Ed., 124 West 19th St., New

York, N. Y.
Johnson, Frank, Menlo Park,

Box 49, Cal.
Johnson, George, 18 Earl St.,

Providence, R. I.

Johnson, Mrs. Fred H., 45 Whitn.ey

ave., Olean, N. Y.
Jones, Hiram T., Elizabeth, N. J.
Joosten, C. H., 193 Greenwich St.,

New York, N. Y.
Jordan, J. M., 706 Olive st., St.

Louis, Mo.
Joseph, Miss Rosa, Pataskala, O.
Joyce, Morris A., Pottsville, Pa.
Juengel, Chas. A., 1841 South 14th

St., St. Louis, Mo.
Junkius, Geo. S., Lawrence, Mass.
Jurgens, Carl, Newport, R. I.

Kadletz, J., Dongan Hills, N. Y.
Kahlert, C. W., 1514 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Kanst, Fred, South Park, Chicago,

111.
Kasting, W. F., 495 Washington st.,

Buffalo, N. Y
Katoll, Fred, 121 Linwood Ave.,

Buffalo, N. Y.
Keller, J. M., 65th and 5th Ave.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Kellogg, Geo. M., Pleasant Hill, Mo.
Kemble, W. E., Oskaloosa, la.
Kift, Robert, 1725 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
King, Geo. T., 145 Arlington st.,

Hyde Park, Mass.
King, W. H., Langdon, D. C.
King, F. J., Ottaw'a, 111.
Kleinhans, Howard P., Easton, Pa.
Klokner, A., 930 Grand ave., Mil-
waukee, Wis.
Knapp, W. H., Newtonville, Mass.
Knickman, C. B., New York, N. Y.
Knight, C. W., Glen Cove, N. Y.
Koenig, Julius, 6471 Florisant av.,

St. Louis, Mo.
Koffraan, E., Walden, Orange Co.,

N. Y.
Kraft, Julius, 317 No. Court st.,

Rockford, 111.
Kramer, F. H., Washington, D. C.
Kramer, Judson A., Cedar Rapids,

la.
Krause, H. M., Glen Island, N. Y.
Kretschmar, H. G., Box 99, West

Nyack, N. Y.
Krick, W. C, 1287 Broadway,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Kromback, Charles, 181 25th St.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Krueger, Augustus, Meadville, Pa.
Kuehu, C. A., 1122 Pine st.j St.

Louis, Mo.

154

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTIOX

Lager, John E., Summit, N. J.
Laugjahr, A. H., 19 Boerum pi.,

Brooklyn, X. Y.
Laisle, Christ, Keokuk, la.
Lange, Albert H., Worcester, Mass.
Lange, Carl C, Worcester, Mass.
Lauge, H. F. A., Worcester, Mass.
Langhans, T. P., 190 North av.,

Allegheny, Pa.
Larson, P. L., Fort Dodse, la.
Lauch, Wm. F., Carrick P. O.,

Allegheny, Pa.
Laurie, Robt., Newport, R. I.
Leach, Herbert A., Pawtucket, R. I.
Leach, M. J., Pawtucket, R. I.
Lee, Thos., Del Monte Garden,

Monterey. Cal.
Leow, Wm., 8-t East St., Allegheny,

Pa.
Leiily, E., West Hoboken, N. J.
Leveque, Thos. A., 672 E. Globe St.,

Fall River, INIass.
Loban, John, Hai-risburg, Pa.
Loder, Cornelius S.. 271 Broadway,

New York, N. Y.
Logan, Jas. M., White Plains, N. Y.
Long, D. B., Buflalo, N. Y.
Lonsdale, Edwin, Chestnut Hill,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Loveless, Alfred J., Lenox, Mass.
Lovett, J. T., Little Silver, N. J.
Ludwig, Gustave, 208 Allegheny

Market, Allegheny, Pa.
Ludwig, J. W., Allegheny, Pa.
Lynch, M. J., Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

Macrorie, D., So. Orange, N. J.
Mackav. Andrew, Cedarhurst, L. I.,

n."y.

MacLellan, Alex., Ruggles ave.,

Newport, R I.
Macrae, Farquhar, 1138 Smith St.,

Providence, R. I.
Manda, Joseph A., Jr., South

Orange, N. J.
Manda. W. A., South Orange,

N.J.
Manker, Frank, Winsor Terrace,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Mann, Mary S., Florence, Mass.
Manning, J. Woodward, 1150 Tre-

mont Building; Boston, Mass.
Manning, W. H., 125 Tremont st.,

Boston, Mass.
Marshall, J F., Des Moines, la.
Marshall, Chas. L., Lowell, Mass.
Martin, Alvei'tus, 147 Waterman St.,

Olneyville, R I.

Martin, Wm. J., Milton, Mass.
Mass, Geo. H., Woodstock, Vt.

* Mathison, Fred R., Waltham,

Mass.
Maule, Wm. H., 1711 Filbert St.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
May, L. L., St. Paul, :Minn.
May, J. N., Summit, N. J.
Mayer, Jacob M., Lancaster, Pa.
McCarthy, N. F., 84 Hawley St.,

Boston, Mass.
McCuUough, Albert, 134 Walnut

St., Cincinnati, 0.
McCullough, J. Chas., 2d and Wal-
nut sts., Cincinnati, O.
McGillivray, D., Brattleboro, Vt.
McLean, Geo., 4217 Haverfordave.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
McMahon, Frank, Seabright, N.J.
McMulkin, Edw. J., 124" Tremont

St., Boston, Mass.
Mellis, D. Y., Flatbush, N. Y.
Merrion, J. V., Chicago, 111.
Meyer, Herman, Carthage, Tenn.
Meyer, J. C, 87 Sumner st.,

Boston, Mass.
Meyers, Hiram, Willington, Kan.
Michel, E. H., Magnolia and Tower

Grove ave., St. Louis, Mo.
Michell, H. F., 1018 Market St.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Millar, A., 595 Pawtucket ave.,

Pawtucket, R. I.
Miller, James L., 882 Western ave.,

Lynn, Mass.
Miller, Wm., 882 Western ave.,

Lynn, Mass.
Miller, A. L., Sta. E., Brooklyn,

N. Y.
Miller, Geo. L., 12 E. Park PI.,

Newark, 0.
Millman, F. X., Green st. station,

Cumberland, Md.
Molloy, William F., Wellesley,

Mass.
Montgomery, Alexander, Natick,

Mass.
Monson, John, 3501 Portland ave.,

Minneapolis, Minn.

* Montgomery, Alexander W., Jr.,

Natick, Mass.
Moon, S. C, Morrisville, Pa.
Moon, W. H., Morrisville, Pa.
Moore, W. H,. Manhattan, Kan.
Moseley, F. C, Neponset, Mass.
Mott. Walter, Riverton, N. J.
Mueller, Chas. F., Wichita, Kan.
Murdock, H. L., West Gardner,
Mass.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

155

Murdock, A.M., 510 Siiiithfield St.,

Pittsburj;, Fa-
Murray, Miss Jennie, Kansas City,

Mo.

Nagel, E., Minneapolis, Minn.
Nash, S, C Clifton, Passaic Co.,

N.J.
Nelson, A., care F. R. Pearson Co.,

Tarry town, N. Y.
Neubrand, E. W., Tarry town, N. Y.
Newbery, E. C, Mitchell, S. D.
Newman, J. R., Winchester, Mass.
Nichol, Jas., 29 Coddington st.,

Quincy, Mass.
Nicholson, William, Framingham,

Mass.
Nilsson, Wm., Woodlawn, New

York, N. Y.
Noe, L. M., Madison, N. J.
Norton, M. H., Hotel Berkeley,

Boston, Mass.
Nussbaiiraer, Fred, St. Paul, Minn.

O'Brien, Chas. J., 63 Union St.,

Jamaica Plain, Mass.
O'Brien, M. I., Sharon, Pa.
O'Hora, Wm., Huntington Harbor,

N. Y.
Ormsby, E. A., Melrose, Mass.
O'Mara. P., Grand St., Jersey City,

N. J.
Ouwerkerk, P., 206 Cambridge ave.,

Jersey City, N. J.

Paget, John, Lochiel Park, Harris-
burg, Pa.

Palmer, Ernest B., No. Easton,
Mass.

Palmer, W- J., 304 Main St., Buff-
alo, N. Y.

Palmer, W. J., Jr., 304 Main St.,
Buffalo, N. Y.

Parker, T., 32 So. 6th street, Brook-
lyn, N. Y.

Pasell, F. H., New Bedford, Mass.

Patch, Thos., Short Hills, N. J.

Paterson, Robt., care Hon. Frank
Jones, Portsmouth, N. H.

Patten, Geo. W., Lowell, Mass.

Patten, M. A., Tewksburv, Mass.

Paul, J. R., Nashua, N. H.

Penman, J. Arnot, 7 Warren St.,
New York, N. Y.

Pentecost, S. N., 707 Republic St.,
Cleveland, O.

Peterson, Henry, Florence, Neb.

Perry, W. B., Cresco, la.

Pettigrew, J. A., Franklin Park,

Boston, Ma.ss.
Phelps, H. L., Springfield, 111.
Pierce, William, 232 Union St.,

New Bedford, Mass.
Piei'son, F. R., Tarrytown, N. Y.,
Pierson, Paul M., Scai'borough,

N. Y.
Pike, Mrs. Chas. W., 408 Main St.,

Racine, Wis.
Playdon, J. H., 35 Lowell st.,

Andover, Mass.
Plumb, William, Throgg's Neck,

N.Y.
PoUworth, C. C, Box 75, Milwau-
kee, Wis.
Powell, I. L., Millbrook, N. Y.

Rackham, Geo. A., 8S0 Vandyke

ave., Detroit, Mich.
Randolph, P. S., Pittsburg, Pa.
Rane, F. W., Agricultural College,

Durham, N. H.
Rath, H. C, Flushing, N. Y.
Rawson, G. P., Elmira, N. Y.
Rea, Charles H., Norwood. Mass.
Rea, Frederick J., Norwood, Mass.
Reck, John, Bridgeport, Conn.
Riebe, F. C, Webster, Mass.
Reichard.D. M., St. Joseph, Mo.
Reid, Robt., 126 Cambridge PI.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Reineman, E. C, 305 Lowry st.,

Allegheny, Pa.
Rennie, A. M , 6 Exchange place,

Providence, R. I.
Rennison, J. C, Sioux Citv, la.
Reynolds, Herbert J., 136" W. Pul-

tenev St., Corning, N. Y.
Renter, S. J., Westerly, R. I.
Rice, M., 25 N. 4th St., Philadelphia,

Pa.
Ringier, Arnold, 10 No. Clark st.,

Chicago, 111.
Ritter, F. W., Sr., 435 W. North

ave., Dayton, O.
Ritter, Herman H., 435 W. North

ave., Dayton, 0.
Robinson, Alex. Gait, Louisville,

Ky.
Rock, W. L., Kansas City, Mo.
Roehrs, Julius. Carleton Hill, N. J.
Roehrs, Theo., 494 E. 176th St.,

New York, N. Y.
Rockwell, W. C, Bradford, Pa.
Rohrer, A. D., Lancaster, Pa.
Rohrer, H. D., Lancaster, Pa.
Rolker, Winfried, 52 Dey st.. New

York, N. Y.

156

PROCEEDINGS OF FOURTEENTH CONVENTION

Rolker, Jos. E., 52 Dey St., New
York, N. Y.

Rose, Edwin F., Bay St., Taunton,
Mass.

Rosengren, J. A., Monongahela
City, Pa.

Rowflen, Geo. H., Wallingford,
Conn.

Rudd, W. N., Mt. Greenwood, 111.

Rupp, N. J., 297-307 Hawthorne
ave., Chicago, 111.

Rust, David, Hort. Hall, Philadel-
phia, Pa.

Rutty, J., 517 Banango St., Phila-
delphia, Pa.

Saltzer, John A., La Crosse, Wis.
Sanders, C. C, 5G00 Delmar ave.,

St. Louis, Mo.
Sanders, Edgar, 1639 Belmont ave.,

Chicago, 111.
Sandiford, Robt., Mansfield, 0.
* Schellhorn, C, Washington, D. C.
Schraitt, A., Glenville, 0.
Schrautz, Louis, Clarkson sti'eet,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Schray, Erail, 4101 Penn ave., St.

Louis, Mo.
Schray, Wm., 4101 Penn. ave., St.

Louis, Mo.
Schroyer, Geo. W., Lancaster, Pa.
Schultz, Jacob, 606 Fourth ave.,

Louisville, Ky.
Schumaker, J. J., Sioux Falls, S. D.
Schwartz, J., Brighton Road, Alle-
gheny City, Pa.
Scott, John, Reap St., Brooklyn,

N. Y.
Scott, A. B., 19th and Catharine

sts., Philadelphia, Pa.
Scott, W., 479 Main St., Buffalo, N.Y.
Seidewitz, E. A., 36 W. Lexington

St., Baltimore, Md.
Sexton, S. B., Hyde Park, N. Y.
Shanlev, James, 216 25th street,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Shaw, Chas. F., No. Abington,

Mass.
Shaw, J. Austin, 409 5th ave., New

York, N. Y.
Shellem, John A., 17th and Tasker

sts., Philadelphia, Pa.
Shelmire, W. R., Avondale, Pa.
Shepard, W. O. H ., Pensacola, Fla.
Sheridan, W. F., 39 W. 28th St., New

York, N. Y.
Sibson, J. F., Gerraantown, Pa.
Siebert, Chas. T., Stanton av..

Station B., Pittsburg, Pa.

* Siebrecht, W. H., Astoria, N. Y.

Siebrecht, H. A., New Rochelle,
N. Y.

Slinn, Jas , Fall River, Mass.

Small, J. Henry, 14th and G. sts.,
Washington, D. C.

Smith, W. R., Botanic Garden,
Washington, I). C.

Smith, Elmer D., Adrian, Mich.

Smith, John, Woodhaven, N. Y.

Smith, A. W., Boggs ave., Pitts-
burg, Pa.

Smyth, W. J., 270 31st St., Chi-
cago, 111.

Smith, Jos. F., 62 Main St., Nor-
wich, Conn.

Snyder, Anthony J., 215 25th St.,
Brooklyn, N. Y.

Spalding, John, New London, Conn.

Sprague, E. B., Bowdoinhair, Me.

Stafford, Wm., Fall River, Mass.

Stearns, Geo. H., Greenfield, Mass.

Steffens, Emil, 335 East 21st St.,
New York, N. Y.

Steinhoff, Herman C, West Hobo-
ken, N. J.

Stewart, S. B., 119 No. 16th st.,
Omaha, Neb.

Stewart, William J., 67 Bromfield
St., Boston, Mass.

StoUery, Geo., Argyle Park, Chi-
cago, 111.

Strohlein, George A., Riverton,
N.J.

Strong, O. H., Oil City, Pa.

Suder, Mrs. E., 304 Summit St.,
Toledo, 0.

Sullivan, J.F., 220 Woodward ave.,
Detroit, Mich.

Sutherland, Geo. A., 67 Bromfield
St., Boston, Mass.

Sutton, E. B., Jr., Babylon, N. Y.

Swanson, A. S., 117 Endicott
arcade, St. Paul, Minn.

Swoboda, Geo. H., 5807 No. 24th
St., Omaha, Neb.

Symonds, W. T., Decorah, la.

Tailby, W. W., Wellesley, Mass.
Tait, "C. S., Brunswick, Ga.
Tapl'in, Stephen, 930 Fort St.,

Detroit, Mich.
Taplin, W. H., Holmesburg, Pa.
Taylor, Edw. J., Southport, Conn.
Taylor, J. H., Bayside, N. Y.
Taylor, F. W., Paxton Bldg.,

Omaha, Neb.
Temple, J. T., Davenport, la.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

157

Tesson, R. F., West Forest Park,
St. Louis, Mo.

Thaden, Herman, Atlanta, Ga.

Thompson, Geo. N., Lenox, Mass.

* Thorne, Samuel, 43 Cedar St., New-
York, N. Y.

Thrall, A L., Jamestown, N. Y.

Trelease, Prof. AVm., Missouri
Botanic Garden, St. Louis, Mo.

Tucker, Harrv A., Ware, Mass.

Turner, Wm., Tarrytown, N. Y.

Turnlev, C. William, Haddonfleld,
N.'J.

Turner, Lewis, Kenosha, Wis.

Van Bochove, J. R., Kalamazoo,

Mich.
Vauijhan, A. L., 47 Wabash ave.,

Chicago, 111.
Vaughan. J. C, 84-86 Randolph St.,

Chicago, 111.
Vesey, W. J., Fort Wayne, Ind.
Vincent, R., Jr., White Marsh,

P. O., Baltimore Co., Md.

Waldbart, Alexander, 3.538 Chest-
nut St., St. Louis, Mo.
Walker, John, 49th and Market

sts , Philadelphia, Pa.
Wallace, Alexander, Rhinelander

Building, New York, N. Y.
Walsh, M. H., Woods HoU, Mass.
Warburton, C, 81 New Boston

Road, Fall River, Mass.
Ward, C. W., Queens, N. Y.
Ward, W. S., Salem, Mass.
Weathered, C. B., 46 Marion St.,

New York, N. Y.
Weber, F. C, 4326 Olive St., St.

Louis, Mo.
Weeber, C. G., 114 Chambers St.,

New York, N. Y.
Wiegand, A., 7th and Illinois Sts.,

Indianapolis, Ind.
Weinhoeber, E., 417 Elm St , Chi-
cago, 111.
Weir, Fred, Bay Ridge, L. I., N. Y.
Weir, John R , 324 Fulton St.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Welch, I)., 1,5 Province St.,

Boston, Mass.
Welch, E. J., 15 Province St.,

Boston, Mass.
Welch, P., 15 Province St,, Boston,

Mass.
Westcott, John, Ridge and Lehigh

aves., Philadelphia, Pa.
Westcott, William H., Ridge and

Lehigh aves., Philadelphia, Pa.

Whelan, F. A., Mt. Vernon, Va.
White, John, Pittsfleld, Mass.
Whitney, Charles A , Upton, Mass.
Whiting, A., Farmington ave.,

Hartford, Conn.
Whitcomb, A., Lawrence, Kan.
Whitnall, C. B., 1 184 Humboldt ave.,

Milwaukee, Wis.
Wilcox, J. F., Council Blufis, la.
Wildey, J. L., 2752 Howard st.,

Philadelphia, Pa.
Wilson, John, 124 Church st.,

Burlington, Vt.
Wilson, Davis, Chester, Pa.
Wincott, Wm., Effingham Park,

Babylon, N. Y.
Windier, G. B., 4059 Delore ave.,

St. Louis, Mo.
Windmiller, Fred, Mankato, Minn.
Wingate, Chas. E., 8 Fulton st.,

Lawrence, Mass.
Winkler, Edw., Wakefield, Mass.
Winters, Thomas J., 1016 Com-
merce St., Harrisburg, Pa.
Wintzer, A., West Grove, Pa.
Wise, L. H., 3234 Elizabeth st.

Denver, Col.
Withers, J. W., 136 Liberty st..

New York, N. Y.
Witterstaetter, Richard, Sedams-

ville, 0.
Wollmers, A., 215 and 217 25th st ,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Wonson, John F., 88 Mt. Pleasant

ave., E. Gloucester, Mass.
* Wood, E. M., Natick, Mass.
Wood, Harvey C, West Newton,

Mass.
Wood, E. A., West Newton, Mass.
Wood, L. E., Fishkill, N. Y.
Woodford, J. H., Horticultural

Hall, Boston, Mass.
Wors, C. W., 313 No. Lefflngwell

ave., St. Louis, Mo.
Wunder, John, Winona, Minn.

Yeates, J. E., 3d st. and Champaign

ave., Springfield, 111.
Young, John- W., Frank St., Ger-

mantown, Pa.

Zeller, Alfred, Leflerts ave.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Zeller, Charles, Leflerts ave.,

Brooklyn, N. Y.
Zirngiebel, D., Needham, Mass.
Zweifel, N., 14th st. and Groeling

ave., Milwaukee, Wis.

INDEX.

FIRST DAY — OPENING SESSION.

Address of Welcome, Mayor Frank E. Moores 5

The Society's objects; encouraging park development 6

Presentation of the city's keys ; how to use the telephone ;

patriotic words 7

Response, Edmund M. Wood ^. 8

The proud distinction of the gardener; tribute to the ladies 8

Nature's gifts to Omaha ; how the east regards the west 9

The Society a public benefactor ; its worthy ambition 10

President Gude's Address 11

Complimentary allusion to his predecessors 11

Omaha's enterprise; efforts for a national charter; friendship

of the Secretary of Agriculture 12

Letter from Secretary Wilson to Senator Proctor 13

Work of the Committee ; proposed new departments 14

Value of certificates ; possibilities in American Bulb Culture 15
History of the tuberose ; gladiolus and latania ; prospects in

floral evolution 16

Beneficient influences of horticultural art; effect of the love

for flowers 17

The home garden ; value of exhibitions ; the return of peace 18

Annual Report of Secretary Stewart 19

New methods of assessing and collecting dues ; number of

losses and additions to membership 19

Deaths ; the convention and trade exhibition in Providence ;
printed list of new plants ; life membership fund ; railroad
transportation ; Executive Committee meeting in Wash-
ington 20

Proposed new departments ; how to gain strength ; business
before pleasure ; united support wanted ; appeal to florists

of the west ^ 21

Annual Report of Treasurer Beatty 22

List of Judges for Trade Exhibit and for Medal Awards 24

Reports of State Vice-Presidents 25

Eastern New York; trade conditions 26

Export and import traffic ; plant auction sales ; effect of the

war; contest for Chrysanthemum Society's cup 27

Certificated Chrysanthemums ; exhibitions ; permanent plant
market ; combatting adverse legislation 28

160 INDEX.

Horticultural literature ; obituary ; miscellaneous ; suggestions

for future 29

Western New York ; condition of plant trade ; advice to grow-
ers ; proposed exhibition ; additions to glass ; park devel-
opment 30

The department store evil 30

Eastern Pe7insj/lva7iia ; advice for the future ; Western Pennsyl-
vania; opening of new wholesale houses at Pittsburgh 31

New Jersey ; Conjiecticut ; Vermont 32

Minnesota ; improved trade prospects in the northwest ; condi-
tion of State Society ; extent of glass 33

Michigan; how to increase interest in the S. A. F 33

Illinois; carnation convention ; general prospects 34

Kentucky 34

Increasing demand for carnations ; state of plant trade ; Society
movements ; first commission house in the south ; chrysan-
themum show. Ontario ; organization of Canadian Horti-
cultural Association 35

Trouble with San Jose scale bill ; exhibitions in the Provinces ;

cold storage experiments ; increase of glass 36

Reading of Communications 37

Invitations from the Detroit Convention League ; from Mayor
of Detroit ; from the Governor of Michigan ; from the
Detroit Florists' Club ; from the Newspaper Press of

Detroit 37

Illness of Ex-Pkesident Smith 37

Resolution of condolence 38

Reception at Liningek Gallery 39

FIRST DAY — EVENING.

President's Reception 40

Lecture — The Real Russia. F. W. Taylor, Omaha 40

Popular Misapprehensions ; the j^eople and buildings of Russia ;
Modes of Travel ; vast extent of the empire 40

SECOND DAY — MORNING.

Report op the Nomenclature Committee 41

Transition in botanical nomenclature 41

Improvement in catalogues ; several synonyms ; value of regis-
tration 42

Report op Committee on Fire Insurance 43

Statement regarding the new insurance organization ; hard

work of the Committee ; a question of rates 43

INDEX. 161

A general discussion ; Mr. Esler explains basis of rates ; Secre-
tary Vesey gives j^lans 44

Experience with greenhouse properties ; applications for mem-
bership 45

Resolutions of support 46

Discharge of the committee 47

Proposed Amendment to By-Laws :. 47

Discussion of Proposed Amendment 48

Unwisdom of restricting privileges of members 49

Defeat of the amendment 50

Proposed Department of Credit Information 50

Discussion on credit matters; origin of the proposition 51

Ajiparent lack of interest in the scheme ; Mr. Loder's propo-
sition 52

Defeat of credit department 53

Proposed Department of Co-operative Purchase 53

Statement by Mr. Wood ; what the committee had done 54

Record of co-operative societies in Great Britain; benefits of
co-operation ; a general discussion 56

The purchase department constituted by an afiirmative vote 58

Legislative Department ; committee appointed 59

Arbitration Department; committee appointed 59

Claims Department; committee appointed, 60

Selection of Place of Meeting for 1899 60

Mr. Rackham nominates Detroit ; Mr. Long nominates Sara-
toga ; the Secretar}' presents many letters favoring Detroit 60
Nomination of Officers. Informal ballot and its results 61

Various withdrawals 62

Report of Committee on Medal Awards 63

Collection of American Grown Bulbs ; jihotograiihic desio-ns 63

Waiving the Trade Exhibition Rules 63

Invitation to Ladies' Ride 63

SECOND DAY — EVENING.

A Paper — A Few Remarks on the Dahlia. L' K. Peacock,

Atco, N. J,

Popularity of the Dahlia ; increase in sale during past year ;

disappointment in cactus type 64

Show' and fancy dahlias the favorites ; advances in pompon and
single dahlias ; advantages of single stem branching
system 65

A general discussion ; the value of the dahlia as a florists'
flower ; waning popularity in some localities ; the dahlia's
place in garden embellishment 66

162 INDEX.

Dahlia growing in England ; English cultural methods ; disad-
vantages of our climate 67

The Question Box 68

"State Institutions competing with florists"; interference of
public institutions with private business interests 68

How they do it in Indiana 69

Practical necessities ; influence of horticultural societies 70

" Question of special express rates" ; reference to Claims Com-
mittee 70

Results of previous work by the committee on express rates ;
where the trouble lies 71

" How to deal with white ants " 71

A Papek — Bulb Growing in America. Prof. W. F. Massey,

Raleigh, N. C 72

Fondness of Americans for foreign goods ; seed growing in
Georgia and California ; capacity of our soils ; what has
been done with the tuberose ; experimenting in North
Carolina ; lack of capital ; fine bulbs already grown in
North Carolina ; experiments with Bermuda lily ; how to
plant j)olyanthus 73

What is needed ; co-operation of agricultural department desired ;
facilities of eastern North Carolina 74

Possibilities of Posey County ; its wonderful soil ; high quality
of the bulbs exhibited from State of Washington 75

Proposition to send bulbs to Secretary Wilson for his examina-
tion favorably acted upon 76

THIRD DAY — MORNING

A Model Report and Vote of Thanks .■ 77

A Paper — Trade Exhibitions, their Value to the Florist's

Business. E. H. Cushman, Euclid, 0 77

Exhibition a good advertisement ; exhibitor receives full value ;

pleasant social relations ; chances for improvement 78

Necessity of display in business ; retail store accessories ; value of

window displays 79

Mr, Hammond's views ; railway station gardening ; jjublic

object lessons 80

A good display makes business ; Mr. Wintzer's observations 81

A general discussion 82

A Paper — Grafted Roses for Growing Under Glass. Robert

Craig, Philadelphia, Pa 83

Vast proportions of the rose forcing industry ; grafting an old

art 83

Recent experiments ; varying opinions ; results with different
varieties 84

INDEX. 163

Results on different stocks ; cost of stocks ; best methods of

grafting; time to graft 85

Mr. Hill's views ; observations of last winter ; unfair advantage

of grafted stock in most tests 86

Wonderful results seen at Natick ; best grafts to select ; rapid

growth after being established 87

Relative difference in price between own root and grafted

plants ; Mr. Craig's figures on cost 88

E. M. Wood's experience ; supremacy of the grafted rose ; cause

of frequent failure ; methods of piping 89

Mr. Wintzer's experience ; old methods of grafting ; results

from hard wood cuttings 90

Mr. Dillon's experience; trouble with imperfect union 91

Mr. Cole's experience ; necessity of ventilation ; remarkable

propagation; results of a wager 92

A general discussion ; comparisons of results from stock of

various ages ; tendency of Manetti to become dormant 93
High prices for roses in Boston market ; about grafting

Kaiserin 94

Fine roses at Waban conservatories ; the reason 95

Election of Officers

President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer 96

Presentation of the Evans' Cup

Mr. Westcott's remarks 96

Value of recreation ; how to get people to the convention ; Mr.

Kuehn accepts on behalf of the St. Louis Club 97

Acceptances by Officers Elect 98

Trolley Ride to Council Bluffs 98

Entertainment at residence of Mr. J. F. Wilcox ; remarks by

Mr. Craig ; unparalleled growth of the western country ;

success of the great exposition ; reminiscences of the

World's Fair 99

THIRD DAY — EVENING.

A Mantel Decoration 100

Presentation to President Gude 101

Remarks by Mr. Carmody ; humorous allusions ; President

Gude's Response 101

A Paper — Improvement in Varieties and Improvement in Cul-
tural Methods as Exemplified in High Grade Flowers.

E. G. Hill, Richmond, Ind 101

Comparative progress ; point of view ; the carnation ; the

rose 102

What fashion requires ; more variety wanted ; new lines of im-
provement ; work of the Carnation Society ; steady
advance in chrysanthemums 103

164 INDEX.

Improvement in orchid culture ; additions to decorative and
bedding- plants ; possibilities for the future ; what the peo-
ple require ; noteworthy evidences of recent progress 104

Recent noteworthy introductions 105

Mr. Scott's views 107

Registration of New Plants 107

The Society's obligations to its members 107

Discussion on the question of limiting registration ; privileges

to members of the Society 108

Proposition from Florists' Board of Trade Ill

Concession to S. A. F. members ; vote of thanks for same 112

Adjournment 112

FOURTH DAY.

Visit to Trans-Mississippi Exposition 113

Addresses of Welcome in the Nebraska Building; greeting

from President Wattles 113

Words of welcome from Major Clarkson il4

Presentation of medal to Wm. Scott 115

Report of Committee on Final Resolutions 116

Report of Exhibition Committees 117

Class A, Plants ; Class B, Cut Blooms 117

Class D, Greenhouse Appliances ; Class E, Florists' Supplies 118

Class F, Bulbs and Seeds; Class G, Miscellaneous 119

Death of R. Maitre 119

Report of Superintendent of Trade Exhibition 120

Report of Florists' Hail Association 122

Meeting of American Carnation Society 128

Chrysanthemum Society of America ; Varieties disseminated in

1898 129

Meeting of Telegraph Delivery Association '. 130

Plant Introductions in America in 1898 131

Roses, carnations 131

Chrysanthemums 132

Cannas 133

Dahlias, Geraniums 136

Sweet Peas 137

Petunias, miscellaneous 137

List of Members, by States 139

Alphabetical List of Members 150

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