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UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS
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1 868-69

TRANSACTIONS

OF THE

Worcester Oounty Horticultural Society,

FOR THE YEAR 1868.

COMPKISING THE

ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT; THE REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES OF THE SOCIETY;
AND THE ANNIAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY AND lIBRARLiN FOR 1S6S.

From EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary.

WORCESTER:

PRINTED BY EDWARD R. FISKE & SON, FOSTER STREET.
18 6 9.

lIBRilRY
UNIVERSITYOF

AMHERST, MASS. .

GENERAL INDEX.

r T•^T■^^T7''v *

Page.
Preface, .,

Address of Hon. Francis H. Dewej, President, (Sept. 17, 1868,) 5

Report on Apples, 1868, g

Report on Grapes, Peaches and Quinces, 1868, lO

Report on Flowers, Plants, &c., 1868, 12

Report on Pears, 1868, ^^

Report on Vegetables, 1868, Ig

Annual Report of E. W. Lincoln, Secretary and Librarian, (Nov. 4, 1868,). ..18
Officers of the Society for 1869, Last page of Cover.

PREFACE.

At the Annual Meeting of the Worcester County Horticultural Society,
holden on Wednesday, the fourth day of November, A. D., 1868, on
motion of Hon. John Milton Earle, it was unanimously voted : —

"That the Transactions of the Society, comprising the Address of the Presi-
dent and the Reports of the several Committees at the Annual Autumnal
Exhibition, with the Report of the Secretary and Librarian, just delivered, be
printed for the use of Members, under the supervision of the Standing Com-
mittee on Publication."

Attest :

EDWARD W. LINCOLN,

Secretary.
Horticultural Hall,
Worcester, Mass., January, A. D., 1869.

ADDRESS

OF

Hon. FRANCIS H. DEWEY, President.

Delivered on Thursday Evexixg, Sept. 17, 1868.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Worcester County Horticultural Society :

Assembled on this Twenty-ninth Annual Exhibition of our Society, to listen
to the reports of the Committees appointed to award the premiums, I consider
that an elaborate address from the President will not be desired by you, nor is
it, in my opinion, appropriate to this occasion. Bat custom has given you the
right to expect from me a brief statement of the present condition of the
Society, and such suggestions as to the future as I deem acceptable to those
interested in its prosperity.

Commencing its operations in the year 1840, the Society has from a feeble
condition grown till it has attained a position of great strength, and become one
of the permanent and most useful institutions of our County. The number of
members upon its roll is nearly 1100.

FINANCIAL CONDITION.

The Society is the owner of the valuable real estate known as Horticultural
Hall. The annual rental of the .stores and hall is now $.3000, after making the
reservations for our own use.

The amount due on the mortgage on the estate is $3005, it having been re-
duced since November 1, 1867, $900.

Since the last meeting of the Society, the Trustees have purchased a small
tract of land in the rear of our estate, which is of great value to us, both as
securing to us light, and in enabling us to enlarge our stores and Hall when
desirable. The price paid was §1528, of which $328 has been paid from the
rents, and there still remains due the sum of $1200, making our entire indebt-
edness at the present time $4205, which amount can easily be paid in a few
years, without reducing our proper expenditures for other objects.

2

6 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

WEEKLY EXHIBITIONS.

The ante-room of the Hall has been opened every Thursday afternoon
through the year for the exhibition of fruits and flowers. These weekly meet-
ings have undoubtedly been productive of benefit, as well as of pleasure, to
those who have attended them , but they are not properly appreciated by the
members.

Many of our fruits mature long before the annual exhibition ; and the green
pears and apples of to day are to be seen in their best estate only later in the
fall or in the winter. Our roses and many early flowers can be seen in their
glory only in the summer season. At all of the meetings are present several
of our most experienced fruit growers, who are ready to give all the informa-
tion in their power to all enquirers. New varieties of fruit are exhibited and
tested, and the different modes of preservation and cultivation of fruit discussed.

THE LIBRARY.

The Library is open every Thursday afternoon. It contains many valuable
works, both Foreign and American, which cannot be found in any private Li-
brary in the State, and a more general use of the library would necessarily tend
to a more general dissemination of useful information on Horticultural subjects
among its members. Annual appropriations are made for the purchase of new
books, and contributions are often received and always welcomed.

OUR DUTIES IN THE FUTURE.

What shall the members of the Society do in the future to promote its suc-
cess ? Increase its members — for not only are the admission fees an acceptable
addition to the funds of the Society, but still more important, the greater the
number the more co-workers in promoting the objects of the Society.

The admission fee of five dollars for a gentleman, and three dollars for a lady,
secures a free admission for life to all the exhibitions, the use of the library,
and the right to the annual publications of the Society. Each member, with a
little effort on his part, can easily secure an additional member from his own
family or friends .

Let members attend and send specimens of their fruits and flowers to the
weekly exhibitions.

Every member should contribute to the annual exhibition. None should
refrain from the fear that their contribution will be too small. A bouquet of
flowers and a plate of fruit from each will make a beautiful and grand display.

Competition should be encouraged by liberal premiums in the production and
exhibition of Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables. While many contributors will
tavor us without reference to the premiums, there are others to whom the in-
ducement is dependent on the amount of the premium offered. The labor of
gathering the fruit and the expense of conveying it should be amply compen-
sated.

1868.] president's address. 7

The amount of the premiums has beeu largely increased the present year,
and I recommend that a further increase be made, as from our increased rentals
it can be, and still a considerable payment upon the principal of our debt be
made each year.

The attention of the Society, as well as of fruit growers generally, should be
directed to improving the quality of our fruits, and not to increasing the num-
ber of varieties.

I strongly recommend the cultivation only of fruits of established character,
and believe that if such only were planted, and if the time and money devoted
to filling the garden with new varieties were expended in proper preparation of
the soil, and in pruning the trees and thinning of the fruit, the result would be
more satisfactory.

If, as is the fact, a list of fifteen or twenty varieties of pears will afford a
successive supply from summer to the next spring, of all the best pears, it is
certainly foolish to increase the number by adding thirty or forty varieties of
inferior fruit,

I do not wish to be understood as entirely discouraging the experimentincr
for new varieties of valuable fruits, but this may safely be left to nurserymen
and amateurs on a large scale ; and after one, out of fifty new varieties per-
haps, has been found worthy of cultivation, we should add that one to our own
list. The recommendation that I have made is but a repetition of that of all
cultivators of large experience.

After a somewhat extended observation of the fruits of other countries, I
am happy to say that I have not seen any country in which the cultivation of so
large a variety of valuable fruit has been so successful as in our own State.
Each country has, of course, its own peculiar fruits, varying with its soil and
climate, but the enjoyment, if not the cultivation of the choicest fruits, is
abroad confined to the wealthy ; and no where is really valuable fruit so readily
and cheaply to be obtained by the whole community as in our own country.

While so great an advance has been made in the culture of fruit, the ladies
are to be congratulated that in what is more peculiarly their department, that
of flowers, the improvement has been no less striking. The common single
flowers have given place to the many colored double Asters, Balsams, Zinnias,
Carnations, &c. The old plain Phloxes have given place to the more delicate
ones with numerous variegated colors. The smallest garden charms us with its
Salvias, Gladiolus, Verbenas, Pansies and Picotees.

The cultivation in large quantities of the more valuable and attractive flow-
ers is recommended in preference to an occupation of the same ground by
many inferior sorts. The cultivation in masses, of flowers of the same kind,
will be found to be far more beautiful in its effect than the scattering of single
plants through the flower bed.

A great drawback to the profit of the garden, and the pleasure of the Horti-
culturist, is the constant depredations of the insects of various kinds. To
ascertain the best remedies for these evils is one of the duties of our Society.

8 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, [1868.

Among our more recent grievances is that of the Currant worm, which has, in
this vicinity, to a great extent destroyed the bushes or the annual crop for the
last two years.

This Society offered a premium of $15 for a safe, certain and economical
mode of destroying the Currant worm. No formal application has been made
for this premium. Various remedies have been tried ; among others, that of
mulching the bushes with coal ashes to the depth of several inches. This has
proved a failure. The use of white hellebore has been very extensive, and has
been found effective. The objection to it is its expense, and that it renders
necessary a thorough washing of the fruit before use. Whale oil soap, if fre-
quently applied, is also effective, but this does not render the fruit particularly
attractive. Slackened lime has been applied successively by our Secretary and
others, and at present seems the most economical and feasible remedy.

Considering the details of the present exhibition as being a matter particu-
larly within the province of the various committees, I shall not trespess on
their field nor your patience. No one who recalls the continued rains during
the spring season, will seek for any other cause to account for the diminished
number of entries of fruit. We should rather feel grateful that so much fruit
has been perfected. But we are very sorry to miss from our list of entries the
names of some of our usually largest contributors, who, discouraged by the in-
feriority and scarcity of their fruits may have forgotten that all others have
suffered in the same way, and that it is at a season like the present that we
most need their efficient co-operation. A natural reluctance to pick fruit still
green and hardly full grown has also operated more than before to diminish the
number of varieties exhibited.

It is a matter worthy of consideration whether the objects of the Society
may not be better advanced by postponing the annual exhibition to a later day
in the autumn season.

The unusual variety and beauty of the plants and flowers compensates us for
the failure in our fruit ; and who can look down upon these tables covered with
the choicest fruit, and the tables and stands brilliant with flowers and with
plants of varied leaf, without pronouncing our exhibition a success.

1868.] REPORT ON APPLES.

EEPORTS.

REPORT OX APPLES.

Edwin Coxaxt, Chairman; S. H. Coltox, 0. B. Hadwex, J. Frank
Allen, John S. Ballard, S. A. Knox, Geo. A. Adams, of Worcester; D.
M. Hemmenway, of Millburi/, and Isaac B. Hartwell, of Oxford.

The Committee on Apples respectfully Report : — That there are thirty-seven
contributors and four hundred and fifty-five contributions, or plates. The ex-
hibition is not equal to that of our best and exceptional years, but is superior
to those of several recent seasons which were unfortunate for this main and
substantial fruit.

In awarding the premiums, very close and repeated comparisons were neces-
sary, but there has been perfect harmony in the conclusions arrived at. There
could be no doubt that,

For the best collection of not less than six specimens of each variety,
in the 1st class, Stephen S. Foster is entitled to the Society's plate,

valued at $15 00

For the second best, J. L. Woodward, of Millbury, 10 00

For the third best, Sylvanus Sears, 6 00

For the best twenty varieties of twelve specimens each, in the 2d class,

Isaac Mills is assigned the Society's plate, valued at 10 00

For the second best, Cyrus White, of Millbury, 8 00

Alden H. Sears had a good collection of twenty-one varieties, but the
number of specimens of each was insufficient for competition in
this class.
For the best twelve varieties of twelve specimens each, in the 3d class,

Adams Foster, of Holden, 6 00

For the second best, E. M. Banning, 4 00

10 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

For the best sis varieties of twelve specimens each, in the 4th class,

John C. Ripley, $4 00

For the second best, James Draper, 2 00

For the best eight Gravenstein, Alden H. Sears, 1 00

For the best eight Porter, Eri Sanders, 1 00

For the best eight Hubbardston Nonsuch, Charles Nash, 1 00

For the best eight Northern Spy, E. F. Champney, of Saundersville, 1 00

For the best eight Baldwin, Parley Holman, of Leicester, 1 00

For the best eight Mother, D. B. Comins, 1 00

For the best eight R. L Greening, no award

For the best eight of any other sort, S. H. Colton, for the Hawley Apple, 1 00
It should be borne in mind that in some instances where premiums have
been awarded to single varieties, there may have been better plates of the
same varieties in larger collections to which premiums are awarded, but under
the rules of the Society these specimens could not be credited with a second
premium.

GRATUITIES.

Samuel Ellsworth, thirty-nine varieties, Gratuity, $2 00

Mrs. Geo, A. Chamberlain, eleven varieties, Gratuity, 2 00

We have collections, other than those, for which premiums have been
awarded, of a considerable number of varieties respectively, and of various
degrees of merit, and some of the contributions that were smallest in number
were of superior excellence ; but the Committee thought it not necessary to in-
clude the entire list of names in the report.

In Mrs. C. W. Hamilton's collection of twenty-five varieties, there is a Rus-
sian apple named TetotFsky, remarkable for its beauty, and believed to be of
superior merit as an early dessert apple, though it was doubted by one or two
experienced members of the Committee whether this apple is rightly named.

EDWIN CONANT,

Chairman, for the Committee.

REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES AND QUINCES.

RuFUS Woodward, Chairman; B. Butman, D. Waldo Lincoln, John C.
Ripley, Francis H. Devvet, Horatio Phelps, of Worcester ; Paul Whitin,
of Whitinsville, and F. M. Marble, of Grafton.

The Committee on Grapes, Peaches, Plums and Quinces, having attended to
their duty, beg leave to offer the following Report :

GRAPES.
For best collection, grown under glass, P. L. Moen, the Society's plate,

valued at $10 00

1868.] REPORT ON GRAPES, PEACHES AND QUINCES. 11

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, , $8 00

For the third best, Wm. T. Merrifield, 4 GO

For the best collection of out-door grapes, not less than six varieties,

J. C. Lovell, of West Boylston, 5 00

For the second best, John E. Harrington, of Millbury, 8 00

For the best specimen of thorough-ripe Delaware, T. M. Lamb, 2 00

For the best specimen of thorough-ripe Diana, John C. Whitin, of Whi-

tlnsville, 2 00

For the best specimen of thorough-ripe Hartford Prolific, Horatio

Phelps, 2 00

For the best specimen of thorough-ripe lona, T. M. Lamb, 2 00

For the best two clusters of Black Hamburg, and for thorough-ripe Isa-
bella, Concord, Adiroudac, Creveling and Rebecca, no award.
A Gratuity of two dollars is recommended to F. M. Marble, of Grafton, for
grapes grown under glass. One dollar to Horatio Phelps, for Northern Mus-
cadine. One dollar to T. M. Lamb, for Israella.

PEACHES.

For the largest and best collection, Asa H. Allen, of Shrewsbury, $8 00

For the second best, no award

For the best two varieties, Ivers Phillips, 3 00

For the second best two varieties, Newell Wood, of Millbury, 2 00

For the best one variety, Samuel Smith, 2 00

For the second best one variety, R. N. Merriam, 1 00

A Gratuity of two dollars is recommended to Wm. Howe, of Millbury ;
one dollar to John E. Harrington, of Millbury, and one dollar to Francis
McCracken, of Millbury, for creditable specimens.

QUINCES.

For the best collection, Mrs. Geo. A. Chamberlain, $4 00

For the best twelve orange quinces, Daniel Tainter, .,. 3 00

For the best twelve of any other kind, C. W. Hamilton, (Pear,) 2 00

And a Gratuity of one dollar to Adams Foster, of Holden, for creditable
specimens.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

RUFUS WOODWARD,

Chairman, for the Committee.

12 WORCESTER COFNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c.

John Milton Earle, Chairman ; Geo. E. Francis, Charles Richardson,
David S. Messinger, J. M. C. Armsby, Henry Woodward.

The Committee on Plants, Flowers, &c., respectfully Report :
That four of the members originally appointed thereon failed to report to the
call for that service. The Chairman was obliged to call on the Trustees for
substitutes. The vacancies being partially filled, the Committee, consisting of
John Milton Earle, Chairman, Geo. E. Francis, David S. Messinger, and
Samuel Flagg, proceeded to their examination, with the following results :

They award —
For the best twenty variegated-leaved plants, Wm. T. Merrifield, the

Society's Plate, valued at $15 00

For the largest and best collection of Greenhouse plants, Wm. T. Merri-
field, the Society's Plate, valued at 10 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, 7 00

For the third best, P. L. Moen, 5 00

For the best specimen plant, Wm. T. Merrifield, 3 00

The magnificent Maranta Zebrina, in the collection of variegated

plants of Stephen Salisbury, is an exceedingly fine one, and had a

second premium been offered, it would have been most deservingly

awarded thereto.

For the best floral design, Mrs. Luther H. Bigelow, the Society's Plate,

valued at 6 00

And recommend a Gratuity of one dollar to Mrs. Adolphus Washburn,
of Millbury, for her moss basket of flowers ; and alike sum to Mrs.
C. W. Hamilton, for her beautifully arranged design of Verbenas
and Cut Flowers.
For the best collection of Cut Flowers, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, the Socie-
ty's Plate, valued at 6 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, 4 00

For the third best, Wm. T. Merrifield, 2 00

For the best single Stand, no award

For the best arranged dish of Cut Flowers, Mrs, Daniel Tainter, 2 00

For the best Hanging Basket, plants to have been growing therein at

least one month, Wm. T. Merrifield, 2 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, 1 00

1868.] REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, AC. 13

These baskets were made up mostly of Ferns and kindred plants, and
your Committee were somewhat in doubt whether they strictly ac-
corded with the intention of the ofFer. As there were no other com-
petitors for the premium, we deemed it proper to construe the offer
liberally, and have awarded accordingly.

For the best pair of Parlor Bouquets, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 3 00

For the second best, Mrs. Luther H. Bigelow, 2 00

For the best pair of Hand Bouquets, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 2 00

No Roses were offered for premium.

For the best twelve kinds of named Gladiolus, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 3 00

For the second best, John Milton Earle, 2 00

A very splendid display of imported and seedling varieties of this beau-
tiful and favorite flower, was made by Mr. George Craft, of Brook-
line, but not being a resident of the County, he could not compete
for a preminm. We therefore recommend a Gratuity be given him

equal to the first premium of 3 00

For Dahlias, Mrs. Jonas Brown, of Wilkinsonville, 3 00

No competitor appeared for the other premiums.

For the best display of Asters, Mrs. Geo. Estabrook, 3 00

For the second best, Wm. T. Merrifield 2 00

They recommend a Gratuity of one dollar to Miss Susan E. Chamberlain
for her collection, in which the combination of colors was so ar-
ranged as to produce a very decided effect.
Of Verbenas, Pansies, Hollyhocks, Carnations, and Picotees, (the latter
being out of season,) no collections were offered which the Com-
mittee deemed worthy of a premium.

For the best display of Pinks, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 2 00

Respectfully submitted.

J. M. EARLE,

Chairman, for tJie Committee

3

14 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

REPORT ON PEARS.

Hartley Williams, Chairman; J. Henry Hilt,, Henry Phelps, Ste-
phen S. Foster, John C. Newton, Emory Banister, James Draper, John
Green, of Worcester ; and John F. Johnson, of NortKborough.

The Committee on Pears having attended to the duty assigned them, beg
leave to submit the following Report :

It is a matter of deep regret to all interested in the culture of this most valu-
able fruit that our tables at the present exhibition indicate so great inferiority
in quality and diminution of quantity of the crop, as compared with the exhi-
bitions of former years. We miss from our list of contributors the names of
many of our most successful cultivators of the pear — those who on former oc-
casions have presented some of the very best specimens, and in largest variety.
The absence of their contributions does not arise from any lack of interest in
our exhibitions, or a diminished zeal in this particular branch of Horticulture,
but from the fact that their crop has proved a failure, and they have no fruit
worthy of a place upon your tables.

It is, however, a cause of congratulation that, notwithstanding the season
has been so unfavorable, we yet have a very creditable display — that the con-
tributions are so large, and that there is so much of excellence worthy of com-
mendation.

Your Committee are of opinion that it would be greatly for the interest of
the Society if the annual exhibition should be held later in the season, say the
first week in October. The greater portion of the fruit and vegetables here on
exhibition is unripe and immature. The exhibition is not only less attractive,
and far inferior to what it would be if held at the time indicated, but the loss
to those who make large contributions is too serious not to attract attention,
and call for a remedy. Those too, who have small gardens or orchards, are
unwilling to harvest their crop, or any considerable portion of it, in an nnripe
and nearly valueless state. Your Committee commend this subject as one
worthy the careful consideration of the Society.

The Committee award the following premiums :
For the best twenty varieties of twelve specimens each, 1st class, Stephen

S. Foster, the Society's Plate, valued at .$15 00

For the second best, S. H. Colton, 10 00

For the best fifteen varieties of twelve specimens each, 2d class, D.

Waldo Lincoln, the Society's Plate, valued at 8 00

For the second best, James Draper, 6 00

1868.]

REPORT ON PEARS.

15

For the best tea varieties of twelve specimens each, 3d class, F. M.

Marble, of Grafton, the Society's Plate, valued at $6 00

For the second best, Adams Foster, of Holden, 4 00

For the best five varieties of twelve specimens each, 4th class, John C

Ripley,.. 4 00

For the second best, John W. Lincoln, 2 00

For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears, on one dish, E. M. Banning, 1 00

For the best twelve Bartlett, Wm. Y. Holman, 1 00

" Duchesse d'Angouleme, William Howe, of Millbury, 2 00

" Louise Bonne de Jersey, J.E.Phelps, 1 00

" Sheldon, George Jaques, 1 00

" Beurre Bosc, E. L. Brigham, 1 00

" Flemish Beauty, Alfred Wyman, 1 00

" Beurre d'Anjou, J. E. Phelps, 100

" Winter Nelis, James Draper, 2 00

" Doyenne du Comice, E. L. Brigham, 1 00

" Doyenne Boussock, John C. Whitin, Whitinsville,... 1 00
They also recommend the payment of the following Gratuities :

To James F. Allen, for his plate of De Tongres, $1 00

To P. L. Moen, for his plate of Beurre Bosc, 1 00

To Geo. R. Peckham, for his plate of Beurre Diel, 1 00

To Stephen Salisbury, for his plate of Beurre Bosc, 1 00

To D. S. Goddard, for his collection, 2 00

To Samuel V. Stone, for his collection, 2 00

To Ivers Phillips, for his collection, 50

To E. F. Champney, of Grafton, for his collection, 50

Respectfully submitted.

HARTLEY WILLIAMS,

Chairman, for the Committee.

16 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

REPORT ON VEGETABLES.

Henry Chapik, Chairman ; H.G.White, Thomas R. Norcross, J. D.
LovELL, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester; Josiah L. Woodward, of Mill-
bury, and George Cruikshank, of Korthbridge.

The Committee on Vegetables have attended to their multifarious duties, and
submit the following Report :

"Vegetable in its widest sense," according to Worcester's Dictionary, "is a
term which includes all the productions of the vegetable kingdom — all which
are treated of in the science of Botany, from the largest trees to the common
moss." The duties of the Committee are not co-extentive with Vegetable in
its widest sense, but are limited to those vegetables which, "as the term is com-
monly used are such plants as are cultivated for the table." In other words,
the committee have in hand that part of the vegetable kingdom which relates
to good eating, and the display was truly tempting in its appearance. Seldom,
if ever, has there been at any exhibition of the Society, so fine a display of
vegetables for the table, and the contributors must have looked with pride and
pleasure upon the products of their labors.

Good vegetables are essential to a first-class meal. The connexion between
the cook and the vegetables is so intimate that it is not easy to separate them,
because although a poor cook can hardly make a palatable dish from good ma-
terials, a good cook will make any decent article of food comparatively accept-
able. Blessed is that family in which a good cook and good vegetables pre-
dominate.

If there is any one thing more pleasant than eating vegetables, it is raising
them. The committee have no sympathy with the view of the lazy wag who
declared that all he saved in working in his garden was spent for liniment, because
they see in the culture and improvement of these domestic luxuries, something
which is attractive in itself and gratifying in its results. Nothing pays more
readily for care and attention than the garden. The unfolding of every leaf, and
the growth and development of each fruit and flower, are the ready and grateful
response to intelligent care and cultivation. The sterile field becomes fruitful
with verdure. The quality of each article becomes partially changed in its
character. The coarse western red potato becomes the rich and luscious Ber-
muda, merely as the result of a change of climate and in the mode of cultiva-
tion ; and the culture of the vegetables of the earth, like the culture of the
mmds of our children, brings home a rich harvest of growth and beauty.

The Committee have instructed the Chairman to submit the following list of
premiums and gratuities for the consideration of the Society. They award —
For the best display, Stephen Salisbury, the Society's Plate, valued at... $10 00

For the second best, Alden H. Sears, 8 00

For the third best, Sylvanus Sears, 4 00

1868.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 17

For the best three pure Canada Crook-neck Squashes, F. J. Kinney,.... $1 00

For the best three Marrow Squashes, Alden H. Sears, 1 00

For the best three Mammoth Squashes, George Crompton, 1 00

For the best three Turban Squashes, Stephen S. Foster, 1 00

For the best three Yokohama Squashes, John W. Lincoln, 1 00

For the best three Savoy Cabbages, Isaac Mills, 2 00

For the best single specimen, F.J.Kinney, 1 00

For the best three Drumhead Cabbages, Charles Nash, 2 00

For the best single specimen Red Cabbage, George Crompton, 1 00

For the best single specimen Cauliflowers, Frederic Hancock, 1 00

For the best twelve ears Sweet Corn, Adams Foster 1 00

For the best twelve Parsnips, George Crompton, 1 00

For the best twelve Long Carrots, George Crompton, 1 00

For the best twelve Long Beets, P. L. Moen, 1 00

For the best twelve White French Turnips, F. J. Kinney, 1 00

For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel, James Draper, 1 00

For the best twelve Tilden Tomato, Mrs, A. D. Foster, 1 00

For the best twelve Lester, Charles Richardson, 1 00

For the best twelve Cook's Favorite, Alden H. Sears, 1 00

For the best twelve of any other variety. Miss Susan Chamberlain, 1 00

For the best collection of Potatoes, of not less than a half peck of each
variety, and comprising at least three of the Goodrich Seedlings,

C. A. Lovell, the Society's Plate, valued at, 6 00

For the best collection of Tomatoes, of not less than six varieties, and
not less than twelve of each variety, accompanied by a satisfactory
statement in writing, tending to show the relative earliness, and
value of the several kinds, Charles Richardson, the Society's Plate,

valued at 6 00

GRATUITIES.

To George S. Coe, for collection of Potatoes, $2 00

To J. C. Lovell, for collection of Potatoes, 1 00

To S. S. Foster, for Hubbard Squashes, 1 00

To P. L. Moen, for collection of Vegetables, 1 00

To Master Freddie E. Kelley, for collection, 2 00

To Master Eben F. Champney, of Saundersville, for collection, 1 00

To Simon C. Fisher, for Squashes and Pumpkins, 1 00

To Chas. Nash, for Tomatoes, 1 00

Other contributions might properly receive a favorable notice in this report,
but the Committee gave no special instructions to their Chairman in reference,
to that subject.

In behalf of the Committee,

HENRY CHAPIN, Chairman,

18 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

ANNUAL REPORT

EDWARD W. LINCOLl^, Secretary and Librarian.

To the Members of the Worcester County Horticultural Society :

Twenty-eight years have now elapsed since the enactment and acceptance of
the charter of this Society, plainly and explicitly declared by the languao;e of
the act to be ''for the purpose of advancing the science, and encouraging and
improving the practice of Horticulture," It would be unprofitable to waste your
time and exact your attention by an inquiry into the precise measure of success
that has crowned the efforts of the members. The most cursory observation of
the present development of floriculture and pomology, throughout the city and
county, as contrasted with their condition in 1842, will suffice to demonstrate
that these exertions were not wholly fruitless. But, for a long period of time,
we were aided by the fostering proximity and sympathy of the Worcester Agri-
cultural Society.

The multitudes that attended the exhibitions upon the Common were attracted
by identity of interest and congeniality of pursuit to our own, at that date hum-
ble, room. Our members and theirs, essentially the same, were enabled to
exchange experience, and by inquiry and comparison, to derive benefit from
the rich fruits of experiment and toil, which were thus submitted for notice.
The mere farmer could not fail to see that there might be improvement in the
garden and orchard ; while the busy denizen of the city was taught by his own
senses that the animal kingdon was constantly ransacked for whatever was
shapeliest and most useful, and that the search had not been idle.

But, in August, 1852, precisely ten years after the incorporation of the Hor-
ticultural, the Agricultural Society was compelled by the growth of the city and
the consequent impracticability of longer holding its exhibitions upon the Com-
mon, to procure a new and permanent location. With that view a portion of
the present tract upon Highland Street, was purchased, and, in October, 1853,
the ground first occupied for the annual cattle show. Agricultural Hall was
built in 1855 ; as one result of which construction, until quite recently, another
exhibition of fruits and vegetables, distinct from and opposed to, if smaller than
our own, was regularly announced and held.

\ ^ ^.. ''^;

1868.1 secretary's report. \ O " J9 V:_

Meanwhile, however, and prior to the departure of the Agricultutel Society- '^
from the Common, our own labors had not been intermitted. ThrougnSij^ivid- " -^
ual liberality, and by the expenditure of the close savings of past years,
trustees were enabled to secure the lot of land and to erect the building which
constitute the property of the Society.

Passing from this review, which was absolutely essential to a correct compre-
hension of our position, it is the opinion of your secretary, based upon personal
observation and official knowledge, that the aims and purposes of these two so-
cieties, with every motive to harmonious co-operation and union, and which
ought never to be antagonistic, are steadily and surelv becoming diverse and
alien. For a few years subsequent to the erection of our building, the throng
upon the Common was also a crowd in our hall. It matters not that the
attractions were different. All were useful in their way ; and none of So little
advantage, that even the simplest and most casual inspection should but attract
greater attention and enure to ulterior profit. But, since 1855, all this has been
gradually changing, — and for the worse ! It is true that by dint of elaborate
appeals and great personal exertion, our exhibitions have not been entirely de-
serted. "The old guard may die ; it never surrenders."

Many recruits have consented to share our fortunes. But to a remarkable ex-
tent is this latter class composed of women and children, whose countenance is
ever desirable,but whose co-operation is not always so effective. The pomologists
of the county have not held their own. The attendance of those who either are,
or should be, engaged in the culture of orchards, diminishes annually. Has
not the time come for this society to determine how far the paucity of contri-
butions and the noticeable decrease of visitors are but the natural, inevitable
relations of effect and cause ? And, should such be the case, to inquire if noth-
ing can be done to arrest this tendency, and to avert the apparent and other-
wise speedy progress from decay to dissolution ?

Your secretary feels it his duty to state that, after much reflection, and taking
into consideration the present and prospective condition of both societies, he
cannot resist the conviction that some method should be devised whereby the
annual exhibitions of one should be more generally accessible and visible to the
members of the other. There are those, not few in number, who advocate the
consolidation or re-uuion of the two corporations, contending that "Mahomet
must go to to the mountain if the mountain will not come lo Mahomet." Their
argument briefly set forth, is, that if, by reason of superior attraction, partial
repulsion or latent aversion, the manhood of the county should be driven from
us, the womanhood will, in the order of nature, follow in the same track. That
while comity, even stronger than a sense of expediency, may restrain the par-
ent association from direct competition with us, in our especial province, yet we
can have no guaranty of the permanence of such feeling; while the possibility of
its change to our disadvantage cannot be safely dismissed from our calculations
for the future. The recent signal success of the Agricultural Society, in its
appeal to the public for patronage aud support in its bold enterprise, involving

20 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868,

as it did so much of labor and outlay, are adduced as ample vindication of the
wisdom of those who projected and achieved the enlargement of its grounds and
operations.

Your secretary never wavered in his faith that similar good fortune wt)uld
attend us, in the change of location and the construction of a more eligible
hall, as recommended in his later reports. You are all aware that the capacity
of our hall is limited, and that its proportions could scarcely be enlarged, save
by upright erection. The recent acquisition of land in the rear of the build-
ing, although eminently wise in itself, cannot, for an obvious reason, be profit-
ably employed for the purposes of construction. Possessing, then, just so
much space, receiving annually precisely so much patronage, if, indeed, it does
not diminish, will you consent longer simply to vegetate ? The policy, formerly
suggested by your secretary, did not meet your approbation. He has consoled
himself since by reflecting that the measure of acceptation that may be ac-
corded to an idea is sometimes in inverse ratio to its merit.

If consolidation is beneficial to other corporations, why, it is argued, should
it not prove advantageous to societies engaged, as are the Agricultural and our
own, in kindred pursuits ? A reunion, it is suggested, would constitute us a
vital portion of one large and powerful organization, unequalled in numbers,
and only surpassed in pecuniary resources by the Horticultural Society of Mas-
sachusetts. Such an organization could, as it ought, aflPord inducements for
experiments and improvements. It could, as it should, encourage the introduc-
tion and domestication of new vegetables, fruits and flowers, aye, even of ani-
mals. It would be able, and being able might be disposed, to compensate,
however inadequately, much service upon committees and elsewhere, that is
now grudgingly repaid in thanks. Its membership would be sought, as confer-
ring dignity upon its possessor, and might therefore be appreciated at its proper
value. Its offices could be filled without the actual coercion that is now re-
quired, or the direct appeals to public spirit or local pride that have hitherto
proved indispensible. The two societies, in their separate existence, have done
much to develope throughout the county a love for the beautiful and useful in
nature. The town clubs, which have so multiplied of late, have deepened and
widened this influence in their several localities. But what limit can be as-
signed to the power and capacity for usefulness of a society which should con-
centrate within itself all that wealth and zeal and energy, and direct them with
a single aim and a deliberate purpose ?

A re-union would not necessitate a removal of the Library to Agricultural
Hall. Were such to be the result, this society should not entertain the propo-
sition for a moment. If the present room could not be retained, future exemp-
tion from taxation would supply the means for the hire of another in possibly a
more eligible location. The Public Library of the city of Worcester will soon
outgrow its accommodations. Upon the construction of a new and more suit-
able edifice, space might be spared for us. The weekly exhibitions could con-
tinue uninterrupted.

1868.] secretary's report. 21

Some of you may incline to the opinion that the location is too remote. To
such I would commend a view of the city from Newton Hill. From that com-
manding eminence, itself an object of beauty to the horticulturist, let them
behold the rapid growth of the municipality, stretching out its arms and fast
encircling Agricultural Park in a closer embrace. Let them be made aware,
if not already cognizant of the fact, that Oread Hill is nigher that Park than
is Lincoln Square. And yet, gentlemen, my opinion is decided that, in the
event of a re-union being determined upon, Agricultural Hall should be re-
moved to the easterly side of the grounds ; should be materially enlarged and
thoroughly adapted to its new uses ; and, more essential than all, that access
to it should be from Sever street.

Your secretary, in violation of tbe promise of bre^dty with which he com-
menced, has thus set forth the reasons brought forward by those who favor the
re-union of the two societies. So far as they tend to give a wider expansion to
our own sphere of usefulness, by displaying to multitudes who now never see
them, the fruits of our experiments and labors, thereby awakening emulation,
and to a greater degree realizing the intention of this Society, they commend
themselves to his judgment. But it must not be disguised that the objections
are serious, perhaps insurmountable. Our property is valuable, well invested,
steadily appreciating, and substantially unencumbered. In many of these par-
ticulars, perhaps the Agricultural Society might claim equality. But they
labor, and must for years, under the incubus of an indebtedness that cannot
fail to cramp their actions and materially diminish their usefulness. They
must depend entirely upon their receipts for admission, a reliance which hitherto
has not failed them, but in which an inopportune and severe storm would essen-
tially shake their faith. Our own Hall, on the other hand, yields a handsome
income, from which the expenses of our ordinary operations and the sum of our
premiums may be defrayed.

The gravest objection to a consolidation or re-union, however, is to be found
in the somewhat anomalous character which the Agricultural Society appears
to be assuming. Our place would be appropriate enough, anywhere, in an ex-
hibition purely of terrte-culture. But whether we should "advance the science
and improve the practice of horticulture" by occupying a seat in a trottinw
sulky, is a problem too profound for the astuteness of your secretary. That we
might be invited to that entertainment, is certainly within the bounds of possi-
bility.

It has also been proposed, by some of our active and judicious members,
that we try the experiment of holding an exhibition, concurrent with that of
the Agricultural Society, that corporation supplying the room and our own as-
suming the risk. The only objection to this, in the mind of your secretary,
would arise from the present location of Agricultural Hall.

The whole matter is commended to your serious attention as one worthy of
the gravest consideration. Your secretary has spent much thought and time
upon it, and has been unable to attain a satisfactory conclusion. That our own

4

22 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

society is uot, however, at present accomplishing the purposes of its founders,
appears to him capable of demonstration. That it should at least make an
efifort so to do probably few will deny. For himself, he can only say that, while
willing to labor in the place to which he has been assigned by your partiality,
so long as he can be of use, he wishes it distinctly understood that he cannot
continue the figure head of an organization that will not prove true to its mis-
sion. He would, however, respectfully suggest that the Trustees be advised to
adopt the following resolution :

Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed with instructions to consider
the subject of the present condition of this Society as affecting the objects and
pursuits for which it was founded ; that the said committee confer with any
committee that may be appointed to meet them by the Trustees of the Worces-
ter Agricultural Society, to the end that, after mutual consultation, it may be
determined if any restoration of the ancient relations of the two Societies shall
be desirable, expedient or practicable ; and that said committee on the part of
this Society make report of their action to a special meeting to be called here-
after for its consideration.

The operations of the Society throughout the summer call for no extended
remark. The weekly meetings in that season, as during the entire year that
has just elapsed, have fluctuated in attraction and attendance. The show of
Roses and Strawberries, which has been continued since 1864, was of unusual
excellence. But it is only doing justice to the community, for whose instruc-
tion and delight these exhibitions were initiated, to state that they appear to
awaken the least possible interest. And it will be a question well worth con-
sidering in 1869 whether these exhibitions, if continued, may not be advanta-
geously held in the library instead of the main hall.

But two dishes of Currants were shown, by as many contributors, in the whole
season. The worm has done its work effectually. Of the two lots exhibited,
that of your secretary was secured by a free use of air-slaked lime, which is
proved to be a certain, though not particularly ornamental safeguard. The
currants of Mr. Joseph E. Phelps, superior as they were in every respect, owed
their preservation to the use of white hellebore, which has been tested the past
season with signal and unvarying success. Its great cost, however, is an ob-
jection to its general use. In Mr. Phelps' method of application it is believed
by your secretary that this evil of expense is obviated. He uses it in solution,
in the proportion of three tablespoonfuls to a bucket of water, and remarks
that the worms "drop as if shot." Should this mode of applying hellebore ap-
prove itself, upon further trial, to be as effectual as it was found by Mr. Phelps
that gentleman would seem entitled to claim the special premium offered by the
Trustees. It is but an act of simple justice, however, to add that, for this purse
there may be competition. Your secretary has received a communication from
William T. Harris, gardener to George Cromptou, Esq., from which the fol-
lowing important extract is taken for your information :

"Take whale oil soap, dissolved at the rate of 5 lbs. to 15 gallons of water.
Let the soap be dissolved first in boiling water, 1 quart to a pound, and when
thoroughly dissolved add the cold water, (§oft water is best,) after which, with

1868.]

SECRETARY S REPORT.

23

a syringe or watering pot, apply it to the trees or bushes affected. Use a rose
upon the syringe and be sure that all parts of the leaves are well saturated with
the liquid. What falls to the ground will aid in destroying the worms which
have been washed off, as well as enrich the soil. The cost is trifling when
compared with other receipts, and infinitely more effectual, as two or at most
three applications are enough through all the season. Neither dcxo nor rain
affect it. In addition to the above, I strongly recommend a slight covering of
gas-lime, say half an inch thick, strewn under and around each tree or bush of
currant or gooseberry very early in spring, before the leaf appears, as the
effluvia from gas-lime is highly offensive to all the moth tribe. I tried it in
Cambridge two years since, and I was not troubled with a moth or caterpillar
for the season, although my neighbors were in an awful plight."

It will be observed by the above that Mr. Harris varies from the formula of
the late Mr. Haggerston in increasing the proportion of whale oil soap to water
as one in three is to one in seven. Of course neither Mr. Phelps nor Mr. Har-
ris pretend to have originated the employment of the hellebore or soap. And
it should also be added that neither of these gentlemen have made any claim
whatever upon this Society. But they do think that they have discovered im-
proved methods — the one of application and the other of proportion, whereby
the objects which the Trustees had in view in the proposal of a premium, may
be more cheaply and effectually obtained than in any other known way. The
subject is commended to your attention, with the suggestion that the experi-
ments of members, thus enlightened, during the next season, may afford such
facts as to guide you in doing equal and exact justice.

A table of entries, or number of articles of each variety, exhibited during
the past official year, exclusive of those displayed at the annual autumnal exhi-
bition, is herewith submitted :

COMPARATIVE STATEMENT.

Anno Domini.

1862.,
1863.,
1864.
1865.
1866.
1867.
1868.

29
44
36
48
23
43
37

<=a

O) OJ r- .£! tn

^ -r ^ oi oj

;^ S i^ t^ p. "t;

c« u t. o ci "^

rt^ 3 o u

98
83
79
104
151
112
132

w

•

<a

cc

c3

C^

a

<

;^

160

512

366

374

140

184

41

161

38

292

51

264

111

120

'^

632

616
1008
1643

811
1716

807

1431
1483
1447
1997
1315
2186
1207

The Library has received constant accretion, both from donation and pur-
chase. To Hon. Andrew H. Green, of New York, and Charles L. Flint, the
accomplished secretary of the Board of Agriculture of Massachusetts, our

24 W0KCE8TER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

thanks are particularly due. The latter gentleman is entitled to especial ac-
knowledgment for the gift of some thirty volumes of "Transactions" of the
agricultural societies of different commonwealths throughout our widely ex-
tended confederacy.

The condition of the library in itself, furnishes no theme for laudation.
Owing to the inadequacy of space at his command, the librarian is constrained
to place books where he can — not as he would. It may be said that the remedy
is obvious enough ; to procure more cases. But it must be remembered that
the room in which the library is located is required as an adjunct to the hall
when not in our actual use, and that its convenience, not to speak of its symmetry
might be essentially impaired by any misappropriation of space. Nevertheless
something must be done at once. The librarian submits the matter to the
judgment of the society, failing to discern any solution of the difficulty under
the present construction of the hall.

The use of the volumes has been constant. It should be borne in mind that
the number of books taken out, from week to week, affords no precise esti-
mate of the benefits of the library. Probably equal, if not superior advantage
is derived by members who improve the successive Thursday afternoons for the
purpose of consultation and study. The usual comparative table is submitted,
to illustrate the extent to which the privilege of circulation has been improved :

In 1862, J14 volumes.

" 1863, 133

" 1864, 179

" 1865, 318

" 1866, 387

" 1867, 470

" 1868,... 580

A list of the additions to the library during the official year that has just
expired, is herewith furnished :

Florist and Pomologist, 1 vol. 8vo., 1866. London; society.

" " " " 1867, •' "

British Ferns, &c., &c., 1 vol. ISmo., London ; society.

" Butterflies, " " " "

Cattle; Breed, Management, Diseases, 1 vol. 16mo.; society.
Cranberry; Manual of, Eastwood, " " "

Dogs ; Origin and Varieties, Richards, " " "

Pigeon Book, The, by R. P. Brent, London, " "

Revue Horticole, 1 vol. 8vo., 1866, Paris ; society.

" " " " 1867, " "

Journal of Horticulture, 1866, 2 vols, quarto, London; society.

" " 1867, " " " "

Agricultural Department, Report of, 1866 , Hon. J. D. Baldwin,
Massachusetts Horticultural Society, Trans, for 1867 ; from Secretary.

1868.]

SECRETARY S REPORT.

25

American Agricultural Annual, 1867, 1 vol. 8vo.; society.

" Horticultural " " " " "

Gardener's Monthly, 1867, 1 vol. quarto ; society.
Horticulturist, The, " " 8vo. "

American Journal of Horticulture, 1867, 2 vols., 8vo.; society.
Hovey's Magazine, 1867, 1 vol. 8vo.; society.
American Agriculturist, 1867, 1 vol. quarto ; society.
Country Gentleman, 1867, 2 vols., quarto ; society.
New England Farmer, 1867, 1 vol. 8vo.; society.
Illinois State Horticultural Society, Transactions of, 1867, 1 vol. 8vo. ; W. C.

Evergreens, Book of, by Josiah Hooper, 1 vol. 8vo.; society.

11th Annual Report, Board of Com'rs N. Y. Central Park ; Hon. A. H. Green.

Pigeons ; Varieties, Treatment, &c., by Tegetmeier, Royal 8vo.; society.

American Naturalist, vol. 1, 1867, 8vo.; society.

Maine; Agriculture of, 1861, 1 vol. 8vo.; C. L. Flint,
u u iggg^ u u a

u u 1864, " " "

a a 1865, " " "

a u 1866, " « "

Massachusetts ; Agriculture of, 1864, — 1 vol. 8vo.; C. L. Flint.

" " 1865-6 " " "

u u 1867-8 " " "

Connecticut; " 1866 " " "
New York; Trans, of State Ag. Society, 1863, 1 vol. 8vo.; C. L. Flint.

a u u a 1864, " "

u it u u 1865, " "

u a u a 1866, " "

American Institute ; Transactions of, 1863, " "

" " " 1864, " "

" " " 1865-6, " "

Ohio ; Agricultural Report, 1863, " "

u u u 1865^ " <i

" « » 1866, " "

Michigan; Report Board of Agriculture, 1865, " "

" " " " 1866, " "

Missouri ; Agricultural Report, 1866, " "

Illinois ; Trans, of State Ag. Society, 1861-2-3-4, 1 vol. 8vo.; C. L. Flint.

During the past year, but more especially of late months, complaints of
depredations upon the gardens and orchards of members of the Society have
been loud and of increasing frequency. In two instances, where thefts of
fruit were followed by swift detection and conviction, the reward formerly
authorized by the Trustees to be paid in such cases, has inadequately remuner-
ated the vigilance of the police. It is respectfully suggested to the Society,

26 WORCESTER COFNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1868.

that the Trustees be advised to continue that authority to the secretary ; and
that the latter officer be instructed to increase the amount of the reward if*
upon consultation with the president, it shall seem expedient.

The old method of publishing the schedule of premiums for the annual
autumnal exhibition of the Society, by circular to the members, was continued
for the year just elapsed. The opinion of your secretary relative thereto, has
been often stated. If it is desired to hold out inducements to become contrib-
utors, only to the existing members, that mode may well fulfil the purpose.
Should it, however, appear expedient or wise to foster competition, it would
perhaps tend materially to that end were you to diffuse the knowledge of your
liberality among those who are now kept in ignorance of your proffered wel-
come, and have no means of learning the extent or direction of your bounty.
This subject is urgently commended to your attention.

The substitution of silver plate for money upon the premium schedule of the
Society, as advised by your secretary in his last annual report, was first at-
tempted at the annual autumnal exhibition in September. The satisfaction
with which this innovation was received will invite and justify its establishment
into a custom. And, in this connection, your secretary would take this oppor-
tunity of acknowledging the valuable assistance of Dr. Samuel Flagg, not
merely in the ordinary arrangements of the floral department of the exhibition,
but in the selection of appropriate and tasteful articles of plate. Of this duty
he cheerfully assumed the exclusive charge, and the entire credit for its faith-
ful execution belongs to him alone. Some more substantial testimonial would
seem to be his due.

In concluding his report, your secretary may be pardoned for trespassing a
moment longer upon your attention. If his labors in the cause of horticulture
in the service of this Society, have approved themselves of the slightest worth,
it must be attributed to an example that has been before him from his earliest
memory. One of his first recollections is of the pride which he felt in being
allowed to pick the Antwerp raspberry, then just introduced. He can vividly
recall his youthful ambition that, neither in quantity nor neatness should the
measure which he gathered derogate from that abundant hospitality which a
few of you are old enough to remember. To his mind the vision is still vivid
of the ample lawn with its fragrance and beauty of flower and shrub ; of the
garden, more especially devoted to the worship of Flora ; of the orchard, in
which the apple and pear, the cherry and peach, shamed by their bounteous
profusion our modern degeneracy or indolence. A profusion that never failed
at homestead or farm ; proving itself equal to the constant supply of a large
family as to the frequent exigencies of the entertainment of a trained band or
the committees of our parent Society. Those were the days when the Dix and
St. Michael were in their glory ; when the Black Tartarian never decayed ;
when Cooledge's Favorite and the later Rareripes could be had for the trouble
of picking. No borers troubled the Gravenstein ; nature had not been cursed
with the Codlinii; moth : even the Curculio icas not.

1868.] secretary's report. 27

Others have referred in terms of eulogy to the civilian, the statesman, the
gentleman.* The proprieties of the occasion confine me to our own restricted
field. And even in that, it were needless to remind you of his ever active in-
terest in the culture and development of new varieties of flowers and fruit, or
of the zest with which he partook of them, commenting upon and analyzing
closely their nicest shades of flavor. Upon the removal of the library to this
hall you will remember how punctually he attended the meetings that were then
inaugurated, and the earnestness and freshness with which, at the advanced age
of eighty years, he enlivened your discussions. That interest was manifested
to the very last. He seldom failed to inquire what was displayed upon our
tables. He never evinced indifference to the growth and welfare of the Society.
In his later sickness, choice specimens, for which your secretary was so often
indebted to the kindness of those who will respect the intention and pardon the
poverty of these words, were a source of gratification alike to the eye and taste.
For, gentlemen. Flora and Pomona, at whose altars he had so long minis-
tered, and in whose honor he had done so much, in their turn ministered unto
him. When nature, wearied with the burden of years, flagged within him, they
soothed his fainting spirit — revived his declining frame.

He was one of your original members. A steady friend and benefactor.
That society is indeed rich that can drop such names from its roll of living
associates without experiencing a sense of almost hopeless desolation.
All which is respectfully submitted.

EDWARD W. LINCOLN,

Secretary and Librarian.
Horticultural Hall, '

Worcester, Mass., Nov. 4th, A. D. 1868.

*The late Governor Liacoln.

TRANSACTIONS

Woroegter 8ountj Horticultural Sooietj,

FOE THE YEAE 1869.

COMPRISING THE

ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT; THE REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES

OF THE SOCIETY; AND THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE

SECRETARY AND LIBRARIAN FOR 1869.

From EDWARD W. LINCOLN, Secretary.

WORCESTER:

PRINTED BY EDWARD R. FISKE, MECHANIC STREET.

187 0.

GENERAL INDEX.

Committees and ExMbition 3

Address of Hon. Francis H. Dewey, President, (Sept. 23, 1869.) 5

Report ou Apples, 9

Report on Grapes and other Fruits 11

Report on Pears, 16

Report on Plants, Flowers, &c 13

Report on Vegetables 17

Annual Report of E. W. Lincoln, Secretary and Librarian, 18

Officers of the Society for 1870, Last page of Cover.

AKKANGEMENTS AND EXHIBITIONS,

JOHN C. NEWTON, Chairman. Samuel Flagg, James Draper, Henry
Phelps, 0. B. Hadwen, Samuel H. Colton, Francis B. Rice, with the Pres-
ident and Secretary, ex officiis.

APPLES.

Elijah B. Stoddard, Cliairman. S. H. Colton, 0. B. Hadwen, J, Frank
Allen, J. S. Ballard, S. A. Knox, J. K. L. Pickford, of Worcester ; J. A.
Fayerweather, of Westborough ; Cyrus White, of Millbury; and Isaac B.
Hartwell, of Oxford.

GRAPES, PEACHES, &c.

Edwin Coxant, Chairman. George Jaques, S. V. Stone, T. M. Lamb,
Horatio Phelps, of Worcester; Paul Whitin, George Cruickshanks, of Whitins-
ville ; F. M. Marble, of Grafton ; and Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylston.

PEARS.

James Green, Jr., Chairman. J. Henry Hill, Henry Phelps, Edward
Earle, John C. Newton, S. S. Foster, James Draper, Francis B. Rice, S. Har-
rison Knox, of Worcester ; Newell Wood, of Millbury ; and John F. Johnson,
of Northborough.

PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c.

George E. Francis, Chairman. John Milton Earle, Clarendon Harris,
Charles Richardson, D. S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, C. Willard Hamilton,
and Henry A. Marsh, of Worcester.

VEGETABLES.

Henry L. Parker, Chairman. George A. Adams, Thomas R. Norcross,
J. D. Lovell, C. K. Hubbard, Rufus Carter, Daniel Bemis, and George G.
Burbank, of Worcester.

THE ANNUAL AUTUMNAL EXHIBITION

will commence at Mechanics Hall, in the City of Worcester, Mass., on Tues-
day, September 20th, at 6 o'clock, P. M., and close on Friday, September 23d,
at 9 o'clock, P. M.

ADDRESS

OF

HON. FRANCIS H. DEWEY,

PRESIDENT,
Delivered on Thursday Evening, Sept. 23d, 1869.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Worcester Cotinti/ Horticidtitral Society :

I am happy to congratulate you on the prosperous condition of our Society,
on this its Thirtieth Annual Exhibition. At no period of its existence have its
prospects for future usefulness been greater. The number of indivirfuals taking
an interest in the objects of the Society has been constantly increasing; and,
while great advances have been made in this vicinity in the qualities of the
fruit now cultivated, from that produced in the early history of the Society, vs^e
feel that this improvement is greatly owing to the information imparted by this
Society, and to the interest in the subject which it has aroused.

The pecuniary condition of the Society is highly satisfactory. It has been
constantly improving. Our valuable real estate gives us an annual rental of
$3000, after all reservations for our own use.

The mortgage on the property has been reduced last year $1,3.55, leaving
the balance due only $1,650.

In view of the improving pecuniary ability of the Society, the Trustees last
fall increased the amounts offered as premiums at the Annual Exhibition to the
sum of $800; and we have now abundant means still further to increase the
inducement of premiums if deemed best. While it is not expected that the
Society will offer such pecuniary inducements as will lead to the cultivation of
fruits, flowers, and vegetables, it is highly proper that our premiums should be
such as will afford an adequate compensation for the time and labor expended
in the gathering and transportation to the Exhibition.

6 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

And, in this connection, it is proper to record that within a few days the
Society has been called on to part with one of its earliest and most valued
friends and officers. Frederick William Paine, who, for nearly thirty years, has
filled the office of Treasurer, having been first elected in 1841, and annually
re-elected since, deceased September 16th, at the ripe age of eighty-one. He
has been a most faithful and efficient officer, constant and accurate in the dis-
charge of all his duties, and guarding vigilantly the funds of the Society, ever
favoring restricted appropriations while the Society was in debt.

The weekly exhibitions of Fruits and Flowers have been continued in the
ante-room of the Hall every Thursday afternoon during the year, open free of
charge to the public as well as to members of the Society. Individuals having
new varieties of fruits, flowers, or vegetables will find this a favorable op-
portunity for exhibiting them. Enquirers for the names of any fruits can
always obtain reliable information.

A more general attendance at these meetings would be found beneficial to all
having an interest in the Society.

The Library has been largely increased by valuable additions during the
year, to accommodate which the new book-cases, that ornament one of the ante-
rooms, have been required. Our Library is now one of the most valuable
horticultural libraries in the country. Books can be taken out every Thurs-
day afternoon, by any member of the Society. The detail of the additions to
the Library, and a full statement of the operations of the Society during the
year, will more properly come in the Annual Report of the Secretary and
Librarian.

The subject of a union of this Society and the Worcester County Agricultural
Society has been suggested, and a committee was appointed at the last annual
meeting to confer with a committee of the Agricultural Society upon the mat-
ter. The general opinion of the members of the Horticultural Society as ex
pressed, and in which I fully concur, is against any union of the two societies.
There is no clashing in their sphere of operations between the two societies,
and I believe the community will reap greater advantages from each continuing
on its own chosen way. Our own Society is now established upon a permanent
and independent basis. Its real estate is increasing in value, and its income from
that source, without regard to its receipts from admissions to its exhibitions,
or admissions of new members, is ample to enable it to offer large and attract-
ive premiums, and for all other purposes.

There is no apparent reason why the Society should rest contented with what
it has accomplished in the past. Though successful heretofore, the field for
improvement is still open to us, and to encourage every horticulturist in seeking
to improve in quality and quantity every product of their gardens and orchards,
is our duty.

The opening of the great Pacific railways, while they may affijrd us earlier
in the season fruits from California, cannot be expected to afford a supply that
in quantity or price will seriously compete with our own products. The dc-

1869.] president's address, 7

mand for all good fruits, at highly remunerative prices, is, at present, greater
than the supply in our markets.

The Department of Vegetables has become one of our most important ones.
It is gratifying to see the increased interest that is felt in the production and
exhibition of new and improved varieties, and the exhibitors may be assured
that this Society will meet them with a liberal and encouraging spirit.

As onr friends of the Agricultural Society are giving their attention more to
what runs over the ground, without having a resting-place therein, it seems pe-
culiarly proper that wc should give more attention to what comes out of the
ground and draws its strength therefrom.

In relation to our present Exhibition, I congratulate you on its groat success 5
considered as a whole, I think it surpasses all previous ones, and it is one of
which you may well be proud ; and for this success we thank our friends whose
industry, skill, and taste have placed upon our tables the most valuable and
attractive fruits, the excellent and numerous specimens of vegetables, and the
rare and costly plants exhibited by Messrs. Merrifield and Salisbury, and the
most beautiful and choice flowers, so truly symbolical of the loveliness and taste
of fair woman, to whom we are so much indebted for the floral display.

1 cannot call your attention to the details of the present Exhibition without
intruding upon the province of the various Committees, whose reports are now
to be presented to you, and I conclude by asking you all to labor in the future
as in the past for the success of the Society, as it is a service that brings its
own reward.

REPORT ON APPLES.

REPORTS.

REPORT ON APPLES.

Francis H. Dewey, Chairman; S. H. Coltox, 0. B. Hadwen, J. Frakk
Allen, John S. Ballard, S. A. Knox, Geo. A. Adams, J. K. L. Pickford,
of Worcester, John A. Fayerweather, of Westborough, and Isaac B. Hart-
well, of Oxford.

The Committee on Apples respectfully report : — That the whole number of
contributors is forty-three, and the number of the contributions two hundred
and eighty-four. The committee record with regret that the number of contribu-
tors was less than the average of recent years, but were pleased to find that
the specimens were of a superior character, and were highly creditable to the
contributors, and quite remarkable considering the scarcity of the crop.

In several cases the committee found it very difficult to decide which of
the competitors was entitled to the preference, but, after a careful examination
and full discussion, the committee unanimously report as follows :

For the best collection of not less than six specimens of each variety, in
the 1st class, Stephen S. Foster is entitled to the Society's plate,

valued at $20 00

For the second best, Isaac Mills, of West Boylston 15 00

For the third best, W. W. Keyes 10 00

For the best twenty varieties, of twelve specimens each, in the 2d class,

Sylvanus Sears is assigned the Society's plate, valued at 15 00

For the second best, Alden H. Sears 10 00

For the third best (no premium awarded).

For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, in the 3d class,

Adam Foster, of Holden 8 00

For the second best, C. L. Hartshorn 6 00

For the third best, Cyrus White, of Millbury 4 00

For the best six varieties, of twelve specimens each, in the 4th class,

E. M. Banning 6 00

10 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

For the second best. George J. Dudley, of Sutton 4 00

For the third best, Henry Marble, of Millbury 3 00

For the best twelve Gravensteiu, Addison Lovell, of West Boylston 2 00

For the best twelve Holden Pippin, A. Putnam, of Holden 2 00

For the best twelve Porter, Joseph Boyden 2 09

For the best twelve Leicester Sweet, J. K. L. Pickford 2 00

For the best twelve Hubbardston Nonesuch, Horatio Slocumb 2 00

For the best twelve Roxbury Russett, F. J. Kinney 2 00

For the best twelve Baldwin, D. B. Comins 2 00

For the best twelve Williams' Early Red (no specimens).

For the best twelve Mother, James R. Pierce 2 00

For the best twelve Rhode Island Greening, William Howe, of Millbury, 2 00

For the best twelve Maiden's Blush, Mrs. Geo. A. Chamberlain 2 00

For the best twelve of any other sort, John F. Johnson, of Northboro,

for Lyscom ^ 2 00

The committee recommend the following

GRATUITIES.

Stephen Salisbury, for his collection, gratuity $2 00

Joseph Lovell, for his specimens of Leland's Spice, gratuity 2 00

Eri Saunders, for his specimens of American Beauty, gratuity 2 00

Newell Wood, for his specimens Yellow Belleflower, gratuity 2 00

George McCracken, of Millbury, for his specimens of Porter, gratuity 2 00

Wm. Y. Holman, for his specimens of Pumpkin Sweets, gratuity 2 00

Leonard Worcester, for his specimens of Jeremiah, gratuity 2 00

For several varieties of apples for which premiums were offered, no speci-
mens were entered, or none except those included in the collections.

There were twelve entries of Porters, all of them containing five specimens
and upon inspection it was found that there was no apparent difference in the
size, color, and general appearance of the fruits exhibited by Joseph Boyden^
George McCracken, Eri Saunders, and J. B. Hartwell, and, after spending
much time in vain attempts to agree, the Committee regarding it as a weighty
matter that they should administer exact justice, had the scales brought for
ward, and the difference of one ounce only gave the preference to Mr. Boyden
over Mr. McCracken.

There were fifteen entries of Baldwins, beside the plates in collections, and
the specimens exhibited by Joseph E. Phelps and J, K. L. Pickford, were very
superior, and nearly equal to that for which the premium was awarded.

We hope, next year, for a larger number of entries of apples, though we can-
not expect more perfect specimens.

All which is respectfully submitted.

FRANCIS H. DEWEY, Chairman.

1869.] REPORT ON GRAPES AND OTHER FRUITS. 11

REPORT ON GRAPES AND OTHER FRUITS.

Edwin Conant, Chairman; James Green-, jr., Samdel V. Stone, T. M.
Lamb, John C. Ripley, Horatio Phelps, of Worcester, Paul Whitin, of
Whitinsville, F. M. Marble, of Grafton, and George Cruikshank, of North-
bridge.

The committee find twenty six contributors of the delightful aud princely
fruit, the grape, and of plates the number is less than legion, while of varieties
it is more. They are not only domestic, but they come to us from the conti-
nents and islands of the Old World. As dessert fruits no one questions their
merits. Speculatists take opposite sides on the question of fermented wine being
known before the Deluge ; some affirming ^that Adam was acquainted with it,
and that Noah well knew its qualities, but was unexpectedly overtaken by its
quantity and strength. According to the Medical Faculty whom the committee
consulted, Noah's case was only that of natural reaction from a habit of too
much water. It can hardly be doubted that he planted a strong vineyard.
Corn, wine, and oil were anciently types of physical, as they were of spiritual
blessings. Of Bacchus, in his character of a civilizer, a poet says —

" It was a bright, immortal head
They crowned with the blood-red grape."

Another quotation is apt for festive meetings of old-time friends.

" To-night, the palest wave we sip,

Rich as the priceless draught shall be
That wet the .bride of Cana's lip, —
The wedding wine of Gallilee ! "

Grapes are rather apt to be sour when when inaccessible, and their fermented
juice, like steam, has been hostile to some people since Noah, for want of an
efficient regulator.

Of Coriolanus, who didn't care for the votes of the people, it was said —

'• The tartness of his face sours ripe grapes."

lago said sneeringly of Desdemona, " The wine she drinks is made of grapes ; "
a fact creditable to the taste of that pattern lady, and not admitting any con-
troversy between allowed cider and prohibited lager, nor treated in the non-
committal resolution of a State convention. Desdemona did not drink the
distilled gall of bitterness which afflicts some people more modern, of whom
lago and a tempter who went into an exceeding high mountain one day, are
the leading prototypes.

A truce to pleasantries. Somebody says that " business is business;" the
committee could not find the original author of that saying, and they don't
mean to be committed to the universality of its truth, but swallow it with a
mental reservation, as the truly loyal say that some people do who take the
iron-clad oath. And now they proceed to the awards :

12 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

For best collection, grown under glasa, Stephen Salisbury, of Worcester,

the Society's plate, valued at $15 00

For the second best, Philip L. Moen, of Worcester 10 00

For the third best, Wm. T. Merrifield, of Worcester 5 00

For the best two clusters of Black Hamburgh, P. L. Moen 2 00

For the best collection of out-door grapes, not less than six varieties, T.

M. Lamb, of Worcester 10 00

For the second best, Joseph C. Lovell, of West Boylsion 6 00

For the third best, F. J. Kinney, of Worcester 4 00

For the best specimen of thorough-ripe Delaware, Horotio Phelps, of

Worcester 3 00

For the best specimen of Isabella, John F. Johnson, of Northborough, 3 00

For the best specimen of Concord, Perry Thayer, of Worcester 3 00

For the best specimen of Diana, Geo. Cruickshanks, of Northbridge... 3 00
For the best specimen of Hartford Prolific, H. Phelps, of Worcester... 3 00
For the best specimen of lona, H.Phelps, of Worcester 3 00

No Adirondac, Creveling, or Rebecca, entitled to premiums, and hardly ex-
hibited unless in collections.

The excellent grape, Rogers' No. 4, exhibited by Mr. George Cruickshanks,
is worthy of a gratuity of $2 00

Also, the smaller, but fine Cottage Grape of Perry Thayer, gratuity of 2 00

S. S. Foster's Northern Muscadine deserves a gratuity of. 1 00

A few years since the Committee on Grapes recommended the Northern
Muscadine, and since then its cultivation has been considerably increased in
the County, and it has been suggested by one of the committee that the sur-
passing merits of the fruit are such that the Society ought to offer a premium
for it.

To Mr. S. L. Harthan, of Sterling, a gratuity of one dollar is awarded for
his forty-eight varieties of Seedling Grapes, raised by himself. His enterprise is
commendable, as improved seedling grapes, for out-door cultivation, are now
the great desiderata. His No. I was the best. But, while his experiments are
laudable, we should advise him, in the mean time, to rely mainly on known va-
rieties of established merit.

F. M. Marble, of Grafton, exhibited remarkably fine White Frontignan
•rrapes, of a surprising luxuriance of growth and weight of fruit.

Stephen S. Foster, of Worcester, appeared with a plate of plums, and we
were obliged to give him a premium of $1.00, for very good plums as the times
are.

The same gentlemen is entitled, for the best two varieties of peaches of twelve

specimens each, to the premium of. $6 00

For the second best (one of them Early Crawford), Mrs. 0. K. Earle,

of Worcester 4 00

For the beat one variety, of twelve specimens (Crawford's late,) Gideon

Harris of Worcester 3 00

1869.] REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, ETC. 13

For the second best (nameless), Adams Foster, of Holden $2 00

Dr. B. F. Hejwood, of Worcester, exhibited some fine seedling peaches.
Anthony Chase, of Worcester, for the best twelve Orange Quinces, is

entitled to the premium of 4 00

The specimens of Quinces other than the Orange were not deemed worthy of
encouragement. This fruit is fading away in our neighborhood, perhaps, mainly
on account of the borer. This evil can be guarded against without serious
expense or labor ; and it is a pity that this ancient fruit, desirable for so many
reasons, should lose caste among us.

Two Minorca Melons from George Crompton, of Worcester, by his gardener,
Wm. T. Harris, were exhibited, and one of them was tested by more than this
committee, and, perhaps, by all the Society except the ladies. And wliether
the subject belongs to this committee, we don't know, and don't mean to be
committed either on the matter of conflict of jurisdiction, or on the distinctive
merits of the melon, until we have more experience; though we may safely say
that the specimen we tested was respBctably good.

We hope our friends will excuse us for not stating all the names of con-
tributors, and of the varieties of fruits, for a report thus made might weary the
patience of the auditors.

EDWIN CONANT, Chairman.

REPOUT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, &c.

George E. Fraxcis, Chairman; John Milton Earle, Clarendon Harris,
Charles Richardson, David S. Messinger, Henry Woodward, and Henry
A. Marsh, of Worcester,

The Committee on Plants, Flowers, &c., in presenting their report, congratu-
late the Society upon the unusual merit of the contributions to the Floral De-
partment of the present Exhibition. The multitude of exotic plants is exceed-
ingly creditable to the generous zeal of the larger contributors, but is attended
■with some disadvantages. The space which the general Committee can allow
to collections of plants, though considerable, is far from enough to display all,
or nearly all, that have been sent in this year. The Committee think that a
change in the schedule of premiums for next year would prove a,dvantageous to
the public, the exhibitors, and the Committee. Let the collections of green-
liouse plants be limited, say to twenty specimens each, then the public will see
the choioest plants to the best advantage, each exhibitor will have ample space
for his twenty plants, ^nd the Committee would be relieved of much useless
labor.

There is a very high average of merit in the many floral designs, baskets, and
bouquets which beautify our tables, and the Committee have had great diffi-

3 •

14 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

culty in assigning the premiums. They would gladly have recommended many
more gratuities if the state of the funds had permitted.

The beauiiful rustic plant stand, filled with choice flowers, and entered by
Mr. Cook, has been justly admired by all, and far surpasses anything of the

kind ever seen here ; it is proper to state that it is the handiwork of Mr.
Corbin Wood, of Worcester.

The following award of Premiums and Gratuities, is respectfully submitted :
For the best twelve specimens of variegated-leaved plants, William T.

Merrifield, the Society's Plate, valued at $20 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury, 10 00

For the best collection of Greenhouse Plants, William T. Merrifield, the

Society's Plate, valued at 15 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 10 00

For the third best, Philip L. Moen 6 00

For the best specimen Plant, not having previously received a pre-
mium, William T. Merrifield, 5 00

For the best floral design, Luther H. Bigelow, the Society's Plate, val-
ued at 6 00

For the second best, Mrs. Calvin L. Hartshorn, 4 00

For the best collection ornamental and bedding plants, W. W. Cook,.,. 5 00

For the best collection of rare and new plants, Stephen Salisbury, 8 00

For the best collection of parlor plants by amateurs, Mrs. Wm. Y.

Holman, 5 00

For the second best, George E. Francis 2 00

For the best single plant, Mrs. R. C. King, 1 00

For the best collection of cut flowers, Mrs. Daniel Taiiiter, the Society's

plate, valued at 6 00

For the second best, Jonathan Grout, 4 00

For the third best, Wm. T. Merrifield, 2 00

For the best stand, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 3 00

For the second best, Miss Annie Fox 2 00

For the best arranged basket or dish, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 2 00

For the second best, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 1 00

For the best hanging basket, grown by amateurs, George E. Francis,... .3 00
For the best hanging basket, plants to have been growing therein at

least one month, Stephen Salisbury, 3 00

For the second best, Philip L. Moen, 2 00

For the best pair parlor bouquets, Stephen Salisbury, 4 00

For the second best, Miss L. G. Allen, 2 00

For the third best, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 1 00

For the best pair hand bouquets, Luther H. Bigelow, 3 00

For the second best, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 1 GO

% ■■■.'•

1869.] REPORT ON PLANTS, FLOWERS, E^<p < x ^'^

For the best collection of Gladiolus, named or unnamed variHJre^y^&pm ■«';-'

any source, John M. Earle, .!S»,^.<X. $o"'^

For the second best, Mrs. Daniel Tainter,

For the best twelve named varieties, Class 1, John M. Earle, 5 00

For the best eight named varieties, Class 2, John M. Earle, 2 00

For the best seedlino^, John M. Earle 1 00

For the best twenty named varieties Dahlias, Class 1, Jonathan Grout, 4 00

For the best display of Asters, Stephen Salisbury, 3 00

For the second best, Philip L. Moen, 2 CO

For the best display of Verbenas, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 3 00

For the best display of China Pinks, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 2 00

For the best collection Zinnias, George Crompton, 3 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 2 00

For the best display of Immortelles, Mrs. D. Tainier, 2 00

For the second best, Mrs. A. D. Foster, 1 00

GRATUITIES.

For floral design, W. W. Cook, 3 00

For floral design. Miss M. R. Phelps, 1 00

For floral design, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 1 00

For basket of flowers, Mrs. George Crompton, 1 00

For basket of flowers, Luther H. Bigelow, 1 00

For hanging basket, W. W. Cook, 2 00

For hanging basket, George Cruickshanks, Whitinsville 1 00

For Dahlias, Jonathan Grout, 2 00

For Dahlias, Mrs. Jonas Brown, Wllkinsonville, 2 00

For Verbenas and Petunias, Mrs. Wm. Y. Holmau, 2 00

For Pansies, Miss Annie Fox, 1 00

For Drummond Phlox, Mrs. Daniel Tainter, 1 00

For the Committee,

GEORGE E. FRANCIS, Chairman.

16 W0RCE8TER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

REPORT ON PEARS.

Hartley Williams, Chairman; J. Henry Hill, Henry Phelfs, Edward
Earle, Jons C. Newton, Emory Banister, James Draper, C. Willard
Hamilton, S. Harrison Knox, of Worcester, Newell Wood, of Millbury,
and John F. Johnson, o? Northborough.

The Committee on Pears have attended to the duty assigned them, and award
the following premiums :
For the best twenty varieties, of twelve specimens each, 1st class, Lor-

ing Goes, the Society's plate, valued at $20 00

For the second best, D. Waldo Lincoln 15 00

For the third best, Joseph Lovell 10 00

For the best fifteen varieties, of twelve specimens each, 2d class, F. M.

Marble, of Grafton, the Society's plate, valued at...,, 12 00

For the second best, James Draper 9 00

For the best ten varieties, of twelve specimens each, 3d class, Adams

Foster, of Holden, the Society's plate, valued at 8 00

For the second best, J. E. Phelps 6 00

For the third best, James F.Allen 4 00

For the best five varieties, of twelve specimens each, 4th class, Edward

W. Lincoln 5 00

For the second best, Mrs. George A. Chamberlain 3 00

For the best twenty-four Seckel Pears, on one dish, S. V. Stone 2 00

For the best twelve BartleU, Mrs. George A. Chamberlain 2 00

" " Duchesse d'Angouleme, J. E. Phelps.. 3 00

" " Louise Bonne de Jersey, Alfred Davis 2 00

" " Lawrence, John C. Whitin, of Whitinsville 3 00

" " Sheldon, Alfred Davis 2 00

" " Beurre Bosc, E. L. Brigham 3 00

" " Flemish Beauty, Charles H. Morgan 2 00

" " Beurre d'Anjou, George F. Hoar 2 00

" " Winter Nelis, Hartley Williams 3 00

" " Dana's Hovey, S. H. Colton 2 00

" " Beurre Clairgeau, J. E. Phelps 2 00

" " Doyenne du Cornice, E. L. Brigham 3 00

" " Howell, William Y. Holman 2 00

" " Doyenne Boussock, S. H. Colton 2 00

" " Beurre Superfin, S. H. Colton 2 00

" " Paradise d'Aulomue, S, H. Colton 2 00

1869.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 17
They also recommend the payment of the following

GRATUITIES.

To Anthony Chase, for his plate of Areson $1 00

S. V. Stone, for his plate of St. Ghislaiu 1 00

John F. Johnson, of Northborough, for his plate of Seckel 1 00

P. L. Moen, for his collection of twenty varieties 2 00

S. H. Colton for his collection of twenty varieties 2 00

S. S. Foster, for his collection of twenty varieties 2 00

Hartley Williams, for his collection of ten varieties 2 00

Mrs. E. Draper, for her collection of ten varieties 2 00

S. V. Stone, for his collection of ten varieties 2 00

Edward Earle, for his collection often varieties 2 00

John C. Whitin, for his collection of five varieties 2 00

Respectfully submitted,

HARTLEY WILLIAMS, Chairman.

REPORT ON VEGETABLES.

H. L. Parkek, Chairman; Marshall Flagg, Charles Belcher, Thos.
R. NoRCROSs, George G. Burbank., J. D. Lovell, C. K. Hubbard, William
Eames, of Worcester, and Josiah L. Woodward, of Millbiiry.

In this department the committee report twenty five contributors, and one
thousand seven hundred and thirty-four entries, being more than three times
the number ever entered at any previous exhibition. Highest number of dif-
ferent varieties of vegetables contributed by a single individual, one hundred
and thirty.

The extent, variety, and excellence of the contributions, and the limited
dimensions of the " upper chamber," rendered the task of awarding premiums
extremely difficult and perplexing. The contributions having from these causes
necessarily assumed, in many instances, an altitudinous rather than a lateral
position, and the committee having had, superadded to their other duties, the
labor of seeking the foundation of some vegetable " Pelion piled on Ossa," or
dragging to light from its obscure corner some valuable esculent, shaded with
celery or umbrageous kale, it would not seem entirely strange if entries worthy
of meritorious notice had been overlooked. For all shortcomings, they ask
jour charity, and hope for better auspices another time.

In two or three instances the competition for the same premium was so close
as to call forth much diversity of opinion ; especially was this the case in the

18 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

entries made for the best display of vegetables. After a protracted session,
however the committee have unanimously agreed upon the following awards :

For the best display, Alden H. Sears, the Society's plate, valued at $15 00

For the second best, Stephen Salisbury 12 00

For the third best, Sylvanus Sears 8 00

For the best three Marrow Squashes, Alden H. Sears 2 00

For the best three Hubbard Squat-hes, Stephen S. Foster 2 00

For the best three Turban Squashes, John C. Whitin 2 00

For the best three Yokohama Squashes, John C. Whitin 2 00

For the best three roots of Celery, John C. Whitin 3 00

For the best three r)rumhead Savoy Cabbages, Philip L. Moen 3 00

For the best single specimen, F. J. Kinney 2 00

For the best three Drumhead Cabbages, Simon E. Fisher 3 OO

■ For the best three Early Sweinfurth Cabbages, Sylvanus Sears 3 00

For the best three Large Flat Brunswick Cabbages, F. J. Kinney 3 00

For the best three Red Cabbages, Adams Foster 2 00

For the best collection of Cabbages, not less than five varieties, Sylvanus

Sears 5 00

For the best three Cauliflowers, George Crompton 3 00

For the best single specimen, Frederick Hancock 1 00

For the best collection of not less that five varieties of Sweet Corn,

Alden H. Sears, 5 00

For the best twelve ears Sweet Corn, Adams Foster 2 00

For the best twelve Parsnips, Philip L. Moen 2 00

For the best twelve Long Carrots, F. J. Kinney ; 2 00

For the best twelve Long Beets, Philip L. Moen 2 00

For the best twelve Turnip Beets, Adams Foster 2 00

For the best twelve White French Turnips, F. J. Kinney 2 00

For the best twelve Flat or English Turnips, Simon E. Fisher 2 00

For the best twelve Red Onions, George Crompton 2 00

For the best twelve Yellow Onions, F.J.Kinney 2 00

For the best twelve White Onions, George Crompton 2 00

For the best twelve Mangold Wurtzel, John C. Whitin 2 00

For the best collection of Potatoes, of not less than half peck of each

variety, Joseph C. Lovell, the Society's plate, valued at 10 00

For the second best, F.J. Kinney 1 00

For the third best, George Crompton 3 00

For the best collection of Tomatoes, not less than six varieties, and not

less than twelve of each variety, Alden H. Sears, the Society's

plate valued at 7 00

For the secorid best, Stephen Salisbury 3 00

For the best dish of twelve of General Grant variety, George Crompton, 2 00
For the best dish of twelve specimens, other than the above, Philip L.

Moen 3 00

1869.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 19

The Committee also recommend the following

GRATUITIES :

To Philip L. Moen for the variety and excellence of his display of vege-
tables $5 00

To George Crompton for same 5 00

To James Draper for the excellence and variety of his display of po-
tatoes 2 00

To George S. Coe, for same 2 00

For the future encouragement of juvenile horticulturists, we recom-
mend to Herbert K. and Louis P. Kinney, two lads of the ages of
nine and six years respectively, and who exhibit as the product of
their joint enterprise, excellent specimens of seven varieties of po-
tatoes, three varieties of cabbage, and four varieties of other vege-
tables 5 00

The unusually fine collection of potatoes on exhibition, is an indication both
of the important position which this valuable vegetable is beginning to assume
in the culinary department, and the newly awakened interest in its cultivation.
From statistics taken in 1865, it appears that the potato was then the third
agricultural product of the State in money value. If we take into account the
vast amount raised in private gardens, of which no statistics are taken, and the
stimulus the cultivation of this crop has received from new seed and the range
of high prices since then, it may now be safely ranked as the second.

The attention which has been given of late to the development of new varie-
ties from the seed or ball, has been productive of rich results. But it is un-
doubtedly the fact that out of the multitude of new varieties, there are but few
which are really valuable for general cultivation. Some varieties which possess
great yielding properties, prove inferior for the table, while other varieties, most
excellent in quality, are frequently the least productive. The testimony of ex-
perienced growers who have tested the new favorites, has, therefore, at this
time, a peculiar value. Most of the contributors have favored us with a state-
ment of their experience with different varieties the past season, brief abstracts
from which are herewith presented.

STATEMENT OF J. C. LOVELL, OF WEST BOYLSTOX, WHO EXPERIMENTED WITH
THIRTY-EIGHT VARIETIES.

The Early Rose ; very fine and productive ; may prove a little tender.

Concord Seedling — a seedling from the Mercer ; white, smooth, handsome ;
very productive ; first quality ; appears hardy.

Climax — a fine potato; productive, and hardy ; quality, No. 1.

Loudon White — very white ; nice table potato ; moderately productive.

Bresee's No. 2 — the yield, appearance, and quality commend it to all planters
for the market.

20 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

Cleveland Seedling — a strong grower ; quality, No. 1 ; hardy ; will probably
be a very popular market variety.

White Peach Blow — a fine potato, but the top is too large for the yield of
tubers.

Early Worcester or Reilly — very fine.

The Early Prince and Excelsior come very strongly recommended, but they
need further trial ; unless they improve with another year's experiment, I shall
render the verdict " found wanting in quality."

Of the Concord Seedling mentioned above, Mr. Lovell further adds that he
planted but two potatoes. These he planted on newly turned grass land, on
which green manure and a little gypsum had been spread, and received a yield
of sixty-four pounds. This potato is very large, and somewhat resembles the
Early Rose in shape and appearance.

STATEMENT OF F. J. KINNEY.

I planted single eyes in drills twelve inches apart and three feet between the
drills, alternating the varieties, and treating them in all other respects alike.
Planted May 9.

Average number of potatoes to two eyes planted :

Jackson, for table 15, small 4; Orono, for table 17, small 2 ; Early Rose, for
table 5, small none ; Early Goodrich, for table 12, small 5.

*Average weight to two eyes planted :

Jackson, number of potatoes 19, weight 5 lbs.; Orono, number of potatoes 19,
weight 6 lbs; Early Rose, uumber of potatoes 5, weight 3 lbs.; Early Goodrich,
number of potatoes 17, weight 4^ lbs.

Disease, to date, (October 6,) out of three bushels of each variety —

Jackson ^ peck ; Orono 1 peck ; Early Rose J bushel ; Early Goodrich 1
quart.

The weight of testimony of those who have made fair trial, seems to establish
the Early Rose as one of the most valuable varieties for amateur cultivation.
Its weak points are that it is a little tender, and requires for its best develop-
ment a rich and arable soil. It is apparently better adapted for the well-tilled
garden than for open-field culture. In fact on newly turned green sward it will
flourish but indifferently, if at all. This lack of constitutional vigor, however,
may be owing to the unnatural process of forcing to which it has been subjected ;
this seems the more probable from the fact that it is from so robust a stock,
being a direct descendant from the Garnet Chili — than which there is no more
hardy and vigorous grower. A rich cultivation hereafter may in part remedy
this defect, but- will hardly effect a cure, inasmuch as experience has shown that
the tendency to disease in the potato increases with age, the Garnet Chili itself
having already lost much of its original vigor.

This can hardly be considered a fair test of productivsness, being on so limited a scale.

1869.] REPORT ON VEGETABLES. 21

For health and productiveness in open-field culture, the Garnet Chili and
Harrison can hardly be excelled. Some might, perhaps, add to these the Cuzco,
Gleason, and the Calico — none of these, however, though all of very good qual-
ity, are of the first degree of excellence for the table.

Of the varieties more recent than the Rose, the Concord Seedling, so favor-
ably noticed by Mr. Lovell in his statement, Bresee's Prolific or No. 2, and the
Climax, if not ruined by the forcing process, bid fair to be among the best, being
quite equal to the Rose in productiveness, and quality, and apparently more
hardy. They need, however, the test of time before their rank can be fully and
definitely determined. In quality the Early Rose is equalled, and probably
excelled by the Worcester or Reilly and the well-ripened Peach Blow. These
varieties, however cannot be recommended for general culture, as they are but
moderately productive.

The q'lestion has been asked by some of the contributors whether the Wor-
cester or Reilly p;)tato and the Dover are distinct varieties. There seems to be
good reason for believing that they are. The history of the two potatoes, so far
as they can be traced, seems to indicate a different origin ; the Reilly originat-
ing in Middlesex county in 1848 or 18i9, and the Dover in Dover, N. H.,
whence it takes its name, in 1854 or 1855. A discussion on this very point
arose in the Horticultural Society at Boston, some ten years since, and a mem-
ber of the society at that time selected a plate of each variety in order to test
their respective merits. His verdict was that they were distinct, and not one
and the same potato. He thought the Dover of a darker red, smoother and
with less cavernous eyes.

A gentleman in the western part of the State who has experimented the past
season with 140 varieties, also gives them in his catalogue as distinct, and pro-
nounces the Reilly much the superior of the two in quality.

It is possible, notwithstanding all this, that the Dover, which seems to have
come latest into cultivation, bears the same relation to the Reilly as the Main
to the Concord grape. However it maybe, both these varieties, notwithstanding
their excellent qualities, have proved themselves such iudifiFerent growers that
the solution of the question cannot now be of any great practical importance.
Respectfully submitted,

H. L. PARKER, Chairman.
4

ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

Secretary of the Worcester Co. Horticultural Society.

To the Members of the Worcester County Horticultural Society :

In making his annual report to the Society, the marked improvement in the
library would seem to command the first attention of the officer to whom its care
is chiefly entrusted.

The handsome cases which form so conspicuous an ornament of this room,
supply a want of which strong complaint has heretofore been uttered. A large
extent of shelving is secured, enabling a better arrangement, and allowing some
opportunity, however imperfect, for classification. And yet, as will be obvious
upon cursory inspection, the space so obtained is almost entirely filled. Al-
though in some measure this result was brought about by a re-location of vol-
umes in obedience partly to their intrinsic value, with a view of forming a collec-
tion for consultation as distinct from circulation and issue, yet is it also to a grat-
ifyino- extent attributable to the unsolicited gift of individuals. Especially note-
worthy are the four volumes of " Contributions to the Natural History of the
United States, by Louis Agassiz,'' which were presented by Mrs. Levi Lincoln.
Your Librarian had also a chance, of which he was happy to avail himself, to
contribute a lot of fifty-six volumes, of unequal merit it is true, yet none, it is
hoped entirely destitute of value. Hons. John D. Baldwin, and Andrew H.
Green have continued to place us under obligations. From our eminent asso-
ciate, Charles Downing, Esq., was received very recently a new edition of the
work of his lamented brother upon the Fruit and Fruit Trees of America,
which has been so completely revised and enlarged as to justify the appelation
of an original treatise.

The whole number of separate volumes acquired during the past official year,
whether by gift or purchase, amounts to one hundred and seven. A list of them
by their titles is herewith submitted for your more exact information : —

1869.] secretary's report. 23

Message and Documents, Department of State, 1867-'68; 2 vols, octavo.

Message and Documents, Department of War, 1867--'68 ; 2 vols, octavo.

Land Office Report 18G7; 1 vol. octavo.

Department of Agriculture, Reports of 1865 and 1867; 2 vols, octavo. All
from John D. Baldwin.

Contributions to Natural History of the United States ; By Louis Agassiz ;
4 vols, quarto. From Mrs. Levi Lincoln.

Flora of North America ; By W. P. C. Barton, M. D. ; 3 vols, quarto.

Medical Botany; by W. P. C. Barton, M. D., 2 vols, quarto. From Mrs. P.
S. Canfield.

Agriculture of Massachusetts, 1856 ; 1 vol. octavo.

Eldorado ; by Bayard Taylor ; 2 vols, twelvemo.

A New Home ; 1 vol., twelvemo.

Patent Office Report, 1860; 1 vol. octavo.

Department of Agriculture, 1860 ; 1 vol. octavo.

Patent Office Report, 1867, (Agriculture ;) 1 vol. octavo.

Department of Agriculture, 1862 ; 1 vol. octavo.

Reconnoissances in New Mexico and Texas ; 1 vol. octavo.

Foster and Whitney's Report of the Lake Superior Region ; 2 vols, octavo.

New Mexico ; Ewing, Abert, Cook, and Johnston ; 1 vol. octavo,

Sayer's Modern Housewife ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

European Life and Manners; Coleman ; 2 vols, twelvemo.

Exploration of the Valley of the Amazon ; Gibbon ; Part 2, 1 vol. octavo.

Breck's Book of Flowers ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

New American Gardener; Fessenden ; 14th edition; 1 vol. twelvemo.

United States Gazetteer ; 1 vol. octavo.

American Farmer's Encyclopaedia; 1 vol. octavo.

Buist's Family Kitchen Garden ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Kolla on Injurious Insects; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Principles of Gardening ; Johnson ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Manual of the Mulberry Tree ; Cobb ; 1 vol. twelvemo. '

Bigelow's Plants of Boston ; 1 vol. octavo.

Allen on the Grape ; 1 vol. octavo.

Agriculture of Massachusetts, 1867-'68 ; Flint; 1 vol. octavo.

Mitchell's World ; 1 vol. octavo.

Rural Homes ; Wheeler ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Rural Architecture ; Allen ; 1 vol. octavo.

Book of Fruits ; Ives ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Mowbray on Poultry ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Lindley's Horticulture ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Mawes' Gardener ; by Glenning ; 1 vol. twelvemo. ,

Fruit, Flower, and Kitchen Garden ; Neill j 1 vol. twelvemo.

Poultry Book ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

24 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

Dixon and Kern's Ornamental and Domestic Poultry ; I vol. twelvemo.

Lieljio-'s Agricultural Chemistry; 1 vol. cclavo.

Johnson's Dictionary of Gardening ; Landrette ; 1 vol. octavo.

Gray's Scientific and Practical Agriculture ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

The Lady's Magazine of Gardening ; Mrs. Loudon ; 1 vol. octavo.

The Farmer's Library ; London ; Vol. 1, The 0.v, The Horse ; octavo.

The Farmers Library; Vol. 2, The Sheep, Dog, Hog, Poultry, Bees ; octavo.

Loudon's Suburban Gardener; 1 vol. octavo.

Loudon's Encyclopjedia of Plants ; 1 vol. octavo.

Loudon's Suburban Horticulture ; 1 vol. octavo.

Rpplon's Landscape Gardening , 1 vol. octavo.

Geology of Massachusetts ; Hitchcock ; 1 vol. octavo.

European Agriculture ; Colman ; 2 vols, octavo.

Ten Years Among the Mail Bags ; Holbrook ; 1 vol. twelvemo.

Trans. Mass. Hort. Society; Vol. 1, octavo.

Department of Agriculture ; Report of 1863 ; 1 vol. octavo.

Department of Agriculture ; Report of 1864 ; 1 vol. octavo. All from Edw.
"W. Lincoln.

The Rose, by S. B. Parsons ; 1847 ; 1 vol. octavo.

Reconnoissauces in New Mexico ; 1 vol. octavo.

Geoloofical report on the Lake Superior District; 1 vol. octavo.

Fremont's First and Second Expedition, 1842, 1843, and 1844; 1 vol. octavo.
From Dr. Samuel Flagg.

British and Exotic Ferns and Lycopodiums ; 1 vol. twelvemo. From Dr.
Geo. E. Francis.

American Agricultural Annual, 1869; 1 vol. twelvemo ; society.

American Horticultural Annual, 1869 ; 1 vol. twelvemo ; society.

Annual Register of Rural Affairs, 1867, 18C8, 1869 ; 1 vol. twelvemo; soc.

Florist and Pomologist ; 1868, London; 1 vol. octavo ; society.

Journal of Horticulture; London; Vol. 14; 1 vol. octavo; society.

Journal of Horticulture ; London ; Vol. 15 ; 1 vol. octavo ; society.

Les Fougeres ; Paris ; 2 vols, octavo ; society.

Revue Horticole ; Paris; 1868; 1vol. octavo; society.

Animals and Plants which Domesticate ; Darwin ; 2 vols, twelvemo , society.

How Crops Grow ; By S. W. Johnson ; 1 vol. twelvemo ; society.

Practical Floriculture ; By Peter Henderson ; 1 vol. twelvemo ; society.

Department of Agriculture, 1867 ; 1 vol. octavo ; Commissioner of Agricul-
ture, seven copies.

Geology of New Jersey, with Maps ; By G. H. Cook ; 1 vol. octavo ; society.

Gardener's Monthly, 1868 ; Vol. 10; 1 vol. quarto; society.

Hovey's Magazine, 1868 ; last volume, Vol. 34; octavo ; society.

Horticulturist, 1868, Vol. 23; octavo; society.

A.mericaji Journal of Horticulture, 1868 ; Vol. 3 ; 1 vol. octavo ; Booiety.

1869.]

secretary's report. 25

American Journal of Horticulture, 1868, Vol. 4; octavo ; srcMy.
Farmer's Implements and Machines; John J. Thoma^ ; new edition, 18G9;
2 vols, tvvelvemo ; society.

Practical Poultry Keeper ; L. Wright ; London ; 1 vol. twelvemo, society.
Propagation, Culture, and History of the Rose ; by S. B. Parsons ; 1 vol.
twelvemo.

American Naturalist, 18o8-'69 ; 1 vol. octavo, Vol. 2, society.
N. E. Farmer, 18G8-'69 ; 1 vol. octavo ; society.
Country Gentleman; 1 vol. folio ; Vols. 31 and 32 ; society.
American Agriculturist ; Vol.27; society.

The volumes have been in constant use. Although a slight diminution is ap-
parent in the number circulated during the past year, yet the demand for pur-
poses of consultation and study, within the library-room itself, has been of more
than usual magnitude. Within no similar period has its value for such applica-
tion of its contents, so rapidly and materially enhanced. The usual compara-
tive table is appended to illustrate the extent to which members have availed
themselves of the privilege of circulation.

In 1862, 114 volumes.

In 1863, 133 volumes.

In 1864, 179 volumes.

In 1865, 318 volumes.

In 1866, 387 volumes.

In 1867, 470 volumes.

In 1868, 580 volumes.

In 1869, 510 volumes.

It will doubtless be within the recollection of most of those present that at the
annual meeting of the society in 1868, a resolution submitted by the Secretary
was referred to the Trustees. That resolution was in the words following,
to wit :

" Resolved, That a committee of five (5) be appointed with instructions to
consider the present condition of the society as affecting the objects and pur-
suits for which it was founded. That the said committee confer with any com-
mittee that may be appointed to meet them by the Trustees of the Worcester
Agricultural Society, to the end that after mutual consultation, it may be deter-
mined if any restoration of the ancient relations of the two societies shall be
desirable, expedient, or practicable ; and that said committee, on the part of this
Society make report of their action to a special meeting to be called hereafter
for its consideration."

As the committee designated by the Trustees under the reference decided that
it was inexpedient to convene a special meeting to consider and act upon a
report which would have for its sole burden that no action was regarded as
either " desirable, expedient, or practicable,"' it may not be improper for the
Secretary, in his own vindication, to state that some arguments in his annual
report appeared to him then, as they appear still, to have confused the miuds of

26 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869'.

the committee as to the precise sphere of their duty. In that report he advanced
reasons that were alleged in favor of a union or consolidation of the two
societies. He did not announce them as the convictions of his own mature
judgment, although had he done so the offence might have been condoned for
something short of blasphemy. But such being assumed to be the case what-
ever action was had by the committee became predicated upon that basis. No
consideration was devoted to the suggestion of holding an exhibition of
Horticulture under the auspices of this society, although upon the grounds
of the Agricultural Society- The latter organization having resumed its dis-
play of flowers and fruits, your Secretary may be pardoned for claiming that
his prevision and efforts at least were not wanting to anticipate and prevent
such practical if not intentional antagonism. The pressure of official duties
precluded any personal inspection of that display. If it was inferior, as he has
been told, it is to be regretted that the farmers of the county could not have had
their eyes opened to the more pronounced advance of horticulture as manifested
upon our tables. But from the names of some of the contributors to that display ,
heretofore competitors at our own, it is safe to assume that the articles exhibited
could not have been utterly unworthy of notice. The possibility of a con-
tinuance of this rivalry, or more properly antagonism, must be an element
in our future calculations. It only remains to add that no especial solicitude
was evinced by the Agricultural Society to participate in the proposed delibera-
tions. At the time designated for the interview of the two committees, no one
was present of those whom we had appointed to meet. At an adjournment, a
single gentleman, Mr. Fayerweather, of Westborough, appeared for himself and
associates. It does not need the testimony of your Secretary to convince the
constituents of that gentleman that all which argument and energy could accom-
plish was as thoroughly achieved as though he had been assisted or impeded
by a dozen colleagues.

Previous to the last annual autumnal exhibition it was decided by the Com-
mittee on Exhibitions that the entry of vegetables should be restricted within a
period to be publicly announced. Extreme pains were taken to ensure such
publicity. And although there were some exceptions to the terms of the several
advertisements and notices, it is not believed that any injustice was done, or
that any actual misapprehension existed. The practical operation of the rule
was an unprecedented success. The number of entries was almost treble that
of any former year. But the great advantage resulted from the fact that time
was thus afforded to complete the records of the exhibition, with due regard to
a proper classification. To accomplish this alone required upwards of seventeen
hundred details upon the books, and of course the filling out of as many cards
for contributors. The Secretary was thus enabled to devote some time and
attention in the hall itself, which was the more important because of the tempo-
rary disability of the efficient chairman of the Committee ou Exhibitions during
the openiug days.

1869.] secretary's report. 27

Your serious attention is invited to a consideration of the expediency of a
longer retention of the system of awarding premiums in silver plate. It is true
that few complaints are heard ; nevertheless there are some. And, although
they mainly come from those who usually exact all from the officers of the
society, conceding little in return ; and notably, in at least one instance, from a
non-conformist to the most reasonable rules of the Committee on Exhibitions ;
it is barely possible that the policy, adopted as an experiment, may prove wor-
thy of discontinuance. It was in the mind of your Secretary, when suggesting
the trial, that the method of paying premiums, whether in money or plate, should
be at the option of the contributor who had received the smiles of Fortune.
Perhaps it might be well, if a method can be devised that will obviate the ne-
cessity of the society keeping on hand a stock of silver ware, to put it in such
alternative. This, at least, is certain, that, contrary to the suspicions of some,
the society loses, rather than otherwise, by the award of plate. Where money
is given it sometimes is allowed to the treasury. Where plate is assigned,
woman claims her rights and deposits them within her parlor closet.

In his last annual report, your Secretary invited your attention to the matter
of an ancient agreement with the late William Piper relative to a future joint
use of the western party-wall of Horticultural Hall, The subject was referred
to a committee by whom the duty of effecting a settlement with Mr. Piper was
subsequently delegated to Hon. Francis H. Dewey. It is pleasant to be able
to record the fact, honorable to all parties, that an arrangement was speedily
accoinplished upon terms mutually satisfactory, as one result of which a very
handsome sum of money was paid into the treasury of the society. Especial
prominence is given to this matter as it furnishes a signal example of the truth
of the old saying thai our misfortunes are often only blessings in disguise.
Had it not been for the occurrence of a fire in the western ante room of the
hail no search would ever have been made at the Registry of Deeds to ascertain
upon what conditions the society holds its property. Such a search, however,
disclosed the existence of an agreement, upon record, whereof all trace had
escaped from human memory. Still it might not be advisable to have another
fire upon the premises in any reasonable anticipation of similar good fortune.

In the near vicinity of a growing and populous city, many injuries are done
to the cultivated enclosures and trees, whether of fruit or forest, that cannot be
remedied, but which legislation, so prescient of other matters, might easily pre-
vent. Thus for years past, and notably during the present season, the chest-
nuts, alike grand in appearance as useful in substance, have been mauled and
marred by gangs of loafers who knew, if not the actual owner, at least that the
fruit was not their own. But two short weeks since a member of this society
discovered a half-dozen teams hitched to his fences, and a half score of men
pounding his trees, for the chance of obtaining a few nuts, with fourteen-pound
mallets of solid iron. Wherever such a blow falls, thereafter is death — not
necessarily immediately fatal to the existence of the tree, but sapping its vitality

28 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

as surely as the abrasion of tbeir hides would bring to the surface the countless
ill-humors and sores of those forest out-laws. Yet it is consolatory to reflect
that such offences and outrages are perpetrated on Sunday, and that in the
intervals of their commission our Police are sedulously perfecting themselves
in the amusement and recreation of base-ball.

Your serious thought is invoked, gentlemen, to the imperative need of exer-
cising more care in the formation of your committees. In no particular was
the precise judgment or the exact integrity of the lamented Ripley so marked as
in the pains which he lavished in this respect, whenever he was placed upon
your committee of nominations. When I look around upon these countenances
so familiar, and mark the gray hairs that even now herald the near future of
so many among us, the question arises of itself if the bull and stud horse can
alone attract the young; and if, with the departure of the present generation
from the stage, the curtain will be rung down forever upon the science and prac-
tice of Horticulture in the County of Worcester. With few exceptions your
committees, when competent, are composed of cripples, or of those long since
entitled to an honorable discharge. Even if creditable should this continue to
be our policy ?

Some very singular advice recently bestowed upon the farmers of one of our
county towns by the President of the New England Agricultural Society, in one
of his innumerable discourses on matters under the sun, would seem to demand
a word of comment and rebuke in a report like this. He asserted that the
growth of apples in Massachusetts was impossible, and recommended the sum-
mary destruction of all orchards. Now it is unquestionable that the pomologist
has obstacles with which to contend that call for all the energy and patience that
he can muster; yet it may be doubted if they outnumber those which impede
or prevent the attainment of his goal by the ambitious or scheming politician.
The apple has been grown in our good commonwealth, as the Buldwin, Hub-
bardson, Nonesuch, and Roxbury Russet abundantly prove. The exhaustion of
our orchards consequent upon long-continued cropping without a corresponding
return of the proper elements to the soil, furnishes no basis for a respectable
argument. The Durham and Ayershire are no more likely to be withdrawn
from our pastures, because once threatened with extinction by the Pleuro Pneu-
monia, than are our apples to be relinquished at the dictation of every peripa-
tetic sciolist or demagogue. If we have lost the Garden of Eden with the fruits
whereof its Divine origin entitles us to suppose it profuse, let us exact the
more severely its forfeit — the apple. No, Gentlemen of Sterling and Princeton,
do not extirpate I save to plant. If you will remove a tree, excavate simul*
taneously for one to replace it, although, of course, not in the same spot. Keep
always in mind that the Baldwin cannot bear with impunity a continuous crop of
ten or twelve barrels, and that the theory advanced by Meehan is supported by
Dr. Hull, that excessive profusion of bloom is even more exhaustive than ulti-
mate fecundity. Au reste, as our friends in France would say — base yourtheo-

1869.] secretary's report. "■ 29

ries upon a partial substratum of facts. Politics, or the craving for civic position
however hitherto disappointed, have never yet accumulated our catalogue of
apples. The suggestion is advanced for what it is worth, that our honored asso-
ciate Jonathan Forbush might supply any deficiencies in the disquisition under
review, and thereby replenish the vacuum, no less abhorrent to the appetite than
nature, of a permanent failure of the apple. Coming so close upon the ingather-
ing of a crop of Baldwins, at least, which for quality was never surpassed,
the absurdity of such counsel is the more marked.

The ravages of insects have proved less destructive than for several years.
And there can be but little doubt that, with the exercise of one-half of the care
and patience displayed by our foithfiil housewives in the exclusion of vermin
from our dwellings, this great source of annoyance and loss to the horticulturist
might be almost entirely removed. To succeed in this would, however, demand
general co-operation, and could not suffer individual neglect. And yet the
writer can point to a lot in the very heart of the city of Worcester, amply
stocked with the mullen and thistle, and the starved home of four apple trees,
upon which last have been produced, year after year, countless swarms of the
canker worm and tent-caterpillar. Of how much less utility is the most earnest
effort of the neighborhood thereby rendered.

But, gentlemen, if Fortune has been unwontedlykind to us in this particular,
she has also not failed to supply the cat-bird and pseudo-robin as a thorough
set-off. Without them these reports would be incomplete : with them, our crops
are finished by transfer to theirs. A late writer in the Atlantic Monthly, who
has attained some reputation as an ornithologist by a long residence within the
crowded streets of a city, the admirable facilities of which location for a studious
investigation into the habits of birds must be obvious to the most obtuse, affirms
dogmatically that the assertion that birds will eat pears is an utter, and by
implication, wilftil falsehood. Now your Secretary, who is doubtless meant as
orio-inal coiner of the alleged fabrication, simply mentioned what himself and
oth'ers had witnessed with their own eyes. This very summer, the lamented
Ripley remarked that the robins would not leave him a single Beurre Giffard.
Not two mornings thereafter your Secretary counted not less than five of
these pets of the clod heads and pedants ravaging the Giffards of the Hon.
Lemuel Williams, and lest his own evidence should be rejected by his courteous
critic and monitor, summoned three of his children as competent witnesses in
corroboration. His own Belle Lucratlves were the next objects of attack. "But,"
remarks our professor of natural science, " the facts are not such ; or, if so, the
pears should have been picked in season." Gentlemen, arrogating no peculiar
knowledge to himself, your Secretary may be pardoned for suggesting that the
imputation to the late John C. Ripley of ignorance of the proper period for
gatherino- would provoke a smile were not our tears so recent. His information
upon all subjects pertaining to Pomology could not be supplemented even by
5

30 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

that wealth of erudition, which proved fatal to the Boston Atlas. But not to
weary you with views that have been so often elaborated from this place, a cita-
tion is made from the evidence of one whose knowledge upon the matters where-
of he affirms is alwaj's the fruit of careful and exact observation and analysis.
Dr. J. R. Nichols, of the Journal of Chemistry thus effectually explodes this
harmful fallacy of the beneficial influence of birds :

" There is much that is sentimental and attractive in the numerous essays upon bifds
and insects, found in our fashionable magazines and newspapers. Farmers and horti-
culturists in the country are informed by these parlor gentlemen in cities, who write
essays, that the race of binls is almost extinct, owing to the ' ruthless war ' waged upon
them by said farmers and fruit-raisers ; and, in consequence, grubs, worms, caterpillars,
flies, bugs, etc., have invaded the land, and increased so fearfully that they are eating
up every green thing. •■• * The joke of this whole matter lies in the fact that

most birds, robins more particularly, are not fond of the worms and insects destructive
to vegetation, such as canker-worms, caterpillars, the curculio, etc. Who, in conducting
a pnst moitem upon a robin ever found a canker-worm in its stomach ? No one ; instead
of these, at the right season of the year, that organ is found full of cherries, straw-
berries, grapes, etc., stolen from orchards and fruit gardens. Birds nevi r were so plenty
in New England as during the past five years ; and the ravages of insects and worms
never were more disastrous than during that period. Robins, according to the state-
ments of careful, competent observers, have increased fourfold, under the influence of
the protective enactments passed by our Legislatures. They swarm around our dwell-
ings, build their nests and hatch their young upon the shrubbery under the windows, as
if conscious of full protection. We love robins, and most other birds. It is indeed de-
lightful to be awakened in the morning by their songs. They are so familiar and do-
mestic in their habits, we come to regard them almost as household pets. We are quite
willing to divide our fruit with them, give them the large.-t half; but we cannot allow
them the while. We do love the birds, but we love good fruit also ; and it seem to us
that the time has arrived, at least in some portions of Massachusetts, when in order to
save any of the valuable soft fruit, we must reduce the number of birds so that this class
of consumers will not demand the whole of the production. Birds are simply orna-
mental, beautiful objects in nature ; as to their being of any essential service in the
destruction of insects, that is all a delusion. We must regard them in the same light
we do dogs, cats, rabbits, and other household pets. They are to be protected, and cared
for, until the number becomes unreasonably large, or they annoy us, and destroy our
property ; then we must thin them out in some way.

Last year we lost our cherries, many of our strawbeiries, all of our Delaware grapes ;
and our neighbors were subjected to the same losses. We would suggest that the laws
relating to the destruction of robins and some other birds, be suspended for a period
say of three years.

And still, notwithstanding remonstrance, argument, absolute demonstration
indeed, the Great and General Court, at its last session, made the obnoxious
provisions of the law for the protection of birds yet more comprehensive and
stringent. In justice, however, it must be confessed that it is to the same
egregious body of men that we owe the latest largess to the Hartford & Erie
Railroad, and the ultimate resolution to determine at once and forever the num-
ber of cubic feet contained in the Hoosac mountain.

The usual weekly meetings have been continued with customary interest and
success. Many superior specimens of fruit and flowers have been exhibited,
and, in frequent instances, the identification of varieties has proved alike ben-
eficial and satisfactory to growers who were ignorant of the proper names. The
annual display of Roses aud Strawberries, as a whole, was the finest ever held

1869.] secretary's report. 31

within our hall. It is true that the character of the season was such as to re-
quire the latter to be exhibited when the former were ahnost past their prime.
Neverthless, such was the abundance, and so great the number of varieties of
the strawberry, thanks mainly to two contributors, that the partial inferiority
of the Horal department elicited but trivial criticism. The zeal that is now
manifested in procuring new varieties, and the competition that exists in the
production of this delicious fruit, amply justify our confidence iu a larger and
finer display during the summer of the coming year.

More interest also appears to be awakened in the growth of those other small
fruits which, maturing after the strawberry, assists so essentially in completing
a full supply throughout the season. With the application of white hellebore
has quickly and thoroughly disappeared all apprehension of permanent injury
or peril to the currant. The raspberry has suffered some harm during the warm
months, from a species of worm so minute as to be almost invisible, but yet
possessing a capacity for the consumption of foliage infinitely out of propor-
tion to its^size. In regard to the raspberry, a wide difference of opinion seems
to exist among cultivators, as to the comparative fruitful ness of different varie-
ties. Thus John J. Thomas asserts that Brinckle's Orange, in central and
western New York, is a shy bearer and insipid in quality when compared with
such sorts as Clarke and Naomi. On the other hand, Mr. Parry, of Cinnamin-
son, New Jersey, is enthusiastic over a yield of the Philadelphia so prodigious
that it cannot be gathered. Your Secretary, as is known to many of you, has
devoted the most of his attention and space to the culture of this especial fruit.
And it may serve for the gratification of curiosity, should it answer no more
useful purpose, to put upon record in this report, some facts which were gathered
for his own guidance and instruction. He has but 2631 square feet of land
applicable and employed in the production of raspberries. Of this space, 25:^4
feet ought to be left out of account, as the stools of Knevett's Giant, thereon
planted", are quite young and immature. But from the entire plot, without de-
duction, were gathered three quarts in excess of seven and one-half bushels—
2^^ feet yielded five quarts of Knevett's Giant; 405 feet, thirty quarts of the
Philadelphia; 399 feet, one bushel and two quarts of Franconia; and 1573i
feet were fragrant with the rich aroma of five bushels, one peck, and six and a
half quarts of Brinckle's Orange. Yet it is not to be supposed that the culti-
vation of the raspberry involves all income and no outlay. None of the small
fruits, so called, are so impatient of neglect, or require such quantities of ma-
nure. It may indeed be asserted with safety that the capacity of absorbing
fertilizers, so long and erroneously ascribed to the grape, does actually illustrate
the nature and wants of the raspberry. Moreover its canes must be protected
in winter. Your Secretary does not believe in the existence of a solitary variety,
worlhi/ of cuUivaHou, that will endure the frosts of our climate uncovered, and
continue fertile, even if it can maintain its vitality. And this opinion is based

32

WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

[1869.

upon his personal experience, commencing with the Red and Yellow Antwerps
some forty years ago, and protracted, with intermissions, down to the present
prolific season. Aware that others are of a different persuasion he submits his
convictions, for such they are, to be taken for what they are worth. One thing
more ; a writer in the Daily Spy not many weeks since, in an article upon the
culture of the raspberry, advises the making of plantations in the spring as the
only suitable season. Your Secretary would assert, on the other hand, that no
period of the year is so .suitable as the autumn. And he does so with the more
confidence that it is a theory to which his own practice has always conformed,
and which results have never failed to justify.

The customary comparative statement of entries at the exhibitions, other than
the annual autumnal, is herewith furnished for your more precise information :

COMPARATIVE

STATEMENT.

Anno Domini.

6

«^

.2 m
V «>

•- o -2 .
a. m S e.

m O >, cS

o3 o 5 t-
SSOOC

98
83
79
104
151
112
132
207

a.

<

i

612
374
184
161
.292
264
120
190

•3

o S

fc a

So!

632

616
1008
1643

811
1716

807
1027

o

1862

18C3

29
44
36
48
23
43
37
95

160

366

140

41

38

51

111

78

1431
1483

1864

1447

1865

1997

1866

1315

1867

2186

1868

1207

1869

1597

An aggregate augmented by the unprecedented display of strawberries in
early summer, and the generous profusion of grapes within the past few weeks.

At a special meeting of the society convened on the 24th day of September
ult., a committee was appointed, consisting of Messrs. Samuel H. Colton,
Stephen Salisbury and John C. Newton, to " submit at the next meeting
some suitable plan of alteration or enlargement of Horticultural Hall, that the
same may be rendered more convenient and capacious for the purposes of the
Society." To what conclusion that committee have arrived has not been pub-
licly announced ; nor is a knowledge of it material to the purposes of this
report. The inciting cause for the creation of this committee is, of course, well
understood. At the annual autumnal exhibition a display of vegetables rewarded
our efforts that might well have challenged the assignment of the main hall for
their exclusive exposition. As it was, much of their effect as a collection was
lost by sheer inability to arrange and properly classify them. The Society, it
cannot be denied, has uo right to hold out inducements for cultivators to exhibit

1869.] secretary's report. 33

their products, and then refuse them the space absolutely essential to their dis-
play. But, with all deference to the committee, and in utter ignorance of their
design, your Secretary must be pardoned for expressing a decided repugnance to
the expenditure of another dollar, except for indispensable repairs, upon the
present hall. His views upon the subject of a change of location have been too
recently expressed to require repetition. It must suffice here to remark that
those views have only strengthened with the lapse of the two years since they
were first urged upon your attention. The tendency of heavy, wholesale busi-
ness towards and along Front street, is increasingly manifest. That considera-
tion, of itself, must sooner or later compel our removal. The inadequacy and
inconvenience of our present accommodations is a matter from which your
thoughts can no longer be withheld, with however much resolution you may
attempt to avert them. With all the avenues of approach blockaded by skids
and produce, in the busiest season of the year when our exhibition must be
holden ; with our halls themselves, now confessedly overwhelmed by a generous
profusion of contributions ; with the certainty that a change of location cannot
always be unceremoniously whistled down the wind ; what is the step which a
wise forethought dictates to be taken while there is yet opportunity ? For it
should be borne in mind, as was heretofore suggested, that sites suitable for our
purposes are rapidly covering with costly and imposing structures. Thjit the
hall for which the public need clamors, and which need, like all other wants, is
sure to be supplied, if not by ourselves then to our annoyance and loss ; that
hall larger than the original Brinley, but similar in its quiet elegance of sym-
metry and adornment ; that, which ought to be Horticultural Hall, is steadily
and ever demanded, and was never more requisite than now. This Society,
twenty years ago, builded, wisely and well for the time, upon this spot. Is it
not incumbent upon us, their survivors or successors, to reflect deeply — cau-
tiously if you please — but thereafter to act boldly ! Your Secretary, " taking
too much upon himself," perhaps, in violation of the injunction of Scripture,
suggested the Barton estate as a fit location. Nothing came of that reccom-
mendation and it is probable, though not certain, that the estate mentioned is
beyond our attainment. But other sites are, or soon will be, in the market, of
certain value at present, and sure to prove a safe as well as profitable invest-
ment. Whether the society shall manifest the courage to place its hall upon
Chestnut street, either at the corner of Pearl or Pleasant, is for the members,
acting through their Trustees, to determine. Your Secretary could, with a clear
conviction, earnestly advise such action. He could more conscientiously and
earnestly urge upon you the purchase and edification of the entire tract bounded
by those three streets, upon which, a timidity similar to that apparently con-
trolling our own corporate action, has forever lost to Episcopacy its chance of
erecting the cathedral of the future. No location like it — so suitable, so eligi-
ble, so advantageouis in every way, so especially adapted to our wants and so

34 WORCESTER COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

peculiarly fitted for our purposes can be designated within the limits of the city.
One of our shrewdest associates, Mr. James White, complimented your Secretary
by saying that the scheme was magnificent. If so, let not its grandeur appal
you, but "rising to the full height of the occasion, look boldly to the inevitable
and not far remote future of Worcester I Such an acquisition would remedy
the vexatious defect in our existing boundaries by an exchange of titles. Its
improvement, by the construction of a Hall alike creditable and profitable, would
demonstrate our aptitude for our position, and clearly indicate our consciousness
that the requirements of fifty or a hundred thousand people are not to be
restricted or measured by the instrumentalities which suffice for five thousand.
ff at any time, gentlemen, I may have seemed to press too strongly upon you
this idea of a change of our location, you must make due allowance for my
earnest desire to promote the interests of our cherished Society, and my hearty
flith that, in that way, are those interests to be most certainly and permanently
advanced'. I have sometimes had visions of a possible Ecole Polytechnique,
of which our corporation should be the nucleus, and connected therewith the
young and active Natural History Society. Akin in pursuits and tastes in
many respects, in none divergent, one roof might accommodate both to mutual
advantage. In the direction hereinbefore indicated, the uplifted arm and mas-
sive liammer upon the weathervane of the Boynton Institute already point.
Engacred in diverse modes, and by somewhat alien appliances, the investigations
and researches of all tend directly to the same end— the wresting from nature of
the hidden and mysterious processes whereby her elementary changes are evolved.
Whenever the new Horticultural Hall shall be completed, with adequate ac-
commodations and suitable conveniences, we may count with confidence upon
a much larger measure of that public patronage and support which we shall
have done s^'o much to merit. Nor will it be unreasonable to anticipate renewed
proofs of that wide-spread liberality to which the rapid enlargement of your
Library is so materially due. Thither, too, should be brought and suspended
the portraits of our deceased associates and benefactors ; of those who founded
the society thirty years ago ; of those others by whom its existence has been
subsequently maintained and its usefulness kept unimpaired. By way of
initiating such a movement, let me place at your disposal the engraved likeness
of one who, throughout a long and memorable life, deemed no enjoyment so
sweet as that which was derived from the observation and study of nature.
Add to it, gentlemen, the portraits of Waldo, and Green, of Paine, and Ripley ;
and in the future,— may it be far distant-the features so familiar and welcome
at our meetings. Upon yonder shelf you may now perceive some objects of
plastic art for which we are indebted to the forethought and liberality of our
late Treasurer. Modeled in France from fruits grown by Mr. Francis G. Shaw,
upon Staten Island, in the bay of New York, they constitute alike admirable
specimens of skill, useful subjects lor study, and permanent memorials of him

1869.] secretary's report. 35

who served us so faithfully and well. But no art has yet discovered a substi-
tute tor the pencil and the graver; and, without their cunning inventions, all
but the tender memory of our friends is indeed lost to us forever.

Mr. President, and gentlemen : Until within a very recent period, your Secre-
tary had cherished a hope that he might be spared, for at least a single year,
the painful task of preparing a necrology of the society. In a portion of that
duty, inevitable alas, he has been relieved by our honored President who, in
sentences far too brief, so aptly alluded to the decease of our late Treasurer.
Would that it had also devolved upon him rather than upon the one who now
addresses you, to deplore, in suis felicissimis verbis, the loss of him— our latest
and best— from the freshly-laid sods of whose grave our reluctant feet are so
lately turned. Of a modesty never overstepping its implied rather than defined
limits; of a delicacy having in itself nothing effeminate, and yet transcending
that of woman ; reserved— perhaps from a too keen sensitiveness to a slighl
infirmity of which his intimate friends never thought, and upon which those
who once knew him, ever so Imperfectly, never again reflected ; generous, tender,
and unselfish, if ever that man lived ; a horticulturist from sheer love of the
pursuit, and pursuing it only the more resolutely from the multiplicity of ob.
stacles to be encountered, whether of insects neglected by men, or of birds, ra-
pacious of devastation, or of legislatures which, protective of one become,
curiously enough, a multiplier of the other, thereby working and insuring a tvvJ
fold and inexorable woe ; a constant and regular contributor to our exhibitions,
through storm and sunshine, in summer and winter ; a faithful and punctual
trustee; a devoted associate— of him what shall not be said in eulogy ? Of
those rarer qualities, somewhat veiled from general appreciation by the'' reserve
already noticed, those who were honored by his personal friendship cannot trust
themselves to speak. Yet it is not, perhaps, assuming too much, as illustrating
the nobleness of his nature, to aver that his devotion to our interests was often
manifested, to his great personal discomfort and inconvenience, because of a
pure sympathy with the efforts which he was generous enough to believe were
making to foster the aims and promote the usefulness of the society. Nothincr
contemptible or mean could exist in his presence without instant detection and
exposure. The scorn with which his upright and downright honesty regarded
aught that savored of petty trickery, it mattered not how slightly, at any of our
exhibitions, must be vividly recalled by many of your number. To the last the
earnestness of his zeal for the Society remained ardent and unabated. After
the death of your late Treasurer, whom he so swiftly followed, he found
strength- to come to this room that he might evince his concern for the
selection of a proper successor. Little did the writer dream, .as he strained his
attention to catch each painfully-drawn accent of those low tones, that the
voice which then uttered them would so soon be hushed forever. That with his
last retreating footsteps departed from our hall, never more to mingle among
us, one of whom it can with verity be said —

" None knew him but to love him,
None named hiia but to praisa."

86 WORC.STEK COUm. HOKTICU.TURAL SOCIETY. [1869.

.„™„ to whom that cordial salutation; thatpresence,
There remain, gentlemen, some to "^°"' '" „„j ,„„„,„ded ; that

manl, in its reserve, exactmg respect e.en where t ^^^^^ ^^^

genial and ^f^'^l^^^":^:^^ iXU e'xpressio.l-as, indeed,
never received an unkind look, V.MC j ,^|j ,e,5,„t

who eonld 1 Profound , ^ra^f-l*; '■>--- ^,^ ,,, ,,3 „,,„,;„.

places; 't" *- ;;^'2S : th^Iig a^ion, or passively, .0 bis fa.e. Time

tance-, they can bu 7''""' * ° . „ °„h„,„f ;, cannot utterly silence.
ma,assuaseagr,rf.belamen. -.^^e- ^^^^^^^ ^^^ ^^.^^ ^^^

.hettXuonf Iicb":r;'erennial, and our love, if not our faith, assures

"^ ^ ' « The sweet remembrance of the just

Shall flourish, when he sleeps in dust."

All which is respectfully submitted. ^^^^^^^ ^^ LINCOLN, _

Secretary and Librarian.
Horticultural Hall,
WoECESTEK, Mass., November 3, A. D. 1869.

^s^;