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LIBRARY

OF THE

MASSACHUSETTS

AGRICULTURAL

COLLEGE

NO._£<£_J?fc>_

DATE

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This book may be kept out

TWO WEEKS

only, and is subject to a fine of TWO
CENTS a day thereafter. Tt will be due on
the day indicated below.

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APR 2 7 1938

630,06 V/89^

1861-66"
APR 27 1938

TRANSACTION

op th:

WORCESTER NORTH

Agricultural Society,

FOR 1861.

PREPARED BY THE SECRETARY.

FITCHBURG:
PRINTED BY E. GARFIELD
1862.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

In accordance with the requirements of the Statute
law of the Commonwealth, the Ninth Annual Cattle
Show and Exhibition of the Worcester North Agricul-
tural Society commenced in Fitchburg, on Tuesday,
Sept. 24th, 1861. At one o'clock, P. M., the various
committees on articles exhibited in the Hall were
organized and attended to the duties assigned them.
The Hall presented an unusual appearance, the tables,
&c. being arranged differently from what they had ever
before been; instead of three rows running through the
length of the Hall as heretofore, there were many short
rows crossing it, with ample walks between them and
on each side of the Hall. This arrangement afforded
more table room, and gave general satisfaction.

The show of Fruit, in consequence of its general
scarcity and imperfection this year, was not nearly
equal in quanity or quality to that of former exhibitions.
This deficiency was offset by a display of Vegetables
far superior to any ever before presented here ; the show
of Flowers was brilliant ; the Mechanic Arts and Manu-
factures were much more liberally represented than
usual, and Fancy Articles were not deficient in quantity
or quality. Bread, Butter, Cheese, Pickles, Honey,
Preserves, Wines, &c, were also liberally displayed on
the various tables.

4: SECRETARY'S REPORT.

The committees discharged their duties promptly and
faithfully, and the Hall was open to the public through
the evening, and was well rilled with our citizens and
their friends, the assembly being frequently entertained
by the singing of patriotic songs and glees by a volun-
teer club under the direction of Mr. N. 0. Prescott.

The principal show was on Wednesday, the 25th.
The Plowing and Spading commenced at nine o'clock,
A. M., on. the farm of Lyman Nichols, Esq., north of the
village, and was witnessed by a large number of inter-
ested spectators. An exhibition of Rock Lifting took
place on the same farm, immediately after these trials,
and was a novel and instructive performance, which
excited much discussion and suggested many valuable
remarks: Mr. Nichols' farm was naturally an exceed-
ingly stony one, and by the use of a $225 machine he
has already cleared a large portion of it of the stones,
including many immense boulders, which are readily
lifted by the machine from their beds in the soil and
removed from the fields. A smaller and less expensive
machine for the same purpose, was exhibited on the
Common, and duplicates of it have since been used
extensively and successfully in various parts of this
town, and in several neighboring towns, greatly improv-
ing the appearance of the fields where it is operated; a
result, in part, no doubt, of the exhibition and discus-
sions above alluded to.

At half-past ten o'clock the several committees on
Stock, Drawing, &c.r were organized and the various
trials of draught animals commenced immediately, were
largely contested and gave general satisfaction. The
number of animals exhibited in the various departments

SECRETARY'S RETORT. O

was unusually large, and the quality much better than
at any previous show of the Society. An extensive
breeder and good judge of cattle, a member of the
State Board of Agriculture, who usually attends the
Cattle Shows here, stated that the cattle wTere at least
fifteen per cent, better than he had ever before seen
exhibited in this place. A much larger proportion than
usual of the animals were pure bred blood stock, and
high grades from these; showing an increasing interest
on the part of the members of the Society in the busi-
ness of breeding superior animals, and improving our
common farm stock.

Mr. A. 0. Cummins, of Millbury, presented for exhi-
bition only, not competing for any of our premiums, a
beautiful herd of nine high bred, pure blood Short Horns,
two bulls, three cows, (one of them imported) and four
heifers, all superb animals, owned by himself, A. C. & J.
G. Wood, and E. M. Hoi man, of Millbury. These ani-
mals, which were among the best of their class, added
much to the excellence of the show in this department,
and Mr. Cummins richly merited the thanks of the
Society for his energy and liberality in thus placing
them on exhibition.

The usual dinner was served by Mr. Day, at the
Fitchburg Hotel, at one o'clock, soon after which the
Society met in the Lower Hall, where the President,
Thomas Billings, Esq., after some appropriate remarks,
introduced the Hon. A. H. Bullock, of Worcester, who
spoke eloquently of the importance of due attention to
the agricultural and mechanical interests of the country,
and the important part borne by the old County of
Worcester in contributing to the material welfare of the

6

SECRETARY'S REPORT

nation. He was followed by the Hon. John Brooks, of
Princeton, an abstract of whose remarks accompanies
this report. Appropriate remarks were also made by
Hon. Ivers Phillips, of Worcester, Hon. A. G. Hill, of
Harvard, J. T. Everett, Esq., of Princeton, and Rev.
George Trask, of Fitchburg, after which the awards of
the various committees were announced. These exer-
cises were enlivened by several songs from the same
glee club who added so much to the interest of the
exhibition on the preceding evening.

During the meeting Mr. Everett, of Princeton, offered
the following resolutions :

Resolved, That, we congratulate each other and our fellow citizens
throughout our State, and the whole country, upon the apparent entire
extirpation of that appalling disease, the pleuro-pneumonia, that so
suddenly and so fearfully commenced its ravages upon our neat stock,
threatening terrible injury, if not total destruction to the great staple
interest of the agriculture of the country.

Resolved, That, we gratefully appreciate the services of the State
commissioners, Dr. George B. Loring, of Salem; Hon. Amasa Walker,
of North Brookfield, and Paoli Lathrope, Esq., of Hadley, in the extir-
pation of that disease, a- That, in"our judgment, their labors were charac-
terized by wisdom, energy and great perse verence, and were finally
crowned with success.

A vote of thanks was tendered to the Hon. John
"Brooks, of Princeton, for a donation to the Society of
ten copies of " Grasses and Forage Plants," by C. L.
Flint, Esq., Secretary of the State Board of Agri-
culture, each accompanied with a beautiful blank
diploma.

A vote of thanks was also tendered to the gentle-
men from Millbury, who exhibited a herd of nine pure
blood Short Horn stock.

SECRETARY'S REPORT. 7

Upwards of one hundred bound copies of Mr. Secre-
tary Flint's "Agriculture of Massachusetts," for 1860,
have been received and distributed by the Secretary
among the members and friends of the Society. Also
about two hundred and fifty copies of the " Patent
Office Report on Agriculture," for 1860, have been dis-
tributed, most of which, through the kindness of the
Hon. G. F. Bailey, the Representative to Congress
from this District, have been sent under his own frank,
direct to the recipients.

A small quantity of seeds and plants have been
received from the Patent Office, including several vari-
eties of Peas, which have been the subjects of some
interesting experiments, and also several varieties of
foreign Wheat, with which some of the members of the
the Society are now experimenting.

Seven new members have joined the Society during
the year, increasing the total number of members who
have joined up to the present time to five hundred
and fifty-three.

8 SECRETARY'S REPORT

ABSTRACT OF MR. BROOKS' REMARKS,

— -IS;;" —

Mr. Brooks, of Princeton, when called upon, re-
marked that he was pleased to meet his brother farm-
ers of the Worcester North Agricultural Society, and
to be able to express the opinion that the neat stock
at the present show was superior to any he had ever
seen exhibited at Fitchburg. This to him was exceed-
ingly gratifying, as he was one of those who believed
the rearing and feeding of cattle and sheep was one of
the best means of renovating and improving our farms.
He said that farmers, in his judgment, did not make
sufficient outlay of capital upon their lands, but were
too desirous of placing their surplus earnings at inter-
est, which they could not afford to do so long as they
possessed a rod of land susceptible of improvement.
There were very many acres of land in the county
that, by an expenditure of fifty dollars upon each acre,
would pay annually the interest on this outlay, and
give yearly two or three times the former income
derived from the same land. He had cleared off brush
and stones some thirty acres of old pasture land, with-
in the last thirty years, and was well satisfied with the
experiment. In his view it was much better for farm-
ers to expend their earnings in improvements upon
their farms, than to place them out at interest, for by
placing them at interest they would find that, at the
expiration of every twenty years, they had lost a large
amount of the capital so placed. As proof of this, Mr.
Brooks said that the money loaned was to traders and

SECRETAPwY'S REPORT. 9

speculators^ they being the class of persons borrowing
much the largest portion of the money loaned upon
personal security. Farmers borrow but little except
upon mortgage upon their farms.

Mr. Brooks also stated that it was generally con-
ceded that twenty years was about the average dura-
tion of trading life ; that ninety- five per cent, of all
persons entering into trade failed, and that fifty cents
on the dollar was a large average dividend to receive
from bankrupt estates. If, therefore, traders and spec-
ulators are the class of persons that borrow the money,
and ninety-five out of every hundred that enter this
class fail in the course of twenty years, and settle with
their creditors by paying fifty cents on the dollar, it
follows that one-half of ninety-five, or forty-seven
and one-half per cent, of all the money loaned is lost
every twenty years, when, if it had been expended in
improvements on the farm, the capital at the end of
twenty years would have been unimpaired, and have
paid as much or more interest than if it had been
loaned out. As evidence of this, Mr. Brooks stated
that some thirty years ago he commenced improving
some of his land, by removing stones, &c, and in about
fifteen years he had cleared about thirty acres, at an
average cost of fifty dollars the acre. The land, before
improving, did not yield an income of more than the
interest on twenty dollars the acre annually. Since
the improvement, the same land had given an income
equal to the annual interest on two hundred dollars
the acre. It was his belief that if farmers would
expend more of their surplus funds in improvements

10

SECRETARY^ REPORT,

on their farms; rear and feed a larger number of
cattle, sheep and swine; cultivate more root crops;
expend a larger portion of their produce upon the
farm, and rely for profits upon the sale of beef, mutton,
pork, butter and cheese, they would by so doing find ,
their manure heaps constantly enlarging, their crops
annually increasing, instead of diminishing, as they
now do, by the practice of selling the crops off the
farm, and placing the proceeds at interest, to be event-
ually more or less of it lost by bad investments.
Many farmers believe themselves growing rich by sell- ■
ing their hay, especially if they purchase and return
to the farm as much manure as the hay sold will make,
and if they do not, their farms will soon become worth-
less, or nearly so. The average market price of a ton
of good hay in Worcester county, for the last ten
years, will not exceed fifteen dollars ; a ton of good
hay will make more than two tons .of solid manure,
weighed when recently dropped by the cow or ox, but
we will call it two tons. The liquid excretions dis-
charged by an ordinary cow or ox, while consuming
one ton of hay, with a suitable supply of water, will
be admitted by all who understand the matter, to be
equal in value to the solid. Thus four tons of manure
is produced by a cow while consuming one ton of hay.
Four tons of fresh manure is equal, by measurment,
to one and one-quarter cords weighing sixty-four hun-
dred pounds the cord, or fifty pounds the cubic foot,
the value of which we will estimate at four dollars the
cord, and one ton of good marketable hay we will call
worth six dollars the ton, for feeding stock on the

11 SECRETARY'S RETORT.

farm. If these premises are correct, the amount will
stand : —

Dr. Delivering one ton of hay sold, $1,50

" Cash paid for one and one-quarter cords of manure, 5,00
" Carting four tons, or one and one-quarter cords

of manure to farm, 6,00

" "Value of hay for feeding stock on the farm, - - 6,00

$18,50

Cr. One ton of hay sold, average price, - - - - $15,00

u Loss to balance, 3,50

$18,50

Thus we see, by the practice of selling hay, instead
of gaining, as many believe they do, we are loosing at
the rate of three dollars and fifty cents for every ton
sold.

By improving and beautifying our farms, we add
much to our own comfort and happiness, and offer
greater inducements to our sons and daughters to
spend their lives in rural enjoyments, instead of in the
dust and smoke of crowded cities. The farm is man's
earthly paradise, and the poet when he would describe,
or the painter when he would represent a scene of
earthly bliss, places it in some rural retreat, where the
air is vocal with song, fragrant with flowers,

"Mild as when Zephyrus on Flora breathes,' '

and where God is seen in the beauty and grandeur
of his works.

OFFIOEES OF THE SOCIETY FOE 1861.

THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg, President.

MOSES M. GAGE, of Fitchburg, ">
EZRA KENDALL, of Sterling, J

Vice Presidents.

> Trustees.

W. G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg, Secretary.

T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham,

JOEL HAYWARD, of Ashby,

S. W. A. STEVENS, of South Gardner,

0. C. FIELD, of Leominster,
WM. B. HOSMER, of Leominster,
CYRUS KILBURN, of Lunenburg,
DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,
JOHN BROOKS, Jr., of Princeton,
HENRY BOYLES, of Princeton,
J. T. EVERETT, of Princeton,
N. B. REED, of Princeton,
ANAN STOCKWELL, of Royalston,
M. T. GARDNER, of Shirley,
JAMES 0. PARKER, of Shirley,
J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling,
WARREN SIMONDS, of Templeton,
DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,
BENJ. WYMAN, of Westminster,
A. F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg,
T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg,
L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitchburg,
JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg,
ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,
J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,
JOEL PAGE, of Fitchburg,
J. P. PUTNAM, of Fitchburg,
JOSEPH SMITH, of Fitchburg,
EDWIN UPTON, of Fitchburg,
JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitchburg,

1. B. WOODWARD, of Fitchburg

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg, Member of the State Board
of Agriculture.

The annual meeting for the choice of Officers, &c, is held on the
first Wednesday in December, each year.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

PLOWING— DOUBLE TEAMS.

The Committee on plowing with double teams report,
that only three entries were made to compete for the
four premiums offered by the Society.

The team of Mr. Sewell G. Mirrick, of Princeton,
consisted of four three-years-old steers, driven by him-
self, and his son nineteen years old held the plow.
Their work was done in one hour and four minutes.

Mr. Joel Page, of Fitchburg, did his work with two
horses and one pair of three-years-old steers, driven by
his son thirteen years old, Mr. Page holding the plow
himself, in thirty-five minutes.

Mr. J. Edwin Merriam, of Princeton, plowed with
one pair of Oxen five years old, and one pair of steers
two years old. He held the plow himself. The team
was driven by his brother, John Merriam, and the
work was done in one hour and four minutes.

Double Michigan swivel plows from the manufactory
of Messrs. Nourse, Mason & Co., of Worcester, were
used by all the competitors, and the work was well
done. In awarding the premiums the Committee have
endeavored to consider all the elements that constitute
good practical farm plowing, such as time, manner of

14

PLOWING — DOUBLE TEAMS.

driving, holding the plow, and especially the quality
of the work when done. We were particularly well
pleased with the manner of driving all the teams. It
was done quietly, the whip was used but little except
to guide the teams ; it appeared as it should, like home
every day work. The land was somewhat difficult to
plow; it was on a steep side-hill, uneven, and in some
spots there were cobble stones. It was a good piece
of land to try the skill of the plowman, and the
strength and discipline of the teams.

It will be noticed that Mr. Page did his work much
quicker than either of the other competitors, which is
owing to the fact of his using two horses, while each
of the others used oxen ; and this fact also makes it
more difficult to decide who is justly entitled to the
first premium, than it would have been if all the
competitors had used teams alike ; but after taking
into consideration all the circumstances that fell under
the observation of your Committee, we have awarded
the Society's premiums, as follows :

1st, to Sewell G. Mirrick, of Princeton, $7,00

2d, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 5,00

3d, to J. Edwin Merriam, of Princeton, 3,00

As there is no competition for the fourth premium
of $1,00 offered by the Society, the Committee recom-
mend it to be paid as a gratuity to Master Warren B.
Page, thirteen years old, who drove his father's horse
and ox team so well.

The plowing was done on the farm of Lyman
Nichols, Esq., and your Committee were requested by
the Trustees of the Society to examine the working
gf one of "Bolles' Patent Bock-lifters," which was

PLOWING — SINGLE TEAMS. 15

exhibited on the same farm by Mi\ Lyman N. Fair-
banks, the farmer of Mr. Nichols* The machine was
entered for exhibition, but not for premium. It was
worked by Mr. Nichols' team of four beautiful oxen
and four men. Rocks weighing from one to four tons
are taken from^their beds in the ground, raised and
carried from the field with great rapidity and ease.
It seemed to us to be a very useful machine. It cost
$225,00, and Mr. Nichols paid for the exclusive right
to use it in the town of Fitchburg $40,00, making a
sum larger than every farmer who has rocks on his
farm can afford to pay, but it appeared to the Com-
mittee that one or two of them could be used in
almost every town to great advantage. The machine
may be used to advantage for pulling stumps or raising
any kind of heavy weights.

All of which is respectfully submitted by your

Committee.

IVERS PHILLIPS, Chairman,

PLOWING— SINGLE TEAMS.

Your Committee on plowing with single teams sub-
mit the following report.

There were six entries, and but three competitors.
Two of the young men that entered have enlisted in
the army, a better business than plowing at this partic-
ular time, and one was not on the ground.

We were unanimous in awarding the premiums as
follows :

1st, to Edwin A. Goodrich, of Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 5,00

16

PLOWING — HORSE AND MULE TEAMS

The 3d and 4th premiums were not awarded.

There were two entries of steers by minors. They
did the work well, and we were unanimous in award-
ing the premiums as follows :

1st, to Alfred Marshall, of Fitchburg, a small but

smart boy, $6,00

2d, to Herbert D. Goodrich, of Fitchburg, 4,00

Both did their work well, but your Committee took
expense into consideration and awarded the first prem-
ium to the single team.

JOHN BROOKS, Jr., Chairman.

PLOWING— HOUSE AND MULE TEAMS.

The Committee on plowing with horse and mule
teams, have attended to that duty and report as
follows :

There were five teams entered for premiums, and
competed for the same, and although the work was not
done as well as we might wish to see, still, under the
circumstances of the case, it was well done, and your
Committee make the following awards :

1st, to Walter Whitney, of Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to Joseph Cushing, of Fitchburg, 5,00

3d, to Liberty Wellington, of Ashby, 3,00

4th, to Mandell G. Everett, of Princeton, 1,00

All of which is respectfully submitted for the
Committee.

ISAAC B. WOODWARD, Chairman.

STALLIONS- 17

SPADING.

There were five persons who entered their names in
season, but only three appeared on the ground. They
drew their lots and contended for the premiums. The
time occupied in spading one hundred square feet
of sward land, not less than nine inches in depth,
varied from seventeen to thirty-four minutes. Two
of the persons did their work very finely, pulverizing
the soil and preparing it well for the seed. With the
other person there was too much haste, a want of
depth, and the soil was not sufficiently pulverized to
prepare it for the seed ; and as he was competing for
the first premium only, he having drawn the second
premium last year, we were unable to award but two
premiums out of five which were offered, and the Com-
mittee unanimously award the following premiums :

1st, to George A. Fry, of Fitchburg, $5,00

2d, to James Heslam, of Fitchburg, 4,00

For the Committee.

D. H. MERMAM, Chairman.

STALLIONS.

The Committee on stallions report that they have
awarded the premiums offered as follows :

SEVEN-YEAR-OLDS.

1st, to J. A. Harwood, of Littleton, for his

stallion, Fred Boyden, $10,00

18

MARES AND COLTS.

His horse Roebuck was excluded from consideration
by the Committee, not having any stock present, as
required by the rules of the Society.

THREE-YEAR-OLDS.

1st, to Win. L. Brown, of Lunenburg, for his

Hambletonian Tippoo, $4,00

2d, to Geo. W. Towne, of Westminster, 2,00

TWO-YEAR-OLDS.

1st, to John M. Forristall, of Winchendon, for

his Patchen colt, $4,00

JAMES O. PARKER, Chairman.

MARES AND COLTS.

Your Committee on mares and colts have attended
to the duties assigned them. They found that of
mares fourteen, and colts twelve, were entered for
exhibition. Many were well worthy of the attention
and consideration of your Committee. We feel a
degree of pride in being a Committee on the most
noble and important of the animal family, and we are
of the opinion that a few hints in relation to the
breeding and rearing of the Horse, might be profitable
to some at least who engage in this enterprise. Every
one who would grow a good crop of grain, will in the
first place see that he obtains the best of seed ; sec-
ondly, he selects the best piece of ground he has on
his farm, well adapted to the kind of grain he wishes
to raise, and when the proper time in the season

MARES AND COLTS. 19

arrives he attends to it, and spares no pains in prepar-
ing his ground and sowing his seed, and then with
proper care and the blessing of a kind Providence, he
expects in autumn to reap a bountiful harvest ; and
the same care should be taken if he wishes to raise a
good horse. He should pay much attention to select
the best of blood in both the sire and the dam, but
how little attention is paid to this by a large portion
of those who raise horses, and by some who profess to
have a taste for a good horse, but his taste effects his
brain but little and his pocket less. If he owns a
good mare which has noble blood and a proud spirit,
he prides himself in driving her because she is the
best there is in his town, and in this manner he uses
her until she is wind-broken or spavined, in fine, has
all the qualities of a broken-down horse, and in fact
becomes unfit for any other purpose. He then comes
to the conclusion that she is just fit to raise him a nice
colt) and he looks for a horse and succeeds in finding
a good one, and secures his service, for which a fair
price is paid, and he is expecting to get something
very fine from his once good mare, but now worthless for
any other purpose, as he thinks, but to make a good
breeder in her old age. You will often see him with
a long face and sour look after the foaling, and he
finds he has nothing more than an ordinary colt by the
side of his old lame mare, and you will often hear him
find fault because the stock of the horse is so poor.

Never, until those who raise horses learn to practice
a different course than the one we have described, will
there be that improvement in our stock of horses that
we ought to make. And now let us begin with our

20 MARES AND COLTS.

noble young, healthy and sound mares, to raise stock,
and in a few years you will find a very different exhi-
bition of mares and colts than we have had in years
that are past ; and if the colt is well cared for, giving
him, the first and second winter, a plenty of good hay
and a little oat-meal each day, with good yard room,
where he can get that exercise which his nature
demands, and you will see our country rilled with a
most noble set of horses.

A few words more and we will relieve your patience.

Now to all our friends who would raise a good horse.
Do try and not make the thing any worse. If you
have a young mare that is all right and kind, match
her with the best blooded horse your can find, and you
will raise a better colt by far than your neighbor, and
then you will feel proud and get pay for your labor.

We have awarded the following premiums :

BREEDING MARES.

1st, to Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, $6,00

2d, to John Wilker, of Ashburnham, 4,00

We would recommend a gratuity of $3,00 to Jona-
than P. Davis, of Ashby, for his mare and colts.

SUCKING COLTS.

1st, to Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, $3,00

2d, to John Wilker, 2,00

3d, to W. A. Mandell, of Lunenburg, 1,00

All of which is respectfully submitted.

WARREN SIMONDS, Chairman.

€0LTS. 21

DRAGHT HORSES AND MULES.

The Committee award the following premiums :

DOUBLE TEAMS.

1st, to Walter Whitney, of Fitchburg, $6,00

2d, to James P. Putnam, of Fitchburg, 4,00

SINGLE TEAMS.

1st, to Rodney Fuller, of Dracut, 5,00

2d, to Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, 3,00

FAMILY HORSES.

1st, to Joel Hey wood, of Ashby, 5,00

2d, to J. Edwin Merriam, of Princeton, 3,00

HARRINGTON SIBLEY, for the Committee.

COLTS.
The Committee on colts make the following awards :

THREE- YEARS-OLD GELDINGS^

1st, to Adonijah Barnes, of Westminster, $4,00

2d, to James R. Davis, of Fitchburg, 2,00

TWO- YEARS-OLD GELDINGS.

1st, to Daniel C. Miles, of Westminster, 4,00

2d, to Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, 2,00

TWO -YEARS-OLD FILLIES.

1st, to R. G. Chesmore, of Westminster, 4,00

2d; to J. T. Dunsmore, of Lunenburg, 2,00

ONE-YEAR-OLD GELDINGS.

1st, to Ohio Whitney, of Ashburnham, 4,00

ONE-YEAR-OLD FILLIES.

2d, to Asa W. Holden, of Shirley, 2,00

Reported for the Committee by

GILMAN DAY.

22 BULLS

BULLS.

The Committee on bulls have attended to their
duty, and submit the following report :

They found on examination, a number of bulls
entered on the books, that were not entered in the
pens ; others in the pens not on the book, and some
entered for exhibition ; others for sale.

They award the following premiums and gratuities :

BLOOD STOCK.

1st, S. H. Sprague, of Westminster, for his

Devon bull, $5,00

A gratuity to John Brooks, Jr., of Princeton,

for his Devon bull, 3,00

Also a gratuity to same, for his Devon bull calf,

six months old, 2,00

Both entered too late for premiums.
1st, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, for his Alderny

bull, 5,00

GRADE STOCK.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, for his three-

years-old bull, 5,00

2d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, for his four-
years-old bull, 3,00

3d, to Nathaniel Holden, of Shirley, for his

Ayrshire bull calf, six months old, 2,00

A gratuity to J. Wilker, of Ashburnham, for

bull calf, six months old, 2,00

A gratuity to Oliver Wellington, of Phillipston,
for his seven-eighths Durham bull, entered
too late for premium, 4,00

BULLS

23

The Committee also award to A. C. & J. G. Wood,
of Millbury, for their very large, fine Durham bull, and
also for their very nice Durham bull calf, eleven months
old, on exhibition only, a very favorable notice.

Also to A. 0. Cummins, of Millbury, for his seven-
eighths Durham bull calf, six months old, on exhibi-
tion, a favorable notice.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

JOEL PAGE, Chairman.

A. 0. CUMMINS' STATEMENT.

In offering my Short Horn cattle for exhibition,
perhaps it may not be deemed amiss to offer a few
suggestions on breeding and selecting Short Horns ;
also to give my views of their excellency.

As the whole subject of breeding is one of vast
range, and one on which there is some diversity
of opinion, I will only touch on such points as are
universally acknowledged by breeders.

First, in selecting animals, choose those of fair size,
having all the fineness of offal consistent with stamina
and constitution, united with fullness of carcass and
ripeness of points, so that you will have the most
substance within the smallest space. Have them of
noted blood, i. e., descended through a long succession
of noted* animals, as the Duchesses or the celebrated
Princess tribe of Short Horns. Likewise, they should
resemble their ancestry, denoting a fixedness of their
good qualities, which becomes more fixed through each

24

BULLS.

generation which it passes, denoting that they, in turnf
will transmit the same to their progeny. Also, hav-
ing descended through milking stock, we reasonably
expect deep milkers in our cows. As to color, that is
governed by fancy or fashion. Provided it be white or
red, or a mixture of the two- — let them have a clean,
flesh-colored nose, without spot or blemish, also a light
ring around the eyes. And be on your guard against
looseness, flabbiness, flat ribs, and a general tendency
to run into offal ; for with those qualities you get great
consumers, bad handlers with poor constitutions, and a
general tendency to detereoration.

Keep your calves growing, from the time they
are dropped until fully matured, never allowing a
week to pass without a corresponding growth of your
young animal, and were I to present my own views,
I would say give new milk in liberal quantities for
three months at least, then gradually change to
skimmed milk, with shorts or oats, and if in winter, a
few sliced carrots daily ; always recollecting that with-
out a good start with your calves, you seldom get
superior animals. Also, the practice of putting young
heifers at breeding is injurious. No heifer should be
allowed to produce before she is two and one-half
years old, no matter if she be large and thrifty.

As to their excellency, we claim for them great
aptitude to take on flesh, making a greater per cent,
of beef than anv other breed, and that of an excellent
quality, in proof of which wre would cite Berry in
Yoaatt. He says, " Mr. Mason of Chilton had a cow,
the depth of whose fat from rump to hips, in perpen-
dicular position, was not less than twelve inches, and

SHORT HORN CATTLE, 25

shoulder score at least nine inches thick." " Also, Mr.
Collins' ' white heifer that travelled ' was estimated at
four years old to weigh 1820 lbs." " R. Collings'
steers, two years old, 882 lbs. Mr. Nesham's steery
two years and one month, 1050 lbs. Mr. Arrowsmith's
twin heifers, two years old, 812 lbs. each. Mr. Nes-
ham's steer, three and a half years old, 1618i lbs.
Major Budd's steer, three years old, on grass and roots
only, meat 1344 lbs." And to the above Mr. Allen,
editor of the American Short Horn Herd Book, adds
the weights of a few American Short Horns. " An ox
and a cow, bred by E. P. Prentice, Esq., N. Y., and
slaughtered in Feb. 1846. Ox five years old ; live-
weight 2546 lbs., dead weight 2074 lbs. Cow five
years old; live weight 1520 lbs., dead weight — carcass
950 lbs., loose tallow 100 lbs , hide 75 lbs., total 1125
lbs. J. M. Sherwood, Esq., of Auburn, N. Y., breeder
of Jessie, had a barren heifer, which weighed alive over
2000 lbs., dead weight 1500 lbs. A. B. Allen, then
of Buffalo, N. Y., bred a heifer got by a thorough-bred
Short Horn bull out of a common cow, (half blood,}
which was milked up to being slaughtered, and fed on
hay and grass until a short time before killing ; weight
of carcass 814 lbs., loose tallow 112 lbs., hide 92 lb&,
total 1018 lbs." And Mr. Sumner, of Woodstock, Ct.,
now has a grade ox, weighing over 4000 lbs. Also>
the large steer killed in Worcester last year by Mr:
Peaslee, is but another proof of our position.

And to prove their milking qualities we have but to-
consult history to find that the Short Horn cow stands
at the head in England. Mr. Berry says that u some
of Mr. Bats' Duchess cows, and the Princess tribe

26 SHORT HORN CATTLE.

of Sir Henry Vane Tempest, gave the following quan-
tities, " Yellow Rose at three years old, 36 qts. per
diem; at four years, 38 qts. do. Red Daisy, 32 qts.
per day; Magdalena, upwards of 32 qts.; Wildair,
32 qts.; Western Lady, 28 qts.; Venus, sixteen years
old, 26 qts. ; Alfrecle, 24 qts. ; Adela, (first calf,) 24
qts.; Yarm, 24 qts.; Moss Rose, (always fat,) 16 qts;"
and Mr. Berry adds that " these cows are steady
milkers, possessing great inclination to fatten."

And to come down to our own day, the instances
are common of Short Horn cows giving from 16 to 24
qts. per day, making 2 lbs. and over of butter. The
cow Cora, owned by Daniel Tainter, Esq., of Worcester,
on a trial in 1859, made 18 lbs. of butter in one week
and 27 lbs. in ten days. Also her calf, Evelina, owned
by Messrs. A. C. & J. G. Wood, of Millbury, gave
when two years old, in the month of Jan., (without
grain or meal,) 16 qts. per day. Also the family of
cows owned by Mr. Wells Lathrop, of So. Hadley
Falls, and called " Yaricoes," are samples of milking
Short Horns, and last, though not least, Lady Sale, 5th,
bred by J. M. Sherwood, Esq., of Auburn, N. Y., and
owned by myself, made 101 lbs. of butter in one week,
when two years old, running in a common pasture.
Other cases, too numerous to mention, might be cited,
were it necessary to show the milking tendencies of
the Short Horn cow, but we deem it unnecessary, as a
fair trial has always satisfied an unprejudiced mind
of her excellency.

JERSEY CATTLE

27

JOEL PAGE'S STATEMENT.
JERSEYS.

The Jersey bull, Cornet, which I offer for a prem-
ium, was bred by Jonathan Forbush, of Bolton. It
was dropped March 26th, 1859, got by imported bull
Santi Anna, dam Cloe, gr. dam imported cow Dolly^
Cloe got by Lyman's full-blood Jersey bull.

In offering this bull for one of the premiums on
Blood Stock, I deem it proper to express my opinion
of the value of the Jersey Stock for milk. I think that
while they are good feeders, no more expensive to keep
than our common stock, the cows of this breed, or high
grades from it, give nearly as much milk as our best
native cows, while the milk itself is of a superior qual-
ity, exceedingly rich, affording more butter from a
given quantity of milk than that of any other cows
I have ever seen. The cream is easily churned, the
butter comes quickly, is free from buttermilk, very
fine grained, solid, of a rich color, of the best flavor,
and commands the highest price in market.

I have one cow, now seven years old, only half-blood
Jersey, the milk of which was kept separate from all
others last year, about three months, and set for the
cream to rise ; then churned by simply stiring it by
hand. The butter came at one time in six minutes,
and atno time was it over eight minutes in coming.
There was much less than the usual quantity of butter-
milk, and the butter was entirely satisfactory.

28

DEVON CATTLE.

NATHAN CASWELL'S STATEMENT.
DEVO NS.

Having been requested by the Secretary of the
Worcester North Agricultural Society to give a state-
ment of my views of the Devon breed of cattle,
of which I offered several animals for premium, others
for exhibition only, I most cheerfully comply, so far as
my experience, which is rather limited, goes. Having
been engaged for the last twenty years in raising stock
to some extent, I have turned my attention to exam-
ining the merits of the different breeds to the claim
of being the best, and came to the conclusion that
each breed, under certain circumstances, had that claim,
and that breed was best for a man which was best
adapted to his circumstances, and the use to which he
wished to put it. If a man wishes a breed from which
he can procure the largest quantity of milk, the Ayr-
shire is undoubtedly the best for that purpose. If he
wishes to obtain the richest milk for the making of
butter, without regard to cost of keeping, the Jersey
is the best for that. If he wishes a breed of large and
quick growth, combining good qualities both for cows
and oxen, the Durham is the best, provided he has
rich pasture in summer and the best of keeping in
winter, to sustain that growth. If he has a large
quantity of meadow hay, straw and corn fodder, which
he wishes to convert into manure to enrich his farm,
and have his stock of cattle remain in a healthy
and thriving condition, the Devon is the best for
that purpose. My experience has principally been
with the breed called Native, and have found animals
possessed of the very best qualities, and my greatest

DEVON CATTLE. 29

objection to them is in breeding ; no dependence what-
ever can be placed in their transmitting any of those
qualities. My farm producing a considerable quantity
of meadow hay, I was satisfied that the Devons were
the best for me, and have given them a trial, and thus
far my expectations have not been disappointed. —
Their tough and hardy constitutions enable them to
subsist during our long and cold winters on the poorest
fodder, and retain their flesh, while I have found the
grade Durhams to grow poor on the same keeping.

In many parts of New England, the rough and
rocky nature of the soil renders the use of oxen
necessary. Their tough constitution, quick and active
motion, docility, similarity and uniformity in size, form
and color, render the Devons for this use unsurpassed.
It is no uncommon thing for a man raising steers of
the Native breed, to spend days and travel many miles
to find an animal to match one he has, while in twenty
steers of the same age there will seldom be any trouble
in finding ten matched pairs of the Devon. As to their
milking qualities, I have not had experience enough to
form a decided opinion. The present season is the first
that the heifers of my Devon stock came in. They
compare very favorably, both as to quantity and quality
of milk, with my heifers of the same age selected from
my best Native cows.

30 MILCH KINE,

MILCH KINB.

The Committee on Milch Kine award the following
premiums :

HERDS OF COWS.

1st, to Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg, for herd

of four cows, $10,00

There were no competitors for the second and third
premiums.

MILK COWS.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, $5,00

2d, to Gardner Merriam, of Leominster, 4,00

3d, to A. S. Dole, of Fitchburg, 3,00

HEIFERS-THREE-YEARS -OLD.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 5,00

2d, to I. B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton, 3,00

HEIFERS— TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to David B. Dole, minor, of Fitchburg, 5,00

2d, to Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton, 4,00

3d, to Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 3,00

The Committee noticed with much favor some very
fine Durham Stock on exhibition, from Millbury, pre-
sented by Mr. A. O. Cummins ; also one three-years-old
Dutch heifer, presented by Mr. J. M. Sawtell, of Fitch-
burg ; also one two-years-old, presented by Dr. Thos.
Palmer, of Fitchburg, said to be & fall blood Jersey.

SOLON CARTER, Chairman.

MILCH KINE.

ABEL E, ADAMS' STATEMENT.

To the Committee on Milch Cows and Heifers :

Gentlemen : I offer for premium a herd of four cows,
which I have owned and kept agreeable to the rules
of the Society the past season. During the trial in
June they were kept in a herd of twelve cows, and in
September, in a herd of fifteen cows. They have had
no meal or grain during the summer, and no extra feed
more than my other cows. In September they were
fed with green corn, night and morning, and were
allowed to feed a short time each morning in the
mowing lot.

The Roan cow is three-fourths Durham ; is six years
old; calved about April 10th; had a heifer calf which
is at the Show to answer for herself. At the trial in
June, she gave in the six days, 200 lbs. of milk, an
average of 383 lbs. per day. At the trial in Septem-
ber, she gave in the six days, 142 lbs. of milk, an
average of 23| lbs. per day, and is expected to come
in again early in March.

The largest red cow is seven-eighths Durham; is
seven years old ; calved May 7th ; calf sold at two
weeks old for $5,00, to raise. At the trial in June
she gave 231 lbs. milk, an average of 38 i lbs. per
day. At the trial in September, she gave 176 lbs.
milk, an average of 29J lbs. per day.

The smallest red cow came from Vermont, when a
heifer ; supposed to be Native ; is seven years old ; she
calved June 9th ; heifer calf; raised by myself. For
the six days commencing June 17th, she gave 249 lbs.
milk, an average of 41 J lbs. per day. At the trial in

32 MILCH KIKE,

September, she gave 151 lbs. milk, an average of 25|
lbs. per day.

The spotted cow is part Durham ; is eight years old;
she calved July 21st. The calf was a heifer, and at
five weeks and one day old was killed, and dressed
124 lbs. At the trial in September, she gave 185 lbs.
milk, an average of 30^ lbs. per day.

The cows are all gentle, quiet and orderly.

The milk heifer is two years and eight months old ;
calved September "6th. I purchased her in Shelburn,
in April last. She is part Durham.

N. B. REED'S STATEMENT.

I offer for premium one cow ; age seven years ;
breed mixed; calved March 14th, 1861. Her daily
weight of milk for the first six days in June was 43
lbs. ; for the first six days in September, 32 lbs.

One Devon heifer ; one-half blood ; age three years.
Her daily weight of milk for the six days in June, was
32 J lbs.; for the six days in September, was 29 lbs.
She calved March 22d, 1861.

One heifer ; age three years ; breed mixed ; calved
March 4th. Her daily weight of milk for the six days
in June, was 33 lbs. ; for the six days in September,
28 lbs. '

The above trials were made, commencing the first
Monday in June, and the corresponding days in Sept.

The above were kept in pasture feed, with corn fod-
der once a day, in September.

HEIFERS. . 33

DAVID B. DOLE'S STATEMENT.

The milch heifer which I enter for premium was
two years old last January ; her breed is Devon and
Native, in uncertain proportions ; she dropped her first
calf March 27th, 1861. She gave in six days, com-
mencing July 1st, 122 lbs. of milk, averaging 20J lbs.
per day; in the first six days of September, 117 lbs.
of milk, averaging 19 i pounds per day. She was
kept in a pasture with four other cows, and from the
first of September, she had such green fodder as the
farm could furnish.

HEIFERS.

The Committee on Heifers make the following
awards :

TWO-YEAES-OLD.

1st, Joel Page, of Fitchburg, $4,

2d, Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 3

3d, A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 2,00

Gratuity, Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, 2,00

YEAELLNGS-

1st, N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 3,00

2d, H. M. Caswell, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, George Davis, a minor, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Gratuity, Eugene Miles, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Gratuity, Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, on a

pen of four yearlings, 1,00

Gratuity, S. H. Sprague, of Westminster, on a

pen of three yearlings, 1,00

34 WORKING OXEN.

CALVES.

1st, A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg, $3,00

2d, Samuel Burnap, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, John Brooks, Jr., of Princeton, 1,00

Gratuity, S. H. Sprague, of Westminster, one

calf, raised by hand, 1,00

Respectfully submitted.

D. C. MILES, Chairman.

WORKING OXEN.

The Committee on Working Oxen highly appreciate
the honor conferred upon them, in being called to
•examine and report upon the power and training of
the noble ox. It is common for writers to speak of the
patient ox, but whether that arises from the fact that
the most patient man of whom we have any account,
had five hundred yoke, the Committee are not
informed. The Committee think that the race of work-
ing oxen has been very much improved since the time
that Elijah was called to be a Prophet, for the record
says he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Now
if his oxen were as powerful and well trained as those
we were called to examine, his plow must have been
made of some material unknown to the Committee, or
he might have had occasion to haul up for repairs
before his land was finished.

A new feature was introduced this year with regard
to loading the carts. In previous years the heavy and
light cattle have drawn the same load • this year it
was decided that each pair should draw thirty-three

WORKING OXEN. 35

per cent, more than their live weight. Of the propri-
ety of this change the Society can judge. Eleven
pairs of oxen were entered upon the records, but only
nine pairs appeared upon the ground. They were a
very fine lot ; not a poor ox among them.

The Committee award the premiums, as follows :

1st, to Charles K. Sawyer, of Fitchburg, for
.his oxen, seven years old, and weighing
3300 lbs., $6;00

2d, to Edwin A. Goodridge, of Fitchburg, for
his oxen, six years old, and weighing
3115 lbs., 5,00

3d, to Josiah Page, of Westminster, for his
Devon oxen, four years old, weighing
*2725 lbs., and driven by his son, 4,00

4th, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, for
his grade Durham oxen, four years old,
weighing 2928 lbs., 3,00

5th, to Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, for his
oxen, seven years old, and weighing 3170
lbs. ; and Loriston Stockwell, of Fitchburg,
for his oxen, four years old, weighing
2475 lbs., each one-half, 2,00

Joel Page, of Fitchburg, exhibited a fine pair
of cattle, seven years old, weighing 3200 lbs., that
would have been entitled to the fourth premium, had
they not received a like premium at a former show.

The Committee were much pleased to observe that
most of the teamsters did their work with a very
slight use of the whip.

For the Committee.

ABEL F. ADAMS, C/mirman.

36 STEERS— TWO AND THREE YEARS OLD.

STEERS— TWO AND THREE YEARS OLD.

The Committee on Two and Three Years-old Steers
submit their report. Of three-year-old steers there
were three pairs entered for premium. We make awards
as follows :

THREE- YEARS-OLD.

1st, to S. G. Mirrick, of Princeton, $5,00

2d, to Alfred A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to Daniel S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, 3,00

TWO- YEARS-OLD.

There were seven pairs of two-years-old steers
offered for premium.

1st, to J. Edwin Merriam, of Princeton, $4,00

2d, to Israel Everett, of Princeton, 3,00

3d, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

TRAINED STEERS.

1st, to Master Henry A. Estabrook, of Ashby, 4,00
2d, to J. Edwin Merriam, of Princeton, 3,00

In concluding their report, the Committee would say
that they have been guided in their distribution of
awards ; first, by the size, form and adaptation to labor
of the animals offered for their inspection ; second, to
the perfection in matching the color, strength and
disposition of each pair; third, the training which
evinced the subjection of the animals to the will
of their masters. And in this connection, the Com-
mittee would suggest that strength in labor, or skill in
exercise, induced by harsh blows and harsher language,
is not so deserving as the same labor and skill which
is rendered in obedience to kind words and gentle

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES-

37

treatment. That this mode of training is attainable
was proved by those of Mr. Merriam, which obeyed like
spaniels every word and motion ; and the steers of

Master Estabrook, a lad of clever displayed

such docility and promptness in their evolutions as is
rarely shown by the oxen of more experienced drivers.
And with all deference, the Committee would suggest
to the farmers of Worcester North, that they exhibit
the graces of patience, gentleness and decision in
training their sons, and then present to said sons a
likely pair of steers on which to exercise the same
virtue. This will afford the two-fold benefit of having-
an opportunity to practice their precept, and an incen-
tive in the reward for doing it well, and also an
inducement to take more interest and pleasure in the
labors of the farm.

JOEL HAYWARD, Chairman.

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Your Committie on yearling steers and steer calves
have awarded the following premiums :

1st, to Daniel Miles, of Westminster, for the

best pair of yearling steers, $3,00

2d, to S. H. Sprague, of Westminster, 2,00

J. M. HARRIS, Chairman.

38 FAT CATTLE. 1

FAT CATTLE.

The Committee on fat cattle make the following
report :

There were presented for our inspection fifteen fat
oxen, one three-years- old steer, and seven cows. The
cattle offered for premium this year were superior to
any exhibition of fat cattle that have ever been offered
for premium since the organization of the Society,
(1851,) and your Committee regret that we have not
more premiums at our disposal, where there are so
many excellent cattle that are highly deserving.

After a thorough examination of the comparative
merits of the several competitors, we unanimously
award the following premiums, viz :

OXEN.

1st, to Ephraim Turner, of Philfipston, for his

speckled ox, six yrs. old, weight 1795 lbs., $8,00

2d, to Nathaniel Holden, of Shirley, for his best

ox, nine years old, 5,00

3d, to Ephraim Turner, of Phillipston, for his

single ox, weight 2195 lbs., eight years old, 3,00

THREE- YEARS-OLD STEERS.

1st, to Ephraim Turner, of Phillipston, for his

three-years-old steer, 0,00

cows.

1st, to Sewell G. Miirick, of Princeton, for his
best grade Durham cow, ten years old,
weight 1225 lbs., 6,00

2d, to Sewell G. Mirrick, of Princeton, for his

small grade Durham cow, 3,00

3d, to Joseph Hagar, of Westminster, 2,00

SHEEP. 39

We also recommend a gratuity of $3,00 to Joel
Page, of Fitchburg, for his large fat cow, which would
have taken the first premium had her owner complied
with the rules of the Society in getting her weighed.

We also recommend a gratuity of $2,00 to Benj.
•Safford, for his fat cow, that has given milk every day
since she calved, some two years since.

We refer with pleasure to a pair of very fine oxen
offered by Josiah Sheldon, weight 4045 lbs., and to
two pairs of very large fat oxen, weighing about 4000
lbs. a pair, presented by Daniel Works. But we had
no premiums at our disposal for them. We would
make mention, also, of a very fine pair of four-years-old
cattle, offered by Ohio Whitney, and a fine pair four-
years-old, by E. E. Boyden.

Respectfully submitted.

J. T. EVERETT. Chairman.

SHEEP.

The Committee on sheep make the following awards

FLOCKS.

1st, James Mclntire, of Fitchburg, for his flock

of seven sheep, * $4,00

2d, to J. T. Dunsmore, of Lunenburg, for his

flock of five sheep, with one buck, 2,00

COSSETS.

1st, to David Lowe, for his cosset, 2,00

2d, to James Mclntire, for his cosset, 1,00

3d, Levi Jackson, of Westminster, for his buck, ,50
And we recommend a gratuity of 50 cts. to Loristo.ii
Stockwell, of Fitchburg, for his cosset.

AARON WOOD, Chairman,

40

POULTRY

POULTRY.

The Committee on poultry make the following

awards :

fowls.

1st, to Wm. A. Carleton, of Fitchburg, for six

dung-hill fowls, $3,00

2d, to Frank Wilder, of Fitchburg, for six

dung-hill fowls, 2,00

3d, to James McXntire, of Fitchburg, for six

. dung-hill fowls, 1,00

Gratuity, to Edwin Munroe, of Fitchburg, for

bantams, ,50

TURKEYS.

1st, to Levi Jackson, of Westminster, for six

turkeys, 3,00

2d, to J. T. Dunsmore, of Lunenburg, for six

turkeys, 2,00

3d, to Allen B. Wood, of Westminster, for six

turkeys, 1,00

Gratuity, to Alfred A. Marshall, of Fitchburg,

for six turkeys, ,50

GEESE.

1st, to Frederick A. Holden, of Fitchburg, for

six geese, 2,00

2d, to Reuben G. Chesmore, of Westminster, for

geese, 1,00

DUCKS.

1st, to Edwin Munroe, of Fitchburg, for ducks, 2,00
2d, to Jeremiah Andrews, of Fitchburg, for

ducks, 1,00

Gratuity, to Charles H. Whitney, for rabbits, ,25

Gratuity, to Helen F. Lowe, for Guinea pigs, ,2 5
For the Committee.

L. H. BRADFORD, Chairman.

SWINE.

SWINE.

41

The Committee on swine have attended to their
duty, and submit the following report:

The number of swine entered for examination,
though not unusually large, was so excellent in kind
that the Committee had great difficulty in deciding
their relative claims to precedence, and were so
equally divided as to the respective merits of some of
the best specimens, that the decision was long held in
almost equal balance. The following premiums were
finally awarded :

BOARS MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

1st, to John P. Sabin, of Fitchburg, $4,00

Gratuity, to Wm. P. Smith, of Fitchburg, on

his boar, entered too late for premium, 2,00

BOARS LESS THAN ONE TEAR OLD.

1st, to Thomas Damon, of Westminster, 3,00

2d, to Charles Davis, of Fitchburg, 2,00
Gratuity, to B. F. Proctor, of Fitchburg, on his

boar, entered too late for premium, 1,00

FAT HOGS MOBE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

1st, to E. M. Dickinson, of Fitchburg, 4,00

FAT PIGS LESS THAN EIGHT MONTHS OLD.

1st, to E. Caldwell, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 1,00

BREEDING SOWS.

1st, to Charles Davis, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d; to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Charles Davis, of Fitchburg, 1,00

42 APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

Gratuity, to John P. Sabin, of Fitchburg, $1,00

Gratuity, to Daniel S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, 1,00

WEANED PIGS.

1st, to Judge T. Dunsmore, of Lunenburg, 3,00

2d, to Asa Sawyer, of Fitchburg, 2,00

For the Committee,

J. W. MANSUR, Chairman.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

The Committee on apples, peaches, plums and
quinces, make the following awards :

APPLES.

For the best collection,
1st, to A. Whitney, of Ashburnham, $4,00

For twelve varieties, five specimens each,
1st, to G. P. Gibson, of Leominster, Harris on Insects.

For six varieties of five specimens each,

1st, to L. Burrage, of Leominster, 2,00

2d, to Benjamin SafFord, of Fitchburg, 1,50

3d, to J. W. Smith, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Gratuity, to Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Gratuity, to James Mclntire, of Fitchburg, ,75

For three varieties of ten specimens each,

1st, to M. M. Gage, of Fitchburg, 1,50

2d, to J. Fisher, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to C. H. Green, of Fitchburg, ,50

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES 43
GRATUITIES.

E. D. Works, of Fitchburg, ,75

Wm. A. Mandell, of Lunenburg, ,50

Thomas Billings, of Lunenburg, ,50

C. C. Field, of Leominster, * ,50

J. M. Frost, of Fitchburg, ,50

T. R. Boutelle, of Fitchburg, ,50

Tyler Gibbs, of Fitchburg, ,50

A. B. Caswell, of Fitchburg, ,25

William II. Wetherbee, of Shirley, ,50

For the best exhibition of any one variety,

1st, to L. Kendall, of Fitchburg, 1,50

2d, to A. B. Caswell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

PEACH ES.

For the best plate,

2d, to W. Heywood, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to D. H. Merriam, of Fitchburg, ,50

Gratuity, to Ira Holt, of Fitchburg, ,25

QUINCES.

For the best plates,

1st, to Ira Holt, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Daniel S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, ,50

Gratuity, to Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, ,25

For the Committee,

EPHRAIM GRAHAM, Chairman.

44

PEARS AND GRAPES,

PEARS AND GRAPES.

The Committee make the following awards :

PEARS.

For the best and .largest exhibition of named vari-
eties of three specimens each,

1st, to Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, to B. Snow, Jr., of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects.

For six varieties of five specimens each,

1st, to Walter Heywood, of Fitchburg, 2,00

2d, to Leonard Burrage, of Leominster, 1,50

For the best exhibition of any one variety,

1st, to Thomas R. Boutelle of Fitchburg, 1,50

2d, to Ivers Phillips, of Worcester, 1,00

GRATUITIES.

Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, 1,00

G. P. Gibson, of Leominster, ,50

C. C. Field, of Leominster, 1,00

George Jewett, of Fitchburg, ,50

John L. Joslin, of Fitchburg, ,50

Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, ,50

Charles B. Sawyer, of Fitchburg, ,50

H. A. Goodrich, of Fitchburg, ,50

E. W. Manning, of Fitchburg, ,50

CRAPES.

For the best display of foreign grapes,

1st, to Levi Heywood, of Gardner, 3,00

2d, to Walter Heywood, of Fitchburg, 2,00

For the best display of native grapes,

1st, to Geo. E. Towne, of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects.

2d, to Seth Heywood, of Gardner, 2,00

3d, to Charles A. Emory, of Fitchburg, 1,00

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS. 45
GRATUITIES.

Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, $1,00

D. H. Merriam, of Fitchburg, 1,00

E. M. Dickinson, of Fitchburg, ,50
Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, ,50
George P. Gibson, of Leominster, ,50
W. G. Wynian, of Fitchburg, ,50
Samuel Burnap, of Fitchburg, ,50

HENRY F. COGGSHALL, Chairman.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

The Committee on assorted fruits and flowers award
the premiums as follows :

FRUITS.

2d, to Miss Sophia F. Gage, of Fitchburg, $0,50

No display of named plants.

FLOWERS.

For the best display of cut flowers,
1st, to Mrs. Gordis D. Harris, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Mrs. Sophia F. Gage, of Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Miss Ellen A. Younglove, of Fitchburg, ,37

Mrs. J. M. Whitney, of Fitchburg, ,50

Miss Abby Green, of Fitchburg, ,25

Mrs. C. A. Emory, of Fitchburg, ,25

Mrs. E. M. Howe, of Sterling, ,50

Mrs. J. F. D. Garfield, of Fitchburg, ,25

CYRUS KILBURN, Chairman.

46 VEGETABLES.

VEGETABLES.

The Committee on vegetables make the following
awards :

KITCHEN VEGETABLES.

1st, Wm. H. Wetherbee, of Shirley, $10,00

POTATOES.

1st, to L. Stockwell, of Fitchburg, thirty

varieties, 2,00

2cl, to W. G. Wyman, of Fitchburg, fourteen

varieties, 1,00

3d, to George P. Gibson, of Leominster, four

varieties, ,50

MARROW SQUASHES.

1st, to Henry dishing, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Thomas E. Boutelle, of Fitchburg, ,50

HUBBARD SQUASHES.

1st, to Washington Nichols, of Gardner, 1,00

2d, to Walter Heywood, of Fitchburg, ,50

PUMPKINS.

1st. to Addison Hubbard, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Alonzo P. Goodridge, of Fitchburg, ,50

CABBAGES.

1st, to Walter Heywood, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, ,50

CELERY.

1st, to Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, ,75

onions.
1st, to Henry Cushing, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, ,50

vegetables;

47

TURNIP BEETS.

1st, to David Battles, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Walter Heywood, of Fitchburg, ,50

ENGLISH TURNIPS.

1st, to Walter Hey wood, of Fitchburg, ,50

2d, to Thos. S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, ,25

TOMATOES.

1st, to Adonijah Barnes, of Westminster, ,50

2d, to W. G. Wyman, of Fitchburg, .25

FIELD BEANS.

1st, to David Battles, of Fitchburg, ,50

2d, to Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, ,25

FIELD CORN.

1st, to Loriston Stock well, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Henry Cushing, of Fitchburg, ,75

3d, to Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,50

Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,50

George Miles, of Westminster, potatoes. ,25

John Q. Wright, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

J. T. Dunsmore, of Lunenburg, potatoes, ,25

E. W. Spaulding, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

David Battles, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

J. W. Forbush, of Westminster, potatoes, ,25

Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

Samuel Burnap, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,25

Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,25

VEGETABLES.

George F. Burnap, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,25

Jesse Cooke, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,25

Seth Hey wood, of Gardner, Hubbard squash, ,50
Hubbard B. Fuller, of Fitchburg, Hubbard squash, ,25

Thomas Palmer, of Fitchburg, squashes, ,25

Mrs. Wm. Steele, of Fitchburg, squashes, ,25-

Joseph Farnsworth, cranberries, ,25

Liberty Wellington, of Ashby, cranberries, ,25

Gardner Merriam, of Leominster, pumpkins, ,25

D. C. Whit-comb, of Fitchburg, English turnips, ,25

Samuel A. White, of Lunenburg English turnips, ,25

Charles H. Greene, of Fitchburg, English turnips, ,25

Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, turnip beets, ,25

Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, seed corn, ,25

Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, carrots and parsnips, ,25

H. B. Fuller, of Fitchburg, ruta bagas, ,25

Addison Hubbard, of Fitchburg, summer squashes, ,25

Loriston Stock well, of Fitchburg, citron,. ,25

Jesse Cooke, of Fitchburg, egg plants, ,25

Alfred A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, watermelons, ,50

Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, watermelons, ,25

H. B. Fuller, of Fitchburg, seed peas, ,50

For the Committee,

L. H. BRADFORD.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, &c. 49

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, &c.

The Committee on bread, butter, cheese, pickles and
honey, make the following awards :

FINE WHEAT BREAD.

1st, to Miss Emily P. Twitchell, of Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, to Mrs. J. T. Farwell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to Miss Louise D. Wetherbee, of Fitchburg, ,50

UNBOLTED WHEAT BREAD.

1st, to Miss Lizzie H. Haskell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

RYE AND INDIAN BREAD.

1st, to Miss Alice Wellington, of Ashby, 1,50

2d, to Mrs. Cyrus Kilburn, of Lunenburg, 1,00

3d, to Mrs. J. T. Farwell, of Fitchburg, ,50

LUMP BUTTER.

1st, to Mrs. Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, 4,00

2d, to Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 3,00

3d, to R. G. Chesmore, of Westminster, 2,00

4th, to George Miles, of Westminster, 1,50

5th, to Jackson Burr, of Ashby, 1,00

TUB BUTTER.

1st, to Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to Leonidas Alger, of Fitchburg, 2,00

CHEESE.

2d, to George Miles, of Westminster, 1,50

3d, to David Laws, of Westminster, 1,00

PICKLES.

1st, to Mrs. Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Miss Abbie Green, ,50

3d, to Mis. E. Bacon, of Westminster, ,25

50 FANCY ARTICLES-

HONEY.

1st, to James Jfclntire, of Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, to Gardner Jf/erriam, of Leominster, 1,00

3d, to Jfrs. Mary Miles, of Westminster, ,50

We would also recommend the following gratu-
ities : To Mrs. Harriet T. Burnap, of Fitchburg, for
some nice raspberry jelly, 50 cents ; Mrs. Lizzie M.
White, of Fitchburg, for one bottle of quince jelly,
two years old, 50 cents, and one bottle of strawberry
tomato preserve, 50 cents.

For the Committee,

PORTER PIPER.

FANCY ARTICLES.

The Committee on fancy articles make the following
awards to residents of Fitchburg :

Miss Abby E. Downe, worsted work, $0,37

Miss iJiary E. Harding, wrought tidy, ,25

Mrs. L. B. Barrett, paintings, &c, 1,00

Mrs. James R. Hamilton, picture, ,75

Miss Helen F. Lowe, pictures, ,25

Miss A. E. C. White, pencil drawings, ,50

Miss Cynthia M. Page, crayon drawings, ,33

Miss Mary M. Cutting, raised worsted work, ,25

David B. Dole, pictures, ,12

Miss Emma F. Poole, trimmings, ,12

Miss Abbie L. Sawyer, ,20

Mrs. F. F. Farrar, ,15

FANCY ARTICLES

51

Miss Julia A. Hirsch, bonnet, ,75

Miss Emily A. Sawtell, wrought work, ,50

Miss Ellen A. Youn glove, ,50

Mrs. Fred. H. Davis, wrought work, ,12

Mrs. Fannie A. Aldrich, crochet, ,50

Mrs. Abbie J. Leonard, ,25

Miss Lizzie M. Cochrane, pictures, 1,00

Geo. P. Tilden, pictures, ,75

Miss Mary E. Lowe, picture, ,37

Miss Lucy E. Brown, pictures, ,25

Miss Ellen L. Smith, ,50

Miss Kate B. Adams, picture, ,25

Chas. H. Rockwood, picture, ,10

Miss Emily Gardner, wrought work, ,75

Miss Anna M. Wallace, picture, ,12

Miss Julia A. Newton, infant crochet sack, ,50

Mrs. Lizzie M. White, ,75

Miss Jennie L. Whitney, picture, ,37

Miss Abbie L. Joslin, ,35

Frank Whitcomb, crochet work, ,50

Miss Sarah Whitney, ,25

Miss Fannie E. Lowe, ,25

Miss Abbie L. Lowe, ,30

Miss Anna Dickinson, worsted, ,25

Mrs. G. A. Torrey, crochet work, ,50

Mrs. D. A. Corey, ,25

Miss Abby Ellis, ;35

Mrs. S. C. Brigham, hair work, ,50

Miss Ellen C. Hawkins, picture, ,25

Mrs. George Bowker, picture, shells and insects, ,75

R. Brooks, cone baskets, ,25

Mrs. Calvin Tolman, hose and skirts, ,40

52 MECHANICS AND M ANUFACTC RES.

Mrs. Nathan Uphani, skirt, ,30

Miss Lucy W. Damon, wax flowers, ,50

Miss Lizzie L. Goodnow, infant sack, ,35

Miss ilfary S. Townsend, raised worsted work, ,50

Miss Adaline A. Spencer, worsted, of Ashby, ,25

Miss Martha L. Felch, of Natick, silk embroideries, ,25
Miss E. M. Raymond, of Westminster, quilt, ,10

Mrs. Martha Stevens, of South Gardner, ,20

Mrs. A. McLaughlin, of Lunenburg, embroideries, 1,50
Mrs. Sarah E. Heald, of Ashburnham, cone basket, ,50
Mrs. Louisa H. Flagg, of Westminster, wroug't skirt, ,50
Miss Marietta S. Allen, of Ashburnham, ,25

For the Committee,

W. A. MANDELL, Chairman.

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

The Committee award the following premiums and
gratuities :
Daniel Stratton, of Worcester, for clothes

wringer, $0,50

Daniel Lowe, of Fitchburg, for ox yoke bows,

and axe helves, of excellent workmanship, 1,00
Mrs. L. E. Gibbs, of Fitchburg, for carpet, ,50

Mrs. Nancy M. Wood, of Fitchburg, for rug, ,50

J. C. Moulton, of Fitchburg, for fine specimens

of life-like photographs, 2,00

South Royalston Manufacturing Company, for

ten pieces kerseymere, of excellent quality, 10,00

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES

53

A. Burkingshaw, of Pepperell, for a case of
pocket cutlery, of a style and finish that
would do credit to the best foreign manu-
facturers, $4,00

Joseph Baldwin, 2d, of Fitchburg, for two

specimens of plows, 1,00

Mrs. Ruth Trask, of Fitchburg, for bed quilt, ,50

George Wheelock, of Fitchburg, for specimens

of bronze castings, of superior quality, 2,00

John S. Donnahoe, of Gardner, for frames
carved in walnut, which exhibited much
skill, 2,50

Mrs. J. A. Lerow, of Fitchburg, for stair carpet,

of very neat pattern, 1,00

George H. Kellogg, of Fitchburg, for fine speci-
mens of printing, 1,00

Messrs. S. & A. M. Sawyer, of Fitchburg, exhibited
samples of their celebrated projectiles, which attracted
much attention. As they did not enter for a premium
we have awarded none; but we would express the wish
that when this death-dealing missel shall have exploded
in the heart of Rebellion, (as we believe it is destined
to do,) may they receive from a grateful country a
premium that we have not the power to award.

Mrs. Liberty Wellington, of Ashby, for blankets, 1,00

Joseph Pierce, 2d, of Fitchburg, for calf-skins, 1,00

Mrs. A. B. Wood, of Westminster, for rug, ,50
Master George E. Garfield, of Spencer, for wire

chain, ;50

Mrs. John Prichard, of Fitchburg, for bed quilt, ,50

54

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

Brown & Haines, of Leominster, for piano, of

excellent ^tone and finish, $7,00

Mrs. R. M Huntly, of Fitchburg, for two rugs, ,50
Loring Joslyn, of Fitchburg, for clothes wringer, ,50
S. G. Frost, of Fitchburg, for two harnesses,

exhibiting excellent workmanship, 3,00

S. G. Frost, of Fitchburg, for collars and saddles, 1,00
Ira Carlton & Co., of Fitchburg, for specimens

of their celebrated flour, 1,00

Thomas Palmer, of Fitchburg, for specimens of
dentistry, unsurpassed in beauty even by
nature, 3,00

Henry A. Goodrich, for hats, caps, and furs, 2,00

Miss M. M. Lovewell, of Fitchburg, for rug, ,50

E. M. Dickinson, of Fitchburg, for samples of

shoes, 3,00

Mrs, Betsy Merriam, of Fitchburg, for three

pairs hose, ,50

Lawrin Pratt, of Fitchburg, for extensive speci-
mens of confectionery, which the Com-
mittee, after several tests, pronounced
excellent, 1,00

Enoch Page, of Fitchburg, for spring bed, 1,00

L. Patch & Co., of Fitchburg, for cooking stove
and furniture — a very neat pattern, which
appeared to contain all the improvements,
both for convenience and economy, 1,00

Mrs. I. B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, for lot of

woolen yarn, ,50

Miss Clara Bruce, of Fitchburg, for woolen socks, ,25
Mrs. E. W. Manning, of Fitchburg, for quilt, ,50

Mrs. Charles B. Smith, of Fitchburg, for rug, ,50

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES. 55

W. K. Lewis & Brothers, for condensed coffee
and milk — an excellent article, put up
in sealed cans, appears to possess the fine
flavor of the best home made, $2,00

Mrs. Joseph Smith, for carpet, ,50

Miss E. L. Smith, for carpet of extra quality, 1,00

H. W. Page, of Fitchburg, for winnowing
machine, which exhibited many good
qualities, 1,00

A. D. Weymouth, of Fitchburg, for specimens

of wood-turning, 1,00

Susie A. Green, for wrought skirt — very pretty

pattern and neatly done, ,50

Tyler Younglove, of Fitchburg, for rules and

board measures, 1,00

Mrs. Adams Butler, of Fitchburg, for hose, ,25

Mrs. L. H. Flagg, of Fitchburg, for wrought

work, ,50

E. P. Jfunroe, of Fitchburg, for door lock and

egg beater, 1,00

Miss L. A. Dana, for skirt, ,50

E. Buttrick, of Fitchburg, for clothing of fine

quality and excellent workmanship, 2,00

Mrs. Gale, of Lunenburg, for quilt, ,50

Mrs. J. T. Dunsmore, for hose and mittens, just
such as every soldier would rejoice to
receive, ,75

John Danby, of Fitchburg, for substantial spec-
imens of harness leather, 1,00

A. Brown, of Worcester, for stump and rock
extractor, a very convenient article for
farmers and stone workers, and well
worthy of their attention, 2,00

56 MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

C. Fessenden, of Fitchburg, for carriages, $5,00

In justice to Mr. Fessenclen we would say that the
carriages that he exhibited were not intended for
exhibition ; it was at the earnest request of the
Society that he consented to enter them for a prem-
ium. Your* Committee was so well satisfied with the
style and finish, and all, in fact, that constitutes a good
carriage in his regular manufacture, that we felt it our
duty to make the above award.

S. Wesson & Co., of Worcester, for clothes

wringer, $1,00

W. F. White, of Fitchburg, for buggy wagon,
which exhibited throughout a taste and
skill rarely attained, • 5,00

W. F. White, of Fitchburg, for Shirley wagon, 3,00

Dr. A. Hitchcock, of Fitchburg, for a horse
skeleton, prepared by himself at consider-
able expense, and which must prove of
great value in the treatment of that noble
animal. Your Committee felt themselves
not over just in awarding 5,00

William Wetherbee, of Shirley, for brooms,

gratuity, ?50

Mrs. A. H. Fay, of Fitchburg, for rug, ,50

S. Wallis, of Fitchburg, for fine specimens of
knit goods, the sight of which would
almost warm a person, gratuity, 2,00

Mrs. C. L. Tenney, of Fitchburg, for rug,

gratuity, ,50

Jacob Byron, of Ashburnham, for frame, carved
on black walnut, which exhibited rare
skill, gratuity, 2,50

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES-

57

Mrs. Abercrombie, for quilt, gratuity, ?50

John P. Adriance, of Worcester, for mowing
machine. This machine appears to be just
what is wanted — simple in construction,
and effectual in operation, light and of easy
draught, and possessing sufficient strength,
capable of performing a vast amount of
labor, and at a moderate expense, we
award a gratuity, $3,00

A case of goods from Messrs. Whitman & Miles
attracted much attention. We did not award a prem-
ium, as they did not enter for it ; still we were of the
opinion that they would draw a premium from the
country at large, and they are fairly entitled to it.

There was many other articles on exhibition which
testified to the skill and ingenuity, to the industry and
enterprise, of the busy hands and heads in this vicinity,
to which we might refer. But we will close with this
request ; that as the prosperity of a people depends
very much upon their industry and mechanical skill,
and while the fertile plains of the west produces the
bread for the country, let us demonstrate the fact that
a fertile brain and busy hands can produce its equiva-
lent in innumerable forms, which shall prove both to
ourselves and our country a blessing.

CHARLES BURLEIGH, Chairman,

58 ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

The Committee on orchards and vineyards make the
following awards :

1st, to Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, on Native

grapes, $10,00

2d, to Wm. G. Wyman, of Fitchburg, 5,00

For the Committee,

T. R. BOUTELLE, Chairman.

JABEZ FISHER'S STATEMENT.

The "Plantation of Native Grapes" to which I have
invited your attention, consists of fifty-two vines in a
single row. The vines were grown by layering in
1856, and set in their present location in the spring
of 1857. The exposure is a gentle slope to the south
and east, with shelter on the north and west. The soil
is a strong loam resting on a clayey substratum.
Water having been found to stand within two and
one-half feet of the surface occasionally during the
year, especially in spring and autumn, a drain was laid
previously to planting the vines, directly underneath
where they now are, three feet deep. Tile was used
for the bottom, and small stones were filled in above
to within eighteen inches of the surface. Upon these
a layer of horn waste was spread, and loam filled in
to the top. The ground was not trenched nor other-
wise specially prepared, only as it had been left after
the cultivation of ordinary crops. The variety was

ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

59

the " Concord," and the vines were set six feet apart.
In 1857 they were allowed to grow at random, and in
the fall were pruned, as they had been at the time
of planting, to two or three eyes. In 1858 a single
cane from each vine was trained to a stake, and at the
autumn pruning cut back to about two feet.

In the spring of 1859 a trellis was erected of posts
and wire. The posts were chestnut, two by two, set
two and one-half feet in the ground and rather more
than five feet out, at the distance of ten feet apart.
At each end, a post, three by five, was set in a foot
and braced. Upon these posts four strands of No. 12
iron wire were stretched, the lowest eighteen to twenty
inches from the ground, and the others at distances"
of fifteen inches. The strength of one man with a
little skill is sufficient to stretch the wires, in warm
weather. At each end the wires pass through holes in
the posts, and are secured by driving the bent end into
the wood, assisted by a staple made of the same wire.
The wires are fastened to the other posts by staples
driven into one side of them. The posts were entirely
covered with coal or gas tar, and a coat of the same
was applied to the wire, but I now prefer a asphaltum,
or paraffine varnish for the latter.

The mode of training adopted was, to carry up a
single cane to the top of the trellis and allow four arms
to grow from each side, to be secured to the four wires.
These laterals were twisted around the wires as they
grew, and required no tying. In the autumn the wood
was cut back according to the strength of the vines,
leaving the trellis two-thirds full of bearing wood.
A few clusters of fruit grew this season on most of the
vines.

60

ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

In 1860 a fine crop of grapes was produced, which
in consequence of the backward and moist season, had
not arrived at maturity at the first of October. At
that time, during two or three successive nights, the
thermometer marked a temperature of thirty degrees,
and the berries and leaves were frozen through. —
A few days subsequent to this date, a warm rain caused
all the leaves to drop, leaving upon the trellis a most
beautiful show of purple clusters, many of which
weighed three-fourths of a pound each. The fruit was
worthless for the table, but made a very fine jelly.
The wood was only partially mature, and gave poor
promise of wintering well. The vines could not be
'laid down, in consequence of the manner of training,
and were left at the mercy of the elements. On the
8th of February last, the mercury descended to
twenty-two degrees below zero, having gone down
fifty- eight degrees in twelve hours. A considerable
portion of the wood itself was killed at this time, and
as vegetation commenced in spring, it was found that
with only two or three exceptions, every bud, both
primary and secondary, were dead. The snow, at the
time of this extreme cold, was two feet deep, covering
the lower wire of the trellis, and as a consequence the
lower laterals or arms of each vine. This portion of
all the vines was found to be uninjured, and is this
season giving a crop of fruit, the clusters being consid-
erably smaller than usual, consequent, as I suppose, on
the immature condition of the wood when vegetation
ceased in 1860. As soon as the foliage had become
developed the past spring, each vine was cut away just
above the lower arms, and six canes were trained

ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS. 61

perpendicularly, a foot assunder, to the top of the
trellis. The wood is now, (Sept. 25th,) iu quite an
advanced state of maturity, and the fruit is well
colored, promising to be ripe in another week of
favorable weather.

My mode of pruning is as follows : As soon as the
shoots in spring have advanced so as to show the
clusters of buds, I pinch each one at one joint beyond
the first cluster, unless the second is of good size, in
which case both are left, but never more than two.
All superfluous shoots and buds are rubbed off. As
growth progresses, I pinch a second, third, and some-
times a fourth time, according to the luxuriance of the
vines, after which everything is left to grow at random.
After the fall of the leaf everything is cut away, except
those- buds which are wanted for the next season's
fruiting.

The ground has been fairly fed for crops of vege-
tables, &c, but has received nothing especially for the
vines, except the horn waste before mentioned. The
growth has been uniformly too luxuriant, and the canes
too long jointed. This tendency I hope to overcome
by withholding stimulating manures, and shall apply
only those of the opposite character.

62 ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

W. G. WYMAN'S STATEMENT.
To the Committee on Orchards and Vineyards :

Gentlemen: The "Plantation of Native Grapes,"
which I offer for a premium, consists of forty-seven
vines, viz : twenty-nine Concord, six Diana, four Isa-
bella, three Seedling, two Catawba, one Rebecca, one
Hartford Prolific, one Delaware. They were set as
follows, viz : In the spring of 1857 one Concord, from
which all the Concord plants were obtained by layers
two Diana, two Catawba, three Isabella and three
Seedling; in 1858 two Concord; in 1859 two Diana,
three Concord and one Isabella; in 1860 eleven Con-
cord, two Diana, one Rebecca, one Hartford Prolific,
and in 1861 twelve Concord and one Delaware. —
Twenty-seven are in two rows twelve feet apart, on
the south side of a high tight board fence, in my
vegetable garden. The plants are twelve feet apart
in the rows. Between the rows an under-drain was
laid, varying from two and one-half to three and one-
half feet deep ; trenches were dug for the vines about
twenty inches to two feet deep and three feet
wide, and filled with brush at the bottom, (mostly old
wild grape vines,) covered with bones, waste leather,
old woolen clothes, turf and good soil ; the vines set
in the soil, without other manure, and subsequently
manured with ground bone, super-phosphate of lime or
ashes, each year until the present, most of them not
being manured at all this year, except as they get the
benefit of the manure in the garden across a border
of six feet. Twenty are in one row, ten to twelve
feet apart, on the west and north sides of my fruit

ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS.

63

garden, cast and south of a heavy wall ; the land by
them was underdrained from three to four and one-half
feet deep, and the plants set in nearly the same way,
except that for a part of them, the soil having been
made deep and rich previously, they were set without
any additional preparation. I prune in the fall,
cutting back nearly to the ground the first two years,
and then training them to the trellis, which is of wire,
until they fill it. I always lay the vines upon the
ground for winter, covering the more tender ones
slightly with earth, and have never had one, that was
so protected, injured, after it had become established in
the soil. I do not like to have other plants grow near
the grapes, within at least six feet, and endeavor to keep
the soil free from weeds, and mellow on the surface?
stiring it frequently through the entire season. After
the grapes have set, I thin them and pinch in the ends
of the vines frequently for several weeks.

In 1860 fifteen of the vines bore freely, the fruit
being of good size and form, both bunch and berry,
but on account of an early frost, did not ripen per-
fectly, with the exception of the Seedling, which were
very early, and were gathered before the frost, which
occurred about the first of October. The present
season the crop has been abundant on all of these
vines, and nearly all the others set previous to this
year commenced bearing fruit, and the fruit has
ripened perfectly, without protection, even on the
Catawba vines.

I obtain new plants mostly by layering. When
pruning in the fall, I save such vines near the ground
as are suitable for the purpose, and after they have

64

GRAIN

started in the spring I bury them slightly in the soil,
after having first cut them a little more than half off
between the eyes ; each eye then usually produces a
good plant for the next year's setting. I have how-
ever this year raised several hundred plants from
cuttings saved at the fall pruning, buried in the
ground over winter and planted in the spring, but
they are not so strong or good as layers.

GRAIN.

The Committee on grain make the following awards :

CORN.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, $10.00

2d, to Benj. Safford, of Fitchburg, 7^00

WHEAT.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, 8,00

Gratuity, to W. G. Wyinan, of Fitchburg, 2,00

WHITE BEANS.

2d, Samuel A. White, of Lunenburg, 1,00

COBBAGE.

Gratuity, to Henry dishing, of Fitchburg, 1,00

HERDS GRASS SEED.

.1st, Geo. Kendall, of Ashby, 2,00

2d, Samuel Heywood, of Ashby, 1 00

For the Committee,

H. A. BLOOD, Chairman.

EXPERIMENTS-GRASS. 65

EXPERIMENTS.
S

W. G. WYMAN'S STATEMENT.

Being requested by last year's Committee on Experi-
ments to notice and publish the condition of my field
this year, I offer the following statement of the contin-
uation in 1861 with grass, of my experiment com-
menced in 1860 with wheat, on the effects of different
kinds of fertilizers, as compared with none. The
division of the field into lots, and the numbers of them,
are the same as in 1860.

The weight of clover hay and rowen, when thor-
oughly dried, on an average rod is as follows :

No. 1, — hay, 41 lbs,; rowen, 21 lbs.; total, 62 lbs. Bate per acre, 4 tons and 1920 lbs.

" 2 " 37 " " 12 " •« 49 " " " 3 " " 1840 "

" 3 " 33 " " 21 " " 54 " " " 4 " " 640 "

"4 " 28 " " 8 " " 36 " " " 2 " " 1760"

At $10,00 per ton for the hay and rowen, the value
of the fertilizers for the present crop, per acre, is as
follows :

Stable manure on No. 1, $20,80 for 2 tons and. 160 lbs. increase.
Ground bone " " 2, 10,40 " 1 " "'" 80 "
Superphosphate " " 3, 14,40 " 1 " " 880 "
As compared with no manure on No. 4.

By comparing this with last year's statement, pub-
lished on the seventy-eighth page of the Report for
1860, it will be seen that the value of the fertilizers
for the two crops, — wheat in 1860, at $1,25 per bushel,
and hay in 186l/at $10,00 per ton, — is as follows:

Stable manure, $25,80 pr. acre; cost, $18,00; net gain, $7,80 pr.acre.
Ground bone, 12,07 " " 7,50 " 4,57 "

Superphosphate, 17,73 " " 6,25 " 11,48 "

66

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

The wheat stuble and young clover was mowed and
taken off in Sept. 18*60. The clover was mowed July
13th, and the rowen Sept. 9th, 1861.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES,

IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OP
AGRICULTURE FOR A THREE YEAR'S COURSE. •

PROGRESS IN 1861.

ALBERT STRATTON'S STATEMENT.

Statement of the progress of the forty-five rods
of land on which I made the different applications
of manure last year to a corn crop. This year plowed
once, the 18th of May, seven inches deep, harrowed
well ; sowed one bushel of oats on the five lots, or six
and two-fifths quarts on each lot, harrowed and brushed
in the seed, oats and grass ; harvested Aug. 17th with
hand cradle; put in stooks one week; threshed and
weighed as follows :

No. 1 — oats, 54 pounds; straw, 115 pounds.
" 2 " 52 " " 106 "

" 3

t<

50

it

a

104

tt

" 4

a

52J

a

tt

105

a

" 5

a

44

«

tt

91

tt

ALBERT STRATTON.

North Leominster, Nov. 4, 1861.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

67

ISAAC B. WOODWARD'S STATEMENT.

To the Secretary of the Worcester North Agricultural Society :

Sir : Last year I furnished you with a statement of
my experiment on tl^e use of manures, and the result,
as far as an almost total failure of the crop seemed to
require. I will now state the result of the experiment
as effecting the crop of wheat this year. The lot, it will
be remembered, was divided into five equal parts, each
containing four square rods. The piece was plowed
twice the first week in May, 1861; the first time
seven inches, and the second time six inches deep, and
sown with wheat. The crop was harvested on the
16th of August^ and the several lots yielded as
follows :

Lot. Weight of Wheat. Weight of Straw.

1 32 lbs., 14 oz. 46 lbs., 7 oz.

2 27 " 10 " 39 " 6 "

3 30 " 14 " 44 " 11 "

4 29 " 14 " 39 " 9 "

5 23 " 6 " 31 " 12 "

It will be seen that the crop of No. 2, where the
manure was plowed in six inches deep, is less than
that of the other manured lots. This is partly owing,
I think, to the fact that about one rod of it was badly
injured by worms. The weather was as follows :

First Third. Second Third. Last Third.

May, wet dry wet

June, wet dry dry

July, dry dry moist

August, moist dry dry

September, moist dry dry

Respectfully submitted.

ISAAC B. WOODWARD.

November, 1861.

68 EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

W. G. WYMAN'S STATEMENT.

A statement of the continuation in 1861 of my
experiment commenced in 186 0, on the proper depth
of applying manures, in accordance with the require-
ments of the Board of Agriculture.

The size of the field, one acre and thirty-two square
rods ; the division into lots of thirty-two rods each, and
the numbers of the lots, the same as in 1860.

The field was plowed once, about six to seven inches
deep, May 1st and 2d ; harrowed once ; sowed May
3d with two and one-fourth bushels of Scotch Fife
wheat, one-half bushel each of Herds-grass and Hed-
top seed, and fifteen lbs. clover ; harrowed again and
brushed. The grain was cradled and got into the barn
without stooking, Aug. 12th to 16th; threshed by
hand and weighed Oct. 4th and 5th. The grain louse,
aphides, almost covered the heads of wheat on the
whole field before ripening, and caused the kernel to
be very much shrivelled. The weevel, or wheat
midge, also was found in all parts of the field, which
eat out the centre of the kernel to a considerable
extent, destroying it so that the shell of it would blow
away with the chaff in winnowing. The injurious
effects of these insects appeared to be pretty evenly
distributed through the several lots, so that when
examined, as it frequently was by myself and others,
we could not see that any one lot was more seriously
effected than another.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

69

The wheat and straw weighed as follows :

No. 1 — wheat 203 pounds ; straw 466 pounds.
« 2 " 170 " " 403 "

« 3 " 192 " " 449 "

« 4 " 183 " " 503

« 5 " 62 " " 255

k 6 it 163 ii » 446

The weather during the season of growth was as
follows :

May,
June,
July,
August,

First Third.

Wet. 2.417 in. rain

Wet. 1.778 in, do

Wet. 2.256 in. do

Dry. 1.330 in. do

Middle Third.

Dry. 0.430 in. rain

Dry. 0.788 in. do

Moist. 1.848 in. do

Moist. 2.680 in. do

Last Third.

Moist. 0.861 in. rain
Very dry. no do
Dry. 1.854 in. do
Dry. 0.168 in. do

Total.

3.708 in.
2.566 in.
5.958 in.
4.178 in.

Total amount of rain that fell taring the four months, 16.410 in

FitchlurgZNov., 1861.

W. G. WTMAN.

70

TREASURER'S REPORT.

1860.
Dec'r 4.

1861.
April 6.

TEEASUEEE'S EEPOET.

TREASURER, DR.

To balance, as per last year's settlement, $4340,89

Sep. 25.
Oct. 9.

" 10.
" 18.

Nov. 30.
Dec. 2.

Dec. 4.

cash rec'd as dividend of Bank of Commerce, 35,00

" " " " " Washington Bank, 30,00

" " " " " Safety Fund Bank, 15,00

" " " " " North Bank, 9,00

" " for admissions to Town Hall, 239,42

" " as dividend of Bank of Commerce, 30,00

" " " " " Washington Bank, 30,00

11 " " " " Safety Fund Bank, 15,00

" " " " " North Bank, 9,00

" " of Commonwealth for bounty, 600,00

" " for interest on money loaned, 94,09

" " " membership, 45,00

$5,492,40

To balance on settlement,
Increase the last year,

$4,510,64
$169,75

THOMAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer.

The undersigned have examined the above account and find it
correct.

JABEZ FISHER,
ABEL F. ADAMS

.}

Com. on Finance.

TREASURER'S REPORT. 7l

TEEASUEEE'S REPORT.

I860 TREASURER, CR.

Dec. 11. By cash paid Skepley & Wallace, for stationery, &c, $7,69

" 13. " « " J. J. Piper, for advertising, 4,00

Jan'y 2. " " " for publications for gratuities, 18,72

" 19. " " » E.Garfield,for printing Report, &c, 132,30

" 26. " « m Fitchburg Post Office, for postage, 15,52
April 3. " " " S. A. Wheeler & Co., for stone for

trial of draught horses, 1,00
May 8. " " " B. F. Proctor, for pins and wedges

for cattle pens, 3,18

June 14. " " " W. G. Wyman, for Express freight, 1,01
Oct. 2. " " " E. E. Farrar, services at Town Hall,

three days, 4,50

" u " Fitchburg Post Office, for postage, 7,41

" D. Stearns, for recording premiums, 1,50
" " " " " for freight on A. O. Cummings &

Co's cattle, from Worcester, 10,00
14 " " " " J. L. Joslin, for weighing cattle,

Sept. 25th, ,50
" 9. •• " «« J. F. Stiles, for repairing batons, 1,87
" 10. " « " Abel Marshall, for setting and re-
moving cattle pens, 18,00
" 14. " " « Fitchburg Hotel bill, Sept. 25th, 21,00
" u " M " D. F. Mclntire, for boards, 3,53
" 19. " " " Tyler Younglove, for services, &c.

at Town Hall, 19,39
" 23. " « " S. A. Wheeler & Co., for eighty-
five stone blocks, 11,05
" 25. l< " " Edwin A. Goodrich, for preparing

for plowing and drawing, 8,00

" 28. " " " Litch & Sawtell, for screws and nails, ,92
" 29. " " " William G. Wyman, for services as

Secretary, 25,00

Nov. 2. " " " Litch & Sawtell, for padlock, ,33

« 15. u " " W. H. Lowe, for moving piano, 1,00

" 28. " « " R. Wallace & Co., for blank cards, 1,66

« 29. " " " E. Garfield, for printing, &c, 18,12

30. " " " J. J. Piper, advertising annual

meeting, 1,00

" " " " " W. G. Wyman, for tacks, pins, &c, ,25
" " "for premiums awarded Sept. 25th,

and Nov. 8th, 643,31
Dec. 4. u balance carried to new account, 4,510,64

$5,492,40

72

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS.

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

it

((

Amount awarded for Plowing at the Exhibition,
Spading " " "
Neat Stock,
Horses,
Sheep, -
Swine,
Poultry, -
Grain,

Root Crops, *
Fruits,
Flowers, -
Butter and Cheese,
Bread, ...

Premiums and gratuities were paid to two-hundred
different persons, and the amounts distributed as follows :

Fitchhurg, -

Princeton,

Westminster, ....

Lunenburg,

Ashby, ....

Ashburnham, -

Phillipston, -

Leominster, -

Littleton, -

Royalston,

Shirley, -

Dracut, -

Winchendon, -

Pepperell, -

Gardner, -

"Worcester, -

Spencer, -

Natick, -

| Amount of premiums offered,

1 gpi ! Amount of premiums and gratuities awarded,

j Amount of premiums and gratuities paid,

J Amount of permanent fund,

$54,00

7,00

194,00

- 87,00
10,00

- 35,50
19,50
33,38
10,26

- 51,63

3,62

- 17,50

7,50

and fifty-five

$390,96

71,00

48,35

33,75

21,50

18,00

17,00

11,00

10,00

10,00

8,00

5,00

4,00

2,00

1,25

,75

,50

,25

1079,25
685,86
643,31

4710,64

LIFE MEMBERS.

In the following list, the Post-Office address, when it differs from the
residence, is given in italics, after the name, abreviated when the resi-
dence forms a part of the Post-Office address, as So. G. for South
Gardner, S. Vill. for Shirley Village. The * indicates that the person
is dead ; r indicates that the person has removed, but that the present
residence is unknown ; the figures indicate the number of members in
each town. If errors occur, or if the residence or Post-Office address
of memhers is changed, a favor will be conferred by notifying the
Secretary of the fact.

ASHBY.

Andrews, Artemas F.
Burnap, Israel H.#
Burr, John
Burr, Joseph*
Burr, Levi
Damon, Samuel R.
Davis, John
Davis, Jonathan P.
Poster, Jesse
Foster, Joseph
Gates, Howard
Gates, Paul
Gibson, Samuel P.
Hapgood, William G.
Hay ward, Joel
Hay ward, John
Hay ward, Paul
Hay ward, Samuel
Hodgman, Luther
Hubbard, Augustus
Hubbard, George B.
Johnson, William
Kendall, George
Kendall, James 0. r
Lawrence, David
Patch, Jonas

Proctor, D. A.
Smith, Levi
Spencer, Hobart
Wallis, Benjamin
Wellington, Liberty
Wellington, Luke
Wright, Charles H.
Wright, Francis W.

ASHBURNHAM.

Barrell, Nahum
Brown, C. H.
Conn, John A.
Cummings, John L.
Davis, John C.
Eaton, N. L.
Ellis, Daniels, Jr.
Foster, Jerome W.
Green, Hosea
Houston, Horace W.
Howard, George
Howe, Addison
Howe, Perley
Hubbard, George B.
Jones, Gilman r
Lane, Elias
Marble', Warren

34

10

74

LIFE MEMBERS.

Maynard, Antipas
Merritt, Simeon
Miller, Alfred
Russell, Ward
Samson, George G.
Ward, Alvin
Ward, Isaac D. *
Ward, Stephen
Whitmore, Alfred
Whitmore, Enoch*
Whitney, Amos
Whitney, Merrick
Whitney, Ohio
Whitney, Ohio, Jr.
Whitney & Russell
Wilker, John
Wilker, Joseph W.
Willard, John*
Willard, Merrick
Winchester, Charles
Winchester, George C.
Woodward, John G.

BALTIMORE, MD.

Kenney, Henry F.

BOSTON.

Farwell, Lyman
H asking, F. W.
Lucas, Edmund G.
Simonds, A Ivan

BURLINGTON. VT.

Catlin, H. W.

CAMDEN, N. Y.

Foskett, Joel

CHICAGO, ILL.

Hill, Horatio

CLAPPVILLE.

Denny, R. S.

DETROIT, MICH.

Frost, Milton

DRACUT*

Fuller, Rodney

EAST HAMPTON.

Hubbard, Eli A.

FITCHBURG.

Ackley, N. F. r
Adams, Abel F.
American Rattan Compar
Arnold, William E.
Atherton, Shepard F.
Bailey, E. F.
Bailey, G. F.
Baldwin, Joseph, 2d
Battles, David
Beaman, Aaron F. r
Benjamin, Levi*
Billings, Charles J.
Blood, H. A.
Boutelle, David
Boutelle, N. S.
Boutelle, T. R.
39 Boutelle, Mrs. T. R.
Bradford, Lewis H.
Bradford, Mrs. L. H.
Brewer, Henry*
Brigham, Charles
Brown, Jacob, 2d
Brown, James D.
Brown, J. S.
Bullock, Laban,
4 Burnap, Edwin S.
Burnap, Samuel
Buttrick, Francis, Jr,
Caldwell, Enoch
Caldwell, Thomas C.
Carleton, Ira & Co.
Carpenter, Daniel M.
Caswell, Hosea M.
Caswell, Nathan
Caswell, S. Melville
Childs, S. Austin
Clifford, Martin
Clifford, William J.*
Coggshall, Henry F.
Comee, William W.
Cotting, William W.
Cowdin, Natt
Crehore, Warren A.

LIFE MEMBERS.

75

Crocker, Alvah
Crocker, Ephraim*
Cross, Daniel
disking, Joseph
Damon, Albert B.
Daniels, Thomas E.
Davis, Alonzo
Davis, Charles
Davis, Elnathan
Davis, Joel
Day, Leonard
Dickinson, Elijah M.
Dole, A. S.
Dole, S. M.
Downe, Levi
Downe, William S.*
Eaton, Daniel S.
Eaton, Thomas S.
Emory, Charles A.
Emory, Daniel*
Fairbanks, J. H.
Farwell, Elijah C.
Far well, Samuel
Farwell, Samuel, 2d
Fessenden, Charles
Fisher, Jabez
Fitchburg, Town of
Frost, J. Milton
Frost, S. Gilman
Frye, George A.
Fuller, Hubbard B.
Gage, Moses M.
Gage, Mrs. M. M.
Garfield, Elisha
Garfield, J. F. D.
Goodnow, Silas H.*
Goodrich, Edwin A.
Goodrich, Henry A.
Goodridge, Alonzo P.
Gould, William
Graves, Howard M. r
Green, Asher
Green, Mrs. Asher
Hale, Samuel
Hardon, J. J.
Harris, Gordis D.
Harris, John M.
Hartwell, Isaac

Haskell, Jacob
Hawes, Samuel
Hay ward, Calvin*
Hey wood, Walter
Hitchcock, Alfred
Hollis, John W. r
Hubbard, Addison
Ide, Charles
Jewett, George
Kendell, Levi
Kimball, Alpheus*
Kimball, A. P.
Lane, James B.
Lane, Mrs. J. B.
Leathe, William M.
Litch, Aaron K.
Livermore, Charles r
Lowe, Daniel
Lowe, David
Lowe, Henry J.
Lowe, John
Lowe, Willard H.
Lyon, Moses G.
Manning, Abel
Manning, Elson W.
Manning, Joseph E.
Mansur, Joseph W.
Marshall, Abel
Marshall, Chederlaomer
Marshall, Jonas A.
Marshall, Joseph A.
Mclntire, David F.
Mclntire, James
Merritt, William S.
Messenger, Daniel
Messenger, Horace P.
Miles, Eugene T.
Montjoy, George W.
Moulton, J. C.
Norcross, Amasa
Nutting, George F.
Osborne, Abram
Page, Hale W.
Page, Joel
Palmer, Thomas
Partridge. Asa
Perkins, Francis*
Phillips & Hammond r

76

LIFE MEMBERS.

Pierce, Joseph
Piper, John J.
Pratt, Lawrin
Prentiss, Benjamin
Prichard, John
Pride, William M.
Proctor, Benjamin F.
Proctor, John B.
Proctor, Mrs. J. B.
Putnam, James P.
Putnam, Salmon W.
Rice, Oran S. r
Richardson, J. B. r
Ruggles, Otis T.
Ruggles, Solmon W.
Sabin, John P.
Safford, Benjamin
Saunders, Charles
Sawtell, Charles
Sawtelle, John M.
Sawyer, Asa
Sawyer, Charles B.
Sawyer, Charles K.
Sawyer, John
Shattuck, Samuel*
Sheldon, Francis
Sheldon, Josiah
Sheldon, Thomas
Shepley, Stephen
Simonds, Abel
Simonds, Joseph F.
Smith, Edward
Smith, John
Smith, Joseph
Smith, William P.
Snow, C. H. B.
Snow, Benjamin
Snow, Benj., Jr.
Snow, Francis H.
Snow, Peter S.
Stearns, Varus
StickneJ, George 0.
Stiles, James F.
Stiles, Mrs. J. F.
Stock well, Loriston
Stone, Norman
Spaulding, Z. P.*
Sprague, Leander

Taylor, Stephen
Tenney, Jonathan L.
Thurston, Abel
Thurston, Cyrus
Tolman, Jacob
Torrey, Ebenezer
Torrey, Mrs. E.
Tuttle, Lewis G.
Towne, Abial J.*
Towne, George E.
Towne, William B.*
Twichell, John M.
Upham, Nathan
Upton, John
Upon, Mrs. J.
Upton, Edwin
Upton, Joseph
Upton, Thomas
Upton, Warren C.
Vose, William H.
Wallace, Rodney
Wallace, Waldo
Ware, T. K.
Wheeler, Benjamin
Wheeler, Loring
Wheeler, Samuel A.
Whitcomb, Nathan
White, W. Fred
Whitman, Jonathan
Whitney, Walter
Wilder, Charles W.
Willis, Henry A.
Wilkins, Aaron
Wilson, Timothy S.
Wood, Charles H.
Wood, Elliot
Wood, Moses
Wood, Mrs. M.
Wood, Nathaniel-
Woodbury, James M.
Woodbury, William
Woodward, Isaac B.
Works, Benton T.
Works, Daniel
Works, Edwin D.
Wright, Alba C.*
Wyman, W. G.
Young, Z. F.

235

LIFE MEMBERS.

77

FRAMINGHAM.

Buckminster, William

GARDNER.

Bancroft, Amasa

Brick, A. H., South G.

Bush, C. W.

Collester, Thorley

Greenwood, Calvin S., South G.

Heywood, Levi

Hey wood, Seth

Hill, Edwin

Hill, Henry C.

Hill, John W.

Nichols, Washington

Parker, David

Sawin, John, South G.

Stevens, S. W. A., South G.

Wood, Abel S.

Wood, Asaph, South G. 16

GROTON.

Bean, Hazen O.

HARVARD.

Puffer, Josiah, Still River

HUBBARDSTON.

May, L. A.

LANCASTER.

Flagg, Charles, South L.

LEOMINSTER.

Allen, Joel C.
Boyden, Elliot E.
Brown & Allen
Burrage, Leonard, North L.
Carter, James H.
Carter, Solon
Colburn, Charles H.
Cotton, Ward M.
Field, C. C.
Hosmer, William B.
Lowe, P. H. W.
Merriam, C. H.
Merriam, Gardner
Morse, Augustus
Morse, Gardner
Nichols, Edmund H.

Nicholson, Charles

Piper, Porter

Putnam & Phelps, North L.

Kichardson, Sewall

Stearns, Thomas

Stratton, Albert, North L. 22

LITTLETON.

Harwood, J. A. ■

LOWELL.

Merriam. Albert

LUDLOW, VT.

Albee, Hiram W.

LUNENBURG.

Billings, Thomas

Brown, W. L.

Day, N. C, North Leominster

Dinsmore, J. T.

Fairbanks, John

Graham, Ephraim, Fitchburg

Goodrich, Joseph

Houghton, Edmund

Johnson, Martin

Kilburn, Cyrus

Mandell, William A.

Pitts, Lemuel

Proctor, Frank M.

Putnam, James

Putnam, Daniel

Ramsdell, John 16

LYNN.

Piper, John W.

MILTON.

Ware, John F.

NEW IPSWICH, N. H.

Gage, George M.

NEW YORK CITY.

Burpee, Solomon P.
Stuart, J. M.
Wood, William B.

PEPPERELL.

Blood, David W.

PERU, VT.

Haynes, James L.

78

LIFE MEMBERS.

PHILLIPSTON.

Powers, Edward

Turner, Ephraim, So. Poyalston

PORTLAND, ME.

Stebbins, Horatio

PRINCETON.

Beaman, G. S., East P.

Benson, W. W.

Boyles, Henry

Brooks, John

Brooks, John, Jr.

Brown, YV. H., East P.

Danforth, Nathan r

Everett, Israel, East P.

Everett. Joshua T., East P.

Everett, Mandell G., East P.

Gregory, George M.

Houghton, George W.

Merriam, J. Edwin

Mirick, Elisha G*

Mirick, Sewell G.

Nash, Samuel C*

Reed, Joseph P.

Reed, Nathan B.

Richardson, Sewell

Roper, John

Roper, Wilkes

Skinner, George O.

Skinner, Harlow

Temple, Jonas H.

Watson, Wm. W.*

Whitcomb, Joseph, East P.

Whitcomb, W. H., East P.

Wilder, Mark, East P. 28

QUINCY.

Rice, John A.

RINDGE, N. H.

Towne, Solomon F.

ROYALSTON.

Bemis, Otis, South P.
Clark, Edson
Clark, Timothy
Farrar, S. S., South R.
Hale, Silas »*

Jones, Aaron, South P.
Jones, Silas, Jr. "
Partridge, L. W., South P.
Raymond, Joseph
Safford, Roby R., South P.
Stockwell, Anan, South P. 11

SANFRANCISCO, CAL.

Choate, Thomas B.

SHIRLEY.

Chandler, George

Chandler, John H.

Gardner, Jerome, S. ViU.

Gardner, M. T. "

Going, John K. "

Hartwell, Nathaniel

H olden, Nathaniel

Howe, Oliver r

Longley, Israel, S. ViU.

Page, George

Parker, James 0.

Whitney, Thomas

Wetherbee, Wm. H., S. ViU. 13

STERLING.

Barron, A. S.
Burpee, Edward
Davidson, Amory
Fitch, Charles B.
Hastings, Rufus
Hey wood, Joseph P.
Heywood, Moses B,
Holbrook, Cyrus*
Kendall, Ezra
Kendall, George
Loring, Charles H.
Loring, Maynard
May, John
Nourse, Franklin
Osgood, Samuel
Peck, W. D.
Richardson, Wm. B.
Stephenson, John M,
Sawyer, Jonathan M.
Sawyer, Moses, 2d
Sawyer, Putnam
Sawyer, Wm. Franklin

LIFE MEMBERS.

79

Smith, Sidney

Whitney, Joseph

Wilder, Josiah

Wilder, Sidney R. 26

SYRACUSE, N. Y.

Phelps, Henry R.

TEMPLETON.

Bowker, Jonathan*

Boynton, John

Chase, Henry

Davis, Joseph, Baldwinville

Day, Gilman, "

Goldsmith, J. G., Otter River

Harris, Martin

Richardson, John A.

Sawyer, Edwin, Baldwinville

Sawyer, Joshua, Jr.

Simonds, Warren

Smith, Levi N., Baldwinville

Stone, E. W., Otter River 13

TOWNSEND.

Jones, Henry B;

White, Abram M., West T.

WAYLAND.

Stanton, Stephen

WESTMINSTER.

Bacon, Edward

Barnes, Adonijah

Benjamin, A. W.t Wachusett ViU.

Brown, Timothy "

Bigelow, Benson

Chesmore, Reuben G., Fitchburg

Cooper, Samuel*

Cowee, Orange G.*

Damon, Thomas

Divoll, Jjuke

Duncan, George N., Fitchburg

Ellis, Preston

Fessenden, John*

Flagg, Otis, Wachusett Vill.

Forbush, Joseph W.

Hagar, Isaac

Howe, Franklin*

Jackson, Levi

Kendall, George*

Laws, David, Ashburnham

Lerned, John K.

Merriam, Artemas

Merriam, Caleb S., Wachusett Vill.

Merriam, Joel, Jr.

Merriam, J. & O. M.

Miles, Daniel, Fitchburg

Miles. Daniel C. "

Miles, George

Miller, John C, Wachusett Vill.

Minott, John

Page, Josiah, Fitchburg

Pierce, James

Puffer, James

Raymond, Aretas

Raymond, Asa, Fitchburg

Raymond, Eli W. "

Sprague, S. H., Wachusett Vill.

Towne, George W., Fitchburg

White, Marshall

Whitney, Nathan

Winship, Handel

Winship, Sylvester

Wood, Aaron

Wood, Allen B., Fitchburg

Wood, Benjamin F.

Wood, Timothy D.

Wyman, Benj., Wachusett Vill.

Wyman, David "

Wyman, Franklin " 49

WINCHENDON.

Baldwin, William

Cutter, John

Forristall, John M.

Murdock, Elisha

Murdock, Ephraim, Jr.

Raymond, Paul, Jr.

Whitney, Giles H. 7

WORCESTER.

Bullock, Alexander H.

Chase, Anthony

Miles, Charles M.

Phillips, Ivers

Richardson, George W.

Spooner, A. J.

Wellington, Timothy W.

Wheeler, W. A.

Whitcomb, David 0

Total number of life members, Jan. 1st, 1SG2, 55G.

80

OFFICERS.

OFFICEKS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1862.

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER *, 1861.

L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitcliburg, President.

' y Vice Presidents.

LEONARD BURRAGE, of Leominster
BENJAMIN WYMAN, of Westminster

W. G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg, Secretary.

T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham,

HOBART SPENCER, of Ashby,

S.W. A. STEVENS, of South Gardner,

C. C. FIELD, of Leominster,

WM. B. HOSMER, of Leominster,

THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg,

CYRUS KILBURN, of Lunenburg,

DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,

JOHN BROOKS, Jr., of Princeton,

HENRY BOYLES, of Princeton,

N. B. REED, of Princeton,

J. T. EVERETT, of East Princeton,

ANAN STOCKWELL, of So. Royalston,

NATHANIEL HOLDEN, of Shirley,

JAMES 0. PARKER, of Shirley,

EZRA KENDALL, of Sterling, V Trustees.

J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling, •

WARREN SIMONDS, of TempJeton,

DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,

JOHN MINOTT, of Westminster,

E. MURDOCK, Jr., of Winchendon,

A. F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg,

T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg,

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg,

M. M. GAGE, of Fitchburg,

LEVI KENDALL, of Fitchburg,

ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,

JOEL PAGE, of Fitchburg,

J. P. PUTNAM, of Fitchburg,

JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitchburg,

I. B. WOODWARD, of Fitchburg

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg, Member of the State Board
of Agriculture.

COMMITTEES AND PREMIUMS

FOE THE

TENTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION,

TO BE HELD AT FITCHBURG,
On Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 30th and Oct, 1st, 1862,

^# 9 4>> r-^»-

No person will be allowed to become a competitor for any of the Pre-
miums herein offered, unless he shall have made an entry for the same,
with the Secretary, within the time prescribed for each class, nor unless
he shall also have furnished all required statements relating thereto
within the specified time.

For the convenience of those who live at a distance, entries may be
made by Mail ; and all entries so made must be delivered at some Post
Office one day previous to the expiration of the time specified, and must
bear proof of having been so delivered either by a Post-mark, or a
certificate of registry from the Postmaster.

STOCK.

All entries for premiums under this head, except poultry, must be
made on or before the Friday previous to the exhibition, and all stock
must be owned by the person who enters it.

All live stock must have been raised by the person entering the same,
or owned by him for at least three months next previously.

Each entry of stock for the pens must specify the breed of the animal,
if known, and the age.

Fat cattle, working cattle, draught horses and swine must be weighed
on the same scale, in Fitchburg, and will be weighed free of expense.
The weight of all other stock will not be required.

li

82

PREMIUMS.

BLOOD STOCK.

Committee. — Asaph Wood, of Gardner; Solon Carter, of Leom-
inster; Daniel Works, of Eitchburg; Joel Hay ward, of Ashby ; Josiah
Page, of Westminster.

Authentic pedigrees will be required.

Durham Bulls,

- 1st premium,

- $5,00

2d premium,

3,00

North Devon,

- 1st premium,

5,00

.

2d premium,

3,00

Ayrshire, -

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Alderney,

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Any other breed, pure blood, -

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

The Committee may award gratuities for superior specimens of cows,
heifers or calves, of either of the breeds named.

GRADE OR NATIVE BULLS.

More than two-years-old, - - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Yearling, - - - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Calves, - - - - 1st premium, * 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00
These may be of any breed, more than four months old.

MILCH KINE.
Committee. — T. R. Boutelle, Joseph Upton, Samuel Burnap,

of Fitchburg ; W. B. Hosmer, of Leominster ; Ward Russell, of
Ashburnham.

Herds of four Cows or Heifers each, - 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 7,00

3d premium, - 4,00
The person receiving these premiums will not be allowed to compete
for any other, with the same animals.

PREMIUMS. 83

The Committees will regard age, quality and quantity of milk, expense
of keeping, &c.

Cows, - - - - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Heifers, three-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Heifers, two-years old, - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Competitors for premiums on milch cows, and milch heifers, will be
required to certify in writing, at the time of entry, to the weight of the
milk during the six days commencing with the first Monday in June,
and the corresponding six days in September j and to the manner of
keeping, and general management. Cows that calve after the first
Monday in June, may be tried at another time.

H El FERS.

Committee. — Ezra Kendall, of Sterling ; Samuel Farwell, 2d, of
Fitchburg ; Henry Boyles, of Princeton ; John Hayward, of Ashby ;
Gardner Merriam, of Leominster.

Intended to be kept for the dairy.
Two-years-old,

Yearlings, ...

Calves, more than four months old,

Calves, more than four months old, raised
by hand/ -

1st premium,

- $4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

- ' 1,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

84 PEEMIUMS.

WORKING OXEN.

Committee. — Daniel Putnam, of Lunenburg ; Howard Gates, of
Ashby; Daniel Lowe, William Woodbury, Jr., T. B. Works, of
Fitchburg.

Working Oxen, - - - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 5,00

• t 3d premium, - 4,00

4th premium, - 3,00

5th premium, - 2,00

The working oxen will be tried, attached to loads weighing, including
the cart, one-third more than themselves.

STEERS MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

Committee. — Loriston Stockwell, of Fitchburg; E. E. Boyden, of
Leominster ; J. T. Dunsmoor, John Fairbanks, of Lunenburg ;
Edward Bacon, of Westminster.

Three-years-old, - - - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

The three-years-old steers will be attached to carts, and tried like the

oxen, on the same ground ; the cart and load to equal the steers in

weight.

Two-years-old, - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Trained, two-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Committee.— F. W. Wright, of AsUby ; Charles Hastings, of
Lunenburg j Daniel S. Eaton, H. M. Caswell, of Fitchburg ; Asa
Raymond, of Westminster.

Yearlings, - - - - 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Trained Yearlings, *- - - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,0q

PREMIUMS. 85

Calves, - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Calves, raised by hand, - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Trained Calves, - - - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, " - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

FAT CATTLE.

Committee.— Nathaniel Wood, of Fitchburg ; Franklin Nourse, of
Sterling; John Lowe, of Fitchburg; Levi Burr, .of Ashby; Ephraim
Graham, of Lunenburg.

The entries of fat cattle must specify the mode of fattening. Com-
mittees will regard the expense of feeding.

Oxen, - 1st premium, - $8,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 3,00

C°ws, - 1st premium, - 6,0J

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, ' - 2,00

Three-year-old Steers or Heifers, - 1st premium, - 6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

SWI N E.
Committee. — Amasa NorCross, of Fitchburg ; William F. Sawyer,

of Sterling; George Miles, of Westminster; C. W. Jaquith, David
Iiowe, of Fitchburg.

Boars, more than one year old, - 1st premium, - $4,00

# 2d premium, - ,3,00

Less than one year old, - -1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Fat Hogs, more than eight months old, - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Fat Pigs, less than eight months old, - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

60 PREMIUMS.

Breeding Sows, - - - 1st premium,

- $3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

Weaned Pigs, not less than four, - 1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

- $10,00

2d premium,

6,00

3d premium,

4,00

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

STALLI O N S.

Committee. — John K. Going, of Shirley; Silas Hale, of Royalston ;
Levi Smith, of Ashby; Win. M. Pride, W. W. Comee, of Fitchburg.

All persons offering Stallions, five years old and upwards, will be
required to exhibit specimens of their stock.

Stallions, five years old and upwards,

Four-years-old,
Three-years-old,
Two -years-old,

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.

The mares must be four years old and upwards, accompanied with
their colts.

Breeding mares, - - - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

Colts, less than one year old, - - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

<

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

Committee. — S. W. A. Stevens, of Gardner; Antipas Maynard,
of Ashburnham ; S. M. Dole, J. P. Putnam, Leonard Day, of
Fitchburg.

Draught horses will be tried, attached to a stone boat, loaded to
weigh one -third more than the horses.

The same draught horse cannot receive a premium as a single horse

PREMIUMS.

87

&nd also as one of a pair, but a draught horse may compete as a family
horse.

These must all be four years old and upwards.

Draught horses, and mules, pairs, - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

Draught horses, single, - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Family horses, - . - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

CO LTS.

Committee. — Joel Merriam, Jr., Allen B. Wood, of Westminster ;
Benjamin Wallis, of Ashby ; W. L. Brown, of Lunenburg ; Leander
P. Comee, of Fitchburg.

Three-years-old Geldings,

- 1st premium,

- $4,00

2d premium,

2,00

Three-years-old Fillies,

- 1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

Two-years-old Geldings,

- 1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

Two-years-old Fillies,

- 1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

Yearling Colts,

- 1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

2,00

SHEEP.

Committee. — Joel Davis, H. P. Messenger, Edward . Smith, of
Fitchburg; C. S. Merriam, of Westminster; Jesse Foster, of Ashby.

Flocks, not less than six, owned by one

person, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Cossets, - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

POU LTRY.

Committee. — Henry A. Willis, Natt Cowdin, A. S. Dole, James
Mclntire, James F. Monroe, of Fitchburg.

Barn-yard Fowls, not less than six, - 1st premium, - $2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

88 PREMIUMS.

Turkeys, not less than six, - - 1st premium, - $2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

Geese, not less than six, - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

Ducks, not less than six, - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

PLOWING MATCH.

All entries for plowing must be made on or before the Wednesday
previous to the exhibition, and one dollar must be deposited with each
entry, to be returned to the competitor if he plows, otherwise forfeited
to the Society.

No teams or parts of teams will be allowed to compete for more than
one of the premiums on plowing.

DOUBLE TEAMS.
Committee. — John Brooks, Jr., of Princeton ; P. H. W. Lowe, of
Leominster ; George Hayward, of Ashburnham ; Levi Downe, of
Fitchburg ; M. G. Everett, of Princeton.

Double Teams, - - - 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, -■ 5,00
3d premium, - 3.00

SINGLE TEAMS.

Committee. — Cyrus Kilburn, of Lunenburg ; John G. Woodward,
of Ashburnham ; David Laws, of Westminster ; Paul Gates, of Ashby ;
Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg.

Single Teams,
Minors, with Steers, -

- 1st premium,

- $7,00

2d premium,

5,00

3d premium,

3,00

- 1st premium,

6,00

2d premium,

4,00

3d premium,

2,00

PREMIUMS. 89

HORSE TEAMS.

Committee. — James Putnam, of Lunenburg ; Warren Simonds, of

Templeton ; Josiah Puffer, of Harvard ; Chas. H. Loring, of Sterling .
Samuel R. Damon, of Ashby.

Horses or Mule Teams, - - 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 3,00

CROPS.

All entries for Premiums in this department must be made with the
Secretary, on or before June 1st, with the exception of English turnips,
which must be entered on or before August 1st. Immediately after
these dates the Secretary will transmit to all competitors a copy of the
blank form adopted by the Trustees, to correspond with the require-
ments of the following extract from the Statute Laws of 1859, viz :

Chapt. 232, Sect. 2. "No incorporated Agricultural Society shall
award a premium for a field crop, without satisfactory evidence, under
oath, presented to its Committee or other officers, that the whole mer-
chantable crop so entered, has been weighed when harvested, if a grass
or root crop, and when threshed or husked, if a grain or corn crop."

These forms must be returned to the Secretary on or before Nov. 10th,
with each question concerning the crop answered, and the certificates
properly signed.

^"o person will be allowed to compete for more than one Premium,
with a crop raised upon the same field, however large, with the same
treatment.

Committees should not encourage the irregular entry of accidental
good crops.

GRAIN.

Committee. — John P. Sabin, A. P. Goodridw, of Fitchbunr ; Wash-
ington Nichols, of Gardner j Samuel Hayward, of Ashby ; Hosea
Green, of Ashburnham.

The Committee may award gratuities for valuable new varieties of
grain.

12

90

PREMIUMS.

For the most profitable crops of Corn, Wheat, Rye, Barley and Oats,
one acre each ; of Cabbages and Beans one-eighth acre each ; the pro-
duct of Corn to be not less than 4320 lbs. on the cob. ; that of Wheat,
Rye, Barley and Oats not less than 1200 lbs. of grain each.

Corn,

Wheat,

Rye,

Barley,

Oats,

White Beans,

Herds-grass Seeds,

Red Top Seeds,

- 1st premium, - $10,00
2d premium, - 7,00
3d premium, - 4,00

4th premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

- 1st premium, - 8,00
2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, Harris on Insects
4th premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

- 1st premium, - 3,00
2d premium, - 2,00

- 1st premium, - 3,00
2d premium, - 2,00

- 1st premium, - 3,00
2d premium, - 2,00

- 1st premium, - 2,00
2d premium, - 1,00

- 1st premium, - 2,00
2d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

- 1st premium, - 2,00
2d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

The Grass Seed, a half-bushel of each lot, to be exhibited at the show.

Cabbages, - - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

ROOT CROPS.

Committee. — J. M. Sawtell, of Fitchburg; Henry C. Hill, of
Gardner ; N. S. Boutelle, J. M. Harris, Benj. Safford, of Fitchburg.

For the most profitable crops of Potatoes, one-fourth acre each ; of
Carrots, Onions, Beets and Turnips, one-eighth acre each.

Potatoes, not less than 3000 lbs., - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Carrots, not less than 5500 lbs., - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

PREMIUMS. 91

Onions, not less than 2000 lbs., 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00
Sugar Beet3, - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00
Mangold Wurzels, - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00
English Turnips, - - 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00
Turnips, of any other variety, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

FARMS.

Committee. — Thomas Billings, of Lunenburg; A. F. Adams, of
Fitchburg ; Joseph W. Forbush, of Westminster.

All competitors mnst make their entries on or before the first day of
May. Each farm will be open to the inspection of the Committee
during the entire season. A detailed statement of the general manage-
ment, together with the income and expenses for the year, must be
furnished on or before November 10th.
For the best cultivated and managed

Farms, - - 1st premium, - $15,00

2d premium, - 8,00

GARDENS.

Committee. — Alvah Crocker, Oliver Kendall, C. A. Emory, of
Fitchburg.

No person having received a premium for a vegetable garden shall
be allowed to compete for another with the same land within five years,
except for a higher one.

Entries must be made on or before June 1st.
Kitchen Gardens, - - - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects

3d premium, - 2,00

Flower Gardens, - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

92

PREMIUMS

EXPERIMENTS.

Committee.— Jabez Fisher, tT. A. Marshall, W. G. Wyman, of
Fitchburg.

All entries must be made at least one week before commencing the
Experiments.

There will be placed at the disposal of the Committee for the best
and most reliable Agricultural Experiments, made in 1862, the sum
of $50,00.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

Committee. — Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg ; Thomas Billings, Lemuel
Pitts, of Lunenburg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture,
there will be paid for the most thorough, exact and reliable experiments
upon the proper depth of applying manures, five premiums, as follows :

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 20,00

3d premium, - 15,00

4th premium, - 10,00

5th premium, - 5,00

A circular containing full directions for the performance of these
experiments, which are to be continued through a rotation of three years
— the premiums to be paid in the fall of 1862 — will be supplied to all
persons wishing to compete, on application to the Secretary.

TOWN HALL.

No article intended for the Hall will b entitled to a premium, unless
it shall have been deposited by one o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday, from
which time the Hall will be occupied by the Committees exclusive ly»
until half-past six o'clock, when it will be opened to the public for the
evening. Admission fee, 10 cents ; Season tickets, 25 cents.

PREMIUMS.

93

All articles must have been grown, manufactured or produced by the
person entering the same for premium, and should be plainly marked
with the name and residence of the exhibitor, and not by numbers, as
heretofore.

A strict compliance with these regulations will be absolutely necessary.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

Committee. — Daniel C. Miles, of Westminster; D. H. Merriam,
Norman Stone, Cyrus Thurston, of Fitchburg; J. C Allen, of
Leominster.

APPLES.

For the best and largest exhibitions of
named varieties, of three specimens

each, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each, 1st prem. Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of ten specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibition of any one variety, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00
No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit.

PEACH ES.

For the best collections, - - , Harris on Insects

For the best dishes or baskets, - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00
3d premium, - ,50

y£

PREMIUMS.

PLUMS.

For the best collections,

-

- $2,00

For the best plates,

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

QU I NCES.

For the best dishes or baskets, - 1st premium, - 1,00

2d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

PEARS AND GRAPES.

Committee. — Rodney Wallace, of Fitchburg ; C. C. Field, of Leom-
inster; Daniel Putnam, of Lunenburg; S. H. Sprague, of Westmin-
ster ; Daniel Cross, of Fitchburg.

PEARS.

For the best and largest exhibitions of
named varieties, of three specimens

each, - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

*M. premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five "specimens each,

1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties, of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of ten specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibitions of any one variety, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit.

PREMIUMS. 95

G RAPES.

For the best displays of Foreign Grapes, 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of Native Grapes, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

Committee. — C. H. B. Snow, of Fitchburg ; Mrs. M. T. Gardner,
of Shirley; Miss Mary Brooks, Mrs. N. A. Tufts, Mrs. William J.
Clifford, of Fitchburg.

FRUIT.

For the best dishes or baskets, - 1st premium, - $2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

FLOWERS.

For best displays of named Plants in pots, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of cut Flowers, - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

96

PREMIUMS.

VEGETABLES.

Committee. — T. K. Ware, of Fitchburg ; Porter Piper, of Leom-
inster; Dennis Fay, of Ashby; Kendall Porter, N. C. Day, of
Lunenburg.

Of Squashes, Pumpkins, Cabbages and Celery, there should be six
specimens in each lot ; of Cauliflower, three ; of Onions, Beets, Tur-
nips and Tomatoes, one peck in each lot ; of Field Beans, one-half peck,
and of Lima Beans, two quarts.

For the best collections of Kitchen Vege-

tables, -

Collections of Potatoes,

Marrow Squashes,
Hubbard Squashes,
Crookneck Squashes,
Pumpkins,

Cabbages,

Cauliflowers,
Celery,
Onions,
Turnip Beets,
English Turnips,
Tomatoes,

- 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, Harris on Insects

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

•,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

,25

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

,25

PREMIUMS

97

Field Beans, - - - 1st premium, - ,50

2d premium, - ,25

Lima Beans, - - - 1st premium, - ,50

2d premium, - ,25

Seed Corn, in traces, - - 1st premium, - 1,00

2d preminm, - ,70

3d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gratuities, 10,00

No person will be allowed to receive more than one copy of Harris

on Insects ; if more than one is awarded, cash will be paid instead, at

the rate of $3,00 per copy.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, PICKLES AND HONEY.

Committee. — Alfred Emerson, Nathan Upham, Charles Ide, Mrs.
L. H. Bradford, Mrs. Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg ; Mrs. Howard
Gates, of Ashby.

All Bread must have been baked on the Monday previous to the
exhibition by unmarried ladies.

Competitors will be required to furnish a detailed statement in writ-
ing of the process of manufacturing Butter, Cheese and Pickles.

Wheat Bread,

Unbolted Wheat Bread,
Bolted Rye Bread,

Rye and Indian Bread,

Lump Butter, not less than 12 lbs.,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
4th premium,

$2,00
1,00

,50
.1,00
1,00

,50
2,00
1,00

,50
4,00
3,00
2,00
1,50

13

98

June Tub Butter, not lei

Cheese, not less than 50 lbs., -

Pickles,

Virgin Honey in the comb,

PREMIUMS.

ian 25 lbs., 1st premium,

* $3,00

2d premium.

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

, - - 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,50

3d premium,

1,00

- 1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

3d premium,

,25

- 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

Committee. — Stephen Shepley, S. F. Atherton, GL P. Hawkins,
John Prichard, Aaron Wilkins, Lucius Aldrich, of Fitchburg ; Amasa
Bancroft, of Gardner.

For the best specimens of Mechanic and Manufactured articles,
exclusive of ladies' home manufacture, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee, the sum of $100,00.

FINE ARTS.

Committee. — Kendall Brooks, W. F. White, *of Fitchburg ; Wm.
Allen, of Leominster ; Mrs. D. L. Abbercrombie, of Lunenburg ;
Mrs. Leander Comee, Mrs. J. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg.

For the best specimens of Paintings, Drawings, or other kindred-
productions in the Fine Arts, there will be placed at the disposal of
the Committee the sum of $20,00.

PREMIUMS. 99

FANCY ARTICLES.

Committee. — Elnathan Davis, of Fitchburg ; Jerome Gardner, of
Shirley; Mrs. Eben'r Torrey, Mrs. Edwin Upton, Mrs. Waldo Wallace,
Mrs. Benj. Snow, Jr., Mrs. Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg; Mrs. W. A.
Mandell, of Lunenburg.

For the best specimens of Ladies' Useful and Fancy Articles, of their
own manufacture, including specimens of nice mending and darning,
there will be placed at the disposal of the Committee, the sum of $20,00.

ESSAYS.
Committee. — Eben'r Torrey, MosesWood, E. F. Bailey, of Fitchburg-

All persons competing for these premiums must file their Essays with
the Secretary on or before the 1st of September. Each Essay is to be
marked with a motto or design, and accompanied with a sealed envelope
containing a corresponding motto or design, and also the name of the
author. *

The envelopes of the successful competitors will be opened on the
day of the exhibition, immediately upon the announcement of the
awards.

For the best Essays on some practical
subject connected with Agriculture,
deemed worthy of publication in the

Society's " Transactions." 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 5,00

100 PEEMIUMS.

PROSPECTIVE.

FOREST T REES.

All persons competing for the following premiums, must make their
entries on or before the first day of June, in the year in which the pre-
miums are to be awarded, and furnish a detailed statement of the whole
management from the time of setting out, on or before November 10th
of the same year.

For the best Plantations of any kind of
Forest Trees, suitable for fuel or timber,
raised from the seed, not less than
five hundred in number, which shall
be in the most flourishing condition in

the fall of 1863, - - 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 15,00
3d premium, - 10,00

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

Committee. — Solon Carter, of Leominster ; Ephraim Graham, of
Lunenburg ; Isaac. B. Woodward, of Fitchhurg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture,
there will be paid for the most thorough, exact and reliable experiments
upon the proper depth of applying manures, three premiums, as
follows :

1st premium, - $25,00
2d premium, - 20,00
3d premium, - 15,00

A circular containing full directions for the performance of these
experiments, which were to be commenced in 1861, and continued
through a rotation of three years — the premiums to be paid in 1863 —
will be supplied to all persons wishing to compete, on application to the
Secretary.

PREMIUMS.

G RAPES.

101

For the best Plantations of Native Grapes,
containing not less than fifty vines, all
having been set after Jan. 1, 1861, to

be awarded in 1864, - - 1st premium, - $20,00

2d premium, - 10,00

APPLES.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty
trees, all having been set after Jan. 1,

1861, to be awarded in 1865, - 1st premium, - 25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

PEARS.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty
trees, all having been set after Jan. 1,

1861, to be awarded in 1866, - 1st premium, - 25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

102

RULES.

RULES.

All teams entered for plowing and for draught, must have been
owned by the person entering the same for at least three months next
previous, and the team must be driven, and the plow managed by him
or by some one usually in his employ.

Any person competing for a premium who shall serve on a Com-
mittee having charge of the department in which he competes, shall
retire from the Committee while his own competition is in question.

The several Committees will not consider themselves bound by the
terms of the above offers, to award a premium for anything which they
shall deem inferior.

Any person to whom a Premium shall have been awarded in conse-
quence of any deception or misrepresentation used by him, shall not
only forfeit such premium, but afterward be incapable of competing for
the Society's Premiums.

All persons (ladies and minors excepted), not members of the Soci-
ety, to whom may be awarded a Premium or Premiums amounting to
$5,00 or upwards, shall receive a certificate of membership for $5,00,
and the balance in cash. If the amount shall be less than $5,00, a
deduction of fifty per cent, will be made, unless the individual chooses
to make the amount up to that sum, and receive a certificate of
membership.

All Premiums not demanded on or before November 30th, will
revert to the Society.

An extract from the General Laws of Massachusetts, passed in 1859.

Chap. 232, Sec. 1. "No animal or article,- for which a premium
shall have been awarded to the owner, by any incorporated Agricul-
tural Society, receiving the bounty of the State, shall be considered a
subject for any further premium of the same or any other such incor-
porated Society, except for qualities different from those for which the
former premium was awarded, or for a higher premium ; and no animal •
or article in any year offered for a premium, at any such Society, shall
be offered for a premium at any other such Society in the same year ;
but nothing in this Act shall affect, restrain, or limit a competitor for
premiums offered by the State Board of Agriculture, or the Massachu-
setts Society for the promotion of Agriculture, to be awarded within
the incorporated County Agricultural Societies ; but such premiums
shall be subject to the rules and regulations prescribed by said Board,
or by the Trustees of said Massachusetts Society."

Sec. 5. " A Society which shall neglect, in any year, to comply
with the several general laws concerning Agricultural Societies, or with
such regulations of the Board of Agriculture, shall not be entitled to
the bounty of the State the year next succeeding."

CONTENTS.

'

PAGE.

Annual Meeting, -

12

Analysis of Premiums and Gratuities awarded,

72

Committees and Premiums for 1862, -

81

Life Members, names of, -

73

Officers for 1861, list of,

12

Officers for 1862, list of, - - -

80

Report on Apples, -

42

Bread,

49

Bulls, . . - .

22

Butter, *

49

Cheese, ....

49

Colts, one, two and three years old,

21

Draught Horses and Mules,

21

Experiments, -

65

Experiments directed by the State Board,

66

Fancy Articles, ...

50

Fat Cattle, -

38

Flowers, - - - -

45

Fruits, Assorted,

45

Grain, .

64

Grapes, -

44

Heifers, -

33

Honey, -

50

Mares and Colts, ...

18

104

CONTENTS

Report on Mechanics and Manufactures,

PAGE.

52

Milch Kine,

30

Orchards and Vineyards,

58

Peaches, -

43

Pears, -

44

Pickles, ....

49

Plowing, -

13

Poultry, - • ' -

40

Quinces, -

43

Sheep, -

3?

Spading, •

17

Stallions, -

17

Steers, two and three years old,

36

Swine,

41

Vegetables, .

46

Working Oxen,

34

Yearling Steers and Steer Calves,

37

Rules for 1862, ....

102

Secretary's Report, -

3

Abstract of Mr. Brooks' Remarks,

8

Statement of A. 0. Cummins, Short Horn Cattle,

23

Adams, Abel F,, Milch Cows and Heifers,

31

Caswell, Nathan, Devons,

28

Dole, David B., Milch Heifer, -

33

Fisher, Jabez, Plantation of Native Grapes,

58

Page, Joel, Jersey Stock,

27

Reed, N. B., Cow,

32

Stratton, Albert, Experiments with Manures,

66

Wyman, W. G., Plantation of Native Grapes,

62

Wyman, W: G., Experiments with Fertilizers,

65

Woodward, Isaac B., Experiments with Manure

js, 67

Wyman, W. G., Experiments with Manures,

68

Treasurer's Report,

70

TRA.NS^CTIONS

OF THE

WORCESTER NORTH

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

FOR 1862

PREPARED BY THE SECRETARY.

FITCHBURG:

PRINTED BY IE. GARFIELD,

1862.

ADDEESS.

BY A. N. ARNOLD, D. D.

Members of the Worcester North Agricultural Society :

I should have abundant reason to be embarrassed in
appearing before you to-day, if I supposed that you
expected to be instructed in regard to the details or the
process of any department of agricultural industry. It
is my misfortune to be wholly unacquainted with the
practical part of the subject. But it will, perhaps,
not be an unwelcome, nor wholly unprofitable diversion
of your thoughts from practical details, if I occupy
your attention during this half hour with some specu-
lative and statistical aspects of the general theme.
There are comprehensive and far-reaching views of this
great subject of the cultivation of the ground, as well
as practical rules and minute details.

" The profit of the earth is for all : the king himself
is served by the field." All human life is sustained
by food ; and that food consists either of the products
of the soil, cultivated and uncultivated, or of the
animals that are fed and fattened by those products.
The only important exception is that of the produce of
the waters, which contribute also their share towards
the sustenance of the human race. Without cultiva-

IV ADDRESS.

tion, the earth could support but a comparatively
small population, and this only of uncivilized men.
Savages may subsist by hunting and fishing, with such
eatable herbs, fruits and roots, a.s the ground spon-
taneously produces ; but they can never advance in
civilization, while they live in this way ; nor can those
portions of the earth's surface which are not cultivated
sustain, for any considerable period, more than a very
sparse population. The productiveness of the earth, in
those substances which are necessary to maintain
human life, and equally in tnose substances which
minister to human comfort, and to the progress of civili-
zation, depends very largely upon that human tillage
which we denote by the word, agriculture. This
undeniable fact at once challenges for agricultural
labor the most important place and the most honorable
rank among the diversified employments of men. In
connection with this great fact, I would invite your
attention to some general views of the productiveness
of the earth. There are several aspects of this subject
which are adapted to suggest interesting moral reflec-
tions, and to open important questions in regard to the
future prospects of mankind.

We may introduce the subject by considering, first,
the earth's productiveness as limited by the extent of
its land surface. Of the 200,000,000 square miles
which make up the surface of this terraqueous globe,
about three-fourths are covered with water, leaving only
about 50,000,000 square miles, or 32,000,000,000
acres of land. We might wonder that so large a
proportion of the earth's surface should be covered with
water, and be tempted to adopt the suggestion of an

ADDRESS. V

u)

old writer, (I think it is Sir ThomaX. Browne,) that
f God loves fishes better than men" if we <M^»aiJta*#'
that this vast watery expanse not only contributes to
the fertility of the continents, but is absolutely neces-
sary to their capacity for great productiveness. So
great an evaporating surface is indispensable to furnish
the material for watering the whole face of the ground.
The boundaries of sea and land are fixed by the wisdom
of the Creator, and perpetuated by the natural laws
which he has established, so that we may not expect any
considerable change in the relative proportions of these
two essentially different components of the exterior of
the globe which we inhabit. We know that on certain
coasts, the sea has long been encroaching on the land,
and that on certain others, the land has been crowding
the water back : but these two opposite movements prob-
ably nearly balance each other, or, if they do not, they
are so slow and limited in their action, that they do noc
materially affect the productiveness of the earth. The
proportions of land and water over the whole globe are
probably not now different, by. any appreciable quantity,
from what they were when Noah died. Human
industry may do something, as in Holland, to scoop out
a country from the ocean, and it may accomplish still
more by draining lakes and marshes ; but after all, it
is not probable that any very considerable addition
will ever be made by man to the producing surface
out of which the growths that support human life must
come. How far human industry, ingenuity and science
may avail in reclaiming the naturally sterile regions
of- the earth, it may not be easy or safe to affirm. Utter
sterility, such as that of the great sandy plains of Asia

VJ ADDRSSS.

and Africa, is probably incurable by any means that
will ever be in the power of man. If we could first
make the rain descend, where there is no roughness
or variety of surface, and no vegetation, to disturb
the equilibrium of the atmosphere, and none of the
geographical conditions on which showers depend,
vegetation would doubtless gradually encroach upon
the arid waste. Or if we could first produce vegeta-
tion where there is no rain to water the parched ground,
then the fertilizing showers would, no doubt, by an
atmospheric law, in due time descend. But since we
can command neither of these, we may as well regard
those great deserts of the Eastern Continent as irre-
trievably doomed to perpetual unproductiveness. The
great belt of barren sand which stretches across the
northern part of Africa, and the centre of Asia, com-
prises about 6,500,000 square miles. Adding to this
the aggregate of smaller tracts of land equally, or almost
equally sterile, we have a total of about one-seventh of
land surface of the globe which cannot be made to yield
any tribute to human life or human luxury. The pro-
portion is remarkable. As one-seventh of time is
morally excepted from the term of human labor, so one-
seventh of the ground is naturally excepted from the
field of human industry, enjoying a grand and solemn
Sabbath stillness.

A second aspect in which the productive power of
the earth may be considered, is with reference to
improved modes of cultivation. It is impossible to fix
a limit to the extent to which science and labor may
increase the products of the soil. We see a vast
difference in this respect between different countries

ADD&BSS

VII

equally favored by nature. Thus, iu the Austrian
Empire, there is more land under cultivation than in
the British Isles, and this land is not of inferior quality,
yet the production is one-third less ; and this difference
is mainly owing to the superior intelligence and more
skillful cultivation of the Britons. Great expectations
were entertained by theorists a few years ago, in regard
to the results of the application of chemistry to
agriculture ; but I believe the diversity of ingredients
in the soil, in different parts of the same field, presents
an insurmountable difficulty in the way of the suc-
cessful analysis of soils. But although science may not
have succeeded, in this particular instance, in effecting
any great addition to the productiveness of the ground,
yet there can be no doubt that it will be found true in
this matter, as in others, that " knowledge is power ;"
and it is therefore reasonable to look for a vast increase
in the productiveness of land in all countries where
civilization and intelligence prevail. It is only by
gradual steps as knowledge has increased, and prejudice
has been overcome, that the present amount of produc-
tiveness has been attained: yet the advancement,
though gradual, has been wonderfully great. In the
eleventh century, the average yield of wheat was not
more than six bushels to the acre. It has fully trebled
since that time, has it not ? And to go back only half
a century, the productive power of Great Britain, in the
article of wheat alone, increased from 1801 to 1851, to
an extent sufficient to support an additional population
of 7,000,000 ; and this increase was mainly owing to
improved cultivation.

The productiveness of the soil may be considered?

VIII

ADDRESS.

again, as affected by its division into small or large
estates. Whether the greatest amount of natural
products and of national prosperity can be obtained by
having few owners and large estates, or by having many
proprietors and small farms, is a question about which
writers on political and social science are not agreed.
Where the owners are few, and the estates large, the
accamulation of capital gives greater facilities for intro-
ducing all improvements in the mode of cultivation,
and so favors the highest degree of productiveness. But,
on the other hand, where the landholders are many and
the farms small, more land will be brought under culti-
vation, and so the aggregate production may be greater
than where a smaller portion of the soil is tilled in the
most approved methods, and brought to the highest
degree of fruitfulness. The question will be likely to
be decided by each one according to his preference of
an aristocratic or a democratic condition of society.
Large estates tend to great social inequality. Landed
proprietors are regarded as the superior class, the only
true citizens ;■ and the condition of the actual laborers
on the soil, if not that of slavery or serfdom, tends
strongly in that direction. Multiply the number of
proprietors of the soil, and you secure more intelligence
ancl independence in those who cultivate it, — a hardy,
virtuous, freedom-loving yeomanry, such as constitute
the best citizens of a free state. In England the
number of proprietors is less, compared with the extent
of land, than in any other country of Europe; and
England is the most aristocratic country in the world.
With an accumulation of wealth never equalled in the
history of the world, about one-tenth of its entire popu-

ADDRESS.

IX

lation are paupers, — that is, they receive eleemosynary
aid from the public purse. Much of this pauperism
may be attributed to the intemperate and improvident
habits of the poorer classes : but they would be much
more likely to be temperate and provident, if they were
owners of an amount of land sufficient, with temper-
ance, prudence and industry, to support a family in
comfort, and gradually to raise them to a higher social
position. Besides, in the vast estates of the nobles,
large tracts of land are wholly unproductive, devoted
to parks for game, and other aristocratic uses. In
Ireland, the evils of this overgrown ownership of land
aggravated by the privilege of entail and the abuse of
non-residence, had become intolerable ; and the govern-
ment was obliged to provide a remedy, by an act of
Parliament requiring the sale and division of encum-
bered estates. Since that act was passed, less than
fifteen years ago, about $150,000,000 worth of landed
property has changed hands. And it is a significant fact^
that within these limits of time, the number of children
in the national schools has increased by more than half
a million, although the population has been reduced by
emigration during the same period fully 2,500,000. To
express the change in the form of a proportion, the
attendance in the schools has increased 285 per cent,,
(from 282,000 in 1843, to 804,000 in 1861,) while the
population has diminished 30 per cent, (from eight and
one-fourth millions to five and three-fourth millions,)
showing an advance of above 400 per cent, (407) in
the popular appreciation of the value of education.
This is but one index of that great social revolution
which is transforming Ireland into an industrious,

X

ADDRKh.-

intelligent, prosperous and Protestant country. Eng-
land, with all her high advance in agricultural industry,
does not raise grain enough to feed her own people ; or
at least, does not feed her own people with the grain
which she raises. France, with a soil less fertile, with
a much less perfect system of agriculture, and with a
population only 25 per cent less to the square mile,
exports, when crops are good, from $15,000,000 to
$20,000,000 worth of grain more than she imports.
She raises on an average 225,000,000 bushels of wheat
annually, or nearly seven bushels to every inhabitant.
This is accounted for, in great part, by the fact, that
in France there are 11,000,000 proprietors of land, or
nearly one-third of the whole population, giving to each
owner an average of five acres of arable land, while in
England the proportion of land owners is probably not
more than one in ten, at the most, and the greater
portion of the whole cultivable land in the country is
owned by only a few thousand nobles. Switzerland,
mountainous and snow-clad Switzerland, with a popu-
lation only one-eighth less dense than that of France,
and if the space that admits of cultivation be alone
taken into account, quite as dense as that of England,
raises a greater proportion of the food which its inhabi-
tants consume than England does. For in Switzerland,
as in France, the land is divided among many small
owners. The application of this principle to the dif-
ferent sections of our own country is obvious. Our
Southern lands have been tilled by large and wealthy
proprietors, and the result has been a lordly aristocracy,
incompatible with republican ideas and republican instir
tutions. Another result has been, the ignorance and

ADDRESS. XI

degradation of the great body of the population, whether
white or black, whether free or enslaved. Slavery has
no doubt been the chief cause and the worst aggrava-
tion of this state of society; but even apart from
slavery, the ruin of these overgrown planters, and the
division of their estates among a tenfold or hundredfold
number of owners, would be a blessing to the land,
conducive to productiveness, intelligence, virtue, and
loyalty to republican ideas. We long hoped that this
truth would become evident to these proprietors them-
selves, who were so proud of their monopoly of all the
intelligence, and all the freedom, and all the noble-
ness of the land, as well as of all the land itself; and
that considerations of political economy, of justice, of
humanity, and of religion, would ultimately lead them
to adopt more reasonable, righteous, and republican
social institutions and forms of industry : but we were
mistaken. Providence has brought the matter to
another issue, and these overgrown aristocratic estates
must be carved into smaller republican farms by the
sharp sword of war.

The nutritive productiveness of the earth is affected,
moreover, by the cultivation of unnutritious products.
I do not refer to products which, though they do not
furnish food for man yet minister to his wants and his
comfort, such as cotton, flax, and other articles which are
manufactured into clothing, and used in various other
ways conducive to human civilization and progress.
These are only in one degree less necessary than the
products which go directly to sustain the life of man.
I refer rather to those growths of the soil which are
cither absolutely pernicious, or at least useless, and to

XII

ADDRE8S

those which are perverted to pernicious uses. Large
tracts of productive land are occupied with crops of this
kind. In the United States, the land devoted to the
culture of tobacco is more than twice the amount that
is occupied with the cultivation of rice, (400,000 acres :
175,000 acres,) and nearly half as much as that
improved in raising beans and peas. In England, the
land appropriated to raising grain for the manufacture
of malt and distilled liquors would more than suffice to
produce all the wheat which that country now imports ;
and this last use of it in place of the former, besides
saving the country the $80,000,000 or $100,000,000
which she now pays annually for foreign wheat and
flour, would increase the industry and thrift of her
laboring class, and greatly diminish intemperance and
pauperism. Millions of fertile acres in .the Turkish
Empire, and in British India, are occupied with the
opium poppy ; and the manufactured product goes to
diminish the productive industry of every country
where the drug is in common use, as it is throughout
almost all Southern Asia.

The productive power of the earth is materially
affected, again, by the difference between a state of
peace and a state of war. War interferes with the
supply which the earth produces for the wants of man
in a variety of ways. It calls off many from the
employments of agriculture to the service of arms. It
diminishes the motives to agricultural industry, by
making its avails uncertain and insecure. It lays waste
fertile fields, and tramples down under its iron heel
the unreaped harvests of the husbandman. Rival
armies contend with each other for the ground where

A D D R B S 8 . XIII

the rich harvests of autumn wave, as lately we saw
in the valley of the Shenandoah; and the result often is
that the greater portiQii is destroyed, while only a
remnant goes to feed the contending hosts, and the
poor laborer is left to hunger and want. War causes
an immense waste in consumption. In the feeding of
large armies, there is an utter disregard of all that
economy and thrift which characterize the ordinary
household consumption in times of peace. Some
political theorists have regarded war as a convenient
means of reducing a surplus population. It may well
be questioned, whether war ever fails to reduce the
production of a country in fully as large a proportion as
it reduces population. If it did not, it would be
reasonable to look for a diminution in the price of the
necessaries of life in time of war, whereas in fact it is
well known that an advance in the prices of these
necessaries is an almost invariable accompaniment of a
state of warfare.

There is one more interesting view of the productive
power of the earth, namely, its relation to the natural
growth of population. There has been, from the begin-
ning, a constant increase in the total population of the
globe, constant, except as interrupted by one great
judgment of God in ancient times. Population may be
checked in a particular country, for a time, by pesti-
lence, by war, by bad government and oppression.
Thus want, discontent, and consequent emigration, have
greatly reduced the population of Ireland, within the
last quarter of a century. And, on the other hand, a
particular country may gain much more than its natural
increase, as this country has gained by immigration from

XIV ADDRESS-

the old world. But leaving out of view these excep-
tional instances, in both directions, the natural tendency
of population, in all countries not particularly barren,
unhealthy, or ill-governed, is to a constant increase, up
to the limit of their producing power. If it be true,
that our race is advancing in civilization, knowledge,
virtue and power, then the increase of the world's popu-
lation will go on in an accelerated ratio. If men live
more justly, temperately and virtuously, they will live
longer, thrive better, and rear larger families. If wars
ever cease, one important check to the growth of popu-
lation will be abolished. If oppression ceases, and
good government obtains, prosperity will prevail, and
where there is prosperity, population rapidly advances.
If humanity and charity increase in the world, the poorer
classes will be better cared for, better fed, better
clothed, better housed, more healthy, more long-lived
and more prolific. If sanitary and medical science
advances, diseases will be less frequent and less fatal,
and the average term of human. life will be continually
lengthening. These causes are already producing these
results ; mortality is decreasing ; the average duration
of human life is advancing, in the countries that have
•made most progress in civilization, good government,
and benevolence. All these signs point to the approach-
ing fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah, — " There shall
be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man
that hath not filled his days : for the child shall die an
hundred years old ; and he that misses of an hundred
years (so some understand the latter part of the verse,)
shall be reckoned accursed," — ' shall be regarded as
cut off prematurely by a divine judgment.' In view of

ADDRESS

XV

all these considerations, we are justified in expecting,
if the world lasts, and mankind advances, a more rapid
increase in the world's population than has ever taken
place in the past. Will the earth be able to feed so
many new mouths ? or is " the good time coming "
darkened by the serious drawback of a prospective and
permanent famine ? We can hardly be much trouble'd
by this apprehension. An all-wise Providence never
lacks the means of adapting one part of its merciful
arrangements to another ; and if it be decreed that a
happy period of health, longevity, and populousness
shall dawn upon this suffering world, the food needful
to support that population will not be wanting. Some
pious political economist has said, in view of such a
period of dense population, that should the exigency
require it, no doubt God would bring another empty
world alongside, to take off the surplus population of
this, just as easily as the conductor takes on another
car, when the train is too full. There may be little like-
lihood of any such relief; but, yet, it does seem that
some relief will by and by be needed. For while the
productiveness of the earth may no doubt be vastly
increased, there seems to be reason for anticipating a
still greater and more rapid increase in the productive-
ness of the human species. Let us look again more
carefully at the probabilities on both sides. The lands
that are now worse than wasted, — devoted to the culti-
vation of that which injures man, physically and morally,
shortens human life, and entail's incalculable misery
upon families, and untold burdens upon society, may be
reclaimed to their legitimate use; the uncultivated
wastes may be improved ; the parched land may, by

XVi ADDRESS.

means not yet understood, become springs of water ;
the deserts, not absolutely and incurably barren, may
rejoice and blossom as the rose ; and improved modes
of cultivation may multiply many fold the harvests of
the husbandman. The present population of the globe,
according to the most reliable estimates is a little less
than 1,300,000,000, (1,280,000,000.)

At the rate at which Belgium is peopled, the terri-
tory of the United States would nearly suffice for this
entire number. And I have no doubt our country
could sustain, even at the present rate of productiveness,
if all our available land was under cultivation, a popu-
lation as dense as that of Belgium, which is nearly four
hundred (383) to the square mile. It is true that
Belgium does not raise sufficient food for its present
population ; but it is also true, that only about two-
thirds of the land in that kingdom is under cultiva-
tion,— less than five millions of acres out of seven
millions two hundred and fifty thousand. Even in
England, to say nothing of Ireland, Wales, and Scotland,
there are about 3,500,000 acres of waste land that
might be improved. This is more than one-tenth of the
whole area of the country, and more than one-eighth of
the amount actually under cultivation. With all avail-
able land under improvement, and with the increased
fertility which improved culture will bring, I think we
may safely assume that the earth will be able to feed
and clotln nany human beings as there are acres of
cultivable land upon its surface. This would be equiv-
alent to six hundred and forty p'ersons to the square
mile, a density of population more than sixty per cent.
greater than that of Belgium, which is now the most

ADDRESS. XVII

thickly peopled country in the world. Deducting then
from the 50,000,000 square miles which compose the
land surface of the globe, the liberal allowance of one-
fifth, for deserts, inland waters, mount an steeps, ice-
bound regions, and lands otherwise not susceptible of
cultivation, we have 40,000,000 square miles remain-
ing, which would support, on the above assumption,
25,600,000,000 inhabitants, or just twenty times the
estimated population of the world at the present
time. This would give to the United States more
than 1,500,000,000 inhabitants. These numbers may
seem amazing, and the supposition of such future popu-
lousness incredible. But let us consider the ratio in
which the human race is actually increasing on the
earth, and we shall see no reason to doubt that its
growing population will fully keep pace with its utmost
possible fruitfulness. Assuming that only 6,000 years
ago, (and it is, in fact, considerably less,) there were
but two human beings in this world, how many times
has the number doubled itself, in the elapse of those
6,000 years? Less than thirty times. This is equiva-
lent to doubling once in every 200 years. If the
present population were doubled but five times, it
would greatly exceed the vast number .which we have
estimated as the possible limit of the earth's capacity
to support human life. That is to say, at this rate of
increase, in less than 1,000 years from the present
time there will be 30,000,000,000 human mouths for
•the earth to feed. But our calculation is at fault.
We have overlooked that great destruction of mankind,
which took place, according to the common reckoning,
more than 1,600 years after men began to multiply on

c

XVIII ADDBBSS.

♦

the earth. Beginning then with the flood, there were
eight human beings on the earth forty-four centuries ago.
Double this number twenty-six times and you have
more than the earth's present population. This would
be doubling once in about 170 years, and would allow
less than eight centuries for the earth to arrive at that
extreme density of population which we have assumed
as the limit of its capacity to furnish food for man.
Are these idle speculations, based upon uncertain or
extravagant data ? If any think so, let them remember
the rapid growth of our own country. In less than
ninety years, we have increased from 3,000j000 to more
than 30,000,000. This is more than equivalent to
doubling once in every thirty years. If we make an
ample allowance for immigration from foreign countries,
the natural increase of our people, if it continue
according to the past ratio, would double our popula-
tion at least as often as every fifty years. This rate of
increase, extended all over the world, would bring the
population of the globe up to the enormous aggregate
of 30,000,000,000 in less than 150 years. But it will
probably be long before most countries of the earth
attain to that measure of liberty, good government, and
prosperity which has given us such an unprecedented
increase.

Still, these estimates show what the present system
of things is capable of, according to the laws which
have regulated the increase of population in times
past ; and they give rise to grave thoughts in regard
to the future destiny of this world. According to what
seems to be but a sober and moderate estimate, in less
that one thousand years at the farthest, in about one-

ADDRESE

XIX

sixth of the time that mankind have already existed in
the world, the number of human beings on the globe
will fully equal the capacity of the earth to sustain
them, according to any rate of productiveness in the
soil which experience authorizes us to expect. What
then shall we conclude ? Shall fish be substituted for
flesh and grain, and will man learn to be an amphibious
cultivator of the watery acres, and all the year become
one long Lent ? Shall we have recourse to the sup-
position of a miraculous millenial fruitfulness of the
ground, and endorse the prediction of Father Papias,
the sanguine Chiliast bishop of the second century?
"The days will come," he says, "in which there shall
grow vineyards, having each 10,000 stocks ; and each
stock, 10,000 branches ; each branch, 10,000 shoots ;
each shoot, 10,000 clusters ; each cluster, 10,000
grapes ; and each grape squeezed shall yield 10,000
measures of wine, (of nine gallons each ;) and when
any of the saints shall go to pluck a bunch, another
bunch will cry out, (I am a better bunch ; take me,
and bless the Lord through me.' In like manner a
grain of wheat sown shall bear 10,000 stalks; each
stalk, 10,000 grains; and each grain shall yield 10,000
pounds of the finest flour ; and so all other fruits, seeds,
and plants, in the same proportion. These things," adds
the simple-hearted enthusiast, " are credible to those who
believe? But if our faith falls short of this millenarian
measure, to what other supposition shall we have
recourse? Shall we apprehend some second great
catastrophe, like the ancient deluge, to relieve the over-
burdened earth, that it may start anew with only the
remnant preserved in some new ark? That supposition

XX

ADDRESS.

is forbidden by the voice of prophecy, assuring us that
such a calamity shall never be repeated, but that the
earth shall go on in its regular course of seed-time and
harvest and multiplying population, till the end of all
things. The seven-hued bow in the clouded heavens
settles that doubt forever. Is the end of all things, then,
as near as Dr. Cumming and his impatient adherents
suppose? Are we rapidly approaching the final con-
summation, when the world and the works that are
therein shall be burned up ? We do not undertake to
decide between these alternatives : we only say, that
unless there is some undiscovered error in our calcu-
lations, there is sufficient theoretical ground to justify
the raising of such questions. We are content to leave
the solution of them to an all-wise Providence. The
Creator of man placed him upon the earth with his task
explicitly set, to "replenish the earth and subdue it." It
is yet far from being replenished ; it is yet far from
being subdued. But our race is now accomplishing
both parts of this mission with a rapidity altogether
unprecedented in the ages past, — multiplying its num-
bers, subduing the wilderness, and yoking the powers
and forces of nature into its service, as never before.
Notwithstanding the doubts which our figures seem to
justify, we are persuaded that these two operations will
go on nearly parallel, so that the earth will not be
replenished long before all the dominion that man can
gain over nature shall be won ; nor the earth thus
subdued, until it is replenished nearly to its utmost
capacity. When those limits shall be reached, and
what shall thereupon ensue, we may calmly leave
to the decision of Infinite Wisdom. The matter

ADDRESS.

XXI

belongs to those times and seasons which the Father
hath put in his own power. He who commanded man
to "he fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth,"
will never suffer the world to become so populous, that
the demand for food shall exceed the possible supply.
However multiplied his human creatures may be, He
will find means to satisfy their wants, and to fill their
hearts with food and gladness. At any rate, " sufficient
unto the day is the evil thereof." And we at least may
say, sufficient unto the day is the food thereof. Our
loaded tables, at these our annual feasts of harvest,
sufficienty relieve us of all fear that we or our children
will have to be put upon " short allowance," in conse-
quence of the exhausted capacity of the earth to give
us food. We may not say, revising the ancient motto of
improvident selfishness, — "after us the famine," — "let
posterity take care of itself:" but we may safely and
trustfully leave posterity to the care of that Benignant
and Wonder-working Providence, which has supplied
so bountifully the wants of the generations that have
gone before us ; and in the mean time, we may " eat
our meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising
God." If our speculations have encouraged the expec-
tation that the earth is destined to be far more fruitful,
and far more populous than it has ever yet been, that
expectation agrees with the utterances of inspired
prophecy. And if, at the same time, our speculations
have conducted us to the conclusion, that the present
system of things cannot continue always, that the rapid
multiplication of human beings upon the earth is tending
towards a crisis in the world's history necessitating
some extraordinary divine interposition to meet the

XXIII ADDRBS8

emergency, that conclusion too is in accordance with
the explicit declarations of the oracles of God. And
so we come back from our wide wanderings over the
earth and down the ages, bringing home at least this
one sheaf of practical wisdom, that the laws of nature
and of human progress are working out the very
results which the Scriptures announce. Our specula-
tions, however fanciful some of them may have seemed,
will have done more than to amuse an idle hour, if they
shall serve to present to our minds, in any new aspect
of evidence or impressiveness, the important truth, that
the God of nature and of providence is the God of the
Bible, and that u the testimony of the Lord is "sure,
making wise the simple."

PAST PEESIDENTS AND OKATOES OF THE SOCIETY.

PEE8IDENT8.

1850-1.— ABEL F. ADAMS, Esq., of Fitchburg.
1852-3.— Hon. IVERS PHILLIPS, of Fitchburg.
1854-5.— Hon. MOSES WOOD, of Fitchburg.
1856-7.— THOMAS R. BOUTELLE, M. D., of Fitchburg.
1858-9.— Hon. JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg.
1860-1.— THOMAS BILLINGS, Esq., of Lunenburg.
1862-3.— LEWIS H. BRADFORD, Esq., of Fitchburg.

OEATOR8.

1850.— Hon. CHARLES HUDSON, of Lexington.
1851.— Hon. R. RANTOUL, (appointment not filled.)
1852.— THOMAS E. PAYSON, Esq., of Rowley.
1853.— Rev. HORATIO STEBBINS, of Fitchburg.
1854.— Governor EMORY WASHBURN, of Worcester.
1855.— Hon. N. P. BANKS, of Waltham.
1856.— CHARLES L. FLINT, Esq., of Boston.
1857.— JUSTUS TOWER, Esq., of Lanesborough.
1858. — No appointment made.

1859.— Hon. GEORGE S. BOUTWELL, of Groton.
I860.— Doct. GEORGE B. LORING, of Salem.
1861.— Hon. A. H. BULLOCK, of Worcester.
1862.— Rev. A. N. ARNOLD, D. D., of Westboro.

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1862.

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 1S6L

L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitcliburg, President.

LEONARD BURR AGE, of Leominster, ") L V> -j \
BENJAMIN WYMAN, of Westminster, ] Vlce rresiaents~

W. G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg, Secretary.

T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham,
HOBART SPENCER, of Ashby,
S. W. A. STEVENS, of South Gardner,
C. C. FIELD, of Leominster,
W. B. HOSMER, of Leominster,
THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg,
CYRUS KILLBURN, of Lunenburg,
DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,
JOHN BROOKS, Jr., of Princeton,
HENRY BOYLES, of Princeton;
N. B. REED, of Princeton,
J. T. EVERETT, of East Princeton,
ANAN STOCKWELL, of So. Royalston,
NATHANIEL HOLDEN, of Shirley,
JAMES 0. PARKER, of Shirley, "
EZRA KENDALL, of Sterling,
J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling,
WARREN SIMONDS, of Templeton*
DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,
JOHN MINOTT, of Westminster,
E. MURDOCK, Jr., of Winchendon,
A. F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg,
T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg,
JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg,
M. M. GAGE, of Fitchburg,
LEVI KENDALL, of Fitchburg,
ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,
J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,
JOEL PAGE, of Fitchburg,
J. P. PUTNAM, of Fitchburg,
JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitchburg,
I. B. WOODWARD, of Fitchburg,

y Trustees,

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg, Member of the State Board
of Agriculture.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

, * g ftg-t i

• • c a* »

The distracted condition of our beloved country, the
distress and sorrow almost everywhere prevelent in
consequence of the cruel war now raging in the very
midst of our previously happy land, the efforts being
made by most of our citizens to sustain the Government
in the vigorous prosecution of the war to a happy and
we hope a speedy termination, and the consequent
necessity for the most rigid economy of time, labor and
money, induced the officers of many Agricultural
Societies to omit, entirely, their annual exhibitions this
season, as inappropriate to the times, and inconsistent
with the duties of patriotism devolving upon all the
members of these societies. Under these circumstances
the officers of this society were frequently inquired of
whether it would not be better to omit our exhibition
and let all the funds that would otherwise be expended
in premiums and other expenses go directly to support
the Government?

This question was fairly met, and fully discussed,
and the conclusion arrived at was, that while it is the
duty of all citizens, in every department of business
and labor, however humble, to aid and encourage the
Government in its present troubles, in every possible

2

SECRETARY'* REPORT

way, and to the extent of their ability, yet there are
other ways in which this aid and support may be
rendered our country than by enlisting in her armies,
and fighting her battles, for those who do thus enlist
and fight must be well fed and clothed, armed and
equipped, else their sufferings will be greatly increased,
their services wasted, and their lives lost to no avail ;
and those who produce, or aid in the production and
manufacture of this necessary food and clothing, and
these all important arms and equipments are also
rendering valuable services to the same cause in which
the others labor and suffer and die : in short, that the
maintenance of our armies, the success of the war, and
the future prosperity of the people depend in no small
degree upon the diligence and success of those agri-
culturists, manufacturers and artizans who remain at
home, and since the strongest, the bravest, and the best
of all these classes are now in the field, (unless they
have already fallen in their country's service,) and have
become consumers and nonproducers of the articles so
much needed ; we who remain must do something more
than weep and mourn for the loved and lost ones, and
follow with our best wishes, and our prayers for their
safety and success of the living. We must labor for
them. And since the number and ability of the pro-
ducers is very much lessened, and the absolute necessity
for productions vastly increased, it becomes a question
of no trifling importance how can intelligence, and skill,
and labor be most advantageously applied so that the
comparatively few and feeble laborers remaining can
accomplish all, and more than all formerly accomplished
by the many and the strong ?

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

Perhaps there never was a time in the history of our
-country when it was so important that large quantities
of corn and wheat, of beef and pork, and especially of
wool should be grown as at present, to feed and clothe
the multitudes of mechanics and manufacturers now
directly or indirectly engaged in our country's service,
to feed and clothe her vast armies and navies, and also
to send abroad in exchange for foreign gold, and the
productions of other regions for which our gold cannot
now be spared. •

It was decided, therefore, that any efforts or econo-
mical expenses on the part of our society, calculated
u to benefit those who are engaged in agriculture and
industrial pursuits, by inciting to investigation, to
reflection, and to action, and by furnishing facilities for
a free interchange of views, thereby to call forth the
results of individual experience and observation, and to
elicit practical and scientific information" which would
aid, even in a small way, in the production and manu-
facture of these, and many other necessary articles,
would be appropriate to the times, and consistent with
the most patriotic views. The exhibition, therefore,
with its accompanying discussions, and following publi-
cations were ordered, and occurred as usual.

. The exhibition, the tenth under the present organi-
zation, really the thirteenth of the society, was held in
Fitchburg, on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 30th
and October 1st, 1862. A severe storm raging through-
out nearly the whole time rendered the attendance
less than usual, and detracted from the receipts, while
the expenses were materially increased, and yet the
exhibition in the main, especially considering the

S E C R E T A 11 1 ; S RIPORT

more important objects had in view, was fairly a suc-
cessful one.

Notwithstanding the severity of the storm every part
of the programme was fully carried out, with but very
slight alterations of time and place, reflecting much
credit upon the Chief Marshal and his assistants, who
were very prompt and efficient in the discharge of all
their duties. Much credit is also due the several
Committees and Superintendents whose duties exposed
them more or less to the drenching rain.

The entries in the department of Stock were reson-
ably full, and embraced a large proportion of superior
animals. Those of Fruits were unusually large, and
the display very much superior to that of any other
exhibition of the society. The full list of entries was
as follows: Blood Stock — all pure bred animals — 21 ;
Grade and Native Bulls, 12 ; Milch Kine, 19 ; Heifers,
40; Fat Cattle, 11; Working Oxen, 14; Steers, 38.
Total of Horned Cattle, 155; Horses and Colts, 62;
Sheep, 32; Swine, 25. Total number of animals entered
exclusive of Poultry, 274 ; most of which were on exhi-
bition. For Plowing there were 7 teams entered, all of
which performed. For Draught there were 42 animals
entered. Farms, 1; Gardens, 5 ; Experiments, 6; Grain
Crops, 18; Hoot Crops, 11; of Apples G60 plates were
on exhibition ; Pears, 380 ; Grapes, 55 ; Peaches, 46.
Total of fruits of all kinds, 1166 plates or dishes.
Vegetables, 195 lots; Flowers, 28; Bread, Butter,
Cheese, Pickles, Honey and Preserves, 68; Mechanics
and Manufactures, 225; Fancy Articles, 121; Fine
Arts, 42. Total number of entries for the Hall, 1845.
These were all marked with appropriate cards of dif-

«BCRBTARYS REPORT.

fereirt colors for the different Committees, each bearing
the name of . the article exhibited, and the name and
residence of the exhibitor. Immediately after the
awards were made, all articles for which premiums were
awarded were also designated by other cards in red,
white and blue, for the first, second and third premiums,
and green for gratuities, bearing the name of the person
to whom, and the article for which the award was made,
with the amount awarded, so that all visitors could tell
at a glance the articles which were deemed worthy of
premiums by the Committees.

A similar system of designating the animals for
which premiums were awarded was also adopted;
ribbons of red, white and blue being used for the
premiums, and green for the gratuities.

The usual dinner was served by Mr. Day at the
Fitchburg Hotel, and the usual meeting of the society
was held in the Lower Town Hall, at which an interest-
ing and valuable Address was delivered by the Rev.
A. N. Arnold, D. D., of Westborough, which is published
herewith. An Essay was also presented by the Com-
mittee on Essays, which on opening the envelope con-
taining the name of the author was proved to have been
written by the Hon. Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg. It is
handsomely written, upon a homely subject, in the
Doctor's usually careful and practical style, and is also
published herewith.

Notwithstanding the promptness and efficiency with
which the various Committees discharged their duties
at the time of the exhibition, there has been more than
usual difficulty in obtaining their finished reports,
especially when remarks were intended to accompany

SECRETARY'S REPORT,

the awards in the publication of the " Transactions."
This difficulty which has existed for several years, has
increased gradually since the adoption of the plan to
read at the meeting of the society only the awards,
until it is now a serious evil, to which I deem it my
duty to call the attention of the officers of the society,
hoping that they, in their wisdom will devise some
method to remedy it. Committees pass in lists of their
awards, hastily, and often very imperfectly prepared,
expecting that any errors that may occur in them will
be rectified by the Secretary, and intending to prepare
at their leisure, more carefully written reports for pub-
lication. I always request that these may be sent in
during the month of October, and when this time has
passed I remind them as I have opportunity, either
personally or by letter, of the fact, and request them, if
they intend anything for publication, to forward it
immediately, as our printers usually commence their
work about the first of November. A majority of them
express a willingness to prepare something, and even
desire that their awards may not be published without
it, and assure me that they will attend to it in season ;
but frequently after the second, and sometimes after
the third reminder, I am obliged to let their awards go
to press without anything further from them, my plan
for the publication having already been disarranged,
and the printing delayed on their account.

While this is the rule, I wish to acknowledge that
there are noble exceptions to it. In several instances,
the present year, lists of awards, which were required
immediately, were prepared with the utmost care, and
so arranged as to be ready for the compositor without

SBCRETARY;g REPORT,

the slightest change, and were not intended to be
accompanied with other remarks. In others remarks
intended to accompany awards equally well prepared,
were sent in early, and in others delays occurred which
were unavoidable, as for instance, a valuable article on
the subject of Heifers, embracing the experience and
observation of the author, was intended for publication,
by Ezra Kendall, Esq., of Sterling, whose name, alone,
in this connexion, is a sufficient guarantee for the
practical and useful character of the article, but serious
illness prevented his forwarding it in season. Another
on the subject of Sheep, a well written article admirably
adapted to the times, and full of useful suggestions
(one of which was that written statements, embracing
every possible item of information in regard to the
management, expenses of keeping, &c., should be
required of all competitors for the premiums in this
department,) was prepared by Mr. C. S. Merriam, of
Westminster, but failed to reach me in season, on
account of a misunderstanding about the mail arrange-
ments. I regret the failure to publish this article the
more as the subject is attracting much attention in
the peculiar condition of the cotton market, and the
clothing business, and is one of general interest.

While I mention, with pleasure, these exceptions to
the rule, I cannot disguise the fact that we do not,
through our Committee's reports " call forth the results
of individual experience and observation, and elicit
practical and scientific information," or " furnish facili-
ties for the free interchange of views," to the extent
that was contemplated in the original constitution of

8

BICEBTART-l RIPOET.

our association, from which I have quoted, or to the
extent that we have formerly done.

Considering the subject, as I do, one of real import-
ance, and having a bearing directly upon one of the
primary objects of the society, which should be con-
stantly kept in view, I would respectfully suggest, if
no better plan has been found, the offer of several
premiums, not exceeding in amount $25.00 for the best
reports, which must be carefully written, should contain
the statements of the competitors, if any are offered,
and be furnished to the Secretary on or before the
25th of October, except those referring to late crops,
which must be furnished on or before the 15th of
November.

My hope is that such an offer would induce some
Committees to prepare reports creditable to themselves
and worthy of their subjects, which would be read with
interest and profit by the members and friends of the
society, and would become a part of its permanent
literature, tending to elevate its character and extend
its usefulness, while the effort and labor on the part of
such Committees would be of great advantage to them-
selves by inciting to more careful observations and
experiments, to deeper study, and to more accurate
thought.

Twelve new members have joined the society during
the year, making the total number at present 568.
The funds of the society have also increased by the
amount of $119.67, notwithstanding the decreased
income from several sources and the increased expen-
ditures in several directions.

ESSAY.

SUCCESSFUL AGRICULTURE.

" Muck is the mother of meal."

By the term Successful Agriculture we do not wish to
be understood to mean the success of the agriculturist.
A successful farmer is supposed to be one, who, by and
through the pursuit of his business, amasses wealth,
adds to his acres and -prospers in a pecuniary sense,
Successful agriculture, on the other hand, has no refer-
ence to extent of possessions nor in any considerable
degree to pecuniary results, but applies only to success
in the tilling of a given quantity of land. It is proposed
at the present time to direct attention mainly to one of
the more important, in fact, the most important one
of the indispensable requisites for a high degree of
success. Agriculture is the art of tilling the earth for
the sake of the product resulting from that tillage.
Tillage includes every operation which the farmer per-
forms from first to last for the benefit of a growing crop.
Preparation of the land, planting the seed, all of the
after cultivation and the harvesting of the product, are
covered and expressed by the term, tillage.

Let us consider for a moment the particular motive
that governs us in performing each of these operations.
In the preparation of land for crops generally, 'draining

10

ESSAY.

is the first subject that occupies attention. If the
water level reaches during the growing season so near
to the surface as to interfere with the downward exten-
sion of the roots, then draining 'is demanded. If the
crop be a perennial, or biennial, then there should never,
at any season of the year, be standing water found so
near to the surface as to submerge roots liable to be
frozen. The object in plowing is to kill vegetation, if
the land be in sward, and to lighten and pulverize the
soil, that tender roots and rootlets may readily penetrate
it in search of nutriment for the growing plant. In the
application of various manures, the expectation of the
cultivator is that they will furnish food in addition to
what previously existed in the soil, and he looks for an
increased product in consequence. The subsequent
operations of hoeing and cultivating are for the purpose
of keeping down the growth of vegetation other than
that for which the husbandman is laboring, in order that
this extraneous vegetation may not deprive the planted
crop of that nutriment provided and designed for its
especial use and benefit.

We may now inquire what are the conditions of
success in the highest degree, in the production of results
flowing from each of these divisions or operations, as
applied to the cultivation of a crop on a given piece of
land. If the surplus water has been removed by
draining, and the plowing in its depth and character
promises to be the best for the proposed crop, then all
is done that can be in that direction. This however
may not be the best, looking beyond the present. The
highest success is only attained when the extreme pro-
ductive capabilities of the soil are profitably reached.

ESSAY.

11

In order to ascertain what these are, it may he necessary
to inquire what is the most valuable or profitable
product which the particular piece of land under con-
sideration is capable of furnishing. With this idea
before* us we shall be more likely to succeed than if we
look at merely present results. As a general rule,
land cannot be plowed too deeply, if the whole soil
inverted be of an even quality and homogeneous in its
nature. Looking for the best results it is well to
deepen the plowing a little each time until the best
depth is reached. Deep plowing gives an increased
range for the roots of plants, and the deeper the
plowing the greater the exemption from the evil effects
of extremes of moisture and drought. The number of
times which the ground should be moved previous to
planting depends upon various considerations. As a
rule, it cannot be stirred, mixed and pulverized too
much for the quantity or value of the crop, but may for
its profit.

The time and manner of planting have an influence
upon the crop but need not be noticed here. On the
subject of after cultivation, there exists some difference
of opinion. Many, and perhaps the majority, cultivate
only to prevent the growth of weeds. A few, in order
to stir the surface and prevent it from becoming
hardened, and some for the purpose of hilling crops.
The best result we think will be attained if we cultivate
primarily to stir the surface, especially after heavy
rains, and secondarily to suppress the growth of weeds,
and but seldom or never for the purpose of hilling.
Frequent stirring of the surface tends to promote the
constant movement of moisture contained in the soil

12

ESSAY.

and thus brings the matters dissolved in it, within
reach of the spongioles of the roots. A great deal of
unprofitable labor may be expended in growing a crop,
and every intelligent cultivator will use only just so
much as will pay, but should be satisfied with nothing
less.

On the points enumerated we think that the limit of
success is very nearly reached by our best cultivators.
Concerning one other, and by far the most important, it
will be generally acknowledged that there is room for
very great improvement. We allude to the subject of
manuring, and what we shall have to say farther will be
in relation to it. It is a well known fact that if we
plant crops of any kind upon a soil year after year
without addition of any kind, the product will con-
stantly and rapidly diminish until in a short time it
ceases to be remunerative. It has been found from the
experience of all ages that the fertility of soil can only be
kept up by the addition of sundry substances, to which
collectively, the name manure has been given. Manure
may be defined as any substance, the addition of which
to the land tends to promote its fertility. Chemically,
manures can be divided into two classes; one class
including all those matters which plants take up as food
directly, and the other, such as assist the plant indirectly
in aid of its nourishment but do not act as food. The
distinction perhaps is not as yet perfectly understood,
but the first class includes all organized, vegetable
substances in a peculiar condition of decay, generally
known under the comprehensive term, humus or vege-
table mould. The second class comprises such other
substances as contribute in any way to the building up,

ESSAY.

13

or the perfecting of the structure of plants. Humus, in
fact, is the pabulum from which vegetation is directly
fed. Every soil capable of growing crops contains it-
It may generally be known by the dark or black color
which it gives to the upper layer of the soil. If we dig
a hole in any cultivated field we shall find that this dark
colored layer extends as deeply as the land has been
lately plowed. That portion of soil immediately under-
neath this layer is commonly of the same character as
the upper layer itself, except that it is nearly destitute
of this vegetable matter. Humus is a compound and
very complex substance, made up of various acids and
salts, all of which must be rendered soluble before
being taken into the circulation of plants by absorption
through the roots. It is probable that most of the
alkaline substances used as manures, such as those
consisting largely of potash, lime and ammonia, act
mainly by rendering humus soluble, so that although
not in themselves nutriment in the same sense in which
humus is, yet by combining with insoluble humus
compounds, they render them soluble, and then the
new soluble compound becomes food. It is important
to bear this distinction in mind, that, although all
substances included under the general term manure
contribute to promote fertility in the soil to which they
are applied, yet humus acts directly and principally,
while most others mainly as adjuncts to that. For
instance, the addition of soluble humus to a blowing
sand, makes it at once capable of supporting vegetation,
while without humus, none of the so called artificial
manures would produce a like condition. Ashes would
not cause a barren sand, free from humus, to be fertile,
neither would lime, or in fact, any inorganic matter.

14

ESSAY.

These statements may serve to explain some of the
apparently contradictory results arising from the appli-
cation of special manures. A farmer gives a piece of
land a dressing of lime. The effect of lime is to render
a portion of the humus in the soil, soluble, and vegeta-
tion appropriating it, a large crop is the result. Hence
the inference, that lime is a valuable manure. He
therefore repeats the application the following season,
but neglects to use any humus producing material in
connection with it. The crop in this case falls short
of his expectation. A third trial exhausts nearly all
the humus in the soil, and the land becomes barren.
Hence, lime exhausts the soil. If there had been
applied the second season an amount of humus equiva-
lent to the quantity appropriated by the first crop,
there would have been little or no falling off in the
product.

The practical view deducible from these considera-
tions is, that humus, or vegetable matter in a state or
condition of decay, is the great want in the way of
successful agriculture. Without humus, soil is abso-
lutely barren. With an abundance of it, any crop
may be grown by means of some of the artificial
manures as additions. The soil of the Western prairies
is made up in great measure of humus, the product of
ages of decayed vegetation. A growing crop takes
humus from the soil, but if allowed to mature and decay
where it grows, there comes to be an absolute addition
of humus to the soil, and the land becomes richer and
capable of giving larger results. Where this action
goes on from year to year and from century to century,
as in the case of the prairies, the upper portion of the

ESSAY.

15

soil becomes in time little else than an immense bed of
humus. Now if this natural action could be imitated
by the farmer, it is evident that he would be increasing
the productive capacity of his lands each year, and in
time might be able to reach the limit of success. What
then stands in the way of it ?

The great objection which presents itself is, that it is
through the sale and use of the various crops grown,
the farmer thrives, and if he is to leave them to decay
upon the land he must himself starve. Therefore he
feeds a part of his crops to his animals, consumes a
portion in his family, and disposes of the remainder in
exchange for articles which he cannot produce.

In the general agriculture of the country, hay is the
largest and most valuable product, and may be con-
sidered in this connexion as a representative crop. A
great portion of the hay grown is consumed on the farm
or in the locality where produced. In the process of
mastication the hay becomes finely divided, and after
it has passed through the animal it is found to have
lost a portion of its starch, albumen, &c, which have
gone to assist in building up the structure of the animal
or to supply its daily waste. That part which remains
is the finely divided woody fibre of hay, mixed with
some excrementious matters. The great bulk of the
food which has passed through the animal is still hay,
but it is found to have assumed a state from which, in
the presence of moisture and warmth, it soon passes
into the condition of humus. It becomes humus much
sooner under the same circumstances than undigested
hay. The loss in its humus producing qualities is
inconsiderable. If this substance which is known as

16

E&8AY

stable or yard manure, be returned to the land, it "will
be nearly as valuable as if the original hay had remained
and decayed on the land where it grew. Its bulk is
unchanged, but the quality is just so far reduced as the
animal has appropriated its nutritious constituents in
adding to its structure, or in the production of fat or
milk. In addition to this manure, a considerable pro-
portion of that part of the food which goes to supply
waste is eventually given off in the liquid excretion of
the animal, and this liquid, when used in connexion
with the solid, is found to have a pecuniary value equal
to or even exceeding it. It does not form humus in the
course of its decomposition, but it produces ammonia,
and this alkali combining with the humus of the solid
manure renders it soluble, and as a consequence at
once available.

It is the experience of every careful and observing
farmer, that, if the manurial product of an acre of grass
be all saved and returned to the same acre, the produc-
tive power of the land will be increased thereby. It
will be readily seen that this must be so, else every
cultivated farm would long since have become barren
or rather, it would never have been otherwise. Were
it not a wise provision of nature that vegetation takes
from the soil in the course of its formation much less
humus than its decay will furnish, this earth would
have been forever a barren waste, without a green or
living thing upon its face.

This survey of the subject seems to open up to our
view the principal source from which success is attain-
able in the pursuit of agriculture. If we carefully save
all the vegetable matter of our lands, and return it to

ESSAY.

IT

the earth either before or after being used for feeding
purposes, our soil must necessarily increase in its
capacity to produce crops j but if, on the other hand, by
neglect, by wastefulness in any manner, or the indul-
gence of too great a greed for money to be obtained by
selling hay or other products without returning their
equivalent in manure by purchase or otherwise, we
deprive our soils of this humus producing matter, they
must necessarily run down and become less and less
productive and valuable.

Let us look for a moment at the course pursued by
a great majority of our farmers. Their hay and other
forage is perhaps well fed, and produce an equivalent
in manure. The solid portion is thrown out of the barn
window to remain in a heap, exposed to the weather
until the annual or semi-annual clearing up. In the
mean time the pile heats, and ammonia is formed, which,
uniting with the humus of the manure renders it soluble,
and every rain that falls washes out a portion which
either runs away, or is carried into the soil underneath*
This action is repeated until a great portion of all that
is valuable is completely lost. In addition to this the
liquid manure is allowed to run entirely to waste.
That the action above mentioned does take place is
shown by the effect produced by a heap of manure
lying during one or two rains in a field which is to be
planted. The manure may afterwards be completely
removed from that spot, and two or three inches even
of the soil itself carried off, and yet it will give a better
crop than any other part of the field ; simply because
of the soluble humus which has leached out of the heap
into the underlying soil. The same action precisely

18

ESSAY-

takes place in the barnyard. The manure in its progress
towards decay or the formation of humus, unites with
the ammonia of the atmosphere, or that produced by
the decomposition of the manure, and especially the
liquid portion, becomes soluble, leaches into the ground
and is lost. This is by far the most important source
of waste, and we may/" consider, how it shall be best
avoided.

A plan which early suggested itself was to carry into

the barnyard a quantity of absorbent material like

straw, muck, loam, sawdust or other substance which

would drink up and retain the soluble constituents of

the manure. There is no doubt that these substances

wiU'have the effect designed if a sufficient quantity be

employed, but a layer of any one of them has only a

definite capacity, precisely like a quart measure. After

the measure is filled we may continue to pour liquid

into it for any length of time without having more than

a. quart in the end. So with a layer of muck or any

other absorbent material, it will continue to drink in

soluble humus until it can hold no more, after which,

all that is poured upon it runs through unchanged. If

enough of any of these materials could be furnished, all

the manure might be thus saved, but this is probably

never clone. Aside from, the difficulty, the expense

necessarily incurred makes it a very unprofitable mode

of proceeding. We contend that no man can afford to

transport the soil of his* farm to his barnyard for the

purpose pf manuring it and then back again. " Even if

he has a bed of muck to draw upon, .which in itself is a

mass of insoluble humus, needing but* the addition of

alkalies to neutralize the acids and render the humus

e

ESSAY.

19

soluble, we believe it to be of no advantage to place it
in an open barnyard, for the reason that the humus of
the muck, when made soluble by uniting with the
ammonia of the manure, is itself leached out, instead of
retaining that from the manure.

There are, it is believed, three ways in either of
which nearly all the valuable constituents of the
manure may be saved and made available.

First. It may be kept under cover from the time it
is dropped until delivered upon the land. The only
source of loss under this plan is by heating and conse-
quent " fire fanging." If this takes place the substance
is just as completely burned up as if fire had consumed
it. This can be avoided by having sufficient space that
the manure may be spread out in a thin layer and not
allowed to remain in a heap, or by keeping swine upon
it, or by keeping it sufficiently moist, without water in
excess. If the humus becomes soluble under this treat-
ment, there can "be no great loss because there is no
surplus water present to dissolve it out, and it will
therefore be preserved until carried upon the land. The
liquid manure in this case should be preserved separate,
inasmuch as the solid manure cannot retain it all.
Some dry substance such as muck may be used to
absorb it, or it can be retained in a water tight recep-
tacle until needed for use.

Second. A water tight cellar may be provided to
contain both the liquid and so]id portions of the manure
together. There should be enough liquid present to
keep the solid manure always saturated. This can be
done by adding water if the urine is insufficient. In
this condition there can be no fermentation of a destrue-

20

ESSAY.

tive character, neither any washing out of soluble
elements of the manure, and the whole is saved without
loss or depreciation until carried out for use.

Third. A mode which is theoretically perhaps the
best of all, would be to spread the manure, both liquid
and solid, upon the land while fresh. In this case what-
ever soluble matter might exist at the time, or which
was formed afterward, would be washed into the soil
by rains and there retained in a perfectly distributed
condition until appropriated by growing vegetation.
The objections to this plan are the inconvenience of
so applying manure generally, its impractibility during
the growing season, and also while the ground is
deeply covered with snow.

The second mode, above given, is the one which we
adopted some eight years since, and increasing expe-
rience leads us to the belief that, all things considered, it
is the best. By this arrangement there seems to be
absolutely no loss at all, and the liquid portion is at all
times available, and the solid at any time after the
liquid is all removed, which is readily accomplished by
a chain pump of large calibre.

In this article it has not been our intention to do
more than to bring into prominent notice the great want
of our soils and the means of furnishing it. We cannot
expect our farms to feed us unless, we take care to
feed them. There is too great a disposition at the
present time to run after foreign fertilizers at high cost,
under the delusive impression that in them is to be
found a sovereign panacea for all the deficiencies of
worn out soils. We are of the opinion that no man
can be justified in resorting to such agents until he has

ES3AY.

21

taken means to make the most of the materials within
his reach at home. Why go to Peru for ammonia to
render his humus soluble, without first taking steps to
increase his stock of humus ? All these concentrated
or artificial fertilizers are important adjuncts, but for
every one used, we should remember to apply an
equivalent of humus producing material. Then we
'may expect an increase of our crops without a corres-
ponding depreciation of the condition of our lands.
Then shall we be tending toward that condition to
which our attention has been directed, denominated
Successful Agriculture.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

ESSAYS.

The Committee on Essays respectfully submit the
following report :

While we cannot but regret that but a single essay
has been submitted to the Committee we are happy to
be able to congratulate the Society that it treats upon a
very important subject, contains much valuable instruc-
tion and many useful suggestions, evidently the result
of careful observation and of much practical experience.

The Committee are unanimously of opinion that this
essay is well worthy of publication in the u Transac-
tions " of the Society, and they hereby cheerfully award
the first premium of ten dollars to the author of the
paper entitled, " Successful Agriculture " and bearing
the motto " Muck is the mother of nieal."
For the Committee,

EBENEZER TOUREY.

FARMS.

The Committee* on Farms regret that the premiums
offered by the Society do not induce more of the
good farmers of Worcester North to compete by entering
their farms. Some years there has been none, and this

FARMS.

/

23

year but one, and that owned and improved by Mr.
Martin Johnson of Lunenburg. Mr* Johnson's farm is
situated about one-half a mile south easterly from the
centre of the town on an eminence, and on both sides
of the road leading to Lancaster. His mowing, tillage,
garden, and orcharding with the buildings, on the
easterly side, the pasture on the westerly side, the
whole in but two lots, thereby getting rid of all sub-
division fence. All the land on the easterly side of the
road is of the first quality. Your Committee visited
his farm on the 7th of July. His crops of hay, corn,
and potatoes looked very well, also his garden seeds
and vegetables, &c. His buildings are good, con-
venient, and well arranged for the making and saving
of manure. He has commenced reclaiming some of his
pasture land by under-draining and plowing to subdue
the bushes which we think promises well, and, consider-
ing the great improvement he has made on his farm
since owned by him, your Committee award to Mr.
Johnson the Society's first premium of $15,00. For
ten years, at least, previous to Mr. Johnson owning the
farm, as is well known to the Chairman of your Com-
mittee, the land on the easterly side of the road, being
all then in grass, had the following treatment : During
that time the owners gave it two or three bountiful top
dressings of guano and plaster, (without the applica-
tion of any other manure) which produced very large
crops of grass. The grass was sold every year and
carried off the premises. Many who thought the guano
and plaster only a stimulant, prophesied that such
treatment would eventually exhaust the land, and
it would become worthless; but the fact, under Mr.

24

FARMS

Johnson's treatment, by plowing and cultivating, has
proved the reverse and that the land was not impov-
erished. You have the statement of Mr. Johnson, one
fact, however, Ave think should be stated somewhere,
that he has no help except what he hires, so that the
present season he could not have had many leisure
hours. After viewing his premises and partaking at
his bountiful board, thereby having actual demonstra-
tion that the household department was well attended to-
by Mrs. Johnson and the daughters, in order to make
out the day, your Committee visited, in the same
neighborhood, the excellent farms of Messrs. Samuel
Pitts and N. C. Day, and were amply paid for all trouble
by viewing the great improvements made by each of
them on their farms.

All of which is respectfully submitted.
For the Committee,

THOMAS BILLINGS, Chairman.

MARTIN JOHNSON'S STATEMENT.

FARMS.

The farm of thirty-eight acres that I entered for
premium, I bought in the fall of 1856, without build-
ings or fence on it, as a part of your Committee know.
Since then I have put up the buildings. The next
season I think I cut about six tons of hay, built 250
rods of wall, and dug 130 rods of under drain, plowed
and re-seeded all of the land that had previously been
cultivated, and set about three hundred fruit trees,
consisting of Pear, Apple, and Peach, in about equal

FARMS.

25

proportion, and set about 35 Grape vines. The present
season I have kept on the farm one horse, one pair of
oxen, four cows, also one one-year-old colt and three
young cattle which were summered off the farm.
I make the expenses of the farm as follows :

Paid for labor, $78,00

Ashes, 10,00

Super phosphate, 32,00*

Taxes, 30,52

Interest of Farm, ------- 192,00

$342,52
I credit the farm by :

20 tons of hay by estimate, $200,00

100 bushels of corn, 80,00

170 bushels of potatoes, 85,00'

Growth on 300 fruit trees and 40 grape vines, - - 300,00

Garden seeds, - - - * 35,00

Garden vegetables, 65,00'

344 lbs. of butter, 68,80

100 lbs. of cheese, - 6,00

1100 lbs. of pork, 66,00

Pigs, 50,00

Poultry and eggs, 15,00'

White beans, -------- 7,00

Digging and laying 50 rods of under drain, - - . - 50,00

3 calves sold for, 12,00

110 bushels of worzel beets, 20,00

About 300 bushels of turnips, 50,00

1 ton of squashes and citrons, 20,00

2 loads of pumpkins, 5,00

$1134,80
342,52

Net balance, $792,28

MARTIN JOHNSON.

26 APPLICATION OP MANURE.

APPLICATION OP MANURE.

The Committee for awarding premiums for "the
most thorough, exact and reliable experiments upon
the proper depths of applying manures," to be carried
through a course of three years, have decided upon the
following awards :

1st, to W. G. Wyman, of Fitchburg, $25,00

2d, to Albert Stratton, of Leominster. 20,00

3d, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 15,00

Your Committee think that very much credit is due
to the gentlemen for undertaking to carry through an
experiment of this character, and although the premiums
may seem somewhat large, yet we are convinced that
they alone will not compensate for the labor, skill and
care required throughout. The result of any one of
these experiments is valuable, but by no means can we
draw certain conclusions therefrom, because the result
obtained in another instance is found to be different
and apparently contradictory. It is only by the com-
parison of a large number, and a careful analysis of all
the accompanying conditions, that valuable conclusions
can be reached. We should be glad to notice some of
the more obvious points, but as there were a number of
experiments tried in other parts of the State, at the
same time, and as a combination of all the results will
be elsewhere attainable, we refrain from the attempt.

" JABEZ FISHER, Chairman.

APPLICATION OF MANURE-

27

W. G. WYMAN'S STATEMENT.

A statement of the completion in 1862 of my experi-
ment commenced in I860, and continued in 1861, on
the proper depth of applying manures, in accordance
with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture.
The size of the field, one acre and thirty-two square
rods ; the division into lots thirty-two rods each, and
the number of lots the same as in 1860 and 1861. The
crops, mostly clover, were harvested July 7th to 12th5
and September 1st to 6th. They were mowed, one lot
at a time, with common scythes, when the dew was oi%
then immediately weighed in the field, and when thor-
oughly dried the hay on lot No. 1 was again weighed
with the following results :

First crop, green.

No. 1, manure plowed deep, 3238 lbs.
No. 2, manure plowed shallow, 3078 lbs.
No. 3, manure harrowed in, 2892 lbs.
No. 4, manure on surface, 2788 lbs.

No. 5, no manure, 998 lbs.

No. G, manure intermixed, 3572 lbs.

No. 1, first crop dry, 1163 lbs. ; second crop dry, 568
lbs.; total dry, 1731. The acre that was manured
produced 22,500 lbs., or 11 J tons green hay, or 4 J tons
well dried hay.

Second crop, green.

Total.

1334 lbs.

4572 lbs.

1754 lbs.

4832 lbs.

1534 lbs.

4426 lbs.

944 lbs.

3732 lbs.

172 lbs.

1170 lbs.

1366 lbs.

4938 lbs.

WEATHER.

First Third.

Middle.

Last Third.

May,

moist

dry

moist

June,

moist

moist

wet

July,

dry

moist

wet

August,

dry'

dry

dry

September,

dry

dry

dry •

W. G. WYMAN.
FitMurg, October, 1862.

'28

APPLICATION OF MANURE.

ALBERT STRATTON'S STATEMENT.

North Leominster, October Uth, 1862.
Mr. W. G. Wyman, — Dear Sir : I forward a report of
third year's crop on the 45 square rods of land on
which I made the different application of manure, as
described in report of I860, also in 1861, of oat
<jrop. August 1st, 1862, harvested good well dried hay
from lot.

No. 1,

288 lbs.

No. 4,

345 lbs.

No. 2,

269 lbs.

No. 5,

258 fclbs.

No. 3,

336 lbs.

Lot No. 2 appeared nearly the same as No. 3 and 4,
except a small portion was winter killed or did not take
well to grass.

WEATHER.

First Third.

Middle.

Last Third.

May,

moist

dry

wet

June,

dry

moist

wet

July,

moist

moist

wet

August,

moist

dry

dry

Very respectfully yours,

ALBERT STRATTON.

ISAAC B. WOODWARD'S STATEMENT.

To the Secretary of the Worcester North Agricultural Society:

Sir : In continuance of my experiment on the appli"
cation of manures the result this past season is as
follows :

Lot No. 1, containing four square rods, where the manure

was plowed in deep, the hay when dried weighed, 130 lbs*
Lot No. 2, manure plowed in shallow, the hay weighed, 135 lbs'
Lot No. 3, manure harrowed in, weight of hay, 136 J lbs.

Lot No. 4, manured on surface, weight of hay, 146 lbs.

Lot No. 5, without manure, weight of hay, 88^ lbs.

OSAIN

av

The weather was as follows :

First Third. Middle.

Last Third.

May,

dry dry

moist

June,

moist moist

wet

July,

dry moist

wet

August,

dry dry

dry

September,

dry dry

dry

My intention is to keep the stakes at the corners of

the several lots, so as to know how each

one holds out

Respectfully submitted,

ISAAC B. WOODWARD.

October 23,

1862.

GRAIN.

Gentlemen: Your Committee on Grain, Grass, Seed *
&c, report as follows. At the Town Hall, on the day of
the fair, there were three lots Herd Grass Seed which
we examined and awarded premiums to the following
named persons :

On Heroes Grass Seed, B. Safford, of Fitchburg, 1st
premium, $2,00.

On Herd's Grass Seed, Levi Kendall, 2d premium,
Grasses and Forage Plants.

On Herd's Grass Seed, Geo. Kendall, 3d premium.

At our second meeting no Grain or Statements were
offered. At our third and last meeting, Grain and
Statements were offered, but no one of the Committee
appeared except the subscriber, therefore no premiums
were awarded by your Committee, they submitting the
statements with this report to the Board of Trustees of
the Worcester North Agricultural Society for their
•consideration.

JOHN P. SABIN, Chairman of Sd Committee.

30

Q 11 A I N ,

At a meeting of the Trustees held Nov. 11th, the
foregoing report was accepted and adopted, and the
Secretary instructed to publish it as written. On the
verbal recommendations of the Chairman of the Com-
mittee on Grain, the Trustees then voted to award the
following premiums, viz :

CORN.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, $10,00

2d, to Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, 7,00

BARLEY.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, 3,00

I WHITE BEANS.

1st, to Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, 2,00

CABBAGES.

1st, to Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, 2,00

W. G. WYMAN, Secretary.

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.*

CORN.

The lot on which my corn grew contains 221 rods
and is a clayey loam. The crop of 1860 and 1861
was grass without manure. It was plowed in August,
1861, six to eight inches deep, and cross plowed in May
after the manure was spread ; harrowed and furrowed ;
manured with thirty loads, twenty of which was spread
and ten put in the hill ; planted May 10th in hills three

*Tho statements concerning cultivated crops are made by the Secretary
from the returned forms sent to the several competitors. In all cases
■where manure is estimated in loads, the loads are understood to contain
thirty bushels each. The quantity of produce in all cases is ascertained
by the actual weight of the whole merchantable crop, the weight being
certified to under oath. — Sec.

Q E A I Nr .

31

feet by three and a half apart ; plowed once and cul-
tivated twice ; was harvested October 25th to 30th.
It was in a young orchard which was set out about five
years ago. '

Cost of plowing, harrowing, &c, $7,00

Manure, 45,00

Seed and planting, - 4,00

Harvesting, - - - - * - - - - 5,00

Total, $61,00

Produce, 7471 lbs. of ears of corn, weighed November,
and 3i tons stover.

BENJAMIN SAFFORD'S STATEMENT.

CORN.

The acre on which my corn grew was a gravely
loam. The crop of 1860 was grass without manure,
that of 1861, corn with thirty loads of manure. It was
plowed about the middle of May once, about six inches
deep, with one horse ; harrowed once ; manured with
twenty-five loads, spread before plowing, and 300 lbs.
superphosphate put in the hill ; marked both ways and
planted May 20th ; cultivator run through once ; hoed
twice ; tops cut in September ; harvested last of
October. •

Cost of plowing, harrowing, &c, $3,00

Manure, 31,75

Seed and planting, 2,00

Cultivation, - - 3,50

Harvesting, 5,00

Total, - $45,25

Produce, 4170 lbs. of ears of corn, weighed November
5th, and about 2 J tons stover,

^ GBAIN\

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.

BARLEY.

My barley lot contains 205 rods ; is a heavy, clayey
loam ; was in grass in I860, without manure ; in corn
in 1861, with twenty-five loads of manure ; was plowed
the first of May, four and a half bushels seed sown and
crossed lightly- mowed and raked August 5th. It
was in a young orchard which had been set some twelve
years, in rows thirty feet apart, and I think the crop
was shortened somewhat by the shade of the trees.

Cost of plowing and other preparation, .... $5,00

Seed and sowing, 3 00

Harvesting, 5?25

Total, $13,25

Product, 1940 lbs. barley, weighed November 4th,,
and 2000 lbs. straw.

ABEL MARSHALL'S STATEMENT.
WH ITE BEANS.

The eighth a^cre on which my beans grew is a light,
thin, sandy loam. The crop of 1860 and 1861 was
grass, without manure. It was plowed in September^
1861, about five inches deep ; harrowed in the spring
of 1862- manured with one load, put in the hill and
planted June 6th, in hills, with two quarts of large
white beans.

The product was 64 lbs. beans, weighed Novem-
ber 8tL

ROOT CROPS. ***'

ABEL MARSHALL'S STATEMENT.

CABBAG ES.

My cabbages grew on a plot containing twenty-three
rods of a dark, deep loam. The crop of 1860 and
1861 was corn, with twenty loads of manure per acre
each year. It was plowed once May 20th, about eight
inches deep ; manured with two and a half loads spread,
harrowed and turned into ridges, with a double moul-
board plow; sowed June 12th, with three oz. seed ; was
mostly destroyed by insects. In July 850 plants,
which cost $2,67, were set out. It was cultivated by
being plowed twice and hoed once.

Cost of plowing and other preparation, - $0,50

Manure, - - - - * - - - 3,00

Seeds, plants, sowing and transplanting, - 3,2&

Cultivation, 1,00

Total, - $7,75

Produce, 968 cabbages, or 42 per rod.

ROOT CROPS.

The subject of root crops, within a few years past,
has engaged the attention of farmers somewhat ; to
ascertain their value as compared with other crops, for
feeding stock. If roots can be raised for from six to ten
cents per bushel — as we are told in many instances
they have been — whether the time and money thus,
invested, will not " pay " better than spent in raising
corn, hay, and other grains. Not as a principal crop,
but as a part of the farm product. Most all kinds of
stock are very fond of roots, and eat them as though it
would do them much good. The aim, in part, of the

34

ROOT CROPS.

Worcester North Agricultural Society, in offering pre-
miums, is to find out how and what to raise profitably.
The premiums are small, and honors don't "pay" hired
help, and the law requires so much that but few will
undertake the task. Certain it is that but few entries
are made in this, or any other departments, where the
whole crop is to be weighed. And so far as this Com-
mittee are concerned, fewer comply with the rules in
returning their reports ; so that the Committee conclude
that the crops are a failure, or so large that the expense
of weighing so much, more than the premium, — which
latter conclusion we think, in many cases, too true, — and
deters many from making entries. It would seem that
among the yeomanry of Massachusetts enough honest
men might be found to serve upon committees, so as
not to require such a law. If not, then the whole system
will be a failure, we fear, and the law injure those it is
intended to serve. The subject should receive some
attention as it is of much importance to every farmer.
The Committee award the following premiums :

CARROTS.

To Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, a gratuity, $4,00

Weight not up to the requirements of the rules, but
well worthy of a gratuity.

MANGOLD WTJRZELS.

1st, to Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, 2,00

SWEDISH TURNIPS.

1st, Abel Marshall, of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects.
To John G. Woodward, of Ashburnham, a gra-
tuity of 1,00
Crop to small for a premium.

J. M. SAWTELL, Chairman.

ROOT CROPS.

35

ABEL MARSHALL'S STATEMENT.

CARROTS.

The eighth acre which I cultivated with carrots is a
dark loam; was in corn in 1860 and 1861, with twenty
loads of manure per acre each year ; was plowed twice
for the present crop about 8 inches deep and raked by
hand ; manured with two and a half loads, spread before
the second plowing; sowed June 8th with eight oz.
orange carrot seed, with a machine ; hoed once with a
hand hoe, twice with a wheel hoe and wed by hand
twice; harvested November 3d to 10th, by digging
with a spade and spading fork.

Cost of plowing and other preparation, .... $0,75

Manure, 2,50

Seed and sowing, • 1,50

Cultivation, 2,00

Harvesting, -.- 5,32

Total, $12,07

I obtained 4786 lbs. carrots, equal to 19 tons 288
lbs., or 638 bushels per acre.

ABEL MARSHALL'S STATEMENT.

. MANGOLD WURZEL.

The soil on which I raised my eighth acre of man-
golds is a dark loam. I cultivated corn on it in 1860
and 1861, with twenty loads manure per acre each
year. It was plowed once for this crop about eight
inches deep, harrowed, manured with two and a half
loads spread and turned into ridges with a double
mouldboard plow ) planted June 12th, with RamsdalTs

36

ROOT CROPS.

corn planter, on the ridges with seed raised by myself;

plowed between the rows with a double mouldboard

plow twice, and hoed by hand once, and harvested

October 30th and 31st.

Cost of plowing &c., -...--- $0,50
Manure, - - - - - - - - 2,50

Seed and planting, - - - - -.- - 1,00

Cultivation, - - • 1,50

Harvesting, 4,00

Total, $9,50

Mangolds produced 4960 lbs., equal to 19 tons and
1680 lbs., or 661 1-3 bushels per acre.

ABEL MARSHALL'S STATEMENT.
SWEDISH TU RN I PS.

My Swedish turnips were raised on a dark loam soil,
cultivated with corn, with twenty loads manure per
acre, each year 1860 and 1861.

The eighth acre, offered for premium this year, was

plowed once eight inches deep, harrowed, furrowed,

manured with two loads, applied in the drills ; sowed

June 18th, with three oz. Skirving's improved seed ;

hoed between the rows three times, turnips hoed once,

and harvested November 1st.

Cost of plowing &o., - $0,50

Manure, 2,00

Seed and sowing, 0,50

Transplanting, 1,50

Cultivation, 2,00

Harvesting, 3,00

Total, $9,50

Produce, 4851 lbs. turnips, equal to 19 tons and 808
lbs. or 646 3-4 bushels per acre.

ROOT CROPS

37

JOHN G. WOODWARD'S STATEMENT.

SWEDISH TURNIPS.

My 'lot was in grass in 1860, without manure, in
oats in 1861, and no manure. The eighth acre for the
present crop is a moist loam, resting on a clay subsoil ;
was plowed May 29th seven inches deep, and June 6th
five inches; was ridged by turning two furrows
together^ manured with four and a half loads green
cattle manure applied in the drill; sowed June 6th,
with seed sower ; hoed once about the middle of
August, and harvested November 5th. The tops paid
for harvesting.

The ground being nearly destitute of manure, as none
had been applied for ^eleven years, and the dryness of
the season caused the roots to be of small size, but very
smooth and of fine shape. They were sown in drills
three and a half feet apart, and thinned in the rows to
about six inches apart, and. in some places not quite
so far. If they had been eight inches apart, to all
appearances, they would have been better.

Cost of plowing &c, - - - - - - - $0,62

Manure, 6,00

Seed and sowing, 0,20

Cultivation, 1,00

Total, $7,82

I obtained 2925 lbs. of roots, equal to 11 tons and
1400 lbs., or 390 bushels per acre.

38

VEGETABLES.

VEGETABLES.

The Committee on vegetables are unanimous in their
opinions that the display in this department fell con-
siderably behind that of former years, both in quality
and quantity. Some very fine specimens were shown ;
yet, as a whole, the display was not as good as it might
have been had the members of our Society done their
duty. It is undoubtedly true that the best vegetables
raised in our vicinity, even by members of our Society,
were not on exhibition in our hall. This we think arises,
in some measure, from negligence on our part, rather
inexcusable in not presenting to public exhibition
the best they have ; we think it quite as commendable
to tell the public how four hundred pounds of any kind
of vegetables may be raised from four square rods of
land, and show a few specimens not overgrown, as to
show an enormous vegetable, raised on the high pressure
principle, the mode of raising which few prudent culti-
tors would care to follow. In conclusion, we would
suggest that in future each exhibitor attach to his
articles his mode of cultivation, kind of manure, average
size, weight, quantity, &c, on a given space, and like-
wise any suggestions in raising any vegetable which
may appear proper, to serve as guide and comparison
for others, the great and -true idea being not to raise
overgrown vegetables not fit for bipeds, but to see how
large an amount can be raised fit for man or animal, on
a given space and at the cheapest rate.

The Committee award as follows, viz :

KITCHEN VEGETABLES.

1st and 2d premiums not awarded,

3d, to Alfred Marshall, of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects*

VEGETABLES.

39

POTATOES.

1st, to Loriston Stockwell, of Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to J. G. "Woodward, of Ashbumham, ,75

MARROW SQUASHES.

1st, to B. F. Proctor, of Fitchburg, 1,00

CROOKNECK SQUASHES.

1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 17 on one vine, 1,00

HUBBARD SQUASHES.

1st, to N. C. Day, of Lunenburg, 1,00

2d, to H. B. Fuller, of Fitchburg, ,50

PUMPKINS.

1st, to J. E. Woodward, of Ashbumham, ,75

CABBAGES.

1st, to John Minott, of Westminster, ,75

CELERY.

2d, to A. Crocker, of Fitchburg, ,50

TURNIP BEETS.

1st, to Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to A. Crocker, of Fitchburg, ,50

ENGLISH TURNIPS.

1st, to Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, ( ,75

2d, to John Minott, of Westminster, ,50

TOMATOES.

1st, to L. Kendall, of Fitchburg, ,50

2d, to Benjamin Wheeler, ,40

WHITE BEANS.

1st, to L. Kendall, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to D. Battles, of Fitchburg, ,50

LIMA BEANS.

1st, to C. A. Emory, of Fitchburg, ,50

SEED CORN.

1st, to Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Benjamin Wheeler, of Fitchburg, ,70

3d, to N. Caswell, of Fitchburg. ,50

40

VEGETABLES

GRATUITIES.

J. Q. A. Nutting, of Fitchburg, for pear, plum,

cherry and strawberry tomatoes, ,30

Win. C. Emory, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,30

I. B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, tomatoes, ,50

J. G. Woodward, of Asburnham, white beans, ,30

Hubbard Fuller, of Fitchburg, white beans, ,30

A. A. Marshall, white beans, ,30

B. Safford, white beans, ,30
James Mclntire, of Fitchburg, seed corn, ,50
L. Stockwell, of Fitchburg, seed corn, ,40
Ira Holt, of Fitchburg, seed corn, ,30
Charles H. Simonds, of Fitchburg, pop corn, ,25

C. E. Caldwell, of Fitchburg, squashes, ,25
Willie E. Cunningham, Orange, squashes, ,25
Julia B. Andrews, of Fitchburg, citrons, ,50
L. Stockwell, of Fitchburg, citrons, ,40
Frank G. Davis, of Fitchburg, citrons, ,30
David Battles, of Fitchburg, carrots, ,25
Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, sweet corn, ,25
David Battles, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,50
Abel Thurston, of Fitchburg, potatoes, ,75
L. A. Pearson, of Fitchburg, sweet potatoes, ,25
E. S. Burnap, of Fitchburg, some very fine pota-
toes, (four years from the seed,) ,30

L. A. Pearson, of Fitchburg, water melons, ,60

A. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, water melons, ,40

Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, beanSj new variety, ,50

Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, fine white turnips ,25

Mary J. Eaton, of Fitchburg, canary seed, ,25
All of which is respectfully submitted,

JAMES M. WOODBURY, Chairman,

BREAD, BUTTER, &0. **

BREAD, BUTTER, &c.

The Committee were disappointed in the specimens-
of fine wheat bread. After rejecting such as, in the
opinion of experts, were baked on the day of exhibition,,
and also such as were submitted for examination by
persons other than u unmarried ladies," they were
unable to award to any competitor either of the
Society's premiums. Obviously theve is still room for
improvement in this most important branch of domestic
chemistry.

The following were the awards and gatuities :

WHEAT BREAD.

No premium awarded.

UNBOLTED WHEAT BREAD.

Miss 0. E. Bailey, of Fitchburg, $1,00

BOLTED RYE BREAD.

No premium awarded.

RYE AND INDIAN BREAD.

2d, to Miss Nancy Smith, of Fitchburg, 1,00'

LUMP BUTTER.

1st, to F. Nourse, of Sterling, 4,00'

2d, to Mrs. Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, 3,00

3d, to G. S. Beaman, of Princeton, 2,00

4th, to Lydia Ramsdell, of Lunenburg, 1,50

JUNE TUB BUTTER.

1st, to M. Johnson, of Lunenburg, 3,00

CHEESE.

3d, to Geo. Miles, of Westminster, 1,00

PICKLES.

1st, to Mrs. J. M. Whitney, of Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Mrs. A. Hubbard, of Fitchburg, ,50

8d, to Mrs. Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, ,25

42

FANCY ARTICLES.

HONEY.

1st, to Mary Miles, of Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, to James Mclntire, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to A. P. Goodridge, of Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES. ,

Mrs. M. E. White, of Fitchburg, strawberry and

tomato preserves, ,50

Mrs. M. E. White, of Fitchburg, blueberry and

tomato preserves/ ,50

Mrs. C. E. Emory, of Fitchburg, pickled peaches, ,50

For the Committee,

A. EMERSON, Chairman.

FANCY ARTICLES.

The Committee on Fancy Articles — composed of five
ladies and two gentlemen — have carefully attended to
the duty assigned them ; and, in making the following
awards, beg leave to say that the number of articles-
submitted to their inspection was large, and, both in
Fact as well as Fancy, of very superior finish. These
reasons, however, so creditable to the contributors,
have increase the difficulties of rendering a just award.
Your Committee believe they have been reasonably
successful, and if so, they hope the community will see
the benefit of having a couple of gentlemen of taste
attached to their number, but so far as they may have
failed, we trust it will be remembered that no committee
of ladies, however distinguished their ability, can be
expected to do perfect justice under circumstances which*

FANCY ARTICLES. *"

require not only the ripest artistict judgment, but a far
more extended examination than could possibly be
given on the present occasion.

The Committee award the following premiums :
Miss Delia Stratton, embroidered pocket hand-
kerchief, $1,50

Mrs. Peter Snow, wrought handkerchief, 1,00

Mrs. H. 0. Putnam, embroidered flannel skirt, , ,75
Mrs. Martha Ellis, embroidered skirt and

wax flowers, ,50

Miss L. H. Stebbins, tidy and needle book, ,50
Miss Kate L. Crosby, (nine years old,) Boston,

tidy, ,25

Miss Abbie L. Lowe, cake covers, ,25

Mrs. E.VW. Ackley, box of embroidery, ,75

Miss Emily Gardner, worsted shawl, 1,00

Mrs. L. J. Kendall, wrought chair and quilt, 1,50

Mrs. M. E. White, transferred work, ,33

Lizzie L. Goodnow, knit cape and sofa pillow, ,50

Miss George Kendall, wrought chair, 1,00

Mrs. T. R. Boutelle, chair seat, ,33

Mrs. M. E. White, worsted flowers, ,75

Mrs. W. FredjWhite, worsted flowers. ,50

Mrs. Wm. Hogan, floral design, ,75

Mrs. S. C. Brigham, hair work, ,75

Mrs. Lucy D, Palis, white bed spread, ,50

Mrs. Mary Upton, silk quilt, ,50

Nancy M. Wood, bed quilt, ,50

Miss E. Young, hair work, ,50

Mrs. J. A. Gilbert, bonnet, ,50

Mrs. Fannie Cleaves, cushion and mittens, ,50

Miss Abbie Downe, worsted flower and frame, ,37

44

FANCY ARTICLES.

Mrs. D. A. Cory, dress and slippers, ,37

Miss Abby Younglove, flannel skirt, ,37

Mrs. 0. H. Pierce, box of embroidery, ,37

Mrs. L. D. Warren, embroidered slippers, ,25

Mrs. Tamer Sheldon, yarn and mittens, * ,50
Mrs. Lucy Dunsmoor, hose, mittens and gloves,

woolen and linen, ,75

Mrs. Laban Bullock, rug, ,37

Mrs. Ira Holt, rug, ,25

Mrs. A. H. Fay, rug, ,25

Mrs. R. H. Hadley/rug, ,25

Mrs. Calvin Tolman, sock, ,25

Mrs. Betsy Merriam, socks, ,25

Mrs. Elizabeth Cheesmore, hose, ,25

Mrs. Anna Wyman, hose, ,25

Mrs. Jno. Smith, yarn, ,25

Miss Mary C. Lane, edging, ,25

Miss Jennie C. Lane, edging, ,12

Miss Emma L. Lane, net, ,10

Mrs Lucy A. Nichols, cone basket, ,37

Mrs. L. N. Laventure, cone basket, ,25
John Marble, (blind — ll^years old,) bead basket, ,25

Miss Ellen E. Smith, carpeting, ,25

Mrs. E. Garfield, knit bed spread, ,25

Miss L. J — Pratt, worsted cape, ,33

Miss Lizzie G. Gardner, breakfast shawl, ,33

Mrs. S. H. Tenney, rug mat, ,25

Miss Emma S. Young, table cover, ,12

Miss Fannie E. Lowe, collars and basket, ,12
Respectfully submitted,

E. DAVIS, Chairman.

PINE ARTS.

45

FINE ARTS.

AWARDS.

H. J. Colburn oil painting, $2,00

Mrs. Freeland, oil painting, 1,00

Geo. A. Harwood, oil painting, ,50
Miss A. E. C. White, painting in water colors, 1,00

Miss Lucy W. Damon, heads in pencil, ,75

Miss L. Brown, heads in pencil, ,70

Miss Abbie L. Joslyn, heads in pencil, ,65

Miss Nellie Lowe, pencil landscape, ,75

Miss Ednah Lowe, pencil landscape, ,75

Miss Cochran, crayon head from life, 1,00

Miss Ellen M. Smith, crayon head (copy,) 1,00

Miss Abbie Ellis, crayon head (copy,) ,70

Miss Ellen Hawkins, crayon head (copy,) ,60
Miss A. E. C. White, colored crayon drawing, 1,00

Mrs. Allen, monochromatic drawing, ,25
Miss L. D. Newton, pencil sketches from nature, ,50

Miss A. E. C. White, head in India ink, 1,00

Mr. S. Sawyer, mechanical drawing, ,50

F. W. Ward, printing, ,25

J. C. Moulton, photographs, 1,00

The Committee also wish to make favorable mention
of specimens presented by the following pesons, mostly
children, viz : Susie Goodrich, E. W. Hitchcock, Flora
E. Wilder, Frank Whitney, E. T. Marshall, A. M. Hilton.

The Committee are glad of an opportunity to express
their pleasure at the increased attention paid of late
to painting and drawing. We regard the influence of
Miss Cochran's teaching in Fitchburg as decidedly
valuable, not solely because her pupils have made attain.

46

MECHANICS AND M ANUF ACT TJKE S .

merits which do credit to their teacher, but also because
attention to the fine arts refines, elevates and improves
those who bestow such attention.

By order of the Committee,

KENDALL BROOKS, Chairman.

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

The articles which came before the Committee this
year were perhaps less in number, but in utility^
design and mechanical execution they would compare
favorably with any former exhibition. If space per-
mitted we should be pleased to mention articles which
deserve more notice than they receive by the awards
of the Society.

Mr. Thomas Sheldon brought in an ox yoke, a thing
simple in its structure, and most people would say, easily
made, but let any one try it, and if in a year's time he shall
succeed in making a yoke of so good material, so well
fitted in its general form, and so nicely finished, he will
have good proof that he is a mechanic, and will be entitled
to the thanks of. every good farmer in the community.

Mr. S. G. Frost and Messrs. 0. & S. E. Brigham,
exhibited wagons, which, in style and finish, would
have done credit to the best carriage manufactory in
the State^ while for strength and duribility they were
all a purchaser could ask for.

Messrs. S. & A. M. Sawyer exhibited a fuse, (too late
to receive any award from the Society,) which must
have been the result of long and patient study, and the

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES

47

application of the rarest mechanical skill. It is so nicely
calculated and so sure in its operation, that it is said,
not one time in twenty does it fail to explode a flying
shell within one-fourth part of a second to the given
time.

We call attention to these instances of mechanical
ingenuity and skill to show that our inventors and
mechanics have been active and earnestly at work
during the last season, and we believe there is no place
in the country which demands more of them or will
pay them better.

The Committee have awarded premiums as follows :

Charles B. Sawyer, for hot air furnace register,

heater, &c, $5,00

Thomas Sheldon, for ox yoke, ,75

Waldo Wallace, for plow, 1,00

Waldo Wallace, for soap stone stoves, 1,00

Elliot Wood, for horse shoes, 2,00

John Choate, for lot of medical preparation, 2,00

O. A. Wheeler, for writing desk, 2,00
Thomas Palmer, for porcelain and full set of

teeth, 1st premium, 3,00

J. F. Adams, for teeth, 2d premium, 1,00

H. P. Minot, for machinists tools, 2,50

Joseph Pierce, for calf skins, 2,00

Oren Partridge, for boots, 1,00
J. L. Tenney, for case of boots and shoes gratuity, ,50

E. Buttrick, for coat and pants, 2,00

Sidney D. Willis, for spring bed, gratuity, ,50

S. Gr. Frost, fov harness and saddlery, 2,00

Enoch Paige, for spring bed, 1,00

Abel F. Adams, for rye flour, ,50

48

^^ APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS, &C.

F. L. Ruggles, for case of boots and shoes, $2,00

G. L. Sanford, for case of books and stationery, 1,00
H. A. Goodrich, for case of hats, caps and furs, 2,00
O. & S. E. Brigham, for Concord wagon, 2,50
0. &. S. E. Brigham, for trotting gig, 1,50
S. G. Frost, for double seated wagon, 4,00
T. W. & F. A. Whitney, for child's carriage, 1,00
B. F. Proctor, for samples of wood turning, 1,00
L. D. Warren, for chronometer clock, 1,00

STEPHEN SHEPLEY, Chairman.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

The Committee on apples, peaches, plums and quinces*
having discharged the duty assigned them, would submit
the following report. The exhibition of apples was
truly excellent, both in quantity and quality. We
think it safe to say that such a display of fruit would
do credit to any tables. Such a beautiful collection of
the choicest varieties, of so fair proportions, of the richest
flavor, and so tastefully arranged, spoke much of the
careful attention of the contributors in their selections,
and of the prosperity of the farmers of Worcester North*
In awarding the small amount of premiums justly
among so many the difficulty was apparent. Your
Committee were glad to see such prominence given to
the standard varieties, and we believe that much
improvement might be made in many of our orchards
by lessening the number of varieties, if the crop is
designed for the market. There were some new varie-

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS, &C.

49

ties presented, which, by further trial, may prove them-
selves worthy of place among the standards of this
section. The show of peaches was fair ; that of plums
and quinces was not large.

APPLES.

For the best and largest exhibition of named varities,
1st, to N. C. Day, of Lunenburg, $4,00

2d, to J. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects.

For twelve varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to Porter Piper, of Leominster, Harris on Insects.
2d, to Ezra Kendall, of Sterling, 2,00

3d, to Addison Hubbard, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Six varieties of five specimens each,

1st, to Benjamin Snow, Jr., of Fitchburg, 2,00

2d, E. E. Boyden, of Leominster, 1,50

3d, Thomas Palmer, of Fitchburg, 1,00

Three varieties often specimens,

1st, G. P. Hawkins, of Fitchburg, 1,50

2d, Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, L. Stockwell, of Fitchburg, ,50

Best exhibition of one variety,
1st, to Alvah Crocker, of Fitchburg, • 1,50

2d, G. F. Nutting, of Fitchburg, 1,00

PEACHES.

For the best collection,
D. EL Merriam, of Fitchburg, Harris on Insects.

For the best plate,
1st, to A. L. Wyman, of Fitchburg, 2,00

. 2d, to Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, 350

50

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS, &o.

PLUMS.

For the best collection,

J. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, $2,00

For best plate,

1st, to J. M. Twichell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to J. Haskell, of Fitchburg, ,50

QU INCES.

1st, to C. A. Emory, of Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to Peter Snow, of Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Cyrus Thurston, of Fitchburg, 1,00

N. S. Boutelle, of Fitchburg, ,75

James Fisher, of Fitchburg, ,75

Jackson Burr, Ashby, ,50

E. D. Works, of Fitchburg, ,50

Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, ,50

M. M. Gage, of Fitchburg, ,50

J. Mclntire, of Fitchburg, ,25

A. S. Dole, of Fitchburg, ,75

Jacob Haskell, of Fitchburg, ,50

Ira Holt, of Fitchburg, ,50

Samuel Burnap, of Fitchburg, ,50

Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, ,50

Norman Stone, of Fitchburg, ,50

Thomas S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, ,50

S. W. Houghton, of Bolton, , ,50

Daniel S. Eaton, of Fitchburg, . ,50

Daniel C. Miles, Westminster, ,75

Waldo Wallace, of Fitchburg, ,25

Benjamin Snow, Jr., of Fitchburg, on peaches, ,50

D. C. MILES, Chairman.

rEARS AND GRAPES

51

PEARS AND GRAPES.

PEARS.

For best and largest named varieties,

1st, to Jabez Fisher,

$4,00

2d, to Benjamin Snow, Jr.,

Harris on

Insects.

For best twelve varieties,

1st, to Alvah Crocker,

Harris on

Insects.

2d, to Jonas A. Marshall,

2,00

Third premium not awarded.

For best six varieties,

1st, to T. E, Boutelle,

2,00

2d, to A. Hubbard,

1,50

3d, to N. S. Boutelle,

1,00

For best three varieties,

1st, to Alvah Crocker,

1,50

2d, to George D. Colony,

1,00

3d, to J. M. Twichell,

,50

Best one variety,

1st, to Benjamin Snow, Jr,

1,50

2d, to Joseph Marshall,

1,00

GRATUITIES.

Alvah Crocker,

1,00

G. F. Nutting,

1,00

Z. F. Young,

1,00

T. & Blood,

,50

George D. Colony,

,50

E. D. Works,

,50

GRAPES.

For best display of native,

1st, to Jabez Fisher,

Harris on

Insects.

2d, to George E. Towne,

2,00

3d, to C. A. Emory,

1,00

52

ASSOETED FRUITS AND FLOWERS

GRATUITIES.

0. Whitney, Jr., $1,00

Alvah Crocker, 1,00

Benjamin Safford, ,50

Ira Holt, ,50

H. F. Coggshall, ,50
No foreign grapes exhibited.

RODNEY WALLACE, Chairman.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

The display of flowers were unusually good. Not
only was taste displayed in the selection of varieties,
but skill in their arrangement into groups and bouquets.
We were gratified to see this evidence of increasing
refinement in our community. No person who can find
pleasure in the cultivation of flowers can be altogether
destitute of the finer sensibilities. The same .rule
applies, but with stronger force, to the love of the beau-
tiful in nature, as to the love of the beautiful in art
The ability to perceive and love it necessarily involves
a certain development of the finer power sand instincts.
Moreover, it is difficult to see how one who loves and
cultivates flowers can be irreligious. There is no more
convincing and touching evidence of Supreme love
than in the floral treasures scattered so lavishly over
the earth — each floweret a miracle of living beauty
— and proffering to every sense a pure and exquisite
pleasure.

The body, too, as well as the mind, is improved
by the love and cultivation of flowers. The early

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

53

hours, the pure air, the odor of the fresh earth, and the
invigorating exercise all tend to promote that health

and vigor of body without which there can be no real
health of mind.

Your Committee found some difficulty in coming to
a determination, but finally made their awards as
follows :

FRU ITS.

Best basket of assorted fruit,

1st, to Benjamin Snow, Jr., $2,00

2d, to Waldo Wallace, 1,00

PLANTS IN POTS.

1st, to Dr. Jabez Fisher, 2,00

2d, to Mrs. F. Russell, 1,00

FLOWERS.

1st, to Mrs. M. M. Muuroe, 2,00

2d, to Mrs. N. C. Day, 1,00

3d, Miss Mary E. Pierce, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Mrs. E. M. Howe, ,50

Mrs. Joseph Sawyer, ,50
For plant in pot,

Mrs. C. A. Emory, ,50

Mrs. J. F. Munroe, ,50

Mrs. M. E. White, ,50

Mr. Benjamin Safford, ,50

Mr. Jackson Burr, ,50

Mr. Josiah Sheldon, ,50

For assorted fruits,

L. A. Pierson, ,50

A. L. Wyman, ,50
Respectfully submitted by

C. H. B. SNOW, for Committee.

54

PLOWING .

PLOWING— SINGLE TEAMS.

The Committee regret that the Chairman was not
present. The other members present were unanimous
in awarding to Sewall G. Myrick, of Princeton, the first
premium of $7,00. They also award to Thomas
Sheldon, of Fitchburg, the second premium of $5,00.
They also recommend a gratuity of §2,00 to Herbert
Goodridge, of Fitchburg.

For the Committee,

JOHN G. WOODWARD.

PLOWING— HORSE. TEAMS.

The Committee of plowing with horse teams, having
attended to that duty, report as follows.

There were two teams entered for premiums and
competed for the same. Your Committee make the
following awards :

1st, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to J. P. Putnam, of Fitchburg, his team being
managed by two of his boys, less than eigh-
teen years of age, and very well done, a
gratuity of 5,00

For the Commmittee,

JAMES PUTNAM, Chairman.

MARES AND OOLTS.

PLOWING— DOUBLE TEAMS.

55*

Your Committee on plowing with double teams
make the following report :

There was but one entry in season to compete for
the premiums. The Committee were unanimous in
awarding the first premium, of §7,00, to Edwin Good-
ridge, of Fitchburg, in our opinion, the best plowman
on the field. Alonzo P. Goodridge plowed with a
double team. He plowed well, but not equal to the
young man, in the minds of the Committee. To him
we recommend a gratuity of $5,00.

All of which is submitted by your Committee,

JOHN BROOKS, Chairman.

MARES AND COLTS.

The Committee on mares and colts have awarded
the following premiums :

STALLIONS.

For stallions five years old and upwards,
1st, to J. A. Harwood, of Littleton, (Roebuck,)

six years old, $10,00

2d to Oliver Wellington & Son, of Phillipston,

for their seven-year old Morgan, 6,00

Justin Howard, of Worcester, for his Morgan

eight years old, a gratuity, 6,00

Warren Simonds, of Templeton, for his Grey

Eagle, seven years old, a gratuity, 2,00

FOUR YEAR OLD STALLIONS.

1st, to-Wm. Brown, of Lunenburg, for his four-
year-old Tippo, 4,00

56

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

2d, to Asa Merriam, of Hubbardston, for his

three-year-old stallion, $2,00

BREEDING MARES-

1st, to Francis Conant, of Boxboro, 6,00

2d, to J. E. Merriam, of Princeton, 4,00

COLTS LESS THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

1st, to Ohio Whitney, of Ashbumham, 3,00

2d, to Francis Conant, of Boxboro, 2,00

3d, to Wm. E. Legeyt, of Fitchburg, 1,00
Jerome S. Gibson, of Ashbumham, a gratuity, 1,00
For the Committee,

JOHN K. GOING, Chairman.

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

The Committee on draught and family horses award
the following premiums :

DRAUGHT HORSES.

J. P. Putnam, of Fitchburg, best pair draught

horses, $6,00

A. S. Dole, of Fitchburg, best draught horse, 5,00

Martin Clifford, of Fitchburg, 2d best draught

horse, 3,00

FAMILY HORSES.

Franklin Sawyer Sterling, 3,00

GRATUITIES. ,

E. C. Farwell, of Fitchburg, family horses, 2,00

Ohio Whitney, Jr., of Ashbumham, 2,00

Daniel C. Miles, of Westminster, * 2,00

S. W. A. STEVENS, Chairman.

FAT OATTLE.

67

COLTS.

The Committee on Colts award the following pre-
miums :

THREE-YEARS-OLD FILLIES.

1st, to Edmund Houghton, of Lunenburg, $4,00
2d, Levi Jackson, 2,00

TWO-YEARS-OLD GELDINGS.

1st, to Ohio Whitney, of Ashburnham, 4,00

2d, to Asa Holden, of Shirley, 2,00

YEARLINGS.

1st, to Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg, 4,00

2d, to John Wilker, of Ashburnham, 2,00

Respectfully submitted,

W. L. BROWN, for the Committee.

FAT CATTLE.

The Committee on Fat Cattle award the following
premiums, regarding expense of feeding as directed :

cows.

1st, to J. T. Everett, of Princeton, $6,00

2d, to Sewall G. Myrick, of Princeton, 3,00

3d, to Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 2,00

THREE-YEARS-OLD STEERS.

2d, %) Josiah Page, of Westminster, 4,00

The Committee recommend a gratuity to Sewall G.

Myrick, for his two other fat cows, $1,00 each ; and to

J. G. Woodward, of Ashburnham, for his fat cow, $1,00.

NATHANIEL WOOD, Chairman.

58

BLOOD STOCK.

BLOOD STOCK.

The Committee on Blood Stock submit the following
report :

DURHAM BULLS.

1st, to A. 0. Cummings, of Millbury, $5,00

2d, to Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 3,00

To A. C. & J. G: Wood, of Millbury, a gratuity, 3,00

AYERSHIRE BULLS.

1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 5,00

DEVON BULLS.

1st, to Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 5,00

2d, to Loriston Stockwell, of Fitchburg, 3,00

GRADE BULLS.

1st, to Stephen Houghton, of Lunenburg, 5,00

2d, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 3,00

. BULL CALVES.

1st, to Joel Page, of Fitehburg, 5,00

2d, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 3,00

3d, to John Cutter, of Winchendon, -2,00
A. O. Cummings and A. C. & J. G. Wood, of
Millbury, for a beautiful herd of short horn

cattle, a gratuity, 10,00
Nathan Caswell, of Fitehburg, for Devon heifers,

a gratuity, 2,00

John Wilker, grade bull, a gratuity, 1,00*

Respectfully submitted,

SOLON CARTER, for the Committee.

WORKING. OXEN AND STEERS. "V

WORKING OXEN.

The Committee award the following premiums :

1st, to Loriston Stockwell, of Fitchburg, $6,00

2d, to Josiah Page, of Westminster, 5,00

3d, to Sewall G. Myrick, of Princeton, 4,00

4th, to Thomas Sheldon, of Fitchburg, 3,00

-5th, to Joseph Wilker, of Ashburnham, 2,00
For the Committee,

WILLIAM WOODBURY, Jr.

i STEERS— TWO AND THREE YEARS OLD.

But one pair of two-years-old, and six pairs of three-
years-old entered. Four competed.

The Committee award the following premiums :

STEERS— THREE-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to J. E. Merriam, of Princeton, $5,00

Second not awarded.
3d, to I. B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 3,00

TWO-YEARS-OLD STEEKS.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 4,00

.TRAINED STEERS.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 4,00

■

LORISTON STOCKWELL

®" MILOH KINK.

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Your Committee on Yearling and Steer Calves have
awarded the following premiums :

YEARLING STEERS.

1st, to Sewall G. Myrick, of Princeton, $3,00

2d, to I. B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 2,00

CALVES RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 5,00

TRAINED CALVES.

1st, to Lyman W. Merriam, of Fitchburg, 8,00

2d, to N. B- Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

F. W. WRIGHT, Chairman.

MILCH KINE.

The Committee on Milch Cows and Heifers award
the following premiums, viz :

HERDS OF COWS.

1st, to Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg, for his herd

of four cows, $10,00

2d, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 7,00

3d, to Albert Stratton, of Leominster, 4,00

The number of entries of single cows and heifers was
unusually small, and of those that were entered two
were* among the missing, viz : one cow entered by Joel
Page, and one three-years-old heifer by Benj. Wheeler.

On Single Cows your Committee award :

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 5,00

2d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to Albert Stratton, of Leominster, 3,00

HEIFBH3.

61

HEIFERS-THREE-YEARS-OLD.

2d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, 4,00

The first and third premiums on this class were not
awarded.

HEIFERS— TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to Hosea M. Caswell, of Fitchburg, 5,00

For the second and third premiums of this class there
were no competitors.

THOMAS R. BOUTELLE, Chairman.

HEIFERS.

The Committee on Heifers award the following
premiums :

TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to Nathan B. Reed, of Princeton, $4,00

2d, to Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton, 3,00

3d, John Smith, of Fitchburg, 2,00

YEARLINGS.

1st, to A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton, 1,00

CALVES.

1st, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to George P. Hildreth, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, 1,00

CALVES RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to Joseph Cushing, of Fitchburg, 2,00

EZRA KENDALL, Chairman.

62

U* SHEEP AND SWINE.

SHEEP.

The Committee on sheep award the following
premiums :

FLOCKS.

1st, to A. P. Goodrich, flock of six sheep, $4,00

2d, to James Mclntire, 2,00

H. Harris, gratuity, 1,00

COSSET3.

1st, to Alfred A. Marshall, one cosset, 2,00

2d, to James Mclntire, 1,00

3d, to Loriston Stockwell, ,50

C. S. MERRIAM, for the Committee.

SWINE.

~' The Committee on Swine were all present and acting,
except W. T, Sawyer, of Sterling, viz : Amos Norcross,
of Fitchburg; George Miles, of Westminster; C.'W.
Jaquith, and David Lowe, of Fitchburg, and report.
Whole number of entries eight. The following pre-
miums were awarded :
Ab^l F. Adams, of Fitchburg, for fat hog more

than eight months old, $3,00

Benjamin SafFord, of Fitchburg, fat pig less

than eight months old, first premium, 5,00

J. T. Dunsmoor, of Lunenburg, for a breeding
sow of great merit, but entered too late
for premium, the Committee recommend a
gratuity of , 2,00

John L. Bailey, for a fat hog entered too late
for premium, the Committee recommend a
gratuity of 2,00

AMASA NORCROSS, Chairman.

(JARDEIfg. UO

POULTRY.

The Committee on Poultry make the following
awards :

TURKEYS.

1st,- to J. H. Laws, $2,00

2d, to A. Stratton, 1,00

GEESE.

1st, to John Smith, 2,00

2d, T. D. Wood, 1,00

BARNYARD FOWLES.

1st, to N. F. Day, 2,00

2d, to Porter Putnam, 1,00

i

DUCKS.

1st, to Mrs. Jeremiah Andrews, 2,00

2d, to Thomas Oakman, 1,00

GRATUITIES.

G. F. Nutting, for fowles, ,50

L. I). Wheeler, for fowles, ,50

Edwin Monroe, for fowles, ,25 •

Edwin Monroe, for doves, ,25

NATT COWDIN, for Committee.

GARDENS.

One of the most important auxiliaries to the well
supplied table of a family is a good kitchen garden, not
only in a pecuniary, but in a sanitary point of view.
Good health, according to the best authorities, is greatly
promoted by a daily supply of vegetables and fruit, and
it is commonly known to the world that the mariner at

64

GARDENS

sea becomes afflicted with scurvy when long cut off
from the vegetable kingdom.

The Committee, in making the award of premiums,
did not find, in their opinion, a garden entered that
was entitled to the first premium, according to their
ideas of the standard for a kitchen garden. Although
most were cleanly cultivated, yet there was a lack of
variety of the most common classes of vegetables that
could not be overlooked when looking for a garden, the
excellence of which would be a criterian. '

The flower gardens entered by Mrs. A. P. Kimball
and Mrs. J. F. Monroe, were, considering the season
and the ravages of the worm, in fine condition. We
know that the fair hands that take such an interest in
beautifying the earth and making a home pleasant will
receive the thanks of all whose sensibilities are not so-
dull but that they can see and admire the wonders of
creation in a beautiful flower.

The following premiums were awarded :

GARDENS.

First premium not awarded.
2d, to George R Towne, Harris on Insects,

3d, to Walter Haywood, $2,00

FLOWER GARDENS.

1st, to Mrs. A. P. Kimball, 2,00

2d, to Mrs. J. F. Munroe, l?0O

For the Committee,

CHARLES A. EMORY.

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS

65

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

Amount awarded for Plowing at the Exhibition

$38,00

<« tt t

' Experiments on Manures

60,00

a it t

1 Farms -

15,00

tt tt t

' Gardens -

8,00

tt tt t

' Essays

10,00

n it t

' Neat Stock

- 196,50

tt tt i

' Horses

86,50

tt tt t

' Sheep

10,50

tt u t

' Swine -

9,00

tt tt t

' Poultry

12,25

tt tt t

' Grain -

31,45

a tt t

1 Root Crops

21,50

tt * a t

1 Fruits -

83,50

a tt t

' Flowers -

10,50

it *t t

' Butter and Cheese -

14,50

it a t

1 Bread,

2,00

Premiums and gratuities were paid to two hundred and thirteen
different persons, and the amounts distributed as follows :

Fitchburg

Princeton

Lunenburg

Leominster

Westminster

Millbury

Ashburnham

Littleton

Sterling

Phillipston

Worcester

Hubbardston

Boxboro'

Templeton -

Shirley

Ashby

| Amount of premiums offered

^gg0 I Amount of premiums and gratuities awarded

j Amount of premiums and gratuities paid

J Amount of permanent fund

$408,37

57,00

54,75

32,87

19,50

18,00

13,30

10,00

7,00

6,00

6,00

- 2,50
2,00

- 2,00
1,00

,50

1105,75

676,55
640,79

66

TREASURER'S REPORT

Dr.

1861.
Dec'r. 4.

1862.
April 4.

Oct. 1.

< 10.
' 11.

' 15.

< <«

Nov. 28.
Dec'r. 2.

Dec'r. 3.

THOMAS 0. CALDWELL, Treasurer,

To amount on hand as per last settlement, $4,510,64

" cash as dividend of Washington Bank, 30,00

" " " " " Bank of Commerce, 30,00

" " " " " Safety Fund Bank, 15,00

" " " " " North Bank, 9,00

" " for admission to Hall, 178,38

" " as dividend of North Bank, 9,00

" " " " " Safety Fund Bank, 15,00

" " " " " Washington Bank, 30,00

" " " " " Bank of Commerce, 30,00

" " of Commonwealth for bounty, 600,00

" " for waste paper and pamphlets sold, 6,51

" " " membership the past year, 60,00

" " " interest for money loaned, ' 58,70

$5,582,25
Amount in hands of Treasurer, $4,630,31

Increase the last year, $119,67

THOMAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer.

The undersigned have examined the above account of the Treasurer;,
and believe it correct.

ABEL F. ADAMS, )

JABEZ FISHER, }• Com. on Finance,

JONAS A. MARSHALL, )

NEW MEMBEES.

ASHBY.

Fav, Dennis.

BOXBORO.

Conant, Francis.

FITCHBURG.

Kendall, Oliver,
Hawkins, Gardner P.,
Woodbury, William Jr.,
Buggies, F. L.,
Merriam, David H.

LUNENBURG.

Houghton, Stephen*

MILLBURY.

Cummins, A. O.,
Wood, A. C. & J. G.

WORCESTER.

Howard, Justin.

ASHBURNHAM.

Humphrey Harris.*
♦Omitted in last year's list.

TREASURER'S REPORT

67

in account with Worcester North Agricultural Society, Or.

1861.
Dec. 10. By cash paid George Jewett for premium, by order

of Committee, $0,50

" 24. " " " J. J. Hardon, bill, cambric, J 3,12
1862.

Jan'y. 7. " " " Fitchburg Post Office, for stamps, 4,00

" 21. " " " E. Garfield, for printing report and "

posters, 116,32

Feb'y- 7. " " " L. Sprague & Co., for tacks and pins, ,25
April 4. " " " Fitcbburg Post Office, for postage on

133 reports, 3,99

Oct. 16. " " " S. B. Ball, for services at Hall, &c, 5,00
" 17. " " " W. G. Wyman, cash paid out for

services, &c, 7,50

" " " " " Fitchburg Post Office, for stamps, 4,50

" 18. " " " Daniel Stearns, services at Hall, &c, 3,00

" " " " " J. S. Brown, services at Hall, 2,00
" 20. " " " Abel Marshall, setting and removing

pens, &c, 22,00

" 23. " " " J. W. Doe, services at Hall, 1,50
" 25. " " " Fitchburg Hotel, forty-five dinners,

October 1st, 22,50

" 28. " " " J. J. Hardon, bill, cambric, 2,69

" " " " " Tyler Younglove, services at Hall, 3,38

" " " li " C. H. Benton, services at Hall, 3,00

" " " " " S. P. Emory, services at Hall, 3,75

Nov. 3. " " " E. Garfield, printing cards, tickets, &c, 31,12

" " " B. Parkhurst, services at scales, ,50

" " C. L. Fairbanks, services at scales, ,50

f* " Abel Marshall, bill for swine pens, 28,20

" W. G. Wyman, services as Secretary, 25,00

" " J. F. Stiles, bill, ribbon, 2,09
" D. H. Merriam, two copies Harris on

Insects, 5,00
" R. Wallace & Co., paper envelopes, &c, 1,80

" "J. J. Piper, bill, advertising, 4,50

" " Lucius Aldrich, services at Hall, 3,42
" for premiums awarded, October 1st

and November 11th, 640,79

Dec'r. 3. " amount carried to new account to balance, 4630,31

$5,582,23

11.

««

18.

it

19.

a

22.

tt

28.

it

a

tt

tt

tt

OFFICEKS OF THE SOCIETY FOE 1863.

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 1862.

L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitcbburg, President.

LEONARD BURRAGE, of Leominster, ") 1T. D . . \
BENJAMIN WYMAN, of Westminster, \ Vlce Presidents-

W. G. WYMAN, of Fitcbburg, Secretary.

T. 0. CALDWELL, of Fitcbburg, Treasurer.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Asbbumbam,
JOEL HAYWARD, of Asbby,
S. W. A. STEVENS, of Soutb Gardner,
SOLON CARTER, of Leominster,
PORTER PIPER, of Leominster,
THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg,
CYRUS KILLBURN, of Lunenburg,
DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,
JOHN BROOKS, Jr., of Princeton,
S. G. MIRICK, of Princeton,
J. T. EVERETT, of East Princeton,
ANAN STOCKWELL, of So. Royalston,
NATHANIEL HOLDEN, of Sbirley,
JAMES 0. PARKER, of Sbirley,
SAMUEL OSGOOD, of Sterling,

J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling y Trustees.

WARREN SIMONDS, of Templeton
DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,
J. W. FOR BUSH, of Westminster,
JOHN CUTTER, of Wincbendon,
A. F. ADAMS, of Fitcbburg,
T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitcbburg,
JABEZ FISHER, of Fitcbburg,
THOMAS PALMER, of Fitcbburg,
LEVI KENDALL, of Fitcbburg,
ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitcbburg,
J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitcbburg,
JOEL PAGE, of Fitcbburg,
' J. P. PUTNAM, of Fitcbburg,
JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitcbburg,
I. B. WOODWARD, of Fitcbburg,

ABEL F. ADAMS, of Fitcbburg, Memler of the State Board
of Agriculture.

COMMITTEES AND PREMIUMS

FOR THE

ELEVENTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION,

TO BE HELD AT F1TCHBURG,

On Tuesday and Wednesday, September 29th and 30th, 1863.

^ » 0 O >

No person will be allowed to become a competitor for any of the Pre-
miums herein offered, unless he shall have made an entry for the same,
with the Secretary, within the time prescribed for each class, nor unless
he shall also have furnished all required statements relating thereto
within the specified time.

For the convenience of those who live at a distance, entries may be
made by Mail ; and all entries so made must be delivered at some Post
Office one day previous to the expiration of the time specified, and must
bear proof of having been so delivered either by a Post-mark, or a
certificate of registry from the Postmaster.

STOCK.

AH entries for premiums under this head, must be made on or
before the Friday previous to the exhibition, and aU stock must be
owned by the person who enters it.

All Hve stock must have been raised by the person entering the same,
or owned by him for at least three months next previously.

Each entry of stock for the pens must specify the breed of the animal,
if known, and the age.

Fat cattle, working cattle, draught horses and swine must be- weighed
on the same scale, in Fitchburg, and will be weighed free of expense.
The weight of all other stock will not be required,

70

PRBMIUMS

BLOOD STOCK.
Committee. — A. 0. Cummins, of Millbury j N. C. Day, of
Lunenburg; Leonard Burrage, of North Leominster ; A. F. Adams,
H. M. Caswell, of Fitchburg.

Authentic pedigrees will be required.

Durham Bulls, -

- 1st premium,

- $5,00

2d premium,

3,00

North Nevon,

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Ayrshire, -

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Alderney, „..»-■.

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Any other breed, pure blood,

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

The Committee may award gratuities for superior specimens of cows,
heifers or calves, of either of the breeds named.

GRADE OR NATIVE BULLS.
Committee. — J. T. Everett, of East Princeton ; Benjamin SafTord,
of Fitchburg; Josiah Puffer, of Still River; T. D. Wood, of West-
minster ; Gilman Day, of Baldwinville.

More than two-years-old, - - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Yearling, 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Calves, 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00
These may be of any breed, more than four months old.

MILCH KINE.
Committee. — D. C. Miles, Aaron Wood, of Westminster; I. B.
Woodward, of Fitchburg; J. M. Sawyer, of Sterling; Joel Hayward,
of Ashby.

Herds of four Cow* or Heifers each, - 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 7,00
3d premium, • 4,00

PREMIUMS. ' A

The person receiving these premiums will not be allowed to compete
for any other, with the same animals.

The Committees will regard age, quality and quantity of milk, expense
of keeping, &c.

Cows, - * * - - 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, • 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Heifers, three-years-old, * - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Heifers, two-years old, - - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Competitors for premiums on milch cows, and milch heifers, will be
required to certify in writing, at the time of entry, to the weight of the
milk during the six days commencing with the first Monday in June,
and the corresponding six days in September ; and to the manner of
keeping, and general management. Cows that calve near or after the
first Monday in June, may be tried at another time.

HEIFERS.

Committee.-* Benjamin Wyman, A. W. Benjamin, of Westminster ;
E. J. Merriam, of Princeton ; Howard Gates, of Ashby ; Stephen
Ward, of North Ashburnham.

Intended to be kept for the

dairy.

Two-years-old, *

-

- 1st premium,

- $4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,00

Yearlings,

-

- 1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

HEIFER CALVES.
Committee. — Harlow Skinner, of Princeton; Alvin Ward, of
Ashburnham ; W. B. Hosmer, of Leominster ; Josiah Page, of West-
minster ; Henry Chase, of Templeton.

Calves, more than four months old, - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00
3d premium, - 1,00

72

PREMIUMS •

Calves, more than four months old, raised

by hand, - - - - 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

WORKING OXEN.

Committee. — John Brooks, Sen., of Princeton; Thomas Whitney,
of Shirley; Levi Burr, of Ashby ; D. S. Eaton, Joseph Smith, of
Fitchburg.

Working Oxen, - - -

1st premium,

- $6,00

2d premium,

5,00

3d premium,

4,00

4th premium,

3,00

5th premium,

2,00

The working oxen will be tried, attached to loads weighing, including
the cart, one-third more than themselves.

STEERS MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

Committee. — Cyrus Killburn, of Lunenburg ; George M. Gregory,
of • Princeton ; A. C. Wood, of Millbury; John Davis, of Ashby;
P. H. W. Lowe, of Leominster.

Three-years old, .... 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

The three-years-old steers will be attached to carts, and tried like the

oxen, on the same ground ; the cart and load to equal the steers in

weight.

. Two-years-old, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Trained, two-years-old, - - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

PREMIUMS,

73

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Committee. — Ephraim Graham, of Lunenburg ; Joseph P. Reed, of
Princeton ; Timothy Brown, of Westminster ; Levi Smith, of Ashby ;
Thomas Sheldon, of Fitchburg.'

Yearlings,

Trained Yearlings,
Calves, -

Calves, raised by hand,

Trained Calves,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

$3,00
2,00
1,00
3,00
2,00
5,00
3,00
1,00
5,00
3,00
1,00
3,00
2,00
1,00

FAT CATTLE.

Committee. — Ezra Kendall, of Sterling j Solon Carter, of Leomin-
ster ; John Lowe, of Fitchburg ; Amos Miller, of Westminster f
Nathaniel Holden, of Shirley.

The entries of fat cattle must specify the mode of fattening. Com-
mittees will regard the expense of feeding.

Oxen,

Cows,

Three-years-old Steers or Heifers,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,

$8,00
5,00
3,00
6,00
3,00
2,00
6,00
4,00

to

74

PREMIUMS

SWINE

Committee. — C. H. B. Snow, of Fitchburg ; Paul Gates, of Ashby ;
E. H. Nichols, of Leominster ; Abram Osborn, 2d , of Fitchburg ;
George Miles, of Westminster.

Must be entered like other stock.
Boars, more than one year old, -

Less than one year old,

Fat Hogs, more than eight months old,

Fat Pigs, less than eight months old,

Breeding Sows, - •

Weaned Pigs, not less than four,

1st premium,

- $4,00

2d premium,

3,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,-00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

STALLIONS.

Committee. — Warren Simonds, of Templeton ; Benjamin Wallis,
of Ashby ; I. D. Ward, of Ashburnham ; Leonard Day, of Fitchburg ;
Henry C. Hill, of Gardner.

All persons offering Stallions, five years old and upwards, will be
required to exhibit specimens of their stock.

Stallions, five years old and upwards, - 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 6,00

3d premium, * 4,00

Four-years-old, - * • ■ - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, ■ 2,00

Three-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Two-years-old, «. - - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

PREMIUMS.

75

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.
Committee. — George A. Torrey, L. P. Comee, of Fitehburg;
S. P. Burpee, of East Princeton ; James 0. Parker, of Shirley ;
Washington Nichols, of Gardner.

The mares must be four years old and upwards, accompanied with
their colts.

Breeding Mares, - - - - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

Colts, less than one year old, - - 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.
Committee. — John K. Going, of Shirley ; Porter Piper, of Leomin-
ster ; A. B. Wood, of Westminster ; J. H. Temple, of Princeton ;
F. W. Wright of Ashby.

Draught horses will be tried, attached to a stone boat, loaded to
weigh one-third more that the horses.

The same draught horse cannot receive a premium as a single horse
and also as one of a pair, but a draught horse may compete as a family
horse.

These must be four years old and upwards.

Draught horses and mules, pairs, - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

Draught horses, single, - - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Family horses, - - - - 1st premium, - 7,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, • 3,00

COLTS.

Committee. — George F. Yose, of Fitehburg; Ohio Whitney, of
Ashburnham j W. M. Pride, of Fitehburg ; Hobart Spencer, of Ashby j
Mark Wilder, of East Princeton.

Three-years-old Geldings, - - -1st premium, * $4,00

2d premium/ • 2,00

76

Z'RBMIUHS.

Three-years-old Fillies,
Two-years-old Geldings,
Two-years-old Fillies,
Yearling Colts,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,

$4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00

SHEEP.

Committee. — Luke Wellington, of Ashby ; S. G. Mirick, of
Princeton j Jacob Brown, 2d., David Lowe, of Fitchburg ; John
Fairbanks, of Lunenburg.

Flocks not less than six, owned by one

person, 1st premium, - ' 36,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Oossets, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

POULTRY.
Committee. — E. B. Rockwood, J. M. Sawtell, Levi Shattuck, of
Fitchburg j Joseph Whitcomb, of East Princeton ; <J. P. Davis, of
Ashby.

Must be entered like other stock.

Barn-yard Fowls, not less than six,

Turkeys, not less than six,

Geese, not less than six,

Ducks, not less than six,

1st premium,

- $2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

PREMIUMS.

77

PLOWING MATCH.

All entries for plowing must be made on or before the Wednesday
previous to the exhibition, and one dollar must be deposited with each
entry, to be returned to the competitor if he plows, otherwise forfeited
to the Society.

No teams or parts of teams will be allowed to compete for more than
one of the premiums on plowing.

DOUBLE TEAMS.
Committee. — Nathaniel Wood, of Fitchburg; G. S. Beaman, of
East Princeton ; Josiah Page, of Westminster ; David Lawrence, of
Ashby ; Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg.

Double Teams, - - - - 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00
3d premium, - 3,00

SINGLE TEAMS.

Committee. — Thomas Billings, of Lunenburg; W. B. Willard, of
Sterling ; G. W. Houghton, of Princeton ; G. S. Merriam, of Leomin-
ster ; Stephen Houghton, of Lunenburg.

Single Teams, - - - - - 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Minors with Steers, - - - - 1st premium, - 6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 2,00

HORSE TEAMS.
Committee. — Walter Brigham, of Worcester; John Brooks, Jr.,

of Princeton; Jonas A. Marshall, of Fitchburg; W. L. Brown,
Lemuel Pitts, of Lunenburg.

Horse or Mule Teams, - - - 1st premium, = $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 3,00

78

r rt b m i u m s

CHOPS

All eutries for Premiums in this department must be made with the
Secretary, on or before June 1st, with the exception of English turnips,
which must be entered on or before August 1st. Immediately after
these dates the Secretary will transmit to all competitors' a copy of the
following blank form adopted by the Trustees, to correspond with the
requirements of the Board of Agriculture.

In pursuance of authority delegated to the Board of Agriculture,
by Chap. 24, of the Acts of 1882, Agricultural Societies receiving the
bounty of the State, are required to make use of the following form,
and be governed by its conditions in the mode of ascertaining the
amount of crops entered for premium.

Worcester North Agricultural Society.

Statement concerning a crop of , raised by Mr. , in the town

of , 1863.

What was the crop of 1861 ?
What manure was used, and how much that year ?
What was the crop of 1862?
"What manure was used, and how much that year ?
What is the nature of the soil ?

When, and how many times plowed, and how deep, for the present
crop ?

What other preparation for the seed ?
Cost of plowing and other preparation ?

Amount of manure, in loads of thirty bushels, and how applied, for
the present crop ?

Value of manure upon the ground ?

When and how planted, and the amount and kind of seed ?

Cost of seed and planting ?

How cultivated, and how many times ?

Cost of cultivation, including weeding and thinning ?

Time and manner of harvesting ?

Cost of harvesting, including the storing and husking or threshing ?

Amount of straw, stover, or other product ?

REMARKS.

Signed by

m Competitor.

PHBMIUM?5

79

From actual measurement, I hereby certify that the land which the
above crop of covered, contained rods, and no more.

From personal observation, we hereby certify that the above answers
are true.

I hereby certify that the weight of the above crop, as ascertained by
me, on the day of , was pounds.

In ascertaining the weight of a crop, an average rod shall be selected
harvested and weighed by one or more members of a committee, and
the whole estimated by mutiplying it by the number of rods.

The certificate shall state the weight of all crops only when in a
merchantable state. .

'RULES OF MEASURE.

Practiced and adopted by the State Board of Agriculture.

Wheat, Potatoes, Sugar Beets, Mangel Wurzel, Ruta-

Baga, White Beans, and Peas, 60 lbs. to bushel.

Corn, Rye, Onions, 56 " "

Oats, 32 "

Barley, Buckwheat, 48 "

Cracked Corn, Corn and Rye and other meal, except

Oat, and English Turnips, - 50 "

■ Parsnips, 45 "

Carrots, - - ' - - • - - 55 "

These forms must be returned to the Secretary on or before Novem-
ber 10th, with each question concerning the crop answered, and the
certificates properly signed.

No person will be allowed to compete for more then one Premium,
with a crop raised upon the same field, however large, with the same
treatment-
Committees should not encourage the irregular entry of accidental
good crops.

GRAIN.

Committee. — Levi Downe, of Fitchburg ; William Baker, of
Lunenburg ; Daniel Works, of Fitchburg ; J. G. Woodward of
Ashburnham ; N. S. Boutelle, of Fitchburg.

The Committee may award gratuities for valuable new varieties of
grain. •

80

PREMIUMS.'

For the most profitable crops of Corn, Wheat, Rye, Barley and Oats,
one acre each; of Cabbages and Beans one-eighth acre each ; the pro-
duct of Corn to be not less than 4320 lbs. on the* cob ; that of Wheat,
Eye, Barley and Oats not less than 1200 lbs. of grain each.

Corn,

Wheat,

- 1st premium, - 8,00
2d premium, - 6,00
3d premium, - 4,00

4th premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

- 1st premium, - 8,00
2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, Harris on Insects
4th premium, Grasses and Forage Plants

Eye, - - - -

- 1st premium, .

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

Barley, -

- 1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

Oats, -

- 1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

Field Beans, -

- 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1.00

Herds-grass Seeds, -

- 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium, Grass and Forage

Plants

Bed Top Seeds,

- 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium, Grass and Forage

Plants

The Grass Seed, a half-bushel of each lot, to be exhibited at the show.

ROOT CROPS AND CABBAGES.
Committee. — P. M. Harris, James P. Putnam, John Smith,
Hubbard B. Fuller, of Fitchburg ; Edward Bacon, of Westminster.

For the most profitable crops of potatoes, one-fourth acre each ; of
Carrots, Onions, Beets and Turnips, one-eighth acre each.

- 1st premium, - $4,00
2d premium, - 3,00

Potatoes, not less than 3000 lbs.,
Carrots, not less than 5500 lbs.,
Onions? not less than 2000 lbs,

- 1st premium, - 4,00
2d premium, - 3,00

1st premium, Harris on Insects
2d premium, - 2,00

PREMIUMS

81

Sugar Beets,

Mangold Wurzels,

English Turnips,

Turnips, of any other variety,

Cabbages,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,

1st premium, Harris on

2d premium,
1st premium, Harris on

2d premium,

- 1st premium,
2d premium,

$2,00
1,00
2,00
1,00

Insects
2,00

Insects
2,00
2,00
1,00

FARMS.

Committee. — Jabez Fisher, Joseph Upton, Joel Page, of Fitchburg.
All competitors must make their entries on or before the first day of
May. Each farm will be open to the inspection of the Committee
during the entire season. A detailed statement of the general manage-
ment, together with the income and expenses for the year previous to
November 1st, must be furnished on or before November 10th.
For the best cultivated and managed

Farm, 1st premium, - $15,00

2d premium, - 8,00

GARDENS.

Committees — Benjamin Snow, Jr., Thomas Palmer, Edwin Upton,
of Fitchburg.

No person having received a premium for a kitchen or mixed garden
shall be allowed to compete for another with the same land within five
years, except for a higher one.

Entries must be made on or before June 1st.
Kitchen or mixed Gardens, - - 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Flower Gardens, • - - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

li

82

PJ1MIUM8.

EXPERIMENTS

Commit tee.— Alfred Hitchcock, of Fitchburg • James Putnam,'of
Lunenburg ; W. Gr. Wyman, of Fitchburg.

All entries must be made at least one week before commencing the
Experiments.

Therejwith be placed at the disposal of the Committee for the best
and most reliable Agricultural Experiments, made in 1863, the sum
of $50,00.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

Committee. — Loriston Stock well, I. B. Woodward, Abel Marshall
of Fitchburg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture,
there will be paid for the most thorough, exact and reliable experiments
upon the proper depth of applying manures, three premiums, as follows :
• , 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 20,00
3d premium, - 15,00
These Experiments must have been commenced in 1861, and con-
tinued through a rotation of three years.

FOREST TREES.

Entries must be made on or before the first day of June.

For the best Plantation of any kind of Forest Trees, suitable for fuel

or timber, raised from the seed, not )ess*than five hundred in

number, which shall be in the most flourishing condition in the fall

of this year, - - - - 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 15,00
3d premium, - 10,00

TOWN HALL.

No article intended for the Hall will be entitled to a premium, unless
it shall have been deposited by one o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday, from
which time the Hall will be occupied by the Committees exclusively,
until half-past six o'clock, when it will be opened to the public for the
evening. Admission fee, 10 cents ; Season tickets, 25 cents.

PREMIUMS. "**

All articles must have been grown, manufactured or produced by the
person entering the same for premium, and should be plainly markep
with the name and residence of the exhibitor.

A strict compliance with these regulations will be absolutely necessary.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

Committee. — Rodney Wallace, Oliver Kendall, of Fitchburg ;
J. C. Allen, of Leominster , Ephraim Murdock, of Winchendon j
Elnathan Davis, of Fitchburg.

APPLES.
For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each, lstprem. Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - ■ 1,00
3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibition of twelve specimens

of one variety, - 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if
the number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these re-
gulations, the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

PEACHES.
For the best collections, ... - Harris on Insects

For the best dishes or baskets, - * 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1>00
3d premium, - ,50

84

For the best collections,
For the best plates, -

QU I NCES.

For the best dishes or baskets, - - 1st premium, - 1,00

2d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

PREMIUMS-

PLUMS.

- $2,00

- 1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

PEARS AND GRAPES.

Committee. — E. F. Bailey, George D. Colony, of Fitchburg ;
Porter Piper, of Leominster; Leander Sprague, C. A. Emory, of
Fitchburg.

PEARS.

For the best and largest exhibitions of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

* 2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each,

1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties, of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, • 1,00
3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibitions of twelve speci-
mens of one variety, - - - 1st premium, • 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if the
number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these regula-
tions, the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

PREMIUMS

85

GRAPES.

For the best displays of Foreign Grapes, 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of Native Grapes, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the

disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

Committee.— G. W. Carter,, Mrs. J. A. Marshall, Mrs L. H.
Bradford, of Fitchburg, Mrs. D. L. Abercrombie, of Lunenburg ;
Mrs. M. T. Gardner, of Shirley.

FRUIT.

For the best dishes or baskets, - - 1st premium, - $2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

FLOWERS.

For best displays of named Plants in pots, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of cut Flowers, - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00 #

3d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the

disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

VEGETABLES.

Committee.— Jacob Haskell, Cyrus Thurston, Charles Brigham, of
Fitchburg; Daniel Lowe, of Leominster; W. H. Brown, East
Princeton.

Of Squashes, Pumpkins, Cabbages and Celery, there should be six
specimens in each lot ; of Cauliflower, three ; of Onions, Beets, Tur-

86

r It I M I U M s .

nips and Tomatoes, one peck in each lot ; of Field Beans, one-half peck
and of Lima Beans, two quarts.

For the best collections of Kitchen Ve^e-

tables,

- 1st premium,

$7,00

2d premium,

5,00

Collections of Potatoes,

3d premium,
- 1st premium,

3,00
2,00

2d premium,

1,00

Marrow Squashes,

3d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
1,00

Hubbard Squashes, -

'2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
1,00

Crookneck Squashes,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
1,00

Pumpkins,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
,75

Cabbages,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
,75

Cauliflowers,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
,75

Celery, -

2d premium,
- - 1st premium,

,50
,75

Onions, -

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
,75

Turnip Beets, -

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,50
,75

2d premium,

,50

English Turnips,

- 1st premium,

,50

Tomatoes,

2d premium,
1st premium,

,25
,50

Field Beans,

2d premium, ' -
- 1st premium,

,25

,50

Lima Beans,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,25

,50

Seed Corn, in traces,

2d premium,
- 1st premium,

,25

1,00

2d premium,

,75

In addition to the above

3d premium,
, there will be allowed for gratuities,

,50
10,00

PRBMIUMS

87

No person will be allowed to receive more than one copy of Harris
on Insects ; if more than one is awarded, cash will be paid instead, at
the rate of $3,00 per copy; and if any person to whom a copy ia
awarded already has one, he may receive the copy awarded, or the cash
as above, at his option.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, PICKLES AND HONEY.

Committee. — L. W. Russell, Nathan Upham, Joseph Baldwin, of
Fitchburg; G-. H. Whitney, of Winchendon; Daniel Putnam, of
Lunenburg; Mrs. J. T. Everett, of East Princeton; Mrs. I. B.
Woodward, Mrs. William Woodbury, Jr., of Fitchburg.

All Bread must have been baked on the Monday previous to the
exhibition by unmarried ladies.

Competitors will be required to furnish a detailed statement in
writing of the process of manufacturing Butter, Cheese and Pickles.

White Bread,

Unbolted Wheat Bread,
Bolted Rye Bread,

Rye and Indian Bread,

Lump Butter, not less than 12 lbs.,

June Tub Butter, not less than 25 lbs.

Cheese, not less than 50 lbs,,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
4th premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

$2,00
1,00

,50
1,00
1,00

,50
2,00
1,00

,50
4,00
3,00
2,00
1,50
3,00
2,00
1,00
2,00
1,50
1,00

88

Pickles,

Virgin Honey in the comb,

PREMIUMS.

- .1st premium,

- $0,75

2d premium,

,50

3d premium,

,25

- 1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

Committee. — George E. Towne, of Fitchburg ; George Winchester,
of Ashburnham ; J. G. Wood, of Millbury ; S. W. A. Stevens, of
South Gardner ; Hale W. Page, George H. Boss, Ira Carleton, of
Fitchburg.

For the best specimens of Mechanic and Manufactured articles,
exclusive of laidies' home manufacture, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee, the sum of $100,00.

FINE ARTS.

Committee. — A. J. Weaver, Miss Mary Brooks, Mrs. George A.
Torrey, Mrs. T. Palmer, of Fitchburg ; Mrs. William Allen, of
Leominster.

For the best specimens of Paintings, Drawings, or other kindred
productions in the Fine Arts, there will be placed at the disposal of
the Committee the sum of S20,00.

%
FANCY ARTICLES.

Committee. — Amasa Norcross, Benjamin Snow Jr., J. E. Man-
ning, Mrs E. Torrey, Mrs. N. A. Tufts, of Fitchburg ; Mrs. Franklin
Wyman, of Westminster ; Mrs. N. C. Day, of Leominster.

For the best specimens of Ladies' Useful and Fancy Articles, of their
own manufacture, including specimens of nice u, ending and darning,
there will be placed at the disposal of the Committee, the sum of $20,00.

PREMIUMS. °"

ESSAYS.
Committee. — Ebenezer Torrey, Moses "Wood, E. F. Bailey, of
Fitehburg.

All persons competing for these premiums must file their Essays with
the Secretary on or before the 1st of September. Each Essay is to be
marked with a motto or design, and accompanied with a sealed envelope
containing a corresponding motto or design, and also the name of the
author.

The envelopes of the successful competitors will be opened on the
day of the exhibition, immediately upon the announcement of the
awards .

For the best Essays on some practical subject connected with Agri-
culture, deemed worthy of publication in the Society's "Trans-
actions," 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 5,00

COMMITTEES' REPORTS.
Committee. — The President, two Yice Presidents and Secretary.
For the purpose of inducing the Chairmen of the several Com-
mittees to take upon themselves more labor and care in elaborating
their reports, the following premiums will be paid for the best reports :

1st premium, - $6,00
2d premium,
3d premium,
4th premium,
5th premium,

f( Reports in connection with awards made on the day of exhibition,
must be delivered to the Secretary on or before October 25th. All
others on or before November. 15th.

Total amount of Premiums offered for 1863, - $1165.75

5,00
4,00
3,00
2,00

PROSPECTIVE.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.
Committee. — Solon Carter, of Leomin^er; Ephraim Graham, of
Lunenburg ; Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture:

12

90

PREMIUMS

there will be paid for the most thorough, exact and reliable experiments

upon the proper depth of applying manures, three premiums, as

follows :

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 20,00

3d premium, - 15,00

A circular containing Ml directions for the performance of these

experiments, which were to be commenced in 1862, and continued

through a rotation of three years — the premiums to be paid in 1864—

will be supplied to all persons wishing to compete, on application to the

Secretary.

Also for a new set of similar Experiments to be commenced in 1863,

and continued through a rotation of three years — the premiums to be

awarded in 1865, there will be paid :

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 20,00

3d premium, - 15,00

All persons competing for the following premiums, must make their
entries on or before the first day of June, in the year in which the pre-
miums are to be awarded, and furnish a detailed statement of the whole
management from the time of setting out, on or before November 10th
of the same year.

Entries must be made on or before July 1st, 1863.

G RAPES.

For the best Plantations of Native Grapes, containing not less than
fifty vines, all having been set after January 1st, 1861, to be
awarded in 1864, - - - 1st premium, - $20,00

2d premium, - 10,00

APPLES.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been
set after January 1st, 1861, to be

awarded in 1865, - - - 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

PEARS.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been
set after January 1st, 1861, to be

awarded in 1866, - - - 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

91 PLUS XXIV EQUAL 115 PAGES.

LIVE FENCE.

Committee. -*A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg; Daniel Putnam, of
Lunenburg; J. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg.

For the best experiment demonstrating the feasibility of substituting
live farm fence for those in common use; the entries to be made
on or before May 1st, 1863, or whenever afterwards planted, and the
premiums to be paid in 1868 :

1st premium, - $25,00
2d premium, - 15,00
3d premium, - 5,00

llfr RULES.

KULES.

All teams entered for plowing and for draught, must have been
owned by the person entering the same for at least three months next
previous, and the team must be driven, and the plow managed by him
or by some one usually in his employ.

Any person competing for a premium who shall serve on the Com-
mittee having charge of the department in which he competes, shall
retire from the Committee while his own competition is in question.

The several Committees will not consider themselves bound by the
terms of the above offers, to award a premium for anything which they
shall deem inferior.

Any person to whom a premium shall have been awarded in conse-
quence of any deception or misrepresentation used by him, shall not
only forfeit such premium, but afterward be incapable of competing for
the Society's premiums.

All persons, (ladies and minors excepted), not members of the Society,
to whom may be awarded a premium or premiums amounting to $5,00
or upwards, shall receive a certificate of membership for $5,00, and the
balance in cash. If the amount shall be less than $5,00, a deduction
of fifty per cent will be made, unless the individual chooses to make
the amount up to that sum, and receive a certificate of membership.

All premiums not demanded on or before November 30th, will revert
to the Society.

An extract from "the General Statutes of the Commonwealth of-
Massachusetts" Page 376, Chapter 66.

Sec. 4. " No society receiving the bounty, shall distribute any part
thereof for an animal or article for which a premium is awarded, unless
it was produced within the limits of the society, or the animal has
been owned and kept within its limits, by the person to whom the
premium is awarded, for three months next preceding the award.
And no animal or article for which a premium has been awarded to the
owners by any such society, shall be considered a subject for any
further premium of the society, except for qualities different from
those for which the former premium was awarded, or for a higher
premium, and no animal or article shall be offered for a premium at
more than one such society in the same year." *

Sec. 6. " A society which neglects in any year to comply with the
laws relating thereto, or with the regulal the board of agri-

culture iot be entitled to the bounty of the state the year next

TRA.NSA.OTIONS

OF THE

WORCESTER NORTH

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY,

FOR 1863.

PREPARED BY THE SECRETARY.

FITCHBUEG:
PRINTED BY E. CtJkJXPTETjiy,

1863.

ADDEESS.

BY LUTHER H. TUCKER,

OF THE " COUNTRY GENTLEMAN," ALBANY, NEW YORK.

Mr. President and Gentlemen :

Ninety-five years ago to-day, (Sept. 30, 1768,)
British troops were landed in Boston Harbor, and a
regiment was quartered at Fanueil Hall. The oppres-
sion which had driven the Mayflower's passengers forth
from their homes, had now sought out their descendants.
Seventeen months later came the Boston massacre ; and,
ere long, the sparks thus kindled burst into that
glorious flame which still gleams, on every anniversary
of our Nation's birth, in the streets of every town, in
the heart of every patriot — the same flame, indeed, that
warmed those shivering seekers for religious liberty, on
the bleak exposure of Plymouth Bock, — that lit up
the darkest hours of our fathers' strife for political
liberty, — and that now, in defence of a Constitution
which is the guarantee of these liberties to ourselves
and to our children, has fired our zeal for new sacri-
fice and as stern a struggle. I have not come among
you to speak of war or politics, nor even to eulogize
New England, in that, having shown, unweakened and
unwasted, in 1776, the spirit bequeathed her by the

ADDRESS

Pilgrim sailors of 1620, — she should once more, in
these less heroic times, have stood as firm and bled
as freely in behalf of the legacy of her sires. But
as I trace this New England spirit, — not alone display-
ing itself in devotion to an idea — not merely willing
to wear the crown of martyrdom for the sake of Free-
dom and good government, — but the spirit that has
leavened the whole mass of our Northern population —
the spirit that acts, that educates, that strives against
obstacles in the physical world, as well as in the world
of thought, — as I trace this spirit, constantly winning
us new victories from the dominion of Nature, — con-
stantly adding State after State to the roll of the
original thirteen, — manifesting its energies in every
mile of railway, not less than on every battle field, that
tend to cement and sanctify the indivisible Unity of
the Republic, — I cannot find myself on New England
soil without some feeling as of the touch of hallowed
ground — without some word in grateful recognition of
the grand names and grand events that cluster about
New England history.

And when we turn from the part New England has
taken in building up the fabric of our national polity,
from the services of her sons in the field and her states-
men in the cabinet, to the less splendid but scarcely
less important annals of her industrial achievements,
we are only met by renewed evidences of the same
energy and foresight. We find her the pioneer in our
foreign commerce, — her sails and seamen carrying the
stars and stripes into every ocean, — one-third the
tonnage and more than one-half the shipbuilding of the
whole Union* now registered at her ports, — and her

Note. — *See Appendix A.

ADDRESS.

fisheries, the primary school of our commercial and
naval marine, sending out their pupils equally prepared
to become fishers of men, in another than the apostolic
sense, as they were in 1812, and would be in case of
foreign war now, — or peaceful carriers of the spices of
the Indies, the teas and silks of China, the fruits and
wines of the Mediterranean. In inventions and manu-
factures, we find the tale of New England triumphs
already trite. Her cunning hand has touched nothing
that did not receive new life from the contact ; her
fertile brain has outflanked where it could not conquer.
I suppose your " prints " are " warranted fast colors "
in the waters of the Oronoco, the Ganges or the Hoang
Ho, as well as in those of the Nashua and Merrimac.
Your plows turn the soil for Australian and African
crops. Men are plodding in your boots and shoes, or
rolling along in your coaches or rail cars, amidst the
dust of many climes. At this moment a Massachusetts
engineer* is spanning the South American continent
with an Iron road, to stretch its length a thousand
miles over the chain of the Andes, from the Amazon to
the Pacific. And, under the head of " articles not
enumerated" in the schedules of the customs, what
quantities of "Yankee Notions" go forth, to tickle the
laughing faces of the children, to lessen the labors of
husbands and housewives, to protect the health, or add
to the comfort, or soothe the repose, not of the rest of
our own quarter of the globe alone, but also of other
races of men far across the seas.

Reverting, however, from Commerce and Manufac-
tures, to that yet greater interest which stands behind
them both, and constitutes the first aim of Human

*Mr. William Wheelwright.

G

ADDRESS

Industry — the Cultivation of the Soil — we find the
New Englander the inheritor of a land, resting on a
sure foundation indeed, but one that out-crops somewhat
overmuch for purposes of tillage, — of mountains and
hillsides around which the pure air of Freedom must
ever play, and that more readily than plow or reaper,
— of streams quite as favorable often for mill* sites as for
meadows,— of a season devoting almost as long a period,
to the great delight of young people certainly, to
sleigh-riding, as it includes from the sowing of spring
grain to the gathering in of harvest — in fine, that he
has ample scope for all the perseverance of his Puritan
descent, in the effort to transform this unwilling
heritage into civilized farming land and deep-soiled
gardens. River valleys there are, rich enough it is
true, and as beautiful to the eye of the agriculturist as
to that of the artist. But the sea beats on ruder cliffs,
and the waters of the rivers come down from less fer-
tile highlands. How many brave men and frugal
matrons, what lives of toil and patience and abiding
faith, these have nourished — farmers, whose brains were
in their work — farmers' wives, who clothed, as well as
fed, husband and sons — families brought up in the fear
of God, schooled, and started with this double capital
of honesty and the rudiments of practical knowledge,
to re-enact their fathers' parts, or to take parts of their
own, as strong arm and active mind might guide the
I way — filling counting house and pulpit and legislative
hall, planting cities, influencing the destinies and
brightening the hopes of Nations ! No vine trembles
under its purple clusters, just ready for the wine press,
in this clear Autumn sun : under your Summer breeze,
no broad levels have waved, mile after mile, their bil-

ADDRESS

lows of ripened wheat ; no perennial verdure shall
clothe your fields while the full year completes its
round. Nor have those other fruits of skies that ever
smile and lands that ever bloom, ignorance and indo-
lence and pauperism, yet reared their heads amidst all
the long two centuries of your tillage. Your sons have
left your firesides to seek the broader and easier culture
of the West ; thither, as old England has sent her
better breeds of cattle, so New England has sent her
better breed of men : it remains to be proven whether
in their new abode the latter, like the former, will
improve upon the original type.

If, then, the chief end of New England farming had
been to deal with men, mentally, something as Bake-
well did with cattle and sheep, physically, beginning
from so excellent a starting point, and furnishing for
the free expansion of every native energy, influences
so bracing and self-sustaining, while we might accord
to such an agriculture, a rank still more exalted than
to that of the famous English breeder, — still, as our race,
unlike those in Bakewell's hands, is said to be perfected
only through much tribulation, we might not end by
placing the actual attractions of New England farming,
for more selfish purposes, in a very winning light.
And it is with the other and more immediate objects
of the farm that we are to deal — as the scene of
toil, indeed, but as affording opportunities, which we
believe to be worthy of closer study and more zealous
exertion, of securing a fair reward for that toil — oppor-
tunities moreover, which it is the design of a Society
like this to bring to yet fuller development and to
place still more readily within the comprehension and
attainment of its members.

8

ADDRESS.

It is the result of increasing experience in the capa-
bilities of a country, as it grows older, and the great
principle of " division of labor " becomes more generally
recognized amidst a denser population, to resolve the
problem of the comparative purposes to which the dif-
ferent parts are best adapted. Water does not more
surely tend to its own level, than do the various
branches of Agriculture seek an equilibrium, provided
there are cheap and untrammeled channels of inter-
communication and transport, as there are among us.
In this point of view, the history of the farming of any
one district or of the country as a whole, might be
rendered most instructive, if so written that we could
trace in it the various steps by which the present
equipoise, so to speak, has been arrived at, and ascer-
tain more clearly what are the essential, and what are
merely incidental, conditions of that equipoise, where
we are to draw the line between a well advised adhe-
rance to established systems, as being the offspring of
long practice founded upon immutable laws, on the one
hand, and a senseless clinging to the past on the other,
simply because it is the past. At the present time
wheat is brought from the valley of the Mississippi to
feed the farmers of Massachusetts, and hams from Cin-
cinnati to supply the breakfast tables of Boston and
Worcester. Under the competition of our great west-
ern country, with its exuberant and almost costless
production, English farmers, too, are discussing the
propriety of reducing their extent of grain land, modi-
fying their system of cultivation, and grazing still
larger quantities of stock, since we have not yet discov-
ered any way of sending them beeves and wethers
fattened for the butcher. Great Britain also furnishes

ADDRESS,

9

a striking example within her own limits of the appro-
priation of the land throughout whole counties mainly
to some leading branch of agriculture. Norfolk and
the Lothians are thus wholly devoted to tillage ;
Cheshire and Ayrshire are chiefly dairy counties ;
Northumberland and Aberdeenshire excel in grazing and
breeding. I have been on farms of hundreds of acres
in Norfolk that did not keep a milch cow for the
supply of the table, nor raise a calf the season through,
so rigidly is a particular combination of grain culture
and the feeding of animals for the shambles there
carried out. French hens lay the eggs for all England,
and many of them are eaten too with bacon or ham
packed in Ohio and Illinois. -

Thus it is her natural conformation, as well as the
competition of the West, that has turned the general
farming of Massachusetts (that in the vicinity of cities,
and in some of the river valleys, being for the moment
excluded) mainly in the direction of breeding, grazing
and feeding, dairying. In a word, it is grass farming
and not grain farming, which constitutes your chief
interest.

A careful examination of the Census returns for 1850
and 1860, to which I have devoted some time, together
with your State Reports upon the Industry of Massa-
chusetts for 1845 and 1855, seems to show that no
very great changes have taken place in your farming
during the past ten years, — those which have occurred
being mainly of the following kind :

The extent of land rated as "improved" in the State,
is reported in 1860 as but one per cent, greater than
in 1850, which represents an increase of only about
22,000 acres. But the value of farms shows an

10

ADDRESS

advance much larger (13 per cent.), proving that farm
property is enhancing among you, probably owing to an
increased revenue yielded by it, arising partly from
larger production and partly from larger prices,- at the
latter period than at the former. The surface under
tillage for the grains (wheat, rye, Indian corn, oats and
barley) was somewhat smaller even, in 1860 than in
1850 — a decrease, in the aggregate, of about three per
cent. It is presumable that this slight diminution is
due to the occupation of lands formerly in grain, for
the growth of the garden and orchard products demanded
by your cities, and of such other crops as tobacco, which
has grown to its present importance in your State,
almost entirely within ten, if not within five or six
years past. An increase in the hay crop, shows that
the surface mown has also been extended ; more hay
is probably sold in the cities now than ten years ago,
and the improvements of modern machinery — the best
mowers, and hay spreaders and hay rakes of the present
day, render this sometimes one of the least costly and
most profitable crops that can be grown on a large
scale, in the neighborhood of good markets.

Nor can we proceed without remarking that to the
inventors and manufacturers of improved farm imple-
ments and machinery, as well as to the Agricultural
periodicals and exhibitions by which they have been
made known to the public, is to be ascribed much of
the progress our agriculture is making from year to
year, and no small share of the ability we have shown
to carry on a war and at the same time produce crops,
that are both of almost unprecedented magnitude. The
value of the implements and machinery employed upon
the farms of this State, is reported as twenty per

ADDRESS.

11

cent, greater in 1860 than in 1850 for each acre of " im-
proved land" — an increase which is likely to be below,
rather than above the truth, and which has certainly
gone on since 1860 in a rapidly enlarging ratio.

Coming now to the Live Stock, we have to note a
considerable increase in milch cows, while a slight
increase in butter and a falling off in cheese, show
that a smaller amount of the milk produced was man-
ufactured into these two items, leaving something more
than the actual increase in milch cows to supply the
greater demand for milk . by your growing city and
village population. Working oxen appear to be
decreasing in numbers, and farm horses to be increas-
ing. Other cattle show a considerable increase, proving
that more is done in feeding and grazing than hereto-
fore. Sheep, which had already shown a great decrease
in 1850 upon 1840, took another tumble during the
ten years previous to 1860, decreasing one-third, and
swine were also somewhat reduced in numbers. But,
taking the aggregate of the farm stock kept, so nearly
as we can set off the increase in some kinds against the
decrease in others, I think it safe to affirm that the
farms of the State are now carrying a someivhat larger
burden than they did in 1850— perhaps, in general
terms, equivalent to the keeping of from a hundred and
three to a hundred and five head of cattle on land
which then supported a hundred.

And in the character of the stock kept, there has
been a marked improvement. The valuation aggre-
gates thirty-two per cent/ more in 1860 than in 1850,
and if we allow for an increase of five per cent, in the
total number of animals, we shall still have about
twenty-five per cent, for the increased valuation per

12

ADDRESS

capita on the whole. I cannot find any data to show
that the markets for animal products have advanced
sufficiently during the ten years to account alone for
this increase ; and while the change in the character of
her live stock has not been so great in Massachusetts,
during the period referred to, as in New York and
throughout the West, owing to the fact that the general
character of New England cattle was superior to that
of the so-called " natives " in other States, and there
was thus less room for improvement, — I think you will
agree with me that this improvement is perceptibly
going forward, that a more precocious maturity and
greater size for the shambles are now attained, taking
the average of all the New England stock that goes to
market, while I know that in no State does the demand
for improved animals evince a more healthy activity than
here in Massachusetts, during the present year.

If, then, the chief end of your farming is comprised,
as we have stated, in the three directions of breeding,
grazing and feeding, dairying, we may perhaps linger
profitably for a few moments over these subjects, taking
them up in the order named :

I. Breeding. — I presume that to the more northerly
and less densely populated States of Maine, New
Hampshire and Vermont, may be advantageously left
the breeding of much of the stock that comes down
into Massachusetts pastures and stalls to be grazed and
fattened, or into Massachusetts dairies to be milked.
Hence much of your stock must be taken as it comes; but
there is not the less some opportunity for improvement
here by the gradual introduction of breeds which shall
turn the feed they receive to better account if possible,
either for meat or milk, as may be preferred. Let us

ADDRESS. 10

glance, very briefly, at the various breeds which now
present their claims upon your regard, and, in doing so,
I should say that I am not conscious of any prejudice,
as I certainly have no interest, in favor of one breed
rather than another, except in so far as observation
among practical men here and abroad, has made me in
some degree acquainted with the results and tendencies
of their experience.

1. Among Cattle, you will not be surprised I am
sure, that the result of that observation has been to
rank the Short Horn decidedly at the head of all other
breeds for crossing upon common stock — its grades
proving themselves uniformly heavier, more symmetri-
cal and more precocious as feeders, and, as regards the
milk pail, occupying at least a medium position. The
main exception, if any exist, to the adoption of a Short
Horn cross upon your stock- which, by the way, I believe
to be admirably adapted for such a cross and likely
to produce from it animals excellently fitted to meet your
general wants — must be either in the case of farms pecu-
liarly exposed and poor in herbage, or perhaps in those
upon which the production of milk for sale is the chief
object. In the former case the Devon, smaller in size
and more capable of resisting cold and hunger, will
occur to you ; and, in the latter, the Ayrshire may be
preferable, uniting as it does a larger flow of milk, with
a frame on which, at the last, considerable flesh of very
good quality may be attained for slaughter. The Ayr-
shire has succeeded well, moreover, on farms where
butter and cheese are staples, although, as such farms
should ordinarily pay greater attention to fitting beef
for the butcher and are more likely to raise their calves,
many would be inclined to a Short Horn cross on these,

14

A D D li E S S .

provided due advantage is taken in keeping the cows
in good enough order to pay for themselves as beef
after they have brought in the revenue of the churn
and the cheese press. The Alderney affords an excel-
lent strain for small butter dairies where the butter is
really first class, and can readily be sold at first hand
to those who appreciate its excellence and are willing
to pay a larger price accordingly ; but this breed is
scarcely to be recommended for general dairy purposes,
since it cannot be forgotten that the ultimate destina-
tion of all horned cattle is for the table, and the
Alderney leaves little more than a skeleton after the
milk pail is filled.

2. As regards Sheep, I cannot omit to urge upon
your attention the earnest conviction I feel, that they
do not receive among you the attention to which they
are entitled. What is the reason of this neglect ? It
cannot be that there is anything in your climate which
should confine you exclusively to dairying, or anything
in your grasses which makes better beef than they
would mutton ! You know of the county of Ayr, from
which the Ayrshire cattle come, mainly I presume from
its fame as a dairy county, but how is it with sheep
there ?

I will not wTeary you with all the details of the
statistical comparison I have drawn up between your
own county of Worcester and that of Ayiy& but let me
state that with an actual area 40,000 acres smaller than
that of Worcester, Ayr has a larger surface on which a
tillage rotation is carried out, so that she produces
about four times as much grain as is grown in Worces-
ter county, mainly oats and wheat. Now the total

*See Appendix /;.

ADDRESS.

15

number of milch cows in Worcester county in round
numbers, is 34,000 against 40,000 in Ayrshire, and of
other cattle, old and young, 28,000 here against 45,000
there, which, making a total of 62,000 against 84,000,
in view of whatever difference there may be in natural
capacity, we may suppose to compare perhaps as favor-
ably as we could expect. But now take the sheep, —
and Worcester county, with all its admirable grazing
lands, with all its productive power for hay and Indian
corn and roots, wTith all its facilities for the purchase for
feeding of the sheep brought down from the North and
West by railroad to your very doors — with its 700,000
acres of land almost immediately adjacent to one of the
largest cities in America, and with a constantly growing
manufacturing population of its own, can only muster
about 6,000 sheep— less than there are on some single
estates in Great Britain, against almost a quarter of a
million — forty times as many in the county of Ayr.

Now, gentlemen, I have already adverted to the fact
that experience in any particular region, ends by
settling down more or less definitively upon some partic-
ular branch of farming ; and so much weight, I am
willing to admit, should be given to the practical con-
clusions thus arrived at, as to render it somewhat
hazardous to advocate the adoption of fundamental
changes except for the strongest and clearest reasons.
And what I would suggest here, is rather an effort to
augment the stock of the farm, to reach, a little more
nearly the standard in Ayrshire, for example, and to
render the land more productive of food to keep that
stock, and thus more productive of manures to add in
turn to its own fertility — than that any of the stock
you are now keeping should be discarded to make way

*° ADDRESS.

for sheep. The truth is that good farming tends so
explicitly and so universally to increased favor for
mutton growing, that I cannot but think it is that
direction which the improvement of our Agriculture
at the East must take before our farmers can hope to
accomplish much more than they are already doing.

For you will please note that it is not with the most
remote reference to the present high prices of wool,
that I speak. The cheaper lands of Michigan and
Wisconsin, and, when the Union is re-united, of Texas
also, can grow wool as fine as we can grow it here, and
send it to market with as little, or still less, loss from the
cost of transportation's any other productthey can raise.
It is the breeding of mutton sheep that is suffering most
from neglect, yielding an income every year, involving
some profit, from the fleece, which cannot be had from
cattle, and selling at last to the butcher at a rate that
shall return at least as good results upon the food and
labor they have cost, as can be yielded in fattening beef.

Now among the breeds suggesting themselves for
the purpose, there is considerable range for selection.
The South Down has the advantage that its name goes
far in commanding a price, like that of Alderney butter,
with those who can appreciate and are disposed to pay
for it. But the Oxford Downs which have been intro-
duced into the neighboring county of Essex by my
friend Mr. Fay, are a somewhat larger sheep, which, with
their other merits, is constantly gaining them increased
favor in Great Britain. The Cotswolds give perhaps
still greater size, and on good pasturage yield a good
account for all they consume, while, moreover, you have
flocks of them in your own vicinity worthy of encour-
agement. 'J he ci Leicester " sheep bred in this country

ADDRESS.

17

have mostly a touch of Lincoln or Cotswold blood to
increase their weight, and are preferred by some to the
pure Cotswold.

In breeding both Sheep and Cattle, then, let me
insist once more upon the importance of crossing
constantly with some of the improved breeds that
have been named. There must be herds and flocks
purely bred to sustain the supply of blood for crossing ;
but the practical farmer will find, here as in Great
Britain, that the crosses are the best tools he can work
with in carrying on his farm, and making the cash
account come out right at the end of the year. With
sheep, the ewes required should be good mothers as a
first requisite, and then, whatever their size or breed,
lambs sired by South Down or Oxford Down or Cots-
wold or Leicester blood, will be pretty sure to pay
their way.

II. Grazing and Feeding. — In what has been said
under the head of Breeding, it has been taken for
granted that the stock bred were to be fitted for
slaughter or retained for use, not necessarily in the
hands of the breeder, but at least within the limits
of your own State. Time will oblige me to restrict
myself only to remarks of the most general kind, both
under this head and under that of Dairying, keeping
in view the broad results we desire to attain, rather than
the details by which they are to be accomplished.

Breeding, and grazing or feeding, naturally divide
themselves in some degree, into separate pursuits ; and
stock commonly passes into second hands for the latter
purpose before going to market. At the same time,
the farmer who raises young stock naturally has more
or less concern with fitting it for the shambles. Aside

18

ADDRESS,

from the fact that working oxen are largely employed
here, in the labors of the farm, most of which are
probably reared and trained at home, and after their
term of service is over, may well be put up to fatten ;
your ready markets afford good inducements for the
breeding of calves and lambs, expressly to be fattened
by the farmer raising them. Secondly, the opportunity
of purchasing cattle and sheep coming into Brighton
and Cambridge, when markets are low, and those not
already in prime order can be bought to advantage,
and of then keeping them in pasture or stall until a
good market gives the means of selling at a fair return,
is one of which there are doubtless many among you who
frequently avail themselves. And, in the third place,
there is the surplus of the young stock bred in a higher
latitude, which naturally comes here to be "finished
off," if not to acquire the bulk of the flesh it must
attain for slaughter.

Now, where the sources of supply of stock for
grazing and feeding, are so good as they must be here,
the farmer possesses perhaps the most advantageous of
all positions for bringing his farm into a fertile and
remunerative condition. Those of you whose experience
is of the longest standing will not have to be reminded
that the great need of the Agriculture of our older
States at the present time, is a more abundant supply of
fertilizing material. Manufacturers of artificial manures
are driving a better trade in New England probably
than in any other part of the country, now that the
impoverished lands of the South are mostly cut off from
their reach. Those of you who are familiar with the
printed treatises on Agriculture, from the earliest of
the ancient writers down to this most prolific century

ADDRESS

19

of books and papers and addresses, will not have to be
reminded that the great burden of their whole song is
Manure! Manure! ! Manure! ! And as I run over the
journeyings of a summer spent among the best farmers
of the United Kingdom ; as I note the successes of the
shrewdest and most thorough of the cultivators of our
own soils ; as I trace back the files of the old Genesee
Farmer, the Cultivator and the Country Gentleman, in
which I have an interest, personal or hereditary, extend-
ing back for more than thirty years, I find that what
observation in England and Scotland teaches us abroad
is equally true on this side the Atlantic — that the care
and quantity of manure made may fairly be taken
as a measure of the profits obtained, — that with this as
the first object sought, all other objects are in turn
accomplished, — in a word, that the farmer's first and
most important crop is that which comes out of his
barn yard !

And beyond this, my friends, it is the fundamental
verity and weight of this great fact, which first led the
English breeder to those improvements in cattle and
sheep which we have just been discussing, and of which
you have had examples on your show grounds to-day,
in the several breeds there exhibited, more than three
thousand miles from the place of their origin. To raise
crops for the food of man, stock must be fed and crops
for their especial consumption produced; and the
problem of securing that stock which might be fed to
the greatest profit, reaching its importance out of the
primal necessity experienced by the English farmer
for more manure, provoked those efforts on the part of
Bake well and the Collings and Elman and Webb, and
their compeers, which render the names of these leading

20

ADDRESS

breeders as familiar to-day on the banks of the Danube
and the Loire, in Australia and New Zealand and Cali-
fornia, as they are here in Massachusetts, on the blue
grass pastures of Kentucky, or the prairies of Ohio and
Illinois. Your accomplished and practical Secretary
Mr. Wyman, expressed the truth which you must often
have realized in your own labors on the farm, when he
wrote to the Country Gentleman six years ago, that
the foundation of all successful culture lies in the prep-
aration and application of an ample supply of manurial
material, and that every sort of article which can be
made to contribute toward this end, should be saved
"as carefully as if they were grains of gold."

The course of English farming, not less than various
experiments conducted there and here, shows that in
nothing else do we get a more effective combination, or
one more universally applicable, than in the well
managed manures of the farm yard. And the point to
which I wish to ask your especial attention is whether
you cannot more economically purchase such feeding
material for the stock you intend to fatten, as is most
readily attainable, and take more pains to produce
crops for them — such for example, as fodder corn, the
legumes and the roots, than you can to expend your
money on the fraternity of superphosphates, poudrettes
and the like? These will doubtless give the farmer
a start in securing a position at which he can eventually
furnish fertilizing material to supply his own wants ;
there are crops, such as roots, and some partially
exhausted pastures, on which preparations of bones may
be profitably applied in any case, but the great question
is to reach such a system of management by the
grazing and feeding of stock, as shall develop the

ADDRESS. ***■

capacity of the land to the utmost, either for that or for
any other economical purpose, and then maintain that
capacity, by going as little as possible, and not at all,
if possible, beyond the home resources of the farm itself.

III. Dairying. — There is no branch of farming in
which greater encouragement is at present afforded
perhaps, than in the making of butter and cheese —
unless for those so situated as to be able to dispose of
the milk itself. We have learned to make both of suf-
ficiently good quality to command buyers abroad ; in
no country is the consumption, of batter at least, so
great in proportion to population as among ourselves,
so that, between the home and foreign market, there
seems no reason to fear that a strictly first class article
of either should ever fail to bring a remunerative price.

With this consideration before us, there is one sug-
gestion which may be perhaps most forcibly brought to
the notice of dairy farmers, although you will at once
recognize its applicability I trust, to farming of every
other kind, and that is, that the better the product — the
more perfect the process of its production — the better the
profit it yields. Within the scope of this suggestion, is
the more careful selection of the cows that constitute
the dairy, in order to raise the average yield of butter
or cheese for each cow kept, to as high an amount as pos-
sible, but upon that point we have partially touched
und *r the head of iireeding. Within it, too, is the idea
of higher keeping, so that the cow when done with for
the dairy may sell well to the butcher — but to this we
have also referred, in the last division of our subject.
Within it, are embraced moreover, all the details of the
dairy, the neatness and the skill required, and the

22

-1 ADDRESS.

numerous conditions by which the greatest excellence
and largest product of butter or cheese may be made
to go hand-in-hand ; but, in an address like this, such
details can hardly find a place.

You will then pardon me, if, passing outside of these
minor but still most essential particulars, I give to this
suggestion the broader ground on which it may not
only include them all, but go beyond the limits of
the dairy, and also reach, in these our closing para-
graphs, the interests of the breeder and the feeder,
indeed of all who are engaged in farming throughout
the Eastern States : Could we not accomplish more
satisfactory results, at less cost and hazard, if we had
greater faith in our pursuit, and were willing to invest
more of our capital in carrying it on ?

There are those, of course, who lack the means of
more liberal expenditure on their farms, — who are com-
pelled to economise, eveu when expenditures could be
well repaid, because there are payments of interest or
principal on their title deeds which must be met — but
there are now also many others, who are constantly on
the alert for investments, away from the farm, of the
the money it has placed in their hands. If instead of
taking, dollar by dollar, all that can be scraped together
to buy stocks or mortgages, or venture into still more
speculative undertakings, such farmers would only
calculate the rate of interest they might obtain from a
sufficient outlay to bring some part of the farm every
year into the highest condition of productiveness of
which it could be rendered capable, until by degrees
its whole surface and that of the township in which it
lies, should be thus gone over, the startling disparities
that now. exist between the productiveness of your

93

ADDRESS. ~°

county of Worcester and that of Ayr, would by degrees •
be vastly reduced, and, unless I am much mistaken,
your farmers here would in the end discover that their
investments were safer, their interest larger, their farms
still more rapidly appreciating in value, and their
eventual means of making outside investments greater
than at present. How many fields there are, now grown
up with coarse herbage and affording only a short and
poor pasturage, insufficient very likely to meet the
actual taxes assessed upon them, which a hundred or
two dollars in drainage, for example, might render the
most productive part of the farm, returning thereafter
taxes, cost of labor, interest on value and expenditures,
and something beyond. How far short is a large part,
not of this county alone, but of the whole State and
country, of being in that condition which any practical
farmer will recognize as the best, either for permanent
grass or for a rotation of tillage crops — but which how
many farmers, who know well enough by what means
that condition is to be attained — whom I would not for
a moment think of attempting to instruct in any of
the secrets of their business — are contented not to reach,
dreading the outlay required, because the returns seem
distant, — preferring to send their money very possibly
u out West " at one or two per cent, a month, and pinch
the farm forever tighter and tighter because that money
don't get back from its Western tour at all. Such,
gentlemen, is the fact, alas ! of multitudes of invest-
ments outside the farm ; if the farmer understands his
business, should not his endeavor be, like that of the
merchant or the manufacturer, to go on investing
capital in it, until its machinery everywhere runs as
smoothly, and its working powers are as greatly per-

A D D R E gj S

fected, as capital can make them ? The larger the
scale also upon which any business, farming included,
can be conducted, the better ; provided only the
capital is in proportion to the business done; and when
we say that nine-tenths of our fanners are farming too
large asurface, we only mean that they are attempting
more than they have? or ivill vse, the capital to do
thoroughly and well.

Farmers of Massachusetts ! I ask you to bear in mind
that it is not your only end in life, still speaking
Agriculturally, to secure a comfortable and honored
livelihood from one year's end to another, as the
seasons gather themselves in succession to the mighty
harvest of the past, as the little faces around your
firesides are putting on the soberer guise of more
thoughtful years, as the frosts of an autumn to which
there is no springtime of renewing verdure, begin to
whiten upon your temples. I ask you that it should
be your aim to secure that livelihood in such a way as-
shall add to the dignity and solid attractiveness of your
pursuit for those who are just coming on to the stage,
and whose selection of the parts to which their lives
shall be devoted, will be so greatly influenced by the
results of your lives and the teachings of your example,
I ask you to take your part in the farther improvement
of the farming of the State, not alone in your own
interest and in that of the community in which you
live, but for the sake of the generation which is to
follow in your footsteps. It is not that I would urge
you to any mingling of high sounding words or theories,
but yet imperfectly understood, in the round of your
daily labors. It is not that I would present the pic-
ture that might be drawn, of a wooing and gentle and

ADDRESS.

26

loving Nature, to none so dear, by none so freely and
proudly enjoyed, as by him who sits amidst his own
well won acres, under the roof that sheltered his
fathers. It is not that I would remind you of the close
alliance between your occupation, with its many requi-
sites, and a thorough study of all those physical sciences
which link themselves so closely with the culture of
the soil, nor of the fact, that the higher the culture of
the mind, the greater may be the pleasure derived from
investigating the problems and winning the victories of
the farm. But I would meet you among the imple-
ments, the animals, the fruits, the household articles,
that are assembled on such an occasion as this, directly
from your homes and fields, on the practical ground of
farming, not as some are fond of styling it, as a profession,
but as a business. And I would suggest to you, that
it is still more as a business that it should be conducted,
in order to satisfy in it the longings of your sons,
possessed as they probably are. of that inborn energy,
that Yankee go-a-head-ativeness, which delights in
overcoming obstacles when the mind is once awakened,
and fair scope for its exercise is offered. Train them
in the keeping of your accounts ; and let each year's
figures enter ^more fully into detail, until there is no
question that can come up, to which the answer in
black and white may not be found on record. As you
shall invest more capital in bringing up your land and
carrying out improvements, let them see the object in
view; let them share with you the pleasure of working
out a successful result. A practical familiarity with
the labors of the field they must doubtless acquire, in
order to be farmers ; such an education as lies within
your means, every American father, thank God, gladly

26

ADDRESS

gives his sons : but, if you would have them farmers
worthy of the name, remember that there is much
beyond holding the plow or studying in the school
room, that tends to mould the tastes of childhood, to
direct its thoughts, to arouse its spirit. You can not
only show that you are managing your business with
the same precision and as great mental energy and
foresight as the merchant, but, more than this, in every
plot from the garden you give to childish hands to till,
you can encourage the effort to make the most and
best of what it yields ; in every pet from the poultry
yard, or in the barn or field, you grant them for their
own, you can take care that it shall be a good specimen
of its kind, of which the youthful owner may be justly
proud — in fine, you can interest the child in reading
about the land he cultivates or the animal he cares for,
you can induce him to think, you can implant in his
mind the ambition to excel. In these three directions,
moreover, lie the great deficiencies of our grown up
farmers.

Farmers of Massachusetts ! Grand as is the task of
Agriculture in feeding mankind, and vast as are the
interests of which it holds the key, there is a level
higher than that of our material wants — beyond and
above the sphere of bounteous harvests and busy ships
and peaceful homes, — of all that is transient and perish-
able,— alevel at which the dignity of your own and every
other pursuit of gain or pleasure, is merged in the
nobler and more enduring dignity of the manhood that
is the birthright of the soul. Such, and so far above
the platform of our daily struggles, is the great battle-
ground of Freedom and Truth on which our country is
now contending. For the Independence earned by our

ADDRESS.

27

fathers' hardships; for the Constitution they bequeathed
us, hallowed by the blood it cost, glorious in the
light of the triumphs it has won ; for territory invio-
late, for sovereignty unimpaired, for Union insepar-
able,— for these, and nothing else and nothing less, —
let the country strive as one man, with all the strength
and faith and stubbornness that arise from conscious-
ness of duty and Divine approval, — and no corruption
of cities, no miserable clangor of party discord, no vile
hopes of profit or promotion in the disgrace of that
grand old Flag, shall avail to drag its stars and stripes
in the dust, or blot out the ensign of the Republic from
the heraldry of Nations !

APPENDIX.

A. The latest official statement I have at hand, is the United States
Commerce and Navigation Report for 1859 — according to which, the
vessels built in that year had an aggregate capacity of 156,602 tons
burthen, out of which vessels with a tonnage of 79,432 tons were built
in New England. The total tonnage of the United States in 1859
was stated, in the same report, as 5,145,037 tons, of which 1,766,250
tons belonged to New England.

B. Agricultural Statistics of the Counties of Worcester in Massa-
chusetts and Ayr in Scotland, for the year 1855, unless otherwise
specified.

Worcester County.

Ayrshire.

Total area in acres,

Population,

Number of Farms,

Area "Improved Land," acres

Area "Under Rotation of Crops," acres,. .
Crops produced — Wheat,

Rye,

Barley,

Oats,

Indian Corn,

Total grain — bushels

Total area Grain crops, acres

Other Tillage crops, Potatoes,

Turnips,

Other Roots,

Beans,

Other crops,

Total area Roots, &c, acres,

Area in Hay,

Fallow,

Area under Rotation, Ayrshire and cor-
responding area in Worcester County,.

Live Stock. — Horses,

Milch Cows,

Other Cattle,

Calves,

Total Cattle,

Sheep and Lambs,

Swine,

BUSH.

46,101

51,571

41,137

283,556

418,918

32,622

11,750
117,117

161,489

[1860]

ACRES.

650

3,967

1,890

9,930

16,185

ACRES.

9,439
172
658

1,481

33,917

18,561

9,443

706,000

159,659

7,002

483,472

841,283
32,622

11,750

13,484

61,921

6,212

11,023

BOSH.

430,421

kj 12,127

33,221

2,475,186

[1851.]

ACRES.

12,847
362
971

61,648

665,000

189,858

3,329

258,154

2,950.955

75,828 acres. I 75,828

8,167

16,480

1,136

3,485

898

30,166

151,216

944

258,154

39,286
: 28,809
, 15,913

30,166

9,702

84,008

245,373

12,483

ORDER OF EXERCISES AT THE CHURCH.

Voluntary, By the Choir.
Prayer, by Rev. Mr. Heard.

Original Hymn,^ by Mrs. Caroline A. Mason,

OF FITCHBURG.

The countless worlds, Oh Lord, are Thine,

Thy fiat spoke them into birth ;
These suns, that in their orbit shine,

Are Thine, and Thine this moving earth ; —

This moving earth, with all that fills

Its wide expanse from sea to sea :
The cattle on a thousand hills,

As well as man, belong to Thee.

The ripening fruits proclaim thy care ;

Thy hand, untiring though unseen,
With patient skill perfects each pear,

And ripens every grape we glean.

The grain springs up, the blade appears,

Then the full corn beneath the sun ;
So, all along the obedient years,

Thy perfect will on earth is done.

How manifold thy works, Oh Lord !

In wisdom hast thou made them all ;
Be Thine Almighty power adored,

While grateful at thy feet we fall.

Address, by Luther H. Tucker, Esq.,

OF ALBANY, N. T.

An Original Poem, by Mrs. Caroline A. Mason,

Read by Levi W. Russell, A. M., of Fitchburg.

Closing Hymn, by the Choir.

*The Hymn and Poem were kindly prepared bv Mrs. Mason, for the
occasion, at the request of the Society. Sec'v.

30

POEM

POEM.

The world is growing old — so sages say
And poets sing ; but look abroad to-day :
How like a monarch, throned and plenty-crowned,
Our regal earth ! her ruddy temples bound
With chaplets of bright flowers, and at her feet
Her waving harvests and her fruitage sweet.
Here are no signs of eld or dull decay,
Despite what poets sing and sages say,

Man ripens and decays ; his glorious powers
Dim neath the shade of his declining hours ;

Age dulls his eye, and ere his knell is rung,
Palsies the cunning of his glowing tongue,
Man, man decays, but earth is ever young !

Dear mother-earth ! as fresh as when at first
In Eden's garden her young life was nursed ; —
Renewed each year, as often as the spring
Sets all the trees astir with blossoming,
And witches into music every stream
Beneath the magic of her April gleam.
See how the generous sap from her own heart
Pours without stint, and strengthens every part
Of her young offspring : trees and shrubs and flowers
Share in her fullness and partake her powers.
She paints her roses, and with equal care
Flushes with carmine nectarine and pear ;
She hangs her grapes out, sweet and purple-dyed,
Nor slights the grass green-growing far and wide ;
Her loving hands with equal skill adorn
The crimsoned tulip and the tasseled corn.
No partial step-dame she, our mother-earth !
She counts naught alien nor of stranger birth ;
Her broad breast cradles all her love brings forth,
Nor weighs her favors by the claimant's worth.

V i)E M .

A lesson here for us, oh, gentle friends !
Though, in good sooth, whoe'er obedient lends
A listening ear in nature's patient school,
Will shape his life by many a wholesome rule
Not chronicled in books — and therefore we,
Tillers of earth, who all her secrets see
As well as hear, what patterns we should be !

But this by way of prelude to a strain
Which, though but rudely sung, yet hopes to gain
Your ears attentive, — though we all agree
The theme's but hackneyed ; — naithless, come with me
Down this rude lane ablaze with golden rod
And fresh with fragrance from the up-turned sod,
To where yon farm-house lifts its modest head,
By peace, content and health inhabited.
The tranquil kine, reposing in the grass,
Turn dreamy eyes upon us as we pass ;
The shy sheep gaze askance, and chanticleer
Disturbs the silence with a lusty cheer
From the far barn-yard : sights and sounds are these
To make the saddest cheerful and at ease.
How full the quiet spot of sweet perfumes,
Aromas of fresh grass and clover-blooms !
How like a sabbath stillness, or like prayer,
The cloistered calm of this sequestered air !

Anon the swinging scythe perchance is heard ;
Anon the sacred, sabbath calm is stirred
By sounding flail or woodman's axe anear,
Reechoing through the forest sharp and clear :
The dim, old forest, where the children go
A nutting when the leaves are all aglow
Beneath the frost-kings touch. Such merry routs
The little people tell of thereabouts !
And then the huskings and the apple-bees,
The pleasant picnics underneath the trees, —
What city belle can boast such joys as these ?

But not outside the modest farm-house dwells
Its sweetest charm ; that quiet roof-tree tells
Of love and trust beneath its humble dome,

31

32

P O E M .

And all that glads and sanctifies a home.

Here the good house-wife plies her cheerful tasks

From morn to eve, nor gift nor guerdon asks,

Save the sweet payment of her husband's smile

And God's dear love and health and strength the while.

Her rosy daughters, not too fine to soil

Their pretty fingers with the marks of toil,

With cheerful patience sew the lengthened seam,

Prepare the meal or churn the yellow cream,

Or lead the toddling baby, that essays

Unequal steps about the household ways,

Or hasten to the door, when daylight fails,

To unburden " father " of his brimming pails.

Thrice happy man, thrice happy father he !

His smoking supper ready, on his knee

The crowing baby, and around his board

Health and content ; he well may thank the Lord !

Life has its trials, whatsoe'er our lot ;
But if there be, on God's dear earth, one spot
Crowned more than others with His favors lent,
'Tis such a home as this : All calm content,
All peaceful, heavenly influences meet
To purify, enrich and make it sweet.
Within, without, around it and above,
Good thoughts, like blessed angels, rove and rove.
The very cattle, knee-deep in the brooks,
Have lessons for us in their patient looks ;
The silent hills, slow-stretching far away,
The shady hollows with the lambs at play
In their cool bosoms, the rejoicing rills,
The sobbing of the lonely Whip-poor-wills,
The misty glories of the purpling morn,
The night's deep splendor when the stars are born,
The corn up-springing through the sun and rain,
The ripening fruitage and the nodding grain,
The changing seasons as they come and go,
Winter, the pilgrim, with his coif of snow,
Spring, the sweet charmer, Summer, all ablaze
'Neath the rich dower of her meridian days,
And, best of all, glad Autumn, blithe and sweet,

TOEM. oo

Laying her wealth uncounted at our feet ! —

Who, living out his peaceful life among

Scenes such as these, more eloquent than tongue

Of priest or prelate, who, if he be wise

To learn the lessons set before his eyes,

But shall imbibe the wisdom they impart,

And win the blessing of the " pure in heart !" —

Such as " see God," — see him not only there,

In His dear, far-off heaven, but everywhere :

In the bright glancing of the robin's wing,

As in a planet's steady, ceaseless swing ;

In the small mercies of the passing years,

As in* the forces which control the spheres ;

In little, household trials, wisely sent,

As in the pangs which rend a continent ;

In every strange vicissitude of earth,

In smiling plenty and in direful dearth ;

See Him in all His gracious hand has sent

Of joy and sorrow mercifully blent,

And seeing, love, and loving, be content !

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1863.

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 1862-

L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitchburg, President.

LEONARD BURRAGE, of Leominster, \ y. Pre„idents
BENJAMIN WYMAN, of Westminster, j Vlce "esiaents-

W. G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg, Secretary.
T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham,

JOEL HAYWARD, of Ashby,

S. W. A. STEVENS, of South Gardner,

SOLON CARTER, of Leominster,

PORTER PIPER, of Leominster,

THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg,

CYRUS KILLBURN, of Lunenburg,

DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,

JOHN BROOKS, Jr., of Princeton,

S. G. MIRRICK, of Princeton,

J. T. EVERETT, of East Princeton,

ANAN STOCKWELL, of So. Royalston,

NATHANIEL HOLDEN of Shirley,

JAMES 0. PARKER, of Shirley,

SAMUEL OSGOOD, of Sterling,

J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling, } Trustees.

WARREN SIMONDS, of Templeton,

DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,

J. W. FORBUSH, of Westminster,

JOHN CUTTER, of Winchendon,

A. F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg,

T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg,

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg,

THOMAS PALMER, of Fitchburg,

LEVI KENDALL, of Fitchburg,

ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,

J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,

JOEL PAGE, of Fitchburg,

J. P. PUTNAM, of Fitchburg,

JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitchburg,

I. B. WOODWARD, of Fitchburg,

ABEL F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg, Member of the State Board
oj Agriculture

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

FLOWERS.

The Committee on Assorted Fruits and Flowers
report as follows :

But one dish of Assorted Fruit was on exhibition in
the Hall, and the Committee with remarkable unanimity,
decided that it was entitled to one of the two premiums
offered by the Society. They accordingly awarded it
the second, it not being of such excellency as to entitle
it to the first. The small display in this department
can hardly be accounted for when we consider that this
has been a fair fruit year. It would seem desirable
that if any sho#\v is made in this direction hereafter, it
be on a larger scale.

The exhibition of Plants in Pots was also small. The
number competing for premiums was quite small, and
none of them were of superb excellence. It was a
matter of regret that there was not a large display of
excellent plants; for they' are certainly to be found in
abundance in this community. Here, again, the first
premium was not awarded.

Of Cut Flowers there were but few. And but few
that were shown had particular merit. The paucity of
the exhibition in this department is doubtless attribu-
table to the early frosts. The Committee believed,
however, that better things could have been done.

36

FLOWERS.

The displays in other departments where the frost
might have interfered was, we think, good. With a
little more care and a little more effort our Hall, already
beautiful, might have been rendered infinitely more
so by magnificent displays of these precious treasures
of earth.

Native flowers were looked for in vain. This is a
feature of the Fair, we believe, usually left out. But
why should it be ? It is very certain that a Bouquet
of these would have received at least a gratuity. They
might easily have formed a prominent feature of the
floral display, for at this season there is always an
abundance of them. The fields, the woods, and the
roadside are gay with them. Common are they? They
have not the honor to have travelled across the sea, if
they had they would be called, many of them, magnifi-
cently beautiful. Indeed they are so. For every flower
should be esteemed less for its rarity than for its
intrinsic beauty. Many of our wild flowers more rare
and more beautiful than others would well repay an
introduction to the garden, notwithstanding the humili-
ating fact that they are indigenous to the valleys of
New England.

It would be gratifying to have evidence of a growing
interest in the flowers of the field and woods. There
is a great abundance of them in all this vicinity. It
would not be difficult to find towards a hundred dis-
tinct species even at this late season*, and many of them
though common are perfectly exquisite. The study
and love of Native plants and flowers should underlie
and accompany all taste for those of the garden. And
these in goodly numbers should have a place in the
exhibition Hall. We would also suggest that a collec-

FLOWERS. ° '

tion of the various Native grasses properly prepared
and arranged, would show to advantage ; and also a
display of forest leaves, of which there is an infinite
variety, would add a pleasing feature to the exhibitions.
The Committee award the following premiums :

FRUITS.

Best dish of assorted Fruit,
2d premium to Waldo Wallace, $1,00

P LA NT S IN POTS.

2d, to Mrs Joseph Pierce, 1,00

A Japonica. — It wTas not particularly elegant, but
considering the difficulty of rearing this plant it was
considered worthy of a premium.
Esther F. Sheldon, a gratuity of ,50

This was an Oleander of moderate size and beauty.
Mrs. Josiah Sheldon, a gratuity of ,50

A Salvia, which, though not a remarkably fine speci-
men, would have appeared' to better advantage, in the
opinion of the writer, if left simply growing in its pot.
To bind a quantity of flowers and foliage around the
pot, though in themselves beautiful, detracts from the
good effect the plant might otherwise produce.
Mrs. Lizzie White, a gratuity of ,25

Three pots of plants : a common, small Fuschia, a
a very delicate little Amaryllis, and a Jacoba.

F LOWERS.

1st, to Mrs. Gilbert Howe of Sterling, $2,00

An elegant bouquet, consisting of a much larger
variety of flowers than were found in any other, some
of which were rare. Good taste and skill appeared in
its arrangement. And here it may be said that it is

"° FLOWERS

possible to make a poor bouquet with fine flowers. Not
everything, but much depends upon the grouping and
disposition of colors and forms.
2d, to Hattie Putnam, $1,00

A pyramid. A very prettily constructed piece. As a
work of art it had much merit. The flowers were artis-
tically arranged ; but an imtermingling of more dark
colors, we think, would have added to the effect. The
variety of flowers was comparatively small.
3d, to Mrs. J. F. Monroe, ,50

A plate of flowers. A very fine display, being of
good size and arranged with excellent taste.

GRATUITIES.

Mary E. Lowe, a pyramid bouquet, ,50

Mrs. N. S. Boutelle, a pair of table bouquets, ,25

Mrs. Lizzie White, bouquet, ,25

Mrs. Josiah Sheldon, bouquet, ,25

Emily Wiswell, bouquet, . ,25

Mary E. Lowe, flowers upon a plate, ,25

A perfect little gem, exhibiting much skill in its
arrangement.

The Committee would also make honorable mention
of a Fuschia contributed by Mrs. Mary Upton. Its
size was large and foliage heavy.

They would also make (dis) honorable mention of a
Tobacco plant. No name attached. If the Committee
had been satisfied that no worse use would again be
made of the '; vile weed," of which this we should say
was a very good representative, than thus to put it on
exhibition, they would have awarded it a premium.

While the floral display at this Fair was not what
was desired, still there was much to be commended.
While some of the flowers were quite imperfecta large

FLOWERS.

39

number of the Dahlias, for instance, being centered or
having imperfections in form and blossom, yet there
were many fine specimens of rare and elegant flowers.
And while good taste was generally displayed in the
arrangement, there was carelessness shown in some
instances. In the opinion of the Chairman, though
others of the Committee were not in sympathy with the
idea, strictly good taste demanded more of green foliage
intermixed with the flowers in some instances, thus
affording a relief to the glare of many brilliant colors
grouped together. Nature uses her greens without
stint, and perhaps she is a safe guide in this matter.

There are two styles of bouquets : the loose, flowing
style of construction which appears to be the most
natural, though perhaps not so durable or convenient for
use, and the compact, firmly tied system. Both have
advantages and defects, and both may be made beauti-
ful. The latter seems to be the ruling style, of which are
found the various works of carpentry, and geometrical
forms and figures, as the cone, the temple, the pyra-
mid, etc. A bouquet of this character is well enough
in its way, and as a piece of artistic skill may be very
worthy. But it is artistical and formal, while the
former is natural and graceful, easily formed, and should
always be found when possible on the sitting room
table or mantle.

We have supposed and still believe that floriculture
is receiving increased attention. This is as it should
be. And yet we would have clearer proof that this is
true of the masses — of him who, toiling upon his lit-
tle patch of ground for his daily bread, has hard work
to earn the little income which barely furnishes a sup-
port, as well as of the man who maintains a magnificent

40

^u FLOWERS.

greenhouse. While no community can boast of too
many of the latter, we believe the former class should
be encouraged to do something, or if already doing,
then more, in the way of cultivating flowers. For it is
the universalitv of flowers rather than here and there
a magnificent profusion that is to benefit and bless the
world. The poor man who toils hard to raise grain,
potatoes, and the like, and thus obtains a livelihood for
his family, does well. But he can do better. Without
neglecting in the least what are considered the more
practical and substantial duties of husbandry, he can
take a little time to cultivate some few choice flowers
which may, while ministering to his higher wants, pro-
duce even a little income. In many instances a mere
amateur in the business has originated some splendid
plant for which the nurseryman has been glacl to pay
twice the amount of all his fruit and vegetables. But
set the pecuniary consideration aside. Let it not
become a question of dollars and cents. For not every-
thing should be measured by a standard of mere
utility and profit. That man should be pitied who can
see no good in life but in the pecuniary gain or in the
mere animal indulgences of eating and drinking.

In the matter of floriculture it is said that our rural
population is far behind that of England and France.
"There one can hardly pass a cottage even of the
humblest kind, that is not adorned with a border or
two of flowers, consisting of roses, daisies, tulips, or
iris, and which has not climbing plants, as, for instance,
the jessamine, and rose, and honeysuckle, crowning its
windows and porches, and hanging like pictured tap-
estry about the walls."

Mrs, Howitt in her work entitled " Rural Life in

41

FLOWERS. ^x

England," says that "many cottagers are most zealous
and successful florists." She speaks, too, of the " many
picturesque rustic huts, built with great taste and hid-
den by tall hedges in a pe rfect little paradise of lawn
and shrubbery, — delightful spots to go and read in of
a summer day, or to take a dinner or tea in with a
pleasant party of friends."

Now every man who occupies a little cottage, or
cabin even, that he has made his home and the home
of his family, can and should do something to beautify
it and make it attractive. We say every man should
do it, for this labor should not be performed solely by
the wife and daughter. Men are not yet rid of the
idea that raising flowers is exclusively " women's work."

Now it is not weak or womanish for a man to admire
and cultivate flowers. God meant the beautiful in
Nature not for woman alone. And if to love and cul-
tivate the beautiful flower is promotive not only of
exquisite delight, but of purity and refinement, then
certainly men should perform their share of this
delightful work.

Let not the farmer, therefore, nor the strong man of
any employment, excuse himself from this work on the
ground that it is not within his province of labor, or
that he is above the admiration of flowers, or that
" they look well enough but do no good." Suppose
they have no usefulness — though we do not admit it —
but suppose they do no good ; how much good do the
splendid colors of fruit and vegetables do ? Yet the
plainest farmer enjoys all these better for their beau-
tiful hues, and he knows it, and cannot help it, and
still those hues have no more of utility about them
than the tint of the Gladiolus. The fact is there is just

42

xa FLOWERS,

as fine a vein of enjoyment in nuns nature as in
woman's, and in the farmer's as in any man's. There-
fore he should have and enjoy his flower-beds. Let the
green-house be added if he chooses; but the flowers
that do not need its shelter should never be excluded
from the farmer's home. The Asters and Dahlias and
most of the Lilies, the Crocus, Tulip and Hyacinth, the
Primrose and Polyanthus, the Hoses and Pinks of
countless varieties, the Chrysanthemums and Gladi-
oluses, Phloxes and Gilliflowers, are but a few of the
long list that can be successfully cultivated without the
green-house, and such as require no care in winter
beyond the saving of seed or the storing of bulbs just
out of the way of the frost.

It is true that every farmer does raise flowers in a
certain direction without making it a speciality. The
productions of the orchard, the vineyard, and the field,
originate in flowers — bright, fragrant, beautiful flowers.
For a little season the potato patch becomes a vast
flower garden, each blossom perfect and beautiful. So
in its turn does the garden of pease and beans. And
what in the flower line is more grand and magnificent
than the blossoming fruit orchard! As the little child
has it, " It is God's great bouquet." But all these
things are useful and therefore are cultivated. But we
would have the idea of utility ignored in this matter,
and would recommend to every farmer who has not
already begun, to begin at once the cultivation of
flowers for their own sake. Better raise but one or
two varieties than none at all ; for no one can raise a
flowering plant of the commonest kind without soon
extending his culture to others more attractive. The
Sunflower would do better by the door than uncomely

FLOWERS. 43

weeds or single leaved tanzy. It is a noble plant. Its
gorgeous blossoms have rather an honest look. But
if planted the ruling consideration should be that it is
a flower, and not that its seeds are good for making oil or
feeding fowls. But there is the Morning-glory, the
Four-o'clock, the Lilac, the Poppy or the Marigold.
Begin with one or more of these. All of them are truly
elegant notwithstanding our long familiarity with them.
Begin with something that needs care and the children
will end with something worth admiring. A love
of flowers should be encouraged in the children. A
bit of land should be afforded them and perhaps a
premium offered them for the best cared for flower
border. In this way. as well as in the matter of good
books and papers may home be made attractive. And
when home becomes attractive a great end is gained.
Better for the boys to be cultivating flowers and
otherwise decorating home, than to seek for recre-
ation in the street or the saloon. We would like to
see every school-yard so furnished that both teacher
and pupils might have the means of cultivating and
enjoying flowers. And steps have just been taken in
Rhode Island to accomplish this result.

Indeed, where are flowers out of place ? Our ceme-
teries are now embellished, not only with evergreens
and shrubs, but largely with flowering plants. All
these impart a freshness and bloom to the habitation
of the dead which rob the grave of much of its gloom,
and speak of a bright life beyond.

" Bring flowers to crown the cup and lute,

' Bring flowers, the bride is near ;
Bring flowers to soothe the captive's cell,
Brinir flowers to strew the bier."

44

^^ FLOWERS.

Flowers are inappropriate nowhere. And represen-
tations of them are found everywhere. They are
inwrought into all the arts and embellishments of life.
Many persons who have neither the taste nor inclina-
tion to cultivate flowers, and who proclaim even against
their being placed upon the table in church, regarding
it as inappropriate and almost sacrilegious, surround
themselves with representations of them upon their
carpets, both at home and in church, upon their tapes-
try, their clothing, and their ornaments.

The story of flowers and their effect upon the heart
and the well being of man, has not yet been half told.
The kind Creator made them not in vain. He com-
mitted no mistake when he made flowers. They were
not designed to be a waste. The commonest and most
insignificant flower that blooms is both perfect in itself
and is exquisitely beautiful, and was made for some
purpose. It is a profound study. There is much to
learn as well as admire in the contemplation of the
minutest floweret. Every flower that decks the earth,
every leaf of the forest, and every blade of grass on
which we tread, convey lessons, which, if rightly read,

" Will lead us from earth's fragrant sod,
To hope, and holiness, and God."

These elegant floral treasures scattered profusely
over the earth have aptly been styled the Scriptures of
the earth.

"Your voiceless lips, 0 flowers, are living preachers ;
Each cup a pulpit, and each leaf a book."

Respectfully submitted,

C. W. CARTER, Chairman.

FINE A R T S .

FINE ARTS.

45

PREM IUMS AWARDED.

J. C. Moulton, photographs, $1,50

Charles F. Lamb, photographs, 1,50

Mrs. A. H. Bingham, oil painting, 3,00

F. L. Palmer, oil painting, 2,00

Miss Cochran, oil painting. 1,50

Miss Abbie Ellis, crayon drawing 1,00

Louise Haskell, pencil drawing, (figure) 1,00

Lucy Damon, pencil drawing, (figure) 1,00

Jennie L. Whitney, pencil drawing, (figure) ,75

Mattie Hamilton, pencil drawing, (landscape) 1,00
M. Louise Haskell, pencil drawings, (landscape) ,75

Helen Lowe, pencil drawing, (landscape) ,50

Myra Richardson, pencil drawing, (landscape) ,50

Mrs. J. L. Joslin, embalmed flowers, ,50

Mrs. Maria Kennon, coal frame, ,50

Nettie S. Dix, hair wreath, ?75

Sarah J. Hadley, hair wreath, ,75

Ellen M. Lowe, worsted flowers, ,50

Sarah A. Graham, moss wreath, ,50

Henry Haskell, worsted picture, j50

In addition to the above, the Committee desire to
express the pleasure they feel in seeing such a fine
exhibition in the department of the Fine Arts. They
think in many points the paintings and drawings sur-
pass those of any previous year. The pieces drawn
by the pupils of Miss Cochran presented a good
appearance and showed much merit. They feel that
they deserve notice here. The small amount of
money placed at their disposal was the only reason

46

^u ESSAYS

for not awarding premiums to more of them, especially
to Marion Snow and Mary A. Tolman.

The Oil Painting, by Mrs. A. H. Bingham of Ashby,
were of increased value in the mind of the Committee,
by being original designs. The Committee think it
well for a competitor in this department to manifest
good taste in the selection of subjects, as well as in the
execution of them.

They desire to suggest the importance of all the
articles being presented before the hour appointed for
the meeting of the Committee.

Some pieces which perhaps might have received
notice, were passed without examination because pre-
sented at such an unseasonable hour.

All of which is respectfully submitted by your Com-
mittee. A. J. WEAVER, Chairman.

ESSAYS.

The Committee on Essays regret, that for the second
time they are compelled to report that no Essay has
been submitted to them for examination.

Two years ago the Committee made a similar barren
report ; but they had hoped this year, after the recep-
tion of the learned and instructive Essay of the last
year from one of the most active and useful members
of our Society, which commanded the first premium,
that so valuable an example might be followed.

But the Committee are much gratified to be able to
say that the Poem of Mrs. Mason, which has just been

V R 0 IT S . * <

read to us, so full of rich thoughts, most beautifully
expressed, has been referred to them ; and they do with
great pleasure unanimously recommend to Mrs. Charles
Mason a gratuity of Ten Dollars, feeling that those of
us who were present, will not soon forget the delight
with which we heard it, and that all of us may never be
unmindful of the lesson it teaches — that

" Man ripens and decays ; his glorious powers
" Dim 'neath the shade of his declining hours.
" Age dulls his eye ; and ere his knell is rung,
11 Palsies the cunning of his glowing tongue.
"'Man, man decays; but earth is ever young."

For the Committee,

E. TORREY, Chairman,

FRUITS.

PEARS,

We presume that among the large majority of our
farmers, little or no interest is felt in the general sub-
ject of fruit culture ; and perhaps lowest in the scale,
stand those noble and lucious fruits, Pears and Grapes.

And why this neglect ? Undoubtedly the same rea-
sons exist for it, that prevent other classes of men from
readily engaging in what is a deviation from their
usual customs and habits. The conservative element
in man is generally a tenacious one, and in none more
so, than in the very respectable class of our staid and
solid farmers. This is a virtue we would not eradi-
cate, and which we will not undervalue , but simply

48

1 IU ITS.

claim that this osseous element of society shall grace-
fully yield to the demands of an enlightened progress,
and suffer itself to be gently moved by the intellectual
muscles of thought, and investigation, and discovery,
upon these joints — the hinges of improvement — and
thus open the doors of the mind to an increasing
knowledge and a higher self culture.

In urging upon the attention of our farmers the
claims of the pear as an article of production for the
market, we are not obliged to invite them to embark
upon a project of uncertain experiment. For through
the persevering efforts and skill of those pomologists
who have made the development and culture of this
noble fruit a speciality of their lives, it has been car-
ried successfully through this epoch of its history, and
now stands forth tested and proved, a crop as certain
and reliable and as profitable, as almost any other
product of the soil. So that now, all the farmer has to
do, is to appropriate to himself that knowledge that
has been obtained through the patient study and expar-
ience of others in their life labors for the development
of new varieties, and by long years of cultivation and
observation in testing their various qualities as to
excellence and hardy growth, and adaptedness to var-
ious climates and soils \ and in ascertaining the best-
rules for their management and care ; which are good
and regular bearers, and which the most profitable for
a market production. This information is now within
the easy reach of all.

A feeling may prevail in some minds that pear cul-
ture is a sort of fancy enterprise, suitable only for
fancy men — as one of those activities of life to be
ranked as a kind of agricultural gymnastics — and below

1'BTJITS.

49

the dignity of the genuine farmer who should devote
his sole attention to the great staples. The entire dig-
nity of farming consists simply in being " the business
of feeding mankind?' It all rests upon the one single
but broad fact of the human stomach, and whatever
administers to its wants, and through it, contributes to
the health and pleasure of the human system, and the
innocent enjoyment of that table exercise which no
person's dignity has ever yet dared to ignore, becomes
an element of human happiness, the production of which
is dignified and honorable.

We are quite certain, that the occult forces in veg-
etable life, in forming and ripening for us the pear, the
peach and the grape, stand as high in the scale of
Nature's workmanship, as in the production of the pota-
toe, the cabbage and the turnip. And it may be true
in more senses than one, that the results of our labors
in fruit culture, culminate nearer the skies, than in the
production of root crops.

But as pecuniary profit lends dignity to almost every
occupation, let the pear crop be tested in this light also.
The following statements are from the address of
Marshall P. Wilder, before the American Pomological
Society, at its seventh session:

a A young orchard owned by Mr. Chapin of Western
New York, of four hundred trees, eight years from
planting, produced fifteen barrels of pears in 1853,
selling in New York for $450, — and fifty barrels in
1854, yielding him $1000. Wm. Bacon of Roxbury,
Mass., has about an acre devoted to pears. From two
trees only, he has realized more than $100 a year, and
from his whole yearly crop, over $1000. William R.
Austin of Dorchester, from an orchard of between five

50

F R U 1 1 S

and six hundred trees, mostly on quince roots, has sold
in six years, commencing when the trees were six years
old, what amounted to $3,408. Mr. Earle of Worcester,
has one BufFum pear tree, which yields him annually,
from $30 to $40. Mr. Pond of the same city planted
in 1850, three hundred and fifty Bartlett pear trees a
year from the bud. In 1857 he sold from them fifty
bushels amounting to $250." Many more facts in the
same direction might be cited ; but these are enough
to show that there is money in the business.

We are much of the opinion, that farmers should
more generally engage in the business of pear raising.
When we reflect how few people ever have the pleasure
to regale themselves upon the best varieties of this
delicious fruit, owing to the high prices at which it is
sold, we can readily see that the production of this crop
can be very largely increased, with no danger of break-
ing down the market For an increased supply will
be followed by such an increased demand, as to prevent
the price from falling below that point, that shall be
fairly remunerative. With an acre, or half an acre
devoted to pears, the farmer would find ample time to
attend to the requirements of his little orchard, without
encroaching upon his other crops. And with the requi-
site knowledge which every intelligent man can now so
easily obtain, he would make pretty sure, a generous
return for the outlay. And then, the intellectual efififrt
of reading himself up on this subject, the knowledge
he might obtain of the laws of vegetable growth and
development— which knowledge is so richly interspersed
through the writings of all those who treat on pear
culture, — would become a valuable accession to one's
mental store-house, and serve to incite to a" wider
thought, and a habit of closer observation.

^1

FRUITS- U

But it will be essential, in the first place, that he
should make the selection for his orchard, from those
varieties that are the most hardy and productive, and
will be eagerly sought for in the market. The location
and soil should be favorable, and the ground stirred and
enriched from time to time, as the necessities of the
trees may require. All stimulation to a late growth of
wood that will not properly ripen, before the season
closes, should be avoided, and any tendency to such
growth should be immediately checked, as it is very
liable to ultimate in the frozen-sap-blight, a disease
fatal to the pear tree.

For good practical information on this whole subject,
we would recommend Mr. Field's excellent work on
pear culture.

But should any one enter upon this business, with-
out the requisite knowledge for success, and with no
love for his new vocation, and so mismanage his trees ;
or leave them in utter neglect to struggle alone with
the weeds aud the grass, he will probably encounter
the same failure, that he would by dealing with any
other crop with the same measure of ignorance and
neglect.

The presentation of pears for the table at our annual
fair this year was very good, though not perhaps any
better than in some preceding years. We missed the
usual contributions of Hon. Moses Wood, and Benjamin
Snow, Jr. The number of contributors seemed to
indicate the fact, that not a few of those who have a
garden and a homestead, are becoming somewhat
interested in the subject of pears. We trust that their
example will be more generally followed by those who
possess larger means for the production of this noble
fruit.

52

FRUITS.

G RAPES.

We are glad to perceive by the number and charac-
ter of the contributions offered for premium in this
department, that the interest in the cultivation of this
fruit has year by year, gradually increased.

The two varieties that seemed to take the lead
for their superior qualities and perfection, were the
Concord and Delaware. The Concord appears to be
more generally cultivated, while the Delaware seems
to have been but recently introduced into this vicinity,
and its adaptedness to this locality therefore is not as
yet fully tested. But the plate of Delawares presented
by Mr. Emory, was certainly ripened to the greatest
perfection, and was invested with a sweetness and
deliciousness, that " melted with multiform flavor on
the palate." From the few specimens we have seen,
we confess a favorable leaning towards this variety, but
a general cultivation will of course better test its
various qualities.

Our cold and variable New England climate, is
considered very unfavorable to the proper culture of
the grape. And it certainly is a serious obstacle to the
perfect ripening of our best American varieties ; while
the foreign grape can be perfected, only under glass.
Stern old winter with his unwelcome lingerings, chilling
as he does, with his cold breath, the breezes of May ;
and the early frosts of September which betoken his
returning footsteps, make up for us a year of which
well two-thircls are given over to the partial or complete
reign of the winter king. Such a climate is indeed
unfavorable not only to the highest perfection of the
grape, but to general vegetation also ; for many of our
staple crops, oftentimes suffer in consequence.

FRUITS. ^°

A climate, and soil like ours, cannot of course present
the best conditions for that high state of farming, that
will yield great crops with little labor, and no pains-
taking. Such is not the privilege of New England
agriculture. But her peculiar privilege is this : that
these obstacles of coldness of climate and sterility of
soil, but furnish the occasion for the development of the
true New England glory, in the characteristics of
her people — industry, skill, genius, perseverance, inge-
nuity in overcoming all natural impediments, powers
of contrivance, and skillfully conducted experiments,
ultimating in invention and discovery. These consti-
tute the depths of New England's resources. Do the
frosts, ruin the corn crop ? New England enterprise
does not succumb under the blov, but plants a kind of
earlier growth and ripening — for corn the farmer will
have. Does the grass winter kill? or does the drouth
cut it short ? The farmer does not give up the hay
crop. He still labors on for success, and studies for
protection from adverse causes. And so it is, that
New England stands to-day foremost in that skill and
science, that constitute a successful agriculture. And
we are sure that when the energy, perseverance and
skill of our people are once enlisted in grape culture,
all obstacles to success will in due time be mastered,
and our markets be filled with the delicious clusters.

It strikes us that an addition, to the few already exist-
ing varieties of real excellence,well suited to this climate,
would be desirable. When this small number is com-
pared with those of the pear and the apple, it certainly is
a meagre show. Now we see no reason, why, with the
same labor and pains that has been bestowed on other
fruits, for this purpose, an equal success may not be

0~* BRUITS.

attained, and we think that the results would be more
speedily obtained, than in fruits of a slower growth,
and bearing.

The history of the development of the pear, reveals
to us the inexhaustable resources of Nature, to evolve
and multiply varieties, and to increase their excellence.
And we doubt not, that these skillful and mysterious
forces in their latent and hidden capacities, are richly
laden with the germs of numberless varieties of the
grape, which for excellence and fitness for our climate,
may surpass any as yet known.

When we consider that the grape is indigenous to
this country, growing everywhere, on river-side, and on
hillside, climbing over and along old stone walls, and
on high forest trees, flourishing in exuberance without
care and cultivation, we cannot withstand the conviction,
that Providence designed that the grape should become
an article of agricultural production. And we cannot
but believe, that under the skillful developing hand of
man, guided by a true knowledge of the laws of grape
culture, this fruit may, by the same ameliorating process,
follow the history of the pear, and from the wild state
of one or two kinds, expand into numberless varieties
of superior excellence, and suited to the necessities of
our climate.

In the matter of the care and management of the
grape vine, we have taken the liberty to cull the
following few extracts from a paper prepared by R. H.
Phelps of Connecticut, entitled, " Cultivation of Grapes
in New England," and published in "Patent Office
Report for 1858, Department of Agriculture." We
deem them of far more worth than anything we could
offer from our own experience and observation.

i rs

55

SOIL AND ITS PREPARATION.

,;As a general rule, we prefer a porous "soil, moist in
a degree, but not retentive of moisture — warm, friable
loom, which can be readily pulverized, and is not liable
to become hard baked bv the sun. A soil abounding
in disintegrated rocks, redish gravel, or brown per
oxyde of iron, appears to be especially adapted to grapes.
Nearly all of our American varieties will thrive upon
land on which a good crop of Indian corn can be raised;
and upon the mountains and stony hillside where grain
or grass would make but stinted growth. They will
feed and produce where other vegetation would starve.
This is believed to be true all over the world. In some
parts of Europe the vine is grown on ledges so steep
that the laborers can only with difficulty stand at their
work. With us, a subsoil, porous and permeable is
absolutely requisite, that the roots may penetrate, which
they will do to a great depth if no obstruction prevents,
A stiff retentive substratum can be ameliorated by
deep and thorough drainage with tiles, so that air can
be admitted and the surplus water pass off. It is well
under any condition to break the earth to the depth of
eighteen inches in any ground where the grape is
planted. It is not claimed that poor sterile land is to
be preferred, but a proportion of sand, gravel and
stones underlying deeply the surface soil, is generally
suitable for this product. Between soil and location, I
consider the former of the most importance. If a vine
has sufficient depth in any good earth, it will ordina-
rily thrive in any good locality. There is however
something to choose in situation as regards exposure,
and a southern or southeastern declivity is usually
recommended. A hilltop or gently undulating surface

16

FRUITS.

is better than a level, or deep valley. Upon hill sum-
mits or elevated ground, the temperature is more mild
and uniform than in the valleys beneath, and con-
sequently such locations are better adapted to the
grape."

MANURING,

" Like other plants deriving their best nourishment
from a return of the chemical constituents which have
been extracted from the soil, contained in their own
decaying vegetation, the leaves and prunings of the vine
are congenial elements for its growth. Bones, old
leather, refuse plaster, turf compost, soap suds, &c,
constitute good manure. Bones appear to be the best
of all substances to promote its permanent vigor. In
digging up a grape vine, near which some bones had
been buried, I was surprised to see with what avidity
the roots sought after them y every bone was literally
covered with a network of fibrous rootlets, and every
cavity so filled with them that it was impossible to
disengage the bones without tearing the rootlets to
pieces. A dressing of wood ashes, each year, is a
benefit, by supplying the loss of alkalies which are
largely consumed by the grape. Whatever element of
fertility is applied, it should never be done when the
grapes are approaching their full size, nor early in the
fall; because the result will be a larger growth of
canes, which not being sufficiently matured to with-
stand the winter and spring frosts, would hazard the
life of the vine.

Mulching the ground with light manure, muck, or
especially with vine leaves, makes an absorbent for the
heat during the day, which is in part radiated at night,
causing a more equal temperature, and during the hot

^7

FRUITS. Ul

drouth of summer, holds in absorption the rains and
dew, thus screening the earth from two extremes, heat
and drouth, lessening the danger from autumn frosts,
and promoting a full development and maturity of fruit.',

PRUNING AND TRAINING.

" As to the right time for pruning vines in New Eng-
land, we have mostly come to the conclusion that early
winter is the best, say in the month of November, soon
after the falling of the leaves.

Respecting the best method of pruning vines, opinion
is undergoing a decided change. The practice in
Europe of very close pruning has been followed in this
country by foreign vine dressers, without duly consid-
ering the difference of climate and the character of our
vines. Ours are indigenous, while the vines of Europe
were originally brought from Asia, some two thousand
years ago, and have been dwarfed by excessive pruning,
so that they will bear the loss of nearly all their tops
with comparative impunity, and submit to be planted in
hills about as thick as our Indian corn. But at last
they show the certain effects of long ill usage, in the
fatal oidium. or blight.

As some portions of a vine naturally die out of them-
selves, each winter, would it not be well to follow the
hints of Nature in our practice ? As a general rule*
that system of pruning is best which shortens or thins
out a moderate portion of each season's growth, allow-
ing a gradual and uniform increase, and with a view to
check the tendency of the vines to bear fruit exclu-
sively on the extreme ends of the branches. But no
one system of pruning is adapted to every condition,
for something depends on the age of the vine, the

*-*" FRUITS.

variety, and the space allotted to its growth. It is to be
remembered that the fruit always grows on young or
new shoots, which start from the wood of the preceding
year. This principle will serve as a general guide in
pruning the vine under all circumstances ; and any one
by a little practice can perform the work. Some
varieties of moderate growth are pruned and trained
according to what is called the renewal system, upon
stakes. The mode or training which is gaining favor
with us, is that upon wires. This method is suited in a
remarkable degree to the vine, as its nature is to ram-
ble far over hedges, trees and fences, and to clasp its
tendrils tenaciously around every twig and shrub
within its reach. By trellising upon wire, no tying up
is necessary which saves much labor ; for the tendrils,
their natural and best support eagerly take hold of the
strands of wire, and have a chance to indulge their
rambling and climbing propensity. Wall trellising is
gaining favor wherever practiced, and can be done with
much economy. A few feet of waste or unoccupied
ground about a barn, outhouse, shed, or near the walls
of a dwelling afford a most congenial spot for grape
vines, and they are easily trained so as to cover a large
area on the side or roof of a building."

We trust that ere long this New England character
of ours, becoming interested in grape culture, will
overcome all obstacles of climate and the lack of
desired varieties; and so make our own section of the
country to abound in this excellent fruit, bringing it,
in its perfected state, within the reach of all.

FRUITS

59

The Committee make the following awards :

PEARS

For best and largest named varieties,

1st, to Jabez Fisher,

$4,00

Second premium not awarded.

For twelve best varieties,

1st, to Wm. M. Leath, Harris on

Insects

2d, to Alvah Crocker,

2,00

3d, to Dennis Fay,

1,00

For best six varieties,

1st, E. D. Works,

2,00

2d, N. S. Boutelle,

1,50

3d, Benj. Safford,

1,00

For the best three varieties,

1st, T. R. Boutelle,

1,50

2d, J. M. Twichell,

1,00

3d, Joseph Sawyer,

,50

For best one variety,

1st, Dennis Fay,

1,50

2d, J. M. Twichell,

1,00

GRATUITIES.

J. A. Marshall,

1,00

G. P. Hawkins,

1,00

N. Upham,

,50

B. F. Proctor,

,50

A. Hubbard,

,50

T. Palmer,

,50

C. Thurston,

,50

C. H. Colburn,

,50

ou

FRUITS.

GRAPES.

For best display

of native,

1st, C. A. Emory,

Harris on Insects

2d, W. G. Wyman,

2,00

3d, Jabez Fisher,

GRATUITIES.

1,00

A. Crocker,

1,00

Benj. Safford,

1,00

F. A. Whitney,

,50

T. Palmer,

,50

Levi Kendall,

,50

T. K Boutelle,

.,50

Ohio Whitney, Jr.,

,50

Amos Durant,

,50

For the Committee,

E. F.

BAILEY,

Chairman.

APPLES.

Premiums awarded on apples by the Committee as
follows :

There was no competition for the largest and best
varieties.

For twelve varieties five specimens each,

1st, Ezra Kendall, Sterling, Harris on Insects

2d, Dr. J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg, $2,00

3d, Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each,

1st, Thomas Upton, Fitchburg, 2,00

2d, Dr. J. Fisher, Fitchburg, 1,50

3d, William M. Leathe, Fitchburg, 1,00

FRUITS.

61

For three varieties of five specimens each,
1st, Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg, $1,50

For twelve specimens of one variety,

1st, G. P. Hawkins, Fitchburg,

1,00

2d, David Lowe, Fitchburg,

,50

PLUMS.

1st, Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham,

1,50

2d, Cyrus Thurston, Fitchburg,

1,00

QU 1 NCES.

1st, C. A. Emory, Fitchburg,

1,00

2d, J. P. Hayward, Sterling,

,50

GRATUITIES.

Waldo Wallace, Fitchburg,

,50

GRATUITIES ON APPLES.

Charles H. Colburn, Leominster,

1,00

Samuel Osgood, Sterling,

,75

J. P. Hayward, Sterling,

,75

E. Graham, Lunenburg,

,50

C. Flagg, Sterling,

,50

B. Sailor d, Fitchburg,

,75

S. M. Caswell, Fitchburg,

,75

N. S. Boutelle, Fitchburg,

,75

T. K Boutelle, Fitchburg,

,75

Thomas Palmer, Fitchburg

,75

A. Hubbard, Fitchburg,

,75

Alvah Crocker, Fitchburg,

,50

Waldo Wallace, Fitchburg,

,50

N. A. Tufts, Fitchburg,

,50

For the Committee,

RODNEY WALLACE, Chairman.

U-J VEGETABLES.

VEGETABLES.

Your Committee regard the department committed
to them as one of the most important branches of agri-
culture, and believe that the health and happiness of
man and of animals depends much upon its successful
prosecution. The Scriptures declare that all things are
full of labor. In a well cultivated garden this remark
holds true, and yet it is believed that no part of the
farm pays better than this, when proper care is bestowed
upon the preparation of the soil, the selection and
timely planting of the seed, and especially when there
is constant vigilance in subduing the weeds, for with-
out the latter, however, much care may be bestowed
upon the preparation of the soil and the planting of
the seed, the cultivator will realize but an indifferent
crop. So much depends upon causes entirely beyond
our control, such as the degree of heat, the early and
hitter rain, that no one can expect to bring to the high-
est degree of perfection every kind of vegetable in the
same season ; but this same objection holds good against
every other crop raised by the farmer. The utility of
vegetables, as has been before intimated, as an article
of food for man and animals, does not admit of a
question, and the Beneficient Being who rules over all
has made them not only essential to our health, but
also to contribute to our enjoyment, for like the various
kinds of fruit they are also agreeable to our taste.
We believe that among the vegetables best adapted to
the table are the various kinds of the Potatoe, — the
Hubbard and Marrow Squash, the early Turnip Beet
and the purple top English Turnip; and for animals we
think that the Mangel Wurzel, and the Sugar Beet are
among the best. Your Committee were highly grati-

VEGETABLES. ^d

fied at the numerous and excellent specimens of garden
vegetables exhibited at the late fair of the Worcester
North Agricultural Society. That there has been a
marked improvement in the quality of garden vege-
tables since the formation of this Society cannot be
doubted. It is no longer the object of exhibitors to
present mammoth specimens, which are usually of an
inferior quality, but at this exhibition the vegetables
were of a medium size, which are uniformly of a better
quality for the table, and of the most approved kinds.
Your Committee cannot but make honorable mention
of the collection of kitchen vegetables presented by N.
C. Day, of Lunenburg, containing twenty-two kinds
with fifty-four varieties ; also by Dennis Fay of Ashby,
and J. M. Sawtelle and Benjamin Safford of Fitchburg,
all of which were highly creditable to the skill of those
gentlemen in this department. There were other spec-
imens equally good, but none containing so great a
variety.

We learn that C. L. Flint, Esq., Secretary of the State
Board of Agriculture, imported at great expense some
seed potatoes from Belgium and distributed them
gratuitously throughout the State, requesting that they
might be carefully experimented with and the results
made known to the public at the various exhibitions,
and in the published transactions of the Societies. Of
the portion of this new acquisition which fell to the
share of our Society, five pounds were planted by Abel
F. Adams, in forty- four hills, and produced two and a
half bushels of good sized, handsome looking potatoes,
the quality of which has not yet been tested. Three
pounds were planted by J. M. Sawtelle, and yielded
about the same quantity that Mr, Adams' five pounds

6*4

VEGETABLES.

did. Six hills affording twenty-seven pounds. Two
pounds were planted by William G. Wyman, Secretary
of our Society, on the sixteenth of May, in a drill under
the shade of fruit trees, and were dug when unripe
while the vines were still fresh and green, for the pur-
pose of exhibiting them at our fair. From the two
pounds planted fifty-four pounds were obtained. Far-
ther experiments will be made to test the productive-
ness, value, and especially the table qualities of this
European variety of potatoe and its adaptation to our
soil and climate. No indications of disease have
appeared in any of the samples produced.

In conclusion, your Committee hope that the depart-
ment of vegetables will receive increased attention, and
would remind cultivators that on no part of the farm,
perhaps, so much as in the garden, is it true, that what
is worth doing at all is worth doing well.

The Committee make the following awards :

KITCHEN VEGETABLES.

1st, N. C. Day, Lunenburg, $7,00

2d, J. M. Sawtelle, Fitchburg, 5,00

3d, Dennis Fay, Ashby, 3,00

POTATOES.

1st, J. P. Hayward, Sterling, 2,00

2d, E. Bird, Leominster, 1,00

3d, Nathan Caswell, Fitchburg, ?50

MARROW SQUASHES.

lstj.Benj. F. Proctor, Fitchburg, ] 00

2d, Lawrin Pratt, Fitchburg, 50

HUBBARD SQUASHES.

1st, Charles Brigham, Fitchburg, 1?00

2d, Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, ?50

VEGETABLES.

65

PUMPKINS,

1st, John Minot, Westminster, ,75

2d, A. Hubbard, Fitchburg, ,50

CABBAGES.

1st, Walter Hey wood, Fitchburg, ,75

2d, Lawrin Pratt, Fitchburg, ,50

CAULIFLOWERS.

1st, Walter Hay ward, Fitchburg, ,75

ONIONS-

1st, Lawrin Pratt Fitchburg, ,75

TURNIP BEETS.

1st, B. F. Proctor, Fitchburg, ,75

2d, Joel Hay ward, Ashby, ,75

ENGLISH TURNIPS

1st, John Minot, Westminster, ,50

2d, Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, ,25

TOMATOES.

1st, Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, ,50

2d, Isaac B. Woodward, Fitchburg, ,25

FIELD BEANS.

1st, David Battles, Fitchburg, ,50

2d, Joel Hay ward, Ashby, ,25

SEED CORN.

1st, Daniel North, Westminster, 1,00

2d, Benj. Safford, Fitchburg, ,75

3d, Nathan Caswell, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Benj. Safford, Fitchburg, coll. kitchen vegetables, 2,50

David Lowe, Fitchburg, Hubbard squashes, ,50

Wm. G. Wyman, Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25

A. A. Marshall, Fitchburg, watermelons, 1,00

E. Bird, Leominster, citrons, etc., ,25

I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg, beets, etc., ,25

66

BREAD, kC

David Battles, Fitchburg, potatoes and beets, ,25

George P. Hildreth, Fitchburg, cabbages, ,25

A. P. Goodridge, Fitchburg, squashes, 1,50

N. C. Day, Lunenburg, squashes, ,50

Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, potatoes, ,50

Jonas A. Marshall, cabbages, ,25

Geo. E. Towne, Fitchburg, cabbages, ,50

Geo. Burnap, Fitchburg, potatoes, ,25
Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg, cheese, pumpkins and

sweet corn, ,50

James Mclntire, Fitchburg, seed corn, ,25

Dennis Fay, Ashby, seed corn, ,25

N. C. Day, Lunenburg, seed corn, ,25

For the Committee,

J. HASKELL, Chairman.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, &c.

«

Of the articles submitted for our examination, the
first two named above, were largely represented and of
excellent quality, as a whole. The number of entries
of the others was disproportionate to their importance ;
they were deemed entirely worthy, however, of the
premiums awarded them. It is gratifying to see a
good exhibition of those articles which enter into the
daily consumption of almost every family, and upon
the excellence of which, depends, in a great measure,
our health, and, therefore, happiness. It is always hon-
orable and highly commendable to compete for premi-
ums on such things; for the production of that which

BREAD.

67

is superior, stimulates others to the production of
something as good or better, the exhibitor thus becom-
ing a public benefactor. Mutually assist each other,
then, by showing the products of your skill and labor,
giving at the same time, full and accurate statements
concerning the same.

BREAD

We do not need the testimony of medical men to
convince us that our health depends largely upon the
quality of the bread we eat. And what affects the
body affects the mind also. Not more surely does the
cochineal insect grow gradually red from the crimson
cactus blossoms on which it feeds, than does a man's
temper become morose by living upon sour bread.
The importance to the community, then, of having good
bread, can hardly be over estimated.

The young lady who is skilful in music, painting,
&c, has it in her power, under favorable circumstances,
to give much pleasure by the practice of those arts ;
but she who habitually makes good bread, deserves a
daily blessing from all who partake of it. Our pray-
ers for "daily bread" are answered by the "smiling
plenty " which " crowns the year ;" but how badly we
do our part towards furnishing it when we convert His
bountiful, life-giving harvests into some clammy un-
wholesome compound, which it would be a piece of
bitter irony to call the " staff of life."

Those who make good bread, say that it is a simple
and easy thing to do. But the way to do it must first
be learned. We would say to young ladies, then, get
the necessary information from some source ; then, if,
in after life, you are so placed as even 4:o put this labor

68

BUTTER.

upon others, it may not come amiss to be able to
instruct a servant how to do the same.

We acknowledge it to be much easier to preach than
to practice. However, we will say that were we a
young lady, we should consider it our duty to respect-
fully decline all u proposals " for the management of a
household, until, among other domestic accomplish-
ments, we could make a good, wholesome loaf of bread.

Below will be found such statements as we have
received from those to whom premiums were awarded :

Miss Susie A. Sawtell, who drew the first premium
on white bread, makes it as follows : With three pints
of warm milk, one half teacup full of hop yeast, lump
of butter of the size of two walnuts, mix good flour
into a sponge at night. Set the same to rising till
morning ; then stiffen the mixture by more flour ; add-
ing a little soda, if it should have become sour, put
into a hot oven and bake about three-fourths of an hour.

Miss Mary 0. Gates sends the following as her
method of making rye bread : To three pints of rye
flour, add two tablespoonfuls of home-made hop yeast
and one pint of milk. Mix well together, then set to
rise over night. In the morning put into a pan, let it
rise half an hour and bake one hour.

BUTTER.

The exhibition of butter was large and of unusual
excellence. Considering that it is the chief reliance of
a large class of farmers for support and profit, it may
not be out of place to devote some space to giving
such information on the subject as we have been able
to glean from reliable sources, i

Tne most essential things in butter making after

BUTTER. Ucr

producing the milk, are undoubtedly the following:
1st, getting all the cream ; 2d, having it in a good
condition for churning ; 3d, making a complete separa-
tion of the butter from the buttermilk ; 4th, preserving
the butter, when to be kept for a considerable time,
in such a manner as to retain its original sweetness
and good flavor.

In regard to the first point, there are three things
which are essential; good light, a free circulation of
air, and a proper temperature. There are a very few
who have not learned to avoid close dark cellars in
which to set milk for butter ; but if the milk room be
above ground, the milk, during the hot season, will
often become so soon curdled as to prevent the rising
of a portion of the cream. If the dairy room has a
northern or northwestern exposure, with a room over
it, between it and the roof, this will be less likely to
occur. This trouble is remedied in some of the best
dairies of a neighboring state by constructing the milk-
room partially underground, admitting air and light
through latticed windows near the top. A free circ-
ulation of air under the pans is secured by placing
them on a frame work of horizontal bars, instead of
board shelves. The proper degree of coolness in warm
weather, is imparted to the milk by some skillful dairy-
men, by setting the pans into shallow troughs, into
which a stream of aqueduct water may be made to
run at pleasure. In this connection it may not be out of
place to call attention to a new milk pan invented and
exhibited, at the late fair, by J. F. Monroe & Co.' This
invention combines the means of a very perfect circu-
lation of air and an insulation, by which the milk is no
more liable to sour during a thunder storm or the

70

15 L T T E R .

sultry weather attending it — so the inventors claim — ,
than at any other time. The pan differs from the
common tin milk pan, in having short glass legs, or
buttons, fixed to the bottom, which, being nonconduc-
tors of electricity, perfectly insulate it, thus preventing
souring of the milk by electrical currents. The circu-
lation of the air through the center of the pan is
secured by an upright funnel from the bottom. It is
simple, not expensive, and appears to be a valuable
invention; at any rate worthy of notice and trial.

Experiments conclusively show that milk to be
perfectly creamed should not be more than three inches
in depth. The time required for the cream to rise,
depends upon the temperature of the room. At 50°,
it will rise in 36 hours; at 55°, in 24 hours; at 58°,
in from 12 to 16 hours. The condition of the cream,
after being taken from the milk is a matter of impor-
tance. Cream that is allowed to become sour, will
make a better article of butter than that which is fresh.
It being in this condition will also facilitate the opera-
tion of churning. Butter made from sweet cream is
neither great in quantity nor superior in quality. The
cream when allowed to stand for some days before
churning should be frequently stirred to prevent curd-
ling. In regard to the temperature of the cream when
in the churn, it must be at 62° before the butter will
come ; but it is better to raise it from about 55° by
agitation in the churn, than to have it higher when put
in, — otherwise a soft white article will be produced.

It is hardly necessary, perhaps, to remind any one
that cream or butter becomes very easily tainted ; so
that the air of the dairy room should be frequently
renewed and rendered free from unpleasant odors. The

71

B U T T E li .

standard of neatness for the same can hardly be too
high. A practical observer on this subject says :
"Cleanliness may, indeed, be regarded as the chief:
requisite in the manufacture of good butter. Both
milk and cream are so exceedingly sensitive to the air,
in everything with which they come in contact, as to
impart the unmistakable evidence of any negligence,
in the taste and flavor of the butter."

The third requisite for the production of good butter,
is a proper separation of the same from the milk and
curd mixed with it when churned. Over churning is
not advisible for aiding in this, for, although it may
facilitate the process, and slightly increase the quantity
of butter, it diminishes that fine, waxy, yellowish
appearance so agreeable to the eye. There are two
methods in practice for effecting the above ; one by
washing the butter with cold water so long as it runs
off white ; the other by " working it over." By the
former it can be kept longer fresh ; by the latter a
higher and more agreeable flavor is retained. The best
way generally is to knead thoroughly with a butter
worker, and dry with a large sponge and dry cloths.

In the preservation of this article, great care should
be exercised. There are two substances which are
changed in rancid butter, — the fatty matters and milk
sugar ; and two agents by which this is effected, cas-
iene, or curd, mixed with the butter, and the oxygen of
the atmosphere. This fact, then, establishes the impor-
tance of entire freedom from the former and exclusion
from the latter. If the salting be seasonably clone it
arrests or greatly retards the change which any curd
which may remain, would otherwise produce. Great
care should be taken that the packing be done in

79

I ^ BUTTEB.

vessels perfectly tight, pressing the butter as solid as
possible, covering it with a brine. Butter dealers
prefer wooden tubs or firkins for keeping, to stone ware,
and of the former none is better than oak.

Good butter depends more upon the manufacture
than upon all other things put together. A judicious
writer upon this subject remarks: "In every district
where good butter is made it is universally attributed
to the richness of the pastures; though it is a well
known fact that, take a x skillful dairy-maicl from that
district into another, where good butter is not usually
made, and where, of course, the pastures are not deemed
favorable, she will make as good butter as she used to do.

If the public wish for superior butter, (and who does
not ?) they must be willing to make a greater discrimi-
nation than heretofore, between the prices of what they
seek for, and that which is positively bad. So long as
an inferior article brings about the same price as that
which is extra, people must expect that they will some-
times be unable to find what they want in the market.
We hear of a man who has received forty cents per
pound for all of his butter the present season, at a well
known public house in Boston. His herd of cows con-
sists partly of the Jersey stock. May there be more
such butter makers and more such customers.

This report being already too long, we omit making
remarks on other articles, only giving the awards.

WHITE BREAD.

1st, Susie A. Sawtell, Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, Alice Wellington, Ashby, 1,00

3d, N. E. Grey, Fitchburg, ' ,50

UNBOLTED WHEAT BREAD.

1st, Olive E. Bailey Fitchburg, 1,00

BREAD, &c

73

BOLTED RYE BREAD.

1st, Mary E. Gates, Ashby, $1,00

RYE AND INDIAN BREAD

1st, Alice Wellington, Ashby, 2,0 0

2d, N. Louisa Smith, Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, Mary E. Merriam, Fitchburg, ,50

LUMP BUTTER.

1st, Charles Flagg, Sterling, 4,00

2d, George Miles, Westminster, 3,00

3d, Mrs. S. G. Myrick, Princeton, 2,00

4th, Benj. Wallis, Ashby, 1,50

GRATUITIES.

Ezra Kendall, Sterling 1,50

L. Ramsdell, Lunenburg, 1,50

JUNE TUB BUTTER.

1st, L. Ramsdell, Lunenburg, 3,00

2d, Addison Howe, Ashburnham, 2,00

3d, A. J. Stone, Fitchburg, 1,00

CHEESE.

1st, George Miles, Westminster, 2,00

Henry Spooner of Barre, had on exhibition some
fine cheese but did not compete for a premium.

HONEY IN COMB.

1st, Gardner Merriam, Leominster, 2,00

2d, J. M. Mclntire, Fitchburg, 1,00

JELLY— GRATUITIES.

Mrs. Lizzie White, Fitchburg, for three varieties, ,75
Mrs. J. T. Farwell, for Crab Apple jelly, ,50

PICKLES.

Mrs. I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg, ,75

Mrs. S. G. Frost, Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES.

Miss Lizzie White, Fitchburg, ,75

Mrs. J. P. Farwell, Fitchburg, .50

L. W. RUSSELL, Chairman of the Committee.

io

74

SIIEEP

SHEEP.

It seems to be an established fact that the the pas-
tures in this vicinity are not as good as they were once.
In them bushes and briars more easily take the places
of some of the best grasses; they need plowing oftener
and require larger applications of manure to make
them hold good, and it is said they need almost con-
stant care and labor to keep them from running out.

As this is a matter in which all farmers are more or
less interested, your Committee deemed it of sufficient
importance to consider what bearing sheep husbandry
had on this subject, and therefore they made the
following inquiries of the principal sheep-raisers of
their acquaintance :

1st. Is it better for pasture lands to have sheep kept
on them than any other kind of stock ?

2d. Do you know from your own experience that
sheep will eradicate bushes or in any way improve the
pastures in which they are kept ?

The answers which were received to the above
questions were prompt and sufficient, and as they contain
the views of practical men who have had long exper-
ience in the business, your Committee are pleased to
place them before the Society.

Hosea M. Caswell, says : " I notice sheep always
rest on the highest parts of the pasture, and spend
more of the time on the hills than cattle, consequently
the manure is more evenly distributed. Sheep also
require such a variety of food they will even kill out
hardhacks and thistles."

James Mclntire, says : " There is no stock like sheep
to renew old pastures. I know clover to come in and

SHEEP

75

bushes to die out in pastures where they have been
kept."

Joel Hayward, says : " I am well satisfied that sheep
do materially improve pasture lands, not only from my
own experience but from what I have observed of
pasture land where they have been kept in this vicinity.
I have had sheep for nearly twenty years in one
pasture and am confident that it will keep one-third
more and keep them equally well, as Avhen first used
for that purpose. I remember an instance near here
where a piece of land had become quite thickly
covered with a growth of white birch ; these were cut
close with a scythe and then sheep were turned in which
(perhaps for want of better feed) kept the young
shoots fed down and cleared the pasture of brush."

Mr. Hayward does not believe in compelling sheep

to become " bush exterminators/' but says " give them

clover and other sweet grasses, give them as good as

you have, and if you have used proper judgment in

the selection of your flock, you are well insured of

a good profit."

George Fox. says : " I believe in a mixed stock for
a pasture ; used to think it would not do to have sheep
and cattle go together, but now I am satisfied both will
do better, provided you give them plenty of feed. It
is cruel and unprofitable to keep sheep so short as to
compel them to eat bushes, but adds there is scarcely
a bush or plant, (except a few poisons) which sheep do
not love to eat I have many times seen sheep turn
from white clover, they like so well, to brakes and
bushes. My idea of sheep raising is this : A few
graded kinds of sheep, with as wide a range of pasture
as possible, and let the sheep be kept well enough to
raise twin lambs which will weigh 100 pounds each.''

76

SHEEP

William G. Wyman, says : "You ask for my " views,
experience and "observation " in Sheep Husbandry, in
reference to the effect upon pasture lands of keeping
sheep upon them, as compared with that of other
stock ; whether they " will keep down bushes, or in
any way improve the pasture in which they are kept ?"

In reply permit me to say that while I do not think
all pastures would be improved by keeping sheep upon
them, or that pastures generally would be benefitted
by sheep to the exclusion of all other stock, my own
experience and observation lead me to believe that
most of the pastures in our county, and in the vicinity,
would be greatly enriched, their productiveness largely
increased, and their real value enhanced if sheep were
fed in them in very much larger numbers than they
now are, either in immediate connection with horned
cattle and horses, or by occupying the pastures alter-
nately with other cattle.

The effect upon bushes is very quickly observed.
In my own pasture bushes which cows, oxen and horses
would not " keep down," have been entirely ^eradicated
by sheep ; when once cut down the sheep eagerly nip
the fresh leaves and tender shoots of almost all bushes,
shrubs and weeds, as fast as they appear, and thus pre-
vent their full development, so that they soon die from
sheer exhaustion, and give place to the finer grasses.
I find that my sheep relish many plants which other
stock will not eat, so that if kept with other stock a
pasture will afford sufficient nourishment for more ani-
mals, in number and weight, than it would of cows or
horses alone. In other words, two pastures will sup-
port more cows and sheep if they are permitted to feed
together, or in each pasture in alternate weeks or

SHEEP

77

months, than if the sheep were confined to one pasture
and the cows to the other, through the entire season.

But the greatest benefit which our worn out pastures
derive from sheep is from their droppings. And in
this connection, perhaps, I may be permitted to allude
to the peculiar structure of the sheep's foot, and to
some of his habits, which, in my opinion, induce an ex-
tensive, and more equal distribution of this valuable
fertilizer than of that from any other animal, and which
also leads to the deposition of the largest quantity of it
just where it is most needed.

The delicate and sensitive arrangements of the inter-
nal porton of the sheep's foot are protected by a hard
horny substance, somewhat resembling the nail on one's
fingers, which extends in a thin layer around the out-
side of each division of the foot, past the toe and turn-
ing inward nearly half way to the heel. This nail-like
substance, in its natural condition, is worn down nearly
even with the bottom of the hoof, and presents an im-
pervious outside coating for the foot and a firm blunt
edge for it to rest upon. But this homey substance or
edge is constantly growing, as the thumb nail grows,
and if the growth is not removed, will project below,
and usually turn under the rest of the foot, causing
great inconvenience in locomotion, and serving as a
receptacle for earth, gravel, or filth which is uncom-
fortable and unhealthy and liable to work through
openings that may be formed within the hoof to the
more sensitive portions, producing ulcers, or other sores
which ultimately lead to the dreadful disease known as
" foot rot," or the edges may be broken off irregularly
to the quick, as one's nails are sometimes broken to the
tender flesh, producing similar sores and tending to the
same result.

/ O SHEET

I have known a sheep, when confined in narrow
limits, on straw bedding, and the feet neglected, to
have a growth of nearly an inch in length, of this sub-
stance, in a single winter, which almost " upset her
understanding."

When confined in soft marshy pastures, or in rich
fertile pastures which are very smooth and free from
stones, there is little opportunity for sheep to keep their
hoofs worn down to the natural condition, and if not
regularly trimmed or pared by hand, inflamation, ulcers
and foot-rot frequently follow as a natural consequence.
Such pastures, therefore, being unsuitable for sheep,
will not be improved by them, unless the sheep are fed
upon them only a few days at a time, while they have
access to a more congenial range most of the season.

Our rough, rocky, hilly pastures, on the contrary, af-
ford the most natural and agreeable summer feeding
places for most kinds of sheep, and here their naturally
active and playful habits lead them to skip about from
rock to rock, upon every knoll, through every hollow,
prying into every nook and corner, scattering fertility
wherever they go, while the natural inclination to keep
their feet clean, bright and wTell scoured, leads them
to shun, as permanent stopping places, all wet, swampy
or marshy spots, and to seek for repose only in the
highest and dryest parts of the pasture ; hence they
almost invariably congregate during the heat of the
day and at night on the least fertile portions, naturally,
of the lot, where the subsoil is most porus, and the
ground hardest on the surface, whence their droppings
wash down in all directions, bringing in new grasses,
and giving an appearance of fertility even to what were
previously almost barren, sandy or gravelly knolls.

79

S II E E P . .

Pastures of this description, therefore; may he very
greatly improved by being stocked in part or wholly
with sheep, and the more the pastures have been pre-
viously exhausted, or "run out" with other stock, the
more immediate and the more apparent the improve-
ment.

My advise to farmers who keep sheep on soft, moist
lands, or on rich smooth pastures free from stones,
would be to examine their feet frequently and pare the
outer edge of the hoof carefully, and so often as to
keep it nearly even with the bottom of middle, by
taking off only a little at a time. Similar advice will
apply to those who keep their sheep enclosed and
constantly bedded during the winter; while with a
wide range and stony pastures in summer they will
take care of their own feet, and very rarely be troubled
with foot-rot or any other disease of the foot."

We find these practical and intelligent men agree
that sheep are better for a pasture than any other
kind of stock. But Mr. Fox of New Ipswich, and
Mr. Wyman of Fitchburg, advise keeping sheep and
cattle together in the pasture. One reason is they can
keep more stock in this way, as the sheep will eat
grasses, plants and bushes which the cattle refuse.
Another reason is, the sheep will have a wider range of
pasture, and thus gratify its strong love for a great
variety of food, and perhaps another and more impor-
tant reason, is, that the sheep by its habit of continual-
ly cropping the tender shoots of brakes, and bushes
(even where the be.st grasses are abundant,) must ex-
haust and eradicate them.

" We cannot afford to keep sheep just for their wool,"
says one sheepraiser, and this idea seemed to be fully

80

SHEEB

carried out at the fair, as none but the larger and har-
dier breeds of sheep, viz : The South Downs, Cotswold,
Leicester, and native, which furnish the best mutton
were represented there. The farmers in this vicinity
show good judgment in selecting their breeds of sheep
because they not only furnish more and better mutton
than other breeds, but the wool which they produce
can be sold at comparatively better prices than former-
ly. There is a demand for these combing wools which
must increase for years, as new machinery involving a
large amount of capital is being put in operation for
the purpose of manufacturing these long combing
wools, the production of just the breeds of sheep ex-
hibited at the fair. Now it would be folly to doubt of
our success in the manufacture of worsted goods and
to show how great a demand there may be for the
manufactured articles, we quote from a writer in the
United States Economist, who says : " We imported into
this country last year $17,367,672 of worsted and cot-
ton and worsted fabrics^" and urges us to produce the
wool. The manufacturers are doing their part in in-
troducing the machinery necessary for its manufacture,
and it only remains for the farmer to supply the raw
material, (and a vast quantity it will take,) and thus
save this needless expenditure of money for foreign
goods.

The Committee feel under obligation to Messrs. Fox
of New Ipswich and White of Framingham for the in-
terest they so generously gave to this department of
the exhibition.

COTSWOLD RAM, PILGRIM,

The property of H. G. White, South Framingham, Mass

^=3 \

COTSWOLD EWE, LADY GAT,

The property of H. G. White, South Framingham, Mass,

.j^f^sofl/jM' Ny-

BLOOD STOCK

83

The Committee on Sheep award the following pre-
miums :

FLOCKS.

1st, Messrs. A. C. & J. G. Wood, Millbury, for a flock

of pure blood South Downs, $6,00

2d, Wm. G. Wyman, Fitchburg, flock Cotswolds, 4,00

3d, Jas. Mclntire, Fitchburg, Leicester and Native, 2,00

COSSETTS.

1st, Jas. Mclntire, Fitchburg, Cossett, 2,00

2d, Otis Flagg, Westminster, Cossett, 1,00

GRATUITIES

George Fox, New Ipswich, flock Cotswolds, 6,00

H. G. White, Framingham, Leicester, 4,00

BLOOD STOCK.

To the President and Members of the Worcester North
Agricultural Society : —

Your Committee on Blood Stock have attended to-
their duty and present the following report :

We find thirty-six entries on the books of your
Society — eight for premium and twenty-eight for
exhibition — consisting of twenty-eight Short Horns,
four Devons, one Jersey, and one Dutch. All of which
did great credit to their respective races, with perhaps
one exception. But owing to the rules of your Society,
requiring "Authentic Pedigrees? we are sorry to say,
we were obliged to rule out of competition all the
animals except the Short Horns, the others not any of
them presenting documentary evidence of purity of
blood, and in several instances nothing was put before?

ii

84

BLOOD STOCK.

us to establish the claim except the bare entiy "full
Uoodr

We would here say that we felt extreme delicacy in
ruling out the animals referred to, but felt in duty
bound so to do, with the vote of your Society in view.
For with the best of intent on the part of the contrib-
utor, unless he can substantiate his claim of purity of
blood, by a carefully kept record of pedigrees, how can
we or any one else know whether the animal in ques-
tion is of the race claimed or with a sprinkling of some
other blood of very different form and characteristics,
whereby the breeder will surely, sooner or later, be
disappointed with his calves, they showing other than
the points of a thoroughbred of the claimed race ? and
would state that if the restriction is too severe the rules
whereby your future Committee is to be governed must
be made more lenient, a course which we would not be
understood as recommending by any means. For in th ese
modern days when breeders are forming associations to
guard against spurious pedigrees, and the demand of
the public is for well authenticated pedigreed animals,
this Society should be slow to aid either designing or
undesigning parties in palming off animals with doubtful
pedigrees, as thoroughbreds.

The following is the award of your Committee :

BULLS.

1st, to A. 0. Cummins of Millbury, for his Bull Major,
five months old. $5,00

2d, to Joseph Upton of Fitchburg, for his bull

Red Rover, fifteen months old, 3,00

The fine young bull Prince of Wales, (No. 4275 Am.

Herd Book,) owned by A. O. Cummins, of Millbury,

Would have been, in the minds of your Committee,

BLOOD STOCK.

85

entitled to the first premium, had he not taken it last
year thereby disqualifying him for competition.

We also recommend a gratuity of $5,00 to Mr.
Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg for his promising Devon
bull calf and two heifers, they not competing for the
Society's premiums owing to a lack in the authenticity
of their pedigrees, all of which were admired by your
Committee, and considered beautiful specimens of that
noted race. Also a gratuity of $3,00 to Mr. Lorriston
Stockwell, of Fitchburg, for his fine Devon bull, being
deficient in a pedigree also. We also notice with
pleasure the Dutch bull presented by Mr. Downe, Sup-
of Town Farm in Fitchburg. As the Chairman of all
Committees is in duty bound to express the sentiments
of the majority of the Committee, we shall make no
apology for stating that your Committee also take
pleasure in mentioning the very fine herd of ten
thoroughbred female Short Horns exhibited by Messrs.
A. C. & J. G. Wood, and A. 0. Cummins, of Millbury.
Prominent among which Avas " Lady Chesterford," an
imported cow, bred by the late Jonas Webb, Cambridge-
shire England, also Lady Chesterford, 2d, 3d and 4th,
the offspring of the cow. Also Lady Sale, 5th, a very
superior dairy cow, combining form also, and recom-
mend a gratuity of $15,00 to them and would be glad
to have" given more had the funds of the Society war-
ranted it.

We also viewed with admiration, and mention with
pleasure, the superior herd of fourteen Short Horns,,
presented by H. G. White, Esq., of South Framingham.
Conspicuous among which was his Bull Monitor, bred
by Mr. Samuel Thorne of Duchess County, New York?
an animal of fine form and great length of carcass.
Also, his fat cow Aba, as perfect a specimen of a cow

86

BLOOD STOCK.

fitted for the shambles as is often met with. Also
Lady Lathrop, a very superior heifer, being of nearly
perfect symetry, and bidding fair to be one of the
deepest milkers. Also Dora Haynes, a fine heifer,
together with Highland Maid, 2d, and other noteworthy
heifers and cows. And we recommend $25,00 as milage
to Mr. White as a partial token of our appreciation of
his fine stock which we are fully aware has added very
materially to our show.

Were we to close this report without alluding to the
lesson which this day's show has taught, we should fail
of discharging our duty to other members of this
Society and the farmers of this vicinity.

Has any man carefully examined the stock in the
pens and the steers at the posts, to-day without coming
to the inevitable conclusion that "Blood will tell V

Lay aside the beauty, the pleasure to the eye, which,
by the way, to a person with an eye in his head and a
soul in his body is very pleasing, and take the economi-
cal view, we have seen thoroughbred cows and cows of
high grade, the get of pure bred bulls, which show the
unmistakable marks of being great producers of milk,
many of which having from one to four of their
offspring on the ground, all of which have inherited the
characteristics of their respective breeds, and with an
anatomy so skillfully arranged that they readily take
on flesh in the most desirable points, thereby making
a greater percentage of high priced or valuable flesh,
which is readily appreciated by the butcher, in proof of
which you have but to visit Cambridge, Brighton, or
New York markets and see with what ready sale
animals, high up in "blood" meet, while the poor, flat
ribbed, heavy offaled "scrubs" are sold late in the day
and at prices that never pay the feeder, if in fact they

rw • .- in

SHORT HORN BULL,

MONITOR.

— -*-s-aH-~ —

3?ecLigree recorcLecl Vol. 6, American Herd Bools.

Red and White, bred by Sam'l Thorne, Thorndale, Washington
Hollow, Dutchess Co., N. Y., the property of H. G. White, South
Framingham, Middlesex Co., Mass. Calved January 26, 1860.
Got by 2d Duke of Thorndale, 2788 (vol. 4, p. 89, A. H. B.)— out
of Accacia (bred by Mr. Thorne, ):by 2d Grand Duke, 2181 (12961)
(vol. 3, p. 222)— Aurora (bred in Eng. by G. D. Trotter,) by 3d
Duke of York (10166) — Allspice by 2d Duke of Northumberland
(3646) — Young Amazon by Crusader (934)— Amazon by Sultan
(1485J— Bellona by Mars (411 j— Rolla by North Star (458.)

The sire of Monitor— 2d Duke of Thorndale 2788, vol. 4, p. 88
A. H. B,, color red roan. Calved April 5th, 1858 — bred by Sam'l
Thorne, (and sold by him to go to England for $3000) got by 2d
Grand Duke, 2181 (12961) (vol. 3, p. 222, bred by Earl Ducie,
Tortworth Court, Eng.,) out of Duchess 71st by Duke of Gloster,
2763 (11382) (vol. 4, p. 83 A. H. B.) (bred by Earl Ducie)—
Duchess 66th, (sold at the sale of the herd of the late Earl Ducie for
$3500, her calf at the same time bringing SI 500 — making $5000 for
cow and calf, J by 4th Duke of York (10167) — Duchess 55th by 4th
Duke of Northumberland (8694 J— Duchess 38 by Norfolk, 2377)—
Duchess 33d by Belvedere (1606J — Duchess 19th by Second Hub-
back (1423)— Duchess 12th by the Earl (646)— Duchess 4th by
Ketton 2d (710j— Duchess 1st by Comet (155)— by Favorite (252)
—by Daisy bull (186)— by Favorite (252)— by Hubback (319).

ABA.

Bred by S. T. Taber, Chestnut Ridge, N. Y. The Property

oe H. G. White, South Framingham, Middlesex

County, Mass.

Calved, June 23, 1857. Color, Roan

Got by Earl of Warwick. 465.

Dam, Atlanta 3d by Logan, 2, 652

" Atlanta by Enchanter, (3729)

" Adeline by Young Comet, (3437)

" Emma by Wellington, (683)

" Annabella by Major, (398)

" Ada by Denton, (198)

" Aurora by Comet, (1^5)

PRINCE ALTENBEKCL

Bred by, and the Property op, H. G. White, South

Framingham, Middlesex Co., Mass.

Calved Oct. 7, 1862. Color, Red.

Pedigree recorded. "Vol. 5, p. 14=7.

Got by Prince of Wales. 4275.

Dam, Lady Lathrop by Young Monarch, 3605

" Lady Sale 5th by Red Jacket, 890

" Lady Sale 3d by Imp. 3d Duke of Cambridge, ("5911)

" Imp. Lady Sale 2d by Earl of Chatham, (10176)

" Lady Sale by General Sale, (8090)

" Clara by Napier, (6238)

" Maid of Orleans by Mameluke, (2258)

" Helena by Waterloo, (2816)

" Moss Rose by Baron, (58)

" Angelina by Phenomenon, (491)

11 Anna Boleyn by Favorite, (252)

" Princess by Favorite, (252)

" Brighteyes by Favorite, (252)

" Brighteyes by Hubback, (319)

" Brighteyes by Snowdon's Bull, (612)

" Beauty by Masterman's Bull, (422)

" Duchess of Athol by Harrison's Bull, (292)

" Tripes by the Studley Bull, (626)

" bred by Mr. Stephenson of Ketton in 1739.

BLOOD STOCK. ^°

find a sale at all. Will any one after viewing the fat
cow Aba, shown by Mr. White, tell us that the " native "
stock of New England possess all the characteristics
desirable in stock ? We have it from undoubted
authority that she never ate hut very Utile extra feed
with the exception of roots, and that she is a small
consumer, substantiating the fact often stated that an
animal consumes in proportion to their offal not weight.
Or will they fail to see the effect of judicious breeding
for milk when they see Lady Sale, 5th, a cow which
has given over seventeen quarts of milk per day in
March, 1862, from which was made one pound of butter
from eight quarts of milk ; or the heifer Lady Lathrop,
three years old, having calved last October and ^given
milk through the winter and then giving twelve quarts
of milk per diem, in the month of June, and that of a
quality nearly equal to her dam, Lady Sale, 5th ?

In further proof of the transmission of blood we
would mention Highland Maid, a two year old heifer,
out of Lady Sale, 5th, she having calved in last March,
has given twelve quarts per day on an average during
the month of June, and of a quality which gives credit
to a heifer of her age. Also Florence, two years old,
having calved last March, has given as much as the
last named heifer and of good quality.

Likewise the high grade cows, many of which are
the produce of thoroughbred sires, presented by Abel
F. Adams, Joel Page and Mr. Vose, of Winchendon,
two of which belonging to the latter named gentleman,
not only being " the best of milkers," but having two
pair of steers, their calves, the one two years old, the
other six months, all of which were easily distinguished
by their resemblance to their dames, add but another
proof that "Like begets like" in a high bred animal.

94

BLOOD STOCK.

Will any one answer by saying this is the effect of
judicious breeding and that our " natives" can be bred
up to equal perfection ? Let us answer by saying, it is
the effect of great care on the part of eminent breeders
in the old country continued through a series of years
sufficient to weed out the undesirable points and firmly
establish the desirable qualities, and who will attempt to
rear a race of thoroughbreds here in New England
when at a comparatively small sum animals can be
procured of any of the acknowledged breeds which
contain the same qualities you would strive to obtain ?
It is true that thoroughbred animals are as yet so
scarce that all cannot avail themselves of thoroughbred
cows, but all or nearly all can use pure bred bulls, and
no man can afford to patronize a native, so called, when
he intends to rear his calves, certainly, and where the
services of a pure bred can be had for a reasonable
advance from natives or grades, it will pay the farmer
when he intends his calves for veal, as the increased
weight with the form will generally insure a sufficient
remuneration for the extra outlay. Before closing, lest
any undervalue a pedigree, allow us to state that the
value of a pedigree consists in its guirantee that the
animal is of the race or breed claimed and has in its
self the power of transmitting the qualities for which
it is itself noted, and that the longer the pedigree, the
quality being the same, the more sure your animal is to
transmit its qualities. As the object of all Agricultural
Societies is to improve our agricultural interest, it
becomes a question of importance whether we offer
premiums for grade or mongrel bulls at all, for by so
doing we are encouraging the rearing of inferior animals.
All of which is respectfully submitted,

A. 0. CUMMINS, Chairman.

GRADE BULLS. ** J

GRADE OR NATIVE BULLS.

The Committee on Grade Bulls having attended to
their duty, report:

There were entered for premium on the Society's
books, eleven bulls of all ages, though there were on
exhibition only ten present. There were no very
superior bulls, though a number very fair, and one or
two so coarse and homely that the unanimous opinion
of the Committee would be, that if put to any cow,
they would be unable to beget any other trait than an
imitation of their own ugliness. All breeders of
cattle cannot be too careful to select good shaped bulls,
to which to put their cowTs, and the nearer the bull
approaches to pure blood, the more careful should they
be, as all blooded bulls are more likely to beget their
own likeness than native or low grades. The Com-
mittee are unanimous in making the following awards ;

BULLS TWO YEARS OLD AND UPWARDS.

1st, to J. Wilker,

$5,00

2d, to Joseph Upton,

3,00

YEARLING BULLS.

1st, to Joel Page,

4,00

2d, to John Cutter,

2,00

3d premium not awarded.

BULL CALVES.

1st, to Edwin D. Works.

4,00

2d, to J. P. Reed,

3,00

3d premium not awarded.

For the Committee,

J. T, EVERETT,

Chairman*

96 MILCH KINE.

MILCH KINE.

The Committee on Milch Kine make the following
awards :

HERDS OF COWS.

2d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitehburg $7,00

cows.

1st, to Samuel Burnap, of Fitehburg, 5,00

2d, to J. P. Heed, of Princeton, 4,00

3d, to David Battles, of Fitehburg, S,00

GRATUITIES.

H. M. Caswell, of Fitehburg, 2,00

Wm. B. S. Drew, of Fitehburg, 2,00

Reuben Vose, Jr., Winchendon, (4 cows,) 4,00

James Markham^ of Fitehburg, 1,00

Joseph Upton, of Fitehburg, 2,00

HEIFERS— THREE-¥EARS-OLTH

H. M. Caswell, of Fitehburg, gratuity, 3>00

HEIFERS— TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, !. B. B. Dole, of Fitehburg, 4,00

2d, I. B. Woodward, of Fitehburg, 3,

For the Committee,

D. C. MILES, Chairman.

Joseph uptok's statement:

To the Committee on Cows —

Gentlemen : I offer for premium a herd of four Cows,
which I have owned and kept agreeable to the rules
and regulations of the Society, the past season. They
have been kept in a herd of thirteen cows. In June*

MILCH KINE.

97

they had nothing to eat but what they got in the
pasture with the other cows, except the deep red cow
had two quarts meal per day. In September they had
nothing but grass.

The deep red cow is of the native breed and is ten
years old. She calved one year ago last June, and is
expected to calve again next December, so that her
trial in June was one year after her calving. She gave
in June an average of 18 i pounds per day, and Sept.
151 pounds, and in one week made 7i pounds of butter.

The bughorn cow, eight years old, calved in July and
was tried in September ; she gave an average of 23 a
pounds ; she is a grade Durham.

The yellow cow is a grade Durham and is eight or
nine years old ; she calved last March, and gave in
June an average of 20 i pounds per day, and in Sept.
18 pounds per day.

The star heifer is four years old, seven-eighths Dur-
ham ; she calved last April and is with calf again to
calve the latter part of winter. She gave in June an
average of 20 pounds per day, and in September 17
pounds per day.

I offer one single cow, four years old, seven-eighths
Durham, raised by Joel Page of Fitchburg-. She
calved the first of September, 1863, and has had but
one trial, and she gave an average of 35 pounds per
day. The cows that I have offered are quiet and orderly.

SAMUEL BURNAP'S STATEMENT.
Gentlemen : This cow that I offer for premium is
eleven years old, part Durham and part Native. She
had a calf on the 24th of March last. I commenced

12

98

MILCH KINE.

weighing the milk the first Monday in April. For six
days she gave 279 J pounds, averaging 46 7-12 pounds
per day. The keeping she had was dry hay and two
quarts of meal and the same of shorts once a day. I
weighed the milk again the first of September. For six
days, she gave 175! pounds, averaging 29 7-24 pounds
per day. Her keeping was a very poor pasture, with
Southern corn night and morning, and one quart of
meal and three of shorts once a day.

JOSEPH P. REED'S STATEMENT.
To the Committee on Milch Kine —

Gentlemen : The cow I offer for premium is five years
old, Holderness and Native breed, calved in April. Her
keeping has been nothing but pasture to Sept. 3d;
since then corn fodder once a day. The following is
the weight of her milk for the six days in June: 252i
pounds of milk; the six days in Sept. 2221 pounds of
milk. We have tried her milk and found her to be one
of the best of butter cows.

DAVID BATTLES' STATEMENT.

To the Committee on Milch Kine —

Gentlemen : The cowl offer you for a premium is ten
years old, is half Native and half Durham. For the
first six days in June she gave 2 34 J pounds. Her feed
was a poor pasture with a foddering of hay night and
morning. For the first six days in Sept. she gave 186
pounds; went in the same pasture as in June, with a
foddering of green corn night and morning.

99

MILCH KINE. VtJ

HOSEA M. CASWELL'S STATEMENT.

To ike Committee on Milch Kine —

Gentlemen : The heifer which I offer for premium is
three years old. Her milk weighed 203 pounds for
the six days in June, commencing the first Monday,
making an average of 33 5-6 pounds per day ; for six
days in September, 183 pounds, making an average
of 30 i pounds per day.

THOMAS R. B. DOLE'S STATEMENT.

To the Committee on Milch Kine —

Gentlemen : The heifer- which I enter for premium
was two years old the 20th day of June last. She
dropped her calf the 25th of last March. She gave
the first six days in June 172 pounds of milk, averaging
283 pounds per day. She gave the first six days in
September, 131 pounds of milk, averaging 21 5-6 lbs.
She was pastured with other cows. I commenced feed-
ing her the last of August with corn fodder twice a day,

ISAAC B. WOODWARD'S STATEMENT.

To the Committee on Milch Kine —

Gentlemen : The two years old heifer which I enter
for premium came to milk the last of June. In six
days, commencing the first Monday in July, she gave
160i pounds of milk, which is an average of 26 J lbs.
per day. In six days, commencing the first Monday
in September, she gave 108 pounds, which is an average
of 18 pounds per day. She is three eighths Durham
and five-eighths Native; had no extra keeping, nothing
but short pasture feed.

H"^ HEIFER CALVES.

HEIFERS.

The Committee on Heifers make the following
awards :

TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, $4,00

2d, to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, 3,00

3d, to J. P. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

GRATUITIES.

G. S. Beaman, of Princeton, 1,00

M. D. Lyman, of Lunenburg, 1,00

YEARLINGS.

1st, to J. E. Merriam, of Princeton, 3,00

2d, to A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg, 1,00

BENJAMIN WYMAN, Chairman.

HEIFER CALVES.

The Committee on Heifer Calves more than four
months old, having attended to that duty, report as
follows :

IIEIBER CALVES MORE THAN TOUR MONTHS OLD.

1st to Joel Page, of Fitchburg, $3,00

2d, to J. Kinsman, of Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to H. M. Caswell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to G. M. Gregory, 3,00

2d, to N. B. Reed, Princeton, 2,00

3d, to A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg, 1,00
All of which is submitted by your Committee,

HARLOW SKINNER, Chairman.

WORKING OXEN.

101

FAT CATTLE.

The Committee on Fat Cattle award the following
premiums:

cows.

1st, J. T. Everett, Princeton, $6,00

2d, J. T. Everett, Princeton, 3,00

3d, J. T. Everett, Princeton, 2,00

OXEN.

1st, James Puffer, Westminster, 8,00

2d, James Puffer, Westminster, 5,00

3d, James Puffer, Westminster, 3,00

EZRA KENDALL, Chairman.

WORKING OXEN.

The Committee on Working Oxen award the follow-
ing premiums :

1st, Joel Page, Westminster, $6,00

2d, J. E. Merriam, Princeton, 5,00

3d, Silas Pratt, Fitchburg, 4,00

4th, Silas Pratt, Fitchburg, 3,00

5th, Silas Pratt, Fitchburg, 2,00

LUKE WELLINGTON, for the Committee.

STEERS MORE THAN TWO YEARS OLD.

The Committee on Steers more than two years old,
award the following premiums :

THREE-YEARS-OLD.

1st, Thomas Gibson, Fitchburg, 3 yrs. old steers, $5,00

There were no other competitors for premi-
ums on three year old steers.

102

STEERS.

TWO- YEARS-OLD.

1st, Sewall G. Mirick, Princeton, $4,00

2d, Israel Everett, Princeton, 3,00

3d, Geo. W. Houghton Princeton, 2,00

S. H. Sprague, Westminster, gratuity, 2,00

TRAINED STEERS— TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, Alfred Marshall, Fitchburg, 4,00

2d, J. P. Reed, Princeton, 2,00

GRATUITIES.

Avery Stockwell, Fitchburg, 2,00

G. S. Beaman, Princeton, 2,00

For the Committee,

CYRUS KILBURN, Chairman.

STEERS— LESS THAN TWO YEARS OLD.

The Committee on Steers less than two years old,
award the following premiums, to wit :

YEARLING STEERS.

1st, to Reuben Vose., of Winchendon, $3,00

2d, to N. B. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

3d, to Israel Everett, of Princeton, 1,00

TRAINED STEERS.

1st, to S. B. Reed, of Princeton, 3,00

2d, to Lyman W. Merriam, of Fitchburg 2,00

STEER CALVES.

1st, to Paul M. Mirick, of Princeton, 5,00

2d, to Thomas Billings, of Lunenburg, 3,00

3d, to Sewall G. Mirick, of Princeton, 1,00

.STALLIONS.

103

CALVES RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to Reuben Vose, of Winchendon. $5,00

2d, to N. B. & J. P. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

2d, to James H. Laws, of Westminster, 1,00

TRAINED CALVES.

1st, to Paul M. Mirick, of Princeton. 2,00

2d, to N. B. & J. P. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

For Committee,

E. GRAHAM, Chairman,

STALLIONS.

The Committee on Stallions having attended to their
duty make the following report :

We find entered for exhibition only two stallions which
produced specimens of their stock, although eleven
were entered and exhibited, which we believe was the
largest number entered for a number of years. Your
Committee regret that so few produced specimens of
the stock of their horses, for we believe that this is the
only sure basis upon which to decide the true value of
the stock horse, the qualities of stallions have been too
often based upon the having had a good parentage,
having rarely if ever themselves sired a good colt ;
therefore we see the necessity of strictly adhering to
the rules of the Society by exhibiting specimens of the
horse in order to judge correctly of his blood and true
value as a stock horse. We believe the time has
passed to talk of importing stallions from foreign coun-
tries ; it is believed that as good horses are raised in
this country as there is in any part of the world. Your

104

STALLIONS.

Committee feel justified in urging upon those engaged
in raising colts to select the best stock horse, one that
has proved himself so by his stock that there is in the
vicinity, although it may cost them a little trouble and
expense to find one that is worthy of their patronage,
as it will cost no more to raise a good colt than a poor
one, and often not so much — a thing started right
generally ends well.

The Committee award the following premiums :

STALLIONS, FIVE YEAKS OLD.

1st, Warren Simoncls, Templeton, Grey Eagle, producing
specimens of stock, $10,00

GRATUITIES.

H. H. Brown, Fitchburg, 6,00

Lewis Ware, Lunenburg, 4,00

STALLIONS, FOUR YEARS OLD

First premium not awarded.
2d, Adam Thompson, 2d, Littleton, 2.00

STALLIONS, THREE YEARS OLD.

1st, J. A. Harwood, Littleton, 4,00

Second premium not awarded.

STALLIONS, TWO YEARS OLD.

First premium not awarded.
2d, John Wilker, Ashburnham, 2,00

For the Committee,

WARREN SIMONDS, Chairman,

COLTS.

105

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.

Your Committee on Mares and Sucking Colts beg
leave to make the following report :

BREEDING MARES.

1st premium, not awarded.

2d, to E. Houghton, of Lunenburg, $1,00

GRATUITIES.

E. Bird, of Leominster, 2,00

Mrs. Mary Miles, of Westminster, 2,00

SUCKING COLTS.

1st, to E. Houghton, of Lunenburg, 3,00

2d, to Michael Cotton, of Lunenburg, 2,00

3d, to W. A. Mandell, of Lunenburg, 1,00

GRATUITIES.

Barach Whitney, of Gardner, 1,00

E. Bird, of Leominster, 1,00

H. H. BRIGHAM, Chairman.

COLTS.

Your Committee of Colts award the following pre-
miums :

THREE YEAR OLD GELDINGS.

1st, Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham, $4,00'

Second premium not awarded.

GRATUITIES.

T. S. Eaton, Fitchburg, 2,00

E. T. Farwell, Fitchburg, 2,00

THREE YEAR OLD FILLIES.

1st, Asa Holden, Shirley, 4,00

GRATUITIES.

E. H. Frost, Fitchburg, 2,00

13

106

DEAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES,

TWO YEAR OLD GELDINGS.

1st. Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, John Cutter, Winchendon, 2,00

GRATUITIES.

Geo. Miles, Westminster, 2,00

James Devine, Fitchburg, 1,00

TWO YEAR OLD FlLLlUS.

First premium not awarded.
2d, Barack Whitney, Gardner, 2,00

YEARLING COLTS.

1st, A. & M. A. Everett, Princeton, (Filly) 4,00

2d, Josiah Page, Westminster, 2,00

For the Committee,

GEO. F. VOSE, Chairman.

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

The Committee on Draught and Family Horses
award the following premiums :

DRAUGHT HORSES.

J. P. Putnam, Fitchburg, best pair draught

horses, • $6,00

E. A. Goodrich, Fitchburg, best draught horse, 5,00

Silas Pratt, Fitchburg, 2d best, 3,00

FAMILY HORSES.

Augustus Whitman, Fitchburg, best, 7?00

GRATUITY.

Henry Smith, Temple ton, 5,00

JOHN K. GOING, Chairman.

POULTRY.

107

SWINE.

The Committee on Swine report as follows :

BOARS MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

1st, to Silas Pratt, of Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, to George Miles, of Westminster, 3,00

FAT PIGS.

1st, to Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg, 3,00

2d, to George Miles, of Westminster, 2,00

3d, to E. Caldwell, of Fitchburg, 1,00

BREEDING SOWS.

1st, to George Miles, of Westminster, 3,00

2d, to G. B. Hagar, of Gardner, 2,00

WEANED PIGS.

1st, to James Mclntire, of Fitchburg, 3,00

GRATUITY.

Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg, 2,00

J. M. HARRIS, Chairman.

POULTRY.

The Committee on Poultry award the following pre-
miums :

TURKEYS.

1st, I B. Woodward, Fitchburg, $2,00

2d, Addison Howe, Ashburnham, 1,00

BARNYARD FOWLS.

1 st, N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 2,00

2d, Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, 1,00

DUCKS.

1st, A. Crocker, Fitchburg, 2,00

108

PLOWING.

GRATUITIES.

Charles Brigham, Fitchburg, barn-yard fowls, $1,00

Edwin Monroe, Fitchburg, barn-yard fowls, ,75

Lilley B. Caswell, Fitchburg, chickens, ,75

Mary Miles, Westminster, chickens, ,75

L. J. Brown, Fitchburg, Chinese fowls, ,50

L. Stockwell, Fitchburg, turkey, ,50

Edwin Monroe, Fitchburg, doves, ,25

Aubrey Stockwell, Fitchburg, fowls, ,25

Herbert Goodrich, Fitchburg, fowls, ,25

WM. WOODBURY, Chairman.

PLOWING— HORSE TEAMS.

The Committee on Plowing with horse teams, report
as follows :

1st, to James P. Putnam, of Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to Edwin D. Works, of Fitchburg, 5,00

The plowmen worked well. If they had changed
lands the premiums in all probability would have
been changed.

E. D. Works' horses were the lightest, and in my opin-
ion the best for farmers to keep. They will consume
less food and do the work on a farm just as well.

JOHN BROOKS, Acting Chairman.

100

PLOWING.

PLOWING— SINGLE TEAMS.

The Committee on plowing with single teams
make the following awards :

1st, to Levi Downe, of Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to Hubbard#B. Fuller, of Fitchburg, 5,00

3d, to J. E. Merriam, of Princeton, 3,00

1st premium to Minors, Alfred A. Marshall and
Aubrey Stockwell, of Fitchburg, 6,00

THOMAS BILLINGS, Chairman.

PLOWING— DOUBLE TEAMS.*

Your Committee on Plowing with Double Teams
were hardly able to decide whether to give a premium
to Edwin A. Goodrich and Charles Farwell or not, as
the oxen on their teams took the first premium last
year, but as part of the members thought they would be
allowed to compete and also the President and Secre-
tary of the Society ; therefore we award to Edwin A.
Goodrich and Charles Farwell the first premium of
$7,00 ; and to Joel Page and S. S. Shattuck the second
premium of $5,00; and to Alonzo P. Goodrich the
third premium of §3,00. Your Committee were of the
opinion that where the oxen have taken the highest
premium with one horse that they ought not to be
allowed to compete with another horse.

Your Committee regret much that their Chairman,
Nathaniel Wood, Esq., was not present.

G. S. BEAMAN, For the Committee.

♦This Report was not adopted at the business meeting on the day of the
Exhibition, but referred to the Trustees for their action. At a meeting of
the Trustees held Oct. 26, voted "That the board of Trustees sanction the
awards of the Committee on Plowing with Double Teams."

Secretary

^ GRAIN.

GRAIN.

Mr President: — Your Society has placed in the
hands of the Committee on Grain twenty premiums to
be disposed of according to the rules and regulations
of said Society. They, with the entries claiming said
premiums, are as follows : Premiums on Corn 4, entries
3 ; premiums on Wheat 4, entries 2 ; premiums on
Rye 2, entries none ; premiums on Barley 2, entries 1 ;
premiums on Oats 2, entries none ; premiums on Beans
2, entries 1 ; premiums on Grass Seed 4, entries 1.
Total, 20 premiums, entries 8. Other than these there
were 4 entries, but soon after were withdrawn, and 1
ruled out for not complying with the rules of the
Society. This shows a state of things which ought not
to be ; but whether the fault lies with the Committee,
the Society, or with the grain growers, it is not in our
province to determine. But of one thing we are sure,
we have seen many rich and beautiful fields of grain
in the locality of Worcester North, and some of them
at least might have taken premiums had they been
entered for the same, and added much to the interest
of the Society. We would suggest to our grain
raisers that the rather oppressive rule of causing the
whole acre to be weighed is dispensed with, and the
requirements of a single rod is sufficient.

Grain is one of the most important articles that
comes under the notice of our Agricultural Societies?
especially in the New England States. In the broad
lands of New York, Pennsylvania, and the more
Western States, where manuring is unnecessary, and
the plowing, sowing, planting, hoeing, harvesting and
threshing, is all done by horse power, and yielding a
crop of eighty or ninety bushels per acre, experiments

Ill

GRAIN. xxx

are useless, we have but to take the abundance from
the Dispenser of all good and convert it to our enjoy-
ment and welfare. But upon the hard lands of Massa-
chusetts, where plowing, manuring, cultivating and
experimenting are necessary, for a crop of fifty or
sixty bushels per acre, the raising of grain has become
almost an art, and requires the strictest attention of
every farmer in the community.

Many experiments might be referred to, to advantage,
did space and time allow, but we have neither at our
command, and therefore will leave it to others who
have both at their control.

The growth and cultivation of the several fields
which were entered for premiums we have witnessed
through the season, although differing somewhat in
mode, have been well managed and give credit to their
owners.

By the statement of Joseph Goodrich, it will be
seen that his acre of corn produced eighty-three
bushels, and the cost of raising $53,00 ; that of
Samuel Ware gives seventy-four bushels, cost $77,80,
the difference in cost arising from appraising the
manure. Mr. Ware allows $58,00 for twenty-three
loads, while Mr. Goodrich allows but $40,00 for twenty-
eight loads. If we allow one-half of the manure for the
next crop, either is a profitable investment. The field
entered by A. "P. Goodridge, stood prominent in the
minds of the Committee through the season and when
examined appeared well. The average rod when
gathered weighed thirty-nine pounds ; in eighteen days
from the gathering it weighed but twenty-eight and
three-fourths pounds. Twenty-seven pounds per rod
as the required standard, and the Committee were unani-

119

nious in the opinion that when the corn is in a market-
able condition, it will Ml below the required point,
hence no premium.

Perhaps we may be excused if we intimate here that
the Society has imposed a duty on the Grain Com-
mittee, they are unable to perform. They require our
returns to be made by the tenth of November, and the
corn to be in a marketable condition ; that corn should
be in that condition at the time specified is out of the
question. We were invited by L. Downe, the master
of the almshouse in Fitchburg, to visit his field of corn
on said farm. It is a beautiful field of four acres, and
the Committee were unanimous in recommending a
gratuity of two dollars to him; would that there
were many such fields in this community. We were
also invited to visit Benjamin SafFord's field. It was a
fine field of corn, and reflects credit to its owner ; but
as nothing was asked, nothing was given. We hope
to see his name on the list of entries another year.

The two fields of wheat entered were of good
growth, and the wheat itself of fine quality. Both
were somewhat adulterated with Chess, an article of
which much has been said, and the origin hard to
determine ; but suffice it to say, it very much resem-
bles the Bible tare which Satan sowed among the
ancient wheat, and we should do well to keep as clear
from it as possible. A specimen of bread was presented
from one of the fields, which was well worthy attention,
but whether it was from the superiority of the wheat,
or the superiority of the cook we will not decide.

Bye, Barley and Oats. From these three there is
but one entry, and of course but one premium.

Beans, there were but two entries ; one is referred to

GRAIN.

115"

in the accompanying documents, one was ruled out for
not complying with the rules of the Society.

Grass seed, there was but one entry, it was a splen-
did specimen, and we cheerfully give the first premium.

In closing, we would say to the farmers of Worcester
North, that they give the succeeding Committee, a
wider range of entries, and a heavier demand on the
funds of the Society.

The premiums as awarded stand thus :

corn.
1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, $8,00

2d, to Samuel Ware, of Fitchburg, 6,00

3d and 4th premiums not awarded.

GRATUITY.

L. Downe, of Fitchburg, 2,00

WHEAT.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, 8,00

2d, to Ephraim Graham, Lunenburg, 5,00

BARLEY.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Lunenburg, 3,00

BEANS.

1st, to Joseph Goodrich, of Fitchburg, 2,00

HERDS GRASS SEED.

1st, to George Kendall, of Ashby, 2,00

All of which is respectfully submitted,

LEVI DOWNE, Chairman.

14

114

GRAIN

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.*

CORN.

I offer one acre of corn for a premium. The crop of
the land in 1861 and 1862 was grass, without manure,
each year. The soil is a strong clay loam, was plowed
once, May 1st ten inches deep, harrowed, manured
with twenty-eight loads barn manure, part spread, the
remainder put in the hill, furrowed and planted the
second week in May with Carter corn, and hoed three
times, using the cultivator twice. The corn was toped
the fore part of September, and harvested about the
middle of October.

Cost of plowing, harrowing &c, $6,00

Manure, 40,00

Seed and planting, - - - - - - - 3,00

Cultivation, - - - - - - - 10,00

Harvesting, 10,00

Total, $69,00

Produce, 5960 lbs. of ears of corn, ascertained Oct.
24th, and three tons of stover.

SAMUEL WARE'S STATEMENT.

CORN.

Land one acre. Crop of 1861 hay without manure ;
that of 1862 potatoes and fodder corn with two barrels
phosphate of lime — soil reddish — plowed once six
inches deep, harrowed, thirteen loads manure spread,
ten loads put in the hill, planted May 20th in hills

*The grain statements are prepared by the Secretary, from the returned
forms sent to the several competitors. The loads of manure are, in all
cases, understood to contain thirty bushels each. The weight of the crop
is estimated by the Committee, who select and weigh an average rod for
the purpose. — Sec.

GRAIN,

115

three feet apart, four and five kernels in a hill, common
eight rowed yellow corn ; plowed and hoed twice.

Cost of plowing, harrowing, etc., .... $3,00

Manure, 58,00

Seed and planting, 5,30

Cultivation, 4,50

Harvesting, 7,00

Total, $77,80

Corn, 5360 lbs. Oct. 26, stover, $15 worth.

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.
WH EAT.

Field one acre. Crop of 1861 and 1862 grass with-
out manure, each year — soil clay loam, plowed Sept.
1862, six to eight inches deep, manured with twenty-
two loads, harrowed ; seed two bushels white Flint
wheat, washed, limed, sowed about the middle of Sept.
and harvested about the first of August.

Cost of plowing and harrowing, $5,00

Manure, - 35,00

Seed and sowing, 7,00

Harvesting, ------- 6,00

Total, $53,00

Wheat, 1986 lbs., Oct. 24th, straw, 2500 lbs.

EPHRAIM GRAHAM'S STATEMENT.
WHEAT.

The quantity of land one acre. Crop of 1861 and
1862 grass, without manure, each year; the soil black
subsoil clay; plowed once August 25th, about seven

116

GRAIN.

inches deep, rolled and harrowed, twenty-six loads of
manure applied; seed two bushels, called Blue Stem,
sowed broadcast, Sept. 3d, harvested Aug. 1st ; cut
with sickles, bound and stooked for one week or so,
carted to the barn and stowed.

Cost of plowing and other preparation, - - - $20,00

Manure, 27,50

Seed and sowing, 4,25

Harvesting, storing and threshing, , 12,00

Total, $68,75

Product, 1700 lbs. of wheat, or 28 J bushels, and
about one ton of straw.

Remarks. — "The manure used was taken from the
barn cellar, made from four cows, two oxen and two
hogs from the 1st of January to the 25th of August,
incorporated with loam, sand and 100 bushels leached
ashes ; the furrows rolled down smooth before spread-
ing the manure, and in all similar cases should be
cultivated with the cultivating harrow, after which
bushed and rolled.

It appears that the whole expense of plowing, culti-
vation, manure, harvesting and threshing equals $63,
and that the value of the product, including the straw is
about the same, so that the gain must be in .the grass
crops. Now this acre of land will probably /j the next
four years, produce seven tons of hay, equal to $100,
cost of making the hay about $14, leaving a balance of
$84 in four years, or $21 net gain in one year, interest
of the land, $7 to be deducted, equal $14.

Sixty lbs. of the wheat produced 40 J lbs. of flour.

117

GRAIN. XXI

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.

BARLEY.

One acre. Grass without manure in 1861, corn in
1862, with 25 loads of barn manure. Soil, clay loam,
plowed, twice in April, six inches deep ; seed, three bush-
els ; sowed last of April ; mowed and raked the first of
August.

Cost of plowing, $5,00

Seed and sowing, ' - 3,00

Harvesting, 6,00

Total, $14,00

Product, 1600 lbs. barley, and one ton straw.

JOSEPH GOODRICH'S STATEMENT.

BEANS.

Land, 40 rods. Crop of 1861, grass without man-
ure, that of 1862, potatoes with three loads ; soil
gravely loam, plowed twice in April and May, six inches
deep ; manure three loads in the hill ; seed marrow
beans, planted last of May ; cultivated three times ;
harvested in September.

Cost of plowing, $1,00

Manure, 3,00

Seed and planting, - 1,00

Cultivation, ' - 2,00

Harvesting, 2,00

Total, $9,00

Product, 415 lbs. beans.

1 1 O FANCY ARTICLES.

FANCY ARTICLES.

The Committee on Fancy Articles award the follow-
ing premiums :

Ellen R. Whitney, Ashburnham, two chair

backs, $1,00

Mrs. J. F. D. Garfield, wrought skirt, ,75

Mrs. J. B. Proctor, wrought skirt, ,50

Mrs. E. E. Safford, wrought skirt, ,50

Lucy A. Lowe, wrought handkerchief and skirt,- ,50

Miss Emily Gardner, knit crib spread, 1,00

Mrs. Tamar Sheldon, lot woolen yarn and mittens, ,50

Mrs. Jane P. Stone, wrought skirt, ,75
Mrs. N. A. Tufts, wrought skirt and night dress

yoke, ,75

Minnie J. Carey, embroidered skirt, ,50
Mrs. J. W. Micldleton, yoke and sleeves in crochet, ,25

Sarah E. Miller, Westminster, wrought skirt. ,33

Edna M. Lowe, crochet and fancy work, ,25

Mrs. L. A. Dix, three pairs fancy hose, ,50

Mrs. Trees, bonnets, 1,00

Mrs M. C. Jaquith, fancy hose, ,20

Mrs. Thomson, one pair woolen hose, ,20

Sarah Wright, two bead collars, ,20

Rachel Wetherbee, thread tidy, ,25

Mary A. Osborn, two thread tidys, ,25

Mrs. T. C. Walker, two crochet tidys, ,33
Mrs. Betsey Merriam, (91 years of age) one pair

woolen hose, ,25

Helen A. Woodward, worsted and patch work, ,50

Hattie D. Upton, worsted crochet work, ,50

Mary A. Wright, worsted tidy, ,25

Mrs. Holmes, (85 yrs. of age,) 1 pair woolen hose ,25

FANCY ARTICLES.

119

Hattie Gerry, one doll, ,25

Abbie Youn glove, one pair wrought slippers, ,25
Miss Hattie Friar, (gratuity) crochet vase and

lamp mats, ,50

Abbie Meserve, bead box and chrochet work, ,25

Anna S. Dickinson, ottoman, ,33

Nellie M. Smith, one pair embroidered slippers, ,25

Mrs. Mary M. Downer, needle work, ,33

John Marble, (blind boy,) bead work, ,50
Laura Bridgeman, (deaf, dumb and blind,)

crochet work, ,50

M. A. Jewett, cone frame, ,25

Mrs. J. Burnap, worked rug, ,50

Mrs. S. G. Frost, bed quilt, ,25

Mrs. L. W. Cooledge, bed quilt, ,50

Mr. Charles Prichard, Townsend, rug, ,25
Mrs. N. S. Boutelle, (gratuity) embroidered skirts, ,50

Mrs. Dunsmore, Lunenburg, bed quilt, ,25

N. Louisa Smith, butternut basket, ,20

Emily A. Boutelle, tidy and chrochet work, ,25

A. Brooks, shell basket, ,25

Mrs. Charles P. Deane, woolen hose, ,25

Mrs. Dorcas Frost, bed quilt, ,25

Clara E. Eames, book-mark and harp, ,25
Mary Hale and Myra Richardson, box of

butterflies, ,38

Mrs. E. B. Rockwood, bead work, ,25

J. E. MANNING, For the Committee.

120

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

The Committee on Mechanics and Manufactures,
found about the usual assortment of articles in their
department, awaiting the inspection, which at the
appointed time, they proceeded to bestow.

They found several varieties of clothes wringers, for
which they awarded premiums as follows :

L. J. Warren, of Fitchburg, $,50

A. J. Stone, of Fitchburg, ,50

C. L Fairbanks, of Fitchburg, ,50

Each differed from the other in its construction, and
each no doubt possessed its peculiar advantages ; but
there was no one to point them out, and no one of the
Committee wanted his clothes wrung, so we had no
practical test of their respective merits. We accord-
ingly awarded the premiums, on the general ground
that clothes wringers were good things, and ought to be
encouraged.

To Waldo Wallace, we awarded $1,00, for ploughs
of very superior workmanship and shape.

Henry J. Lowe, exhibited two fishing rods, so exquis-
itely fashioned and finished, that it seemed impossible
to the Committee, that any trout of right feeling, could
refuse to " come in out of the wet," when such imple-
ments are waved over the stream, by an angler worthy
of wielding them. It was believed that they would be
irresistible unless to a fish utterly depraved, and lost
to all moral sense. We awarded for the rods, $2,00.

To Thomas Sheldon, for a substantially made and well
shaped ox yoke. $1,50.

One of the Committee thought such a yoke would
go far to obviate the inconvenience of being an ox, but

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

121

his indiscretion was properly rebuked by an indignant
silence from the rest.

J. F. &. E. P. Monroe, displayed a bewildering assort-
ment of egg beaters, apple parers and pickers, milk
pans, &c. &c. The Chairman of the Committee, in the
absence of the rest induced Mr. Munroe to " secede"
an apple fr6tn the table and pare it. But before he
could rescue it from the furious paring to which it was
subjected by the enthusiastic proprietor, there was so
little left, that the Chairman gained nothing by the
absence of the others. The Committee were much
struck by the ingenuity displayed in the invention of
all these things, and awarded to Messrs. Monroe a
premium of $5.

To Frank W. Wallace of Ashburnham, for articles
turned from wood, $3.

Many of these articles were remarkable specimens
of what may be accomplished by patience and skill-
One which formed a cone when complete, was composed
of a large circular box at the base, the cover of which
formed another box, covered in turn by another, and
so on till the top was reached. An acorn was found
upon opening it, to contain another, which upon being
also opened, revealed another, and so on, as far as the
unaided fingers and naked eyes of the Committee could
go. Undoubtedly a magnifying glass, and proper tools,
might have revealed a never ending series of acorns
continually diminishing in size.

B. F. Proctor, also furnished a display of various
turned articles, for which we awarded, $1.

To Pratt & Stocking, for spring bed and exquisitely
carved furniture, we awarded $5.

The bed was of a novel construction, and looked as

15

122

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES

though it might "lie easy," and thus sell itself; but
surrounding circumstances forbade the idea of going
to bed, and thus we lacked the actual test, which would
have enabled us to speak from personal knowledge.
To S. D. Willis, for spring bed, $1,00

To S. G. Frost, for harness work, 2,50

In tenderness to the feelings of one of the Com-
mittee, who once lost one horse by death, and another
by " swopping," the too commemorative harness work
was passed by, more hastily than its merits deserved.

Dr. T. Palmer, showed a case of artificial teeth, which
were cunningly placed in such close juxtaposition to
certain jars of pickles, loaves of bread and boxes of
butter, that they could not help looking natural. Still
the doctor's skill was so plainly manifest, that no one
destitute of them, (we mean the teeth, not the bread
and butter,) could hesitate to place himself in his
hands. We awarded to the doctor, $4.

Sylvanus Sawyer, exhibited an assortment of the
various description of projectiles invented by him, for
which we awarded $5.

Possibly a few words, based upon the personal
knowledge of the Chairman, with reference to what
was perhaps the most interesting feature of the show,
may not be amiss. Some ten years since, during a
chance interview, Mr. Sawyer mentioned to the Chair-
man that the idea of an explosive shell or projectile had
occurred to him, and partially explained its construction.
Since that period, he has labored persistently, devoting
his whole time and means, to perfecting his invention.
With an energy that nothing could tire, with faith and
pluck almost superhuman. He has toiled on, in the
face of discouragements, which would have crushed

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES. -1^"

almost any man but himself. Meeting and turning
aside obstacles thrown in his way, by rivals and jealous
competitors, patiently modifying and improving those
features in his invention, shown to be faulty by the
severe tests to which his invention has been subjected,
he has at length forced a recognition of its merits, and
on many a hard fought field, his projectiles have flown
on their errand of pacification, and carried confusion
and dismay to the rebel soldiery. To one conversant
with all the circumstances, there was ample food for
reflection, in those grim looking lumps of metal, as
they lay there in strange contrast with the peaceful
trophies scattered in profusion in the hall, and repre-
senting, as they did, years of thought, untold care,
anxiety and patience, and an expenditure of dollars,
which might be reckoned by tens of thousands.
To George Gough, for miniature tools, $2,00

A vast deal of patience, skill and time, was evidently
expended in their manufacture, and the Committee
could only regret their entire want of any practical
utility.

To S. Sawyer, for aquarium, ,50

To Wade H. Jewett & Co., for a piano forte of very
superior workmanship, easy action, and remarkable
purity of tone, $10.

The upper notes in particular, were wonderfully
clear and brilliant.

To Clark & Swan, for shaker bonnets, $1,00

To S. D. Willis, for casket, ,50

To F. L. Ruggles, boots and shoes, 2,00

To Partridge. Sawyer, & Co., boots and shoes, 1,50
To Warren Simonds, for dressed leather, 2,00

To Joseph Pierce, for dressed leather, 2,00

To Levi Stevens, for case of brass work, 5,00

124

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

These comprised steam valves and fittings, bells,
steam whistles, &c, so finely polished, that to eyes long
unwonted to the sight of any but the common metals,
such as iron, nickel and postage currency,they were most
grateful, in their resemblance to the article used in the
middle ages, called gold.
To John Choate, for case^of medicine, $2,50

While the Committee would not be understood as
endorsing medicine and drugs generally, they see no
harm in praising him who puts them up neatly. A
blue pill may roll down the throat all the easier for
being dexterously whipped out of an elegantly shaped
box, while a dose of castor oil might be quite appetising
if produced from a bottle of graceful shape, ornamented
with a neat and tasty label. Still, on the whole, would
it not be as well, to consign the whole lot to Mr. Saw-
yer, to be used in charging his shells ? Nothing could
be more destructive. Undoubtedly something of the
kind was used in some of the earlier battles in Missouri,
fought by General Price.
To C. A. Emory, for furs, gloves, &c, $2,00

To F. W. & F. A. Whitney, for baby carriage, 4,00

They only lacked occupants. They were elegant in
shape, and most tastily trimmed and mounted ; but
alas, there was not a baby in the neighborhood, that
could be had on any terms ; so we missed seeing the
carriages complete. If it had been a church service or
a lecture, or some such place, to which babies never
should be carried, we could have picked up a dozen.
We recommend our bachelor friends, each to purchase
one of these carriages, as we can assure them " they
are a handy thing to have in the house, in case of acci-
dent."

MECHACNIS AND MANUFACTURES . •*■ * "

Royalston Woolen Mill, for cloths, $5,00

In these days of shoddy cloths, which dissolve and
become pulp in the first rain

Like Dead Sea fruits that tempt the eye
But turn to ashes on the lips,

it seemed really refreshing, to see some real cloth,
made from real wool ; and it would seem still more so,
if the proprietors would send to each one of the Com-
mittee, a suit of clothes, just to satisfy them that their
cloths will wear, as well as they look.
H. J. Lowe, for watch work, $5,00

Again the Chairman begs leave to add personal to
official knowledge. One of the watches exhibited,
was made for him by Mr. Lowe, and has been in oper-
ation some months. Every part, each tiny piece, each
screw and spring, everything, in short, is the work of
the exhibitor's own hands. Even the drilling and
adjustment of the jewels for the bearings was per-
formed by him ; and so nicely has he done his work,
that the monthly variation might be reckoned by very
small fractions of a second. This testimony in behalf
of the maker's skill, seems due, and is •cheerfully
rendered.

N. U. Lyon, for a very simple and ingenious apple
quarter er and corer, 50 cents.

J. E. Manning, for a case of Clothing, $2,50

The same want of personal knowledge to which we

have before referred, embarrassed the Committee in

this instance, and they would repeat the suggestion

made in the case of the Royalston cloths.

To L. J. Brown, Ladies Cloak, $1,50

To Charles B. Sawyer, for an ingenious combination

126

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

of gearing and windlasses, by means of which great
weights may be easily lifted, $1.

Two Mowing Machines were exhibited on the Com-
mon ; the Buckeye and the Union. Each was driven
around the enclosure ; each was fully explained, each
looked as though it might cut grass, and neither did
cut it ; for there was none to cut. The common fur-
nished about the same test of their cutting qualities,
that the face of a boy of fourteen, might for those of a
razor. Under such circumstances, we could not under-
take to judge between two machines of excellencies so
nearly balanced as were these, and we awarded to
each $3.

Mr. Levi Stevens entered a new steam apparatus for
heating, which he is putting into the house of Mr. Rod-
ney Wallace. We examined it and are indebted to Mr.
Stevens for a full explanation of its construction. We
can but feel however, that an expression of opinion
from the Committee, based upon the little they actually
know about it would be of no real value, and they
accordingly think it best to confine themselves to the
Jack Bunsby like expression, that if it works well, it
will be a good thing.

Respectfully submitted, for the Committee,

GEO. E. TOWNE, Chairman.

COMMITTEES REPORTS. . * ^ '

COMMITTEES REPORTS.

For the purpose of inducing the Chairman of the
several Committees to take upon themselves more labor
and care in preparing their reports, the Society offered
several premiums, to be decided by their President,
Vice Presidents and Secretary, and they having care-
fully attended to that duty, submit the following
awards, viz :

1st, E. Foster Bailey, report on pears and grapes, $6,00
2d, Stephen Shepley, on sheep, 5,00

3d, Charles W. Carter, assorted fruits and flowers, 4,00
4th, L. W. Russell, bread, butter, cheese, &c, 3,00

5th, Jacob Haskell, vegetables, 2,00

A gratuity to Levi Downe, for report on grain, 1,00

L. H. BRADFORD, for the Committee.

ANALYSIS Of PREMIUMS.

128
ANALYSIS OF F IEMIUN

Amount awarded for Plowing at the Exhibition - $48,00

" Fancy Articles - - - 20,00

" Fine Arts - - - 20,00

" " Committees Reports - - - 21,00

" Poem - - - 10,00

" Neat Stock .... 213,00

" Other Stock - - - 40,50

" Horses .... 101,C0

" Sheep .... 25,00

" Swine .... 23,00

" Poultry .... 13,00

" Grain - - - 34,00

" Grass Seed - - - 2,00

" Root Crops .... 36,00

" Fruits, - - - - 55,50

" Flowers .... 7,50

" Butter and Cheese - - 19,50

" Bread .... 12,00

" Mechanics and Manufactures - 88,00

Premiums and gratuities were paid to two hundred and fifty-three
different persons, and the amounts distributed as follows :

Fitchburg ...... $419,92

Princeton ...... 80,00

Lunenburg --_... 56,00

Framingham ...... 29,00

Millbury ...... 26,00

Westminster - - - - - -25,25

Ashburnham ...... 18,00

Leominster ..._.. 17,75

Ashby ....... 17.00

Winchendon ...... 16,00

Sterling - - - - - -11,25

Templeton - - - - - - 10,00

Royalston ...... 5,00

Littleton - - - - - - 5,00

Gardner - ..... 2,50

Shirley ...... 2,00

Townsend ------ ,25

f Amount of premiums offered - - - 1165,75

in^o J Amount of premiums and gratuities awarded 815,75

I Amount of premiums and gratuities paid - 740,92

^ Amount of permanent fund - - - 5161,95

NEW MEMBERS.

129

NEW MEMBERS

FITCHBURG.

Day, William F.
Warren, L. W.
Conn, Reuben R.
Heard, Jared M.
Aldrich, Lucius
Leverett, James W.
Patch, Lyman
Delahanty, Charles J.
1st Universalist Society
Stevens, Levi
Gilbert, Ivar R.
Stone, Alanson J.
Colony, George D.
Brooks, Kendall
Kimball, Herbert W.
Emerson, Alfred
Younglove, T.
Mason, Charles
Mason, Caroline A.
Gibson, Thomas
Pratt, Silas
Sawyer, Alvin M.
Brown, Horace H.
Ware, Samuel
Ball, S. B.
Choate, John
Brown, L. J.
Whitman, Augustus
Monroe, James F.
Stearns, Daniel
Pierce, Joseph 2d.
Drew, William B. S.

ROYALSTON.

Bullard, Ebenezer

BOSTON.

Tilden, William P.

PRINCETON.

Mirick, Paul M.
Everett, Abram

LUNENBURG.

Ware, Lewis

FRAMINGHAM.

White, Henry G.

WTNCHENDON.

Vose, Reuben Jr.

LEOMINSTER.

Bird, Ebenezer
Jewett, Wade H. & Co.

ALBANY, N. Y.

Tucker, Luther H.

MARYS VILLE, CAL.

Haskell, Henry W.

16

130

TREASURERS REPORT,

Dr.

1862.

Dec'r.

3.

1863.

April

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Nov, 30

Dec'r 2.

THOMAS 0. CALDWELL, Treasurer,

To amount on hand as per last settlement, $4,630,31

" cash as dividend of Safety Fund Bank 15,00

" Bank of Commerce, 30,00

" Washington Bank, 35,00

" North Bank, 9,00

" for admission to Town Hall, 387,80

" as dividend of Bank of Commerce, 35,00

" Safety Fund Bank, 17,50

" " North Bank, 9,00

" Washington Bank, 35,00

" of Commonwealth for Bounty, 600,00

" for interest on money loaned, 137,65

" for memberships the past year, 205,00

$6,146,26
Amount in hands of Treasurer, $4,961,95

Increase the last year, 331,64

THOMAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer.

The undersigned have examined the above account of the Treasurer
and believe it to be correct.

ABEL F. ADAMS,
JABEZ FISHER,

}

Com. on Finance.

TREASURER'S REPORT.

131

in account with Worcester North Agricultural Society, Or,

1862.

By cash paid Litcli & Sawfcell, for nails and tacks, ,41

E. Garfield, printing report &c, 136,75
R. Wallace & Co., envelopes &c, 18,44
Dr. A. N. Arnold, for address, 5,00
for interest on U. S. 5-20 bond, ,43
Fitchburg Post Office, for stamps, 19,00

" J. D. Holden, meals for band, 9,50
C. C. Curtis, for printing, 9,50
" " S. Shattuck, for casks of water 1,25
" " for thirty-eight certificate stamps 1,90
" " Tyler Younglove and others, services, 28,75
" " L. W. VVarren, repairing frame 1'25
" " L. Sprague & Co., use of crockery, 1,25
\V. G. VVyman, sundry bills paid, 15,00
" " A. Marshall, for setting and remov-
ing pens. &c, 25,00
" " A. M. Sawyer, for services 6,00
" " W. Whitney, for moving cattle

pens from and to Leom'r, 5,25

" L. H. Tucker, address Sept. 30, 20,00

" A. F. Adams, straw for cattle pens, 1,50

" " S. Haws, hay for cattle at show, 7,00

" " S. B. Ball, services at show, 5,00

" " J. T. Farwell and son services at

shows 1862 and 1863, 4,00

" " J. A. Wheeler, cleaning church, 5,00
" " Town of Fitchburg keeping cattle

and man, 8,00

F. Hotel, entertainment* &c, 22,00
" " J. J. Piper, for advertising, 7,75

E. Garfield, printing and adv'g, 26,62

11 " Fairbanks & Parkhurst, weighing, 1,00
11 " W. G. Wyman, services as Sec'y

48i days, 50,00
" " W. G. Wyman, express and postage, 5,19

" " J. F. Stiles, repairing batons, &c, 4,75
" " premiums awarded Sept. 30th, Oct.

26th, and Nov. 28th, 731,92

Dec. 3. " carried to new account to balance, 4961,95

$6146,26

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30.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

In offering the report of the Transactions of the
Worcester North Agricultural Society, for the year
ending Nov. 30th, 1863, the Secretary would embrace
the opportunity to present certain facts connected with
the organization and management of the association,
a part of which do not seem to be fully understood by
its members, and some suggestions with regard to the
future conduct of its affairs, and its prospective opera-
tions, which his deep interest in its welfare, and his
past six years familiarity with the action of its inter-
nal machinery induce him to believe will not be
altogether inappropriate.

On the importance, to the farmers and others in the
vicinity of its location, of sustaining the society ; of
continuing its exhibitions ; of increasing and extend-
ing its influence, I need not dwell at length. Suffice
it to say, there seems to be no present danger of over
estimating the value of the society in its influence on
the agricultural, manufacturing or mercantile interests
of Fitchburg, as the center of its operations, nor upon
those interests of the other towns, near or remote,
whose inhabitants most actively and efficiently aid in
prosecuting the main objects of the organization.

The magnitude of the Society, territorially, is not
well understood. Its limits are supposed, even by
many of its members, to be very narrow, and its oper-
ations it is thought by some, are, or ought to be, con-
fined to a very few towns in the immediate vicinity of
its central point of influence, and any attempt to
interest the inhabitants of other, or more remote towns

1 3°

SECRETARY'S REPORT. 10&

in its affairs, especially if they are inclined to compete
for its premiums, is considered, by such persons, an
inexcusable innovation, and an attempt to curtail their
privileges; and they would have a policy pursued
by the society which will correspond with its supposed
limits. The real limits of the Society are very much
broader than thus represented. As I am not aware
that the original act of incorporation of our Society has
ever been published in its " Transactions," and as that
instrument, in connection with two subsequent acts of
the Legislature, will set at rest this question, I propose
to give them in full, in this connection.

He it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives , in Gen-
eral Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows'-

Nathaniel Wood, I vers Phillips and Abel F. Adams, their associates
and successors, are hereby made a corporation by the name of the
Fitchburg Agricultural Society, for the encouragement of agricul-
ture and the mechanic arts, by premiums and other means, in the
Town of Fitch burg, in the County of Worcester, with all the powers
and privileges, and subject to all the duties, liabilities and restrictions
set forth in the forty-second and forty-fourth chapters of the Revised
Statutes, and in all subsequent acts concerning Agricultural Societies ;
and said corporation may hold and manage real estate not exceeding in
value fifteen thousand dollars, and personal estate not exceeding the
same sum, for the purposes aforesaid. (Approved by the Governor,
March 30th, 1852.)

*'An Act concerning the Fitchburg Agricultural Society. Be it
enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives, in General
Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:

Sec. 1. The Fitchburg Agricultural Society shall, after the passage
of this act, be called and known by the name of the Worcester North
Agricultural Society, and they are hereby authorized to admit mem-
bers from the towns in the west part of Middlesex County.

Sec. 2. The said Society shall be entitled, on the same terms as
other incorporated Agricultural Societies to receive annually, out of the
Treasury of the Commonwealth, such sums as any other Agricultural
Society may receive, under the provisions of Chapter 42, of the Revised
Statutes, notwithstanding the restrictions of Section seven of that
Chapter.

House of Representatives, May 21, 1853.
Passed to be enacted. C. H. WARREN, President.

May 23, 1853. Approved. JOHN H. CLIFFORD."

134

SECRETARY'S RETORT.

"Gsneral Liws, Chapter 180. An Act concerning Agricultural
Societies. Bs it enacted, fyc, as follows :

Sec. 1. The premiums offered by any Agricultural Society receiving
bounty from the Treasury of the Commonwealth under the provisions
of the 66th Chapter of the General Statutes, shall be subject to the
competition of every citizen of the County in which such Society is
established. And every such Society shall admit as members, upon
equal terms, citizens of every town in the County in which the same is
located. (Approved April 10, 1861. "J

It will be seen by the preceding acts that the Soci-
ety not only has the right, but is positively required
to " admit as members, upon equal terms, citizens of every
town in the County? and is " authorized to admit mem-
bers from the towns in the West part of Middlesex
County? thus extending our limits beyond, even those
of the original Worcester County Society. And the
question recurs with force, would it not be wise for the
Society to adopt, and pursue a policy correspending in
liberality and extent with its real, rather than its sup-
posed limits ? If so, then efforts should be constantly
made to obtain new life members, not only from Fitch-
burg, and its immediate vicinity, but also from the more
remote towns of the county, and from Middlesex county,
and any reasonable inducements offered to such citizens
to join the Society and help on its exhibitions, should
not be discouraged. There is room enough for all who
will, to labor together, and labor effectually, and to
continue their united labors for many years, before the
agricultural, and horticultural, and mechanical interests
of these two counties will have attained such a degree
of sup3riority as to require no farther efforts in their
behalf.

To get up a really good agricultural exhibition, in
these times, when cattle shows have become an old story,
and when the public interest in them is supposed to be
on the decline, and to prepare and publish even a

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

135

passable Report of such an exhibition, requires a deal
of labor, physical and mental, and no small amount of
forethought, and consultation, and correspondence, and
careful planning. And this labor and care should not
be allowed to devolve upon one individual, or two ; but
should be shared by many.

It may be supposed to be a small matter to accom-
plish all this. A few premiums offered ; a few Com-
mittees chosen ; a few advertisements published, may
be supposed to create the exhibition ; to bring the
people together; to raise the necessary funds; to pre-
pare the material for the "Transactions," and give
general satisfaction to every body. And the more
perfect this illusion, ordinarily, the greater the success
of the whole affair ; for all this labor, and care, and
study, and anxiety should be out of sight, and only the
results of it seen. And those results should roll out in
the proper time, and in the proper place, smoothly,
regularly, in good order and to the entire satisfaction
of everybody. But if any one portion of the whole
programme fails of accomplishment, precisely at the
time, and in precisely the manner intended, in conse-
quence of — no matter what unforeseen circumstances,
and so somebody is dissatisfied, — -why then the real
author of this labor and care, should step from behind
the curtains and assuming the fault to be all his own,
should humbly and quietly receive whatever chastise-
ment the offended ones please to inflict upon him.

To help avoid this latter result, which, however pleas-
ing it may be to one party, is never entirely so to the
other, permit me to suggest some slight changes in the
little arrangements, not usually deemed of importance.
In appointing judges, and other Committees, great care
should be taken to select not only persons well quali-

136

SECREfARYS REPORT.

fied to award the various premiums judiciously, but
reference should be had to the published results, and
men selected to act as chairmen, who are known to
possess the ability, leisure and inclination to prepare
and present promptly, good and appropriate reports,
and they should be made to understand that this is one
important object of their appointment. If men of this
stamp can be occasionally found who have never before
served in that capacity, all the more variety and inter-
est may be attached to their productions. These com-
mittees, thus selected, should be made to understand
that it is their duty, either to serve as appointed, or
to notify the officers timely of their inability to do so,
that the vacancy may be filled before the time of meet-
ing; and the time and place of meeting should be
distinctly stated in the notice of appointment. In
order to have this done understandingly, all the
arrangements for the different parts of the exhibition
should be carefully planned in good season, and the
various officers should act in concert, with a full under-
standing of each others movements. The several Com-
mittees on articles exhibited in the Hall have usually
been notified to meet there at precisely the time speci-
fied for closing the reception of articles. With the best
possible arrangements, some time must elapse before
these articles can be assorted and prepared for the
action of the Committees. Would it not be well, there-
fore, to avoid confusion and haste, that these Commit-
tees should be notified to meet half an hour, or an hour
later than the time specified ? Then by meeting
punctually and acting promptly, their duties could be
performed more satisfactorily and quite as early, and
thus their presence during the first half hour, or hour

SECRETARY'S REPORT,

would not interfere with the marking and arrangement
of the articles. \

The Committee on plowing have been requested to
meet at the time and place of plowing. The field is
frequently extensive ; the different departments not
well defined, and often a large crowd gathered to wit-
ness the performance ; the different members of the
several Committees unknown to each other, and thus
delay occasioned in organizing. Would it not be well
for them to report to some officer, at least fifteen
minutes before the commencement of the performance?
The Chief Marshal is always prominent. Let him be
present at the time specified, and let them report to
him. They can then be quickly organized, and their
place and duties assigned them without delay.

The Committees on drawing have been informed that
their place of meeting would be at the chapel, with
other Committees on stock, at precisely the time for
their performances to commence in another place. Let
them also report to the Chief Marshal, at the place for
the trial, at least fifteen minutes before the time for
commencing it, and they too can be easily organized,
and proceed to the discharge of their duties without
delay. Some one or more other officers should act
with the Marshal in organizing these Committees, and
filling the vacancies.

Care should be taken that all the more prominent
departments of the exhibition be well filled. For
instance, if, as the time for receiving entries is about to
expire, it is seen that there will not be a passable exhi-
bition of fat cattle, as was the case this year, then some
one should make an especial effort to have that class
of animals represented, as was kindly done by an offi-
cer in the present instance, who rode several miles in

IT

^3o SECRETARIES REPORT.

a severe storm, merely to secure a more full exhibition
in that department. So of plowing — for the past two
years it has only been by the especial effort of an
officer, that the representation has been as good as it
has been. Five of those who plowed this year, did so
only on the pressing invitation of that officer, to help
fill the gap, and one other accidentally failed to comply
with one of the regulations, and on account of the
distance at which he resided, the mistake could not
have been rectified in season, but for the responsibility
assumed by that officer. Thus only five of those who
did plow, would, in all probability have done so but
for those efforts. These are only illustrations of what
should be done, if occasion requires in other depart-
ments, in doors and out. And this leads to the sugges-
tion that if any regulation, however proper in itself,
has been adopted, that is not appreciated, or that
gives offence to a considerable extent, it may not be
wise to insist on retaining that regulation, unless the
objections can be overcome.

The duties of all the Committees should be so
plainly specified that there need be no misunderstand-
ing about them, and the various rules and regulations
should be clearly and fully expressed, so that at least
the officers need not give conflicting interpretations of
them ; and thus their orders and actions conflict with
one another. The plan of operations being formed, as
few changes as possible should be made ; and if any
are absolutely necessary, all interested in them should
be notified at the earliest practicable moment. In short,
let there be a time and a place for everything, and let
everything appear in its appropriate time and place.

The Annual Exhibition, the fourteenth of the Society,
(the eleventh under its present organization) held at

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

139

Fitchburg, September 29th and 30th, was a complete
success. The weather was delightful throughout ; the
attendance very large, and nearly all the departments
well filled. The officers and most of the Committees
were prompt and faithful in the discharge of their
duties. The President and Chief Marshal, especially,
labored with untiring zeal, not only on the days of the
exhibition, but during the preceding days of prepara-
tion, and very much of the success of the exhibition is
the direct result of their labors.

The entries in the departments of stock were as fol-
lows : Blood Stock, 40 animals, all pure bred ; Grade
and Native Bulls, 14 ; Working Oxen, 34 ; Milch Kine,
20; Fat Cattle, 8; Heifers, 51 ; Steers, 66; Total of
Horned Cattle, 233 ; Horses and Colts, 79, Sheep, 73;
Swine, 60. Total number of animals entered, exclusive
of Poultry, 445; Poultry, 113. For plowing 12 teams
were entered ; for Draught 43 animals. In the Hall
the entries were not as numerous as last year, particu-
larly in the line of Apples and Pears, and yet, consid-
ering the scarcity and imperfection of fruit generally,
in this vicinity, this year, the exhibition was a good
one, and was entirely satisfactory. I have not at hand
the exact number of entries in this department.

The address was delivered in the Unitarian Church
by Luther H. Tucker, of the Country Gentleman, of
Albany, New York. It was a practical and exceed-
ingly useful and interesting production, given in the
very best style, and is published herewith. An origi-
nal hymn, prepared for the occasion, by Mrs. Caroline
A. Mason, was sung by a full choir, with the most
excellent effect, and after the delivery of the address a
poem, also by Mrs. Mason, was read by Levi W. Rus-
sell, A. M. This was admirably adapted to the occa-
sion, and was read in a manner calculated to give a

HO

SECKETARY:S REPOlil'.

life-like presence, and a reality to its beautiful pictures.
These, the hymn and poem, were prepared by Mrs.
Mason, on very short notice, at the especial request of
the Society, with a degree of promptness and ability
which should be appreciated and remembered by its
members and friends.

After the exercises in the church, a business meeting
of the Society was held in the Lower Town Hall, at
which interesting and instructive remarks were made
by Mr. Bradford, the President; Mr. Tucker, the Orator;
and Hollis Tidd, Esq., of New Braintree, the Delegate
from the State Board of Agriculture ; and the awards
of the various Committees were announced.

The offer of premiums for Committee's Reports has
called forth several very excellent ones, which have
aided much in preparing the published "Transactions"
for the year. H. G. White, Esq., of South Framingham,
has also rendered us especial service by granting the
free use of new plates of five of the pure bred animals
which he exhibited at the show. The plates were
obtained at great expense to him, and he kindly gives
us the first use of them, to illustrate our Report.

Forty-three new members have joined the Society
during the year, making the total number at present,
609. The funds of the Society have also increased hy
the amount of $331,64. It should be stated however,
that the expense of publishing the annual " Transac-
tions " which always goes into the next year's account
will be very much larger than usual, owing to the
increased cost of publishing materials and labor, and
the increased size and number of copies published.

WILLIAM G. WYMAN, Secretary.
Fitciiburg, Nov. 30, 1863.

COMMITTEES AND PREMIUMS

FOR THE

TWELFTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION,

TO BE HELD AT FITCHBURG,
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, Sept, 27, 28 & 29, 1864.

No person will be allowed to become a competitor for any of the
Premiums herein offered, unless he shall have made an entry for the
same, with the Secretary, within the time prescribed for each class, nor
unless he shall also have furnished all required statements relating
thereto within the specified time.

For the convenience of those who live at a distance, entries may be
made by Mail ; and all entries so made must be delivered at some Post
Office one day previous to the expiration of the time specified, and must
bear proof of having been so delivered either by Post-mark, or a eer"
tificate of registry from the Postmaster.

STOCK.

All entries for premiums under this head, must be made on or
before the Friday previous to the show, except Horses for exhibition,
and Poultry, which may be as late as the day previous, and all stock
must be owned by the person who enters it.

All persons who are required to furnish a statement, must do so to
the Secretary at the time of making the entry.

All live stock must have been raised by the person entering the same,
or owned by him for at least three months next previously.

No animal that has heretofore in part or alone taken the highest
premium for Draft, Plowing or Dairy herds, shall ever again be entitled
to compete for any premium of the Society, unless for an entirely dif-
ferent quality.

142

PREMIUMS.

Each entry of stock for the pens must specify the breed of the animal
if known, and the age.

Fat cattle, working cattle, draught horses and swine must be weighed
on the same scale, in Fitchburg, and will be weighed free of expense.

The weight of all other stock will not be required.

BLOOD STOCK.

Committee. — Abel F. Adams, of Fitchburg ; J. G Wood, of Mill-
bury; Solon Carter, of Leominster ; Anan Stockwell, of So. Royalston ;
Nathan Caswell, of Fitchburg.

Authentic pedigrees will be required.

Durham Bulls, -

1st premium,

- $5,00

2d premium,

3,00

North Devon,

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Ayrshire, -

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Alderney,

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Any other breed, pure blood, -

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

The Committee may award gratuities for superior specimens of cows,
heifers or calves, of either of the breeds named.

GRADE OR NATIVE BULLS.
Committee. — Win. Woodbury, Jr., of Fitchburg; Asaph Wood, of
South Gardner ; Gamaliel S. Beaman, of Princeton ; Joseph Upton>
of Fitchburg; J. B. Willard, of Still River.

More than two-years-old, - - 1st preminm, - $5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Yearlings, 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Calves, - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

These may be of any breed, more than four month* old.

1'fcEMIUMS.

143

MILCH KINE.
Committee. — J. T. Everett, of Princeton ; N. C. Day, of Lunen-
burg ; Benj. Safford, of Fitchburg ; Elliot E. Boyden, of Leominster j
Stephen Wood, of Asbburnham.

Herds of four Cows or Heifers each, 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, * 7,00
3d premium, - 4,00
The person receiving these premiums will not be allowed to compete
for any other, with the same animals.

The Committee will regard age, quality and quantity of milk, expense
of keeping, &c.

Cows, 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Heifers, three-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, - 8,00

Heifers, two-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Competitors for premiums on milch cows, whether for herds or single
animals, and milch heifers, will be required to certify in writing, at the
time of entry, to the weight of the milk, also to the weight of butter, if
butter is made, during the six days commencing with the first Monday
in June, and the corresponding six days in September ; and to the
manner of keeping, and general management. Cows that calve near
or after the first Monday in June, may be tried at another time.

HEIFERS.
Committee. —Ezra Kendall, of Sterling; Aaron Jones, of Royals*
ton j Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton ; Daniel Messinger, of Fitchburg ;
Thomas Whitney, of Shirley.

Intended to be kept for the Dairy.
Two years-old, -

Yearlings,

1st premium,

• $4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

144

PKEMrt'M>.

HEIFER CALVES.
Committee. — George 0. Skinner, of Princeton; J. T. Dunsmore, of
Lunenburg ; Edward Powers, of Phillipston j Asa Raymond, Edward
Bacon, of Westminster.

Calves, more than four months old, - 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

Calves, more than four months old, raised

by hand, 1st premium, - S3, 00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

WORKING OXEN.
Committee. — Charles K. Sawyer, of Fitchburg; Porter Piper, of
Leominster; Hosea M. Caswell, of Fitchburg; A. W. Benjamin, of
Westminster; Antipas Maynard, of Ashburnham.

Working Oxen, 1st premium, - $6,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 4,0$)

4th premium, - 3,00

5th premium, - 2.00

The working oxen will be tried, attached to loads weighing, includ-
ing the cart, one-third more than themselves.

STEERS MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

Committee. — Abel Marshall, Fitchburg; Porter Page, Aaron Wood,
of Westminster; Levi Kendall, of Fitchburg; Benjamin Wallis, of
Ashby.

Three -years-old, 1st premium, - $5,00

2d premium, - 4,00
3d premium, - 3,00

The three-years-old steers will be attached to carts, and tried like the

oxen, on the same ground ; the cart and load to equal the steers in

weight.

Two-years-old, 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

3d premium, - 2,00

Trained, two-years-old, - - 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium 7 - 2,00

PREMIUMS,

145

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.
Committee. — Josiah Puffer, of Still River ; Charles H. Brown, of
Ashburnham ; Edwin Sawyer, of Baldwinville ; Timothy D. Wood,
of Westminster ; John M. Forristall, of Winchendon.

Yearlings,

Trained Yearlings,
Calves,

Calves, raised by hand,

Trained Calves,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

$3,00
2,00
1,00
3,00
2,00
5,00
3,00
1,00
5,00
3,00
1,00
3,00
2,00
1,00

FAT CATTLE:

Committee. — Cyrus Kilburn, of Lunenburg j Ephraim Turner, of
Phillipston ; John Lowe, of Fifcchburg; Leonard Burrage, of Leomin-
ster ; Abel Derby, of Fitchburg.

Oxen, -

Cows, -

Three-year-old Steers or Heifers,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,

$8,00
5,00
3,00
6,00
3,00
2,00
6,00
4,00

All competitors with fat cattle or swine, must furnish a statement to
the Secretary, of the mode and expense of feeding.

18

146

PREMIUMS.

SWINE.

Committee. — John P. Sabin, of Fitchburg ; John L. Curnmings, of
Ashburnham; W. H. Brown, of East Princeton ; C. W. Morse, of
Gardner ; Caleb S. Merriam, of Westminster.

Must be entered like other stock.

Boars, more than one year old,

1st premium,

- $4,00

2d premium,

3,00

Less than one year old,

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

Fat Hogs, more than eight months old,

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,00

Fat Pigs, less than eight months old,

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

Breeding Sows -

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

Weaned Pigs, not less than four

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

STALLIONS.

Committee. — James O. Parker, of Shirley ; Jonas Brown, of East
Princeton j Levi Smith, of Ashby ; Warren Marble, of Ashburnham ;
Leonard Day, of Fitchburg.

All persons offering Stallions, five years old and upwards, will be
required to exhibit specimens of their stock.

Stallions, five years old and upwards, 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 6,00

3d premium, - 4,00

Four-years-old, 1st premium, - 6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

Three-years-old, 1st premium, - 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Two-years-old - - - - 1st premium, - ' 4,00

2d premium, - 2,00

PREMIUMS,

147

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.
Committee. — S. W. A. Stevens, of South Gardner ; John K.
Going, of Shirley; L. P. Comee, of Fitchburg j Joseph Whitcomb, of
East Princeton ; F. W. Wright, of Ashby.

The mares must be four years old and upwards, accompanied with
their colts.

Breeding Mares,

Colts, less than one year old, -

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

$6,00
4,00
2,00
3,00
2,00
1,00

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

Committee. — Lewis Ware, of Lunenburg ; John Brooks, of Prince-
ton ; W. W. Comee, S. F. Atherton, of Fitchburg ; Warren Simonds ,
of Templeton.

Draught Horses will be tried, attached to a stone boat, loaded to
weigh one-third more than the horses.

The same draught horse cannot receive a premium as a single horse
and also as one of a pair, but a draught horse may compete as a family
horse.

These must be four years old and upwards.

Draught horses and mules, pairs,

1st premium,

- $6,00

2d premium,

4,00

Draught horses, single,

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Family horses, pairs, -

1st premium,

7,00

2d premium,

5,00

Family horses, single, -

1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

148

PREMIUMS.

COLTS.

Committee. — John M. Sawtelle, of Fitchburg; Gardner Merriam,
of Leominster ; J. H. Temple, of Princeton; Mirick Willard, of Ash-
burnhani ; Levi Burr, of Ashby.

Three-years-old Geldings,
Three-years-old Fillies,
Two -years-old Geldings,
Two -years-old Fillies,
Yearling Colts,

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,

$4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00
4,00
2,00

SHEEP.

Committee. — Ephraim Graham, of Lunenburg ; John G. Wood-
ward, of Ashburnham; Joseph Smith, of Fitchburg; Amos Miller,
of Westminster; John Fairbanks, of Lunenburg.

Flocks not less than ten, owned by one

person, - 1st premium, - $10,00

2d premium, - 5,00

Bucks, 1st premium, - 5,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Cossetts, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

POULTRY.
Committee. — Ward M. Cotton, of Leominster; Henry A. Willis,
Thomas Sheldon, of Fitchburg ; Geo. W. Houghton, of Princeton ;
C. S. Greenwood, of South Gardner.
Must be entered like other stock.

Barn-yard Fowls, not less than six,
Turkeys, not less than six,
Geese, not less than six,
Ducks, not less than six,

1st premium,

- $2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

PREMIUMS. 149

TOWN TEAMS.
Committee. — J. M. Sawyer, of Sterling; Geo.Wood, of Leominster;
Levi Downe, of Fitchburg; Daniel Putnam, of Lunenburg; Ohio
Whitney, of Ashburnham ; Henry Chase, of Templeton ; Silas Pratt,
of Fitchburg.

For the best Town Team, not less than fifteen yoke of oxen from
any one town.

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

PLOWING MATCH.

All entries for plowing must be made on or before the Wednesday
previous to the exhibition, and one dollar must be deposited with each
entry, to be returned to the competitor if he plows, otherwise forfeited
to the Society.

No teams or parts of teams will be allowed to compete for more than
one premium on plowing.

DOUBLE TEAMS.
Committee.— AWm M. Sawyer, E. D. Works, of Fitchburg; Moses
H. Mirick, of East Princeton ; Gilman Day, of Baldwinville ; E. A.
Goodrich, of Fitchburg.

Double Teams, 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00
3d premium, - 3,00

SINGLE TEAMS.
Committee.— James P. Putnam, John Smith, of Fitchburg ; E. W.
Raymond, of Westminster ; Geo. G. Sampson, of Ashburnham; John
Wood, of East Princeton.

Single Teams, 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00

3d premium, - 3,00

Minors with Steers, - - 1st premium, - 6,00

2d premium, - 4,00

3d premium, 2,00

1 ^0

1UU PREMIUMS.

HORSE TEAMS.
Committee. — Stephen Shepley, Lewis G. Tuttle, L. P. Comee,
Loring Wheeler, of Fitchburg; Daniel North, of Westminster.
Horse or Mule Teams, - - 1st premium, - $7,00

2d premium, - 5,00
3d premium, - 8,00

CROPS.

All entries for Premiums, in this department must be made with the
Secretary, on or before June 1st, with the exception of English turnips
and cabbages, which must be entered on or before August 1st. Im-
mediately after these dates the Secretary will transmit to all competi-
tors a copy of the following blank form adopted by the Trustees, to
correspond with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture.

In pursuance of authority delegated to the Board of Agriculture, by
Chap. 24, of the Acts of 1862, Agricultural Societies receiving the
bounty of the State, are required to make use of the following form,
and be governed by its conditions, in the mode of ascertaining the
amount of crops entered for premium.

Worcester North Agricultural Society.

Statement concerning a crop of , raised by Mr. in the town

of , 1864.

What was the crop of 1862?

What manure was used, and how much that year ?

What was the crop of 1863 ?
What manure was used, and how much that year?
What is the nature of the soil ?

When, and how many times plowed, and how deep, for the present
crop ?
What other preparation for the seed ?
Cost of plowing and other preparation ?

Amount of manure, in loads of thirty bushels, and how applied, for
the present crop ?

Value of manure upon the ground ?

When and how planted, and the amount and kind of seed?

Cost of seed and planting ?

How cultivated, and how many times ?

Cost of cultivation, including weeding and thinning ?

Time and manner of harvesting ?

PREMIUMS. ■*•"!

Cost of harvesting, including the storing and h asking or threshing 1
Amount of straw, stover, or other product?

REMARKS.

Signed by

Competitor.

From actual measurment, I hereby certify that the land which the
above crop of covered, contained rods, and no more.

From personal observation, we hereby certify that tbe above answers
are true.

I hereby certify that the weight of the above crop, as ascertained by
me, on the day , was pounds.

In ascertaining the weight of a crop, an average rod shall be selected,
harvested, and weighed, by one or more members of a committee, and
the whole estimated by multiplying it by the number of rods.

The certificate shall state the weight of all crops only when in a mer-
chantable state.

RULES OF MEASURE.

Practiced and adopted by the State Board of Agriculture.

Wheat, Potatoes, Sugar Beets, Mangel Wurzel, Ruta-

Baga, White Beans, and Peas, 60 lbs. to bushel.

Corn, Bye, Onions, - - - - 56 "

Oats, 32 "

Barley, Buckwheat, 48 "

Cracked Corn, Corn and Rye and other meal except

Oat, and English Turnips, - - - 50 "

Parsnips, 45 "

Carrots, ........ 55 "

These forms must be returned to the Secretary on or before Novem-
ber 10th, 'with each question concerning the crop answered, and the
certificates properly signed.

No person will be allowed to compete for more than one Premium,
with a crop raised upon the same field, however large, with the same
treatment.

Committees should not encourage the irregidar entry of accidental
good (jrops.

1K9

±u* PREMIUMS.

GRAIN.
Committee. — J. A. Marshall, Joel Page, Ira Carleton, Loriston
Stockwell, of Fitchburg ; J. T. Everett, of Princeton.

The Committee may award gratuities for valuable new varieties of
grain.

For the most profitable crops of Corn, Wheat, Rye, Barley and Oats?
one acre each ; of Cabbages and Beans one-eighth acre each ; the pro-
duct of Corn to be not less than 4320 lbs. on the cob ; that of Wheat.
Eye, Barley and Oats, not less than 1200 lbs. of grain each.

Corn, ----- 1st premium, - $8,00

2d premium, - 6,00

Wheat, ----- 1st premium, - 8,00

2d premium, - 5,00

Rye, ----- 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Barley, ----- 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Oats, 1st premium, - 3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

Field Beans, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

ROOT CROPS AND CABBAGES.

Committee. — Abram S. Dole, Thomas Gibson, of Fitchburg ; Wm.
Baker, of Lunenburg; H. C. Hill, of Gardner; J. E. Merriam, of
Princeton.

For the most profitable crops of Potatoes, one -fourth acre each ; of
Carrots, Onions, Beets and Turnips, one-eighth acre each.

Potatoes, not less than 3000 lbs., - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Carrots, not less than 5500 lbs., - 1st premium, -• 4,00

2d premium, - 3,00

Onions, not less than 2000 lbs., 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

Sugar Beets, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

Mangel Wurzels, - - - 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - * 1,00

PREMIUMS.

153

English Turnips, - - - 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

Turnips of any other variety, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

Cabbages, 1st premium, • 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

FARMS.

Committee. — Jabez Fisher, Joseph Upton, of Fitchburg ; George
Chandler, of Shirley.

All competitors must make their entries on or before the first day of
May. Each farm will be open to the inspection of the Committee dur-
ing the entire season. A detailed statement of the general manage-
ment, together with the income and expenses for the year previous to
November 1st, must be furnished on or before November 10th.
For the best cultivated and managed

Farm, 1st premium, - $15,00

2d premium, - 8,00

GARDENS.

Committee. — Geo. E. Towne, Oliver Kendall, Abel F. Adams, of
Fitchburg.

No person having received a premium for a kitchen or mixed garden
shall be allowed to compete for another with the same land within five
years, except for a higher one.

Entries must be made on or before June 1st.

Kitchen or mixed Gardens,
Flower Gardens, -

19

1st premium,

. $6,00

2d premium,

4,00

3d premium,

2,00

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

154

PREMIUMS,

EXPERIMENTS.

Committee. — L. H, Bradford, Cyrus Thurston, of Fitchburg ;
Thomas Pratt, of Lunenburg.

All entries must be made at least one week before commencing the
Experiments.

There will be placed at the disposal of the Committee for the best
and most reliable^ Agricultural Experiments, made in 1864, the sum
of $50,00.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.

Committee. — Loriston Stockwell, I. B. Woodward, Abel Marshall,
of Fitchburg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture,
there will be paid for the most thorough, exact, and reliable experiments,
upon the proper depth of applying manures, three premiums, as follows :

1st premium, - $25,00
2d premium, - 20,00
3d premium, - 15,00

These experiments must have been commenced in 1862, and con-
tinued through a rotation of three years.

TOWN HALL.

No article intended for the Hall will be entitled to a premium, unless-
it shall have been deposited by one o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday, from
whieh time the Hall will be occupied by the Committees exclusively
until half-past six o'clock, when it will be opened to the public for the
evening. Admission fee, 10 cents; Season tickets, 25 cents.

All articles must have been grown, manufactured or produced by the
person entering tho same for premium, and should bo plainly marked
with the name and residence of the exhibitor.

A strict compliance with these regulations will be absolutely necessary.

PREMIUMS.

155

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

Committee — Thomas R. Boutelle, Norman Stone, of Fitckburg ;
E. W. Bullard, of Royalston ; Ephraim Murdock, of Winchendon ;
Levi Heywood, of Gardner.

APPLES.

For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, - - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each, 1st prem. Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00
3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibition of twelve specimens

of one variety, - - - - 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00
No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if
the number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these reg-
ulations, the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

PEACHES.

For the best collections,

For the best dishes or basket?,

-

Harris

on

Insects

-

1st premium,

-

$2,00

2d premium,

-

1,00

3d premium,

-

,50

LUMS.

-

.

-

$2,00

-

1st premium,

-

1,00

2d premium,

-

,50

For the best collection,
For the best plates, -

QUINCES.
For the best dishes or baskets, - - 1st premium, - 1,00

2d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

156

PREMIUMS.

PEARS AND GRAPES.

Committee. — J. C. Allen, of Leominster ; B. Snow, Jr., of
Fitchburg; Simeon Merritt, of Ashburnham; Charles J. Billings,
J. E. Manning, of Fitchburg.

PEARS.

For the best and largest exhibitions of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, - - - 1st premium, - $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each,

1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,50

3d premium, - 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00
3d premium, - ,50

For the best exhibition of twelve specimens

of one variety, - - - - 1st premium, - 1,50

2d premium, - 1,00

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if
the number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these reg-
ulations, the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

GRAPES.

For the best displays of Foreign Grapes, 1st premium, - $3,00

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of Native Grapes, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, - 2,00

3d premium, - 1,00

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the

disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

PKEJIIUAIS.

157

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

FRUIT.
Committee.— Geo. E. Towne, Mrs. Charles Mason, Mrs. Stephen
Shepley, of Fitchburg; Mrs. D. L. Abercrornbie, of Lunenburg ; Mrs.
0. Whitney, Jr., of Ashburnham.

For the best dishes or baskets, - - 1st premium, - $2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

FLOWERS.

For best displays of named Plants in pots, 1st premium, - 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

For the best displays of cut Flowers, - 1st premium, • 2,00

2d premium, - 1,00

3d premium, - ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the
disposal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

VEGETABLES.

Committee. — John M. Harris, Aaron Wilkins, John Prichard,
J. T. Farwell, Hale W. Page, of Fitchburg.

Of Squashes, Pumpkins, Cabbages and Celery, there should be six
specimens in each lot ; of Cauliflower, three ; of Onions, Beets, Tur-
nips and Tomatoes, one peck in each lot ; of Field Beans, one-half peck
and of Lima Beans, two quarts.

For the best collections of Kitchen Vege-

tables, *

1st premium,

- $7,00

2d premium,

5,00

3d premium,

3,00

Best collections of Garden Seeds,

- 1st premium,

5,00

2d premium,

3,00

Collections of Potatoes, -

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

Marrow Squashes, -

1 st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

±uo

PREMIUMS.

Hubbard Squashes,

1st premium,

- $1,00

2d premium,

,50

Crookueck Squashes,

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

Pumpkins, -

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

Cabbages,

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

Cauliflowers, -

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

Celery,

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

Onions,

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

Turnip Beets,

1st premium,

,75

2d premium,

,50

English Turnips,

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

Tomatoes,

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

,25

Field Beans,

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

,25

Lima Beans,

1st premium,

,50

2d premium,

,25

Seed Corn, in Traces,

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,75

3d premium,

,50

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gratuities, 10,00
No person will be allowed to receive more than one copy of Harris
on Insects ; if more than one is awarded, cash will be paid instead, at
the rate of $3,00 per copy ; and if any person to whom a copy is
awarded already has one, he may receive the copy awarded, or the cash
as above, at his option.

BREAD, BUTTER, CREESE, PICKLES, PRESERVES AND

JELLIES.
Committees.— Nathan Upham, Mrs. S. M. Caswell, L. Sprague,
Mrs. J. Fisher, Joseph Baldwin, Mrs. L. II. Bradford, Mrs. Abram
Osborn, 2d, of Fitchburg,

PREMIUMS.

159

All Bread must have been baked on the Monday previous to the
exhibition by unmarried ladies.

Competitors will be required to furnish a detailed statement in
writing of the process of manufacturing Butterj Cheese and Pickles.

White Bread, ....

1st premium,

$2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

Unbolted Wheat Bread, -

.

1,00

Bolted Bye Bread, -

1st premium,

1,00

2d premium,

,50

Rye and Indian Bread,

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

Lump Butter, not less than 12 lbs., -

1st premium,

4,00

2d premium,

3,00

3d premium,

2,00

4th premium,

1,50

June Tub Butter, not less than 25 lbs.,

1st premium,

3,00

2d premium,

2,00

3d premium,

1,00

Cheese, not less than 50 lbs-,

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,50

3d premium,

1,00

Pickles,

1st preminm,

,75

2d premium,

,50

3d premium,

,25

Virgin Honey in the comb,

1st premium,

2,00

2d premium,

1,00

3d premium,

,50

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gratuities,

10,00

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

Committee. — E. F. Bailey, B. Wallace, S. W. Putnam, E. T.
Miles, C. T. Crocker, of Fitchburg ; Amos Whitney, of Ashburnham-
F. Wyman, of Westminster.

For the best specimens of Mechanic and Manufactured articles,
exclusive of ladies' home manufacture, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee, the sum of $100,00.

*®V PREMIUMS.

FINE ARTS.

Committee.— -A. Emerson, Mrs. L. P. Comee, Mrs. N. A. Tufts,
Mrs. J. A. Marshall, Miss Mary L. Adams.

For the best specimens of Paintings, Drawings, or other kindred
productions in the Fine Arts, there will be placed at the disposal of
the Committee the sum of $30,00.

FANCY ARTICLES.

Committee.— T. K. Ware, of Fitchburg j Mrs. M. T. Gardner, of
Shirley ; Mrs. Abel Marshall, Mrs. Fannie A. Towne, of Fitchburg ;
Mrs. Giles H. Whitney, of Winchendon.

For the best specimens of Ladies' Useful and Fancy Articles, of their
own manufacture, including specimens of nice mending and darning,
there will be placed at the disposal of the Committee, the sum of $30,00

ESSAYS.

Committee.— Kendall Brooks, Alvah Crocker, Abel F. Adams, of
Fitchburg.

All persons competing for these premiums must file their Essays with
the Secretary on or before the 1st of September, . Each Essay is to be
marked with a motto or design, and accompanied with a sealed envelope
containing a corresponding motto or design, and also the name of the
author.

The envelopes of the successful competitors will be opened on the
day of the exhibition, immediately upon the announcement of the
awards.

For the best Essays on some practical subject connected with Agricul-
ture, deemed worthy of publication in the Society's "Transac-
tions," .... 1st premium, - $15,00

2d premium, - 10,00

COMMITTEES' REPORTS.

Committee. — The President, two Vice Presidents and Secretary.

For the purpose of inducing the Chairmen of the several Committees

PREMIUMS. *vl

to take upon themselves more labor and care in elaborating their reports,

the following premiums will be paid :

1st premium, - $10,00
2d premium, - 6,00
3d premium, - 4,00

Reports in connection with awards made on the day of exhibition,
must be delivered to the Secretary on or before October 25th. All
others on or before November 15th.

VINEYARDS.

Committee. — Cyrus Thurston, Charles A. Emory, Wm. H. Tose,
Charles Mason, of Fitchburg ; E. S. Merrill, of Winchendon.

For the best Plantations of Native Grapes, containing not less than
fifty vines, all having been set since January 1st, 1861,

1st premium, - $20,00
2d premium, - 10,00

Total amount of premiums offered for 1864, - $1223,75

PROSPECTIVE.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MANURES.
Committee. — Solon Carter, of Leominster; Ephraim Graham, of
Lunenburg; Isaac B. Woodward, of Fitchburg.

In accordance with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture,
there will be paid for the most thorough, exact and reliable experiments
upon the proper depth of applying manures, three premiums, as

follows :

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 20,00

3d premium, - 15,00

A circular containing full directions for the performance of these
experiments, which were to be commenced in 1863, and continued
through a rotation of three years — the premiums to be paid in 1865 —
will be supplied to all persons wishing to compete, on application to the
Secretary.

Entries must be made on or before July 1st, 1864.

20

162

TEEMIUMS.

APPLES.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been set
after January 1st, 1861, to be

awarded in 1865, 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 10,00
PEARS.
For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been set
after January 1st, 1861, to be

awarded in 1866, - - 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 10,00

POTATOES.

For the best seedling Potatoes, to be tested for not less than three suc-
cessive years, - ■ $25,00

FOREST TREES.

Entries must be made on or before the first day of June.
For the best Plantation of any kind of Forest Trees, suitable for fuel
or timber, raised from the seed, not less than five hundred in num-.
ber, which shall be in the most flourishing condition in the fall of
1868, 1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 15,00
3d premium, - 10,00

LIVE FENCE.

Committee. — A. F. Adams, of Fitchburg; Daniel Putnam, of
Lunenburg • J. A. Marshall, of Fitchburg.

For the best experiment demonstrating the feasibility of substituting
live farm fence for those in common use; the entries to be made on or
before May 1st, 1863, or whenever afterwards planted, and the pre-
miums to be paid in 1868 :

1st premium, - $25,00

2d premium, - 15,00
3d premium, - 5,00

ICE HOUSES.

For the best constructed Ice House for family purposes, to be
tested at least twelve months, $5,00

OFFICERS.

163

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOB 1864.

•mi*

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 1868.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham, President.

J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,
GEORGE E. TOWNE, of Fitchburg, j Vli

Vice Presidents.
L. H. BRADFORD, of Fitchburg, Secretary.

T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

JOEL HAYWARD, of Ashby,

S. W. A. STEVENS, of South Gardner,

W. B. HOSMER, of Leominster,

SOLON GARTER, of Leominster,

THOMAS BILLINGS, of Lunenburg,

DANIEL PUTNAM, of Lunenburg,

JOHN BROOKS, of Princeton,

J. T. EVERETT, of East Princeton,

ANAN STOCKWELL, of So. Royalston,

JAMES 0. PARKER, of Shirley,

EZRA KENDALL, of Sterling,

J. M. SAWYER, of Sterling,

WARREN SIMON DS, of Templeton, \ Trustees.

BENJAMIN WYMAN, of Westminster,

DANIEL C. MILES, of Westminster,

JOHN CUTTER, of Winchendon,

A. F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg,

T. R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg,

JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg,

LEVI KENDALL, of Fitchburg,

ABEL MARSHALL, of Fitchburg,

JOEL PAGE, of Fitchburg,

JOSEPH UPTON, of Fitchburg,

I. B. WOODWARD, of Fitchburg,

WM. WOODBURY, Jr., of Fitchburg,

ABEL F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg, Member of the State Board
oj Agriculture, elected Dec. 3, 1862.

164 RULES.

EULES.

All teams entered for plowing and for draught, must have been
owned by the person entering the same, for at least three months next
previous, and the team must be driven, and the plow managed by him
or by some one usually in his employ.

Any person competing for a premium, who shall serve on the Com-
mittee having charge of the department in which he competes, shall
retire from the Committee, while his own competition is in question.

The several Committees will not consider themselves bound by the
terms of the above offers, to award a premium for anything which they
shall deem inferior.

Any person to whom a premium shall have been awarded, in conse-
quence of any deception or misrepresentation used by him, shall not
only forfeit such premium, but afterward be incapable of competing for
the Society's premiums.

All persons, (ladies and minors excepted,) not members of the Society,
to whom may be awarded a premium or premiums amounting to $5,00
or upwards, shall receive a certificate of membership for $5,00, and the
balance in cash. If the amount shall be less than $5,00, a deduction
of fifty per cent will be made, unless the individual chooses to make
the amount up to that sum, and receive a certificate of membership.

All premiums not demanded on or before November 30th, will revert
to the Society.

An extract from the "General Statutes of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts" Page 376, Chapter 66.

Sec. 4. " No society receiving the bounty, shall distribute any part
thereof for an animal or article for which a premium is awarded, unless
it was produced within the limits of the society, or the animal has
been owned and kept within its limits, by the person to whom the
premium is awarded, for three months next preceding the award.
And no animal or article for which a premium has been awarded to the
the owners by any such society, shall be considered subject for any
further premium of the society, except for qualities different from those
for which the former premium was awarded, or for a higher premium,
and no animal orjarticle shall be offered for a premium at more than
one such society in the same year." * *

Sec. 6. "A society which neglects in any year to comply with the
laws relating thereto, or with the regulations of the board of agricul-
ture, shall not be entitled to the bounty of the state the year next
succeeding."

transactions

OF THE

WORCESTER NORTH

Agttttttfttt&l ^ttefg,

FOE 1864.

IPEEIP-A-EEE* BY THE SECRETARY-

FITCHBUKG:
PRINTED BY E. & J. GARFIELD
1864.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

The Twelfth Annual Exhibition of the Worcester
North Agricultural Society commenced on the evening
of Tuesday, Sept. 27th, in the Town Hall, in Fitchburg.
The usual plowing match and show of cattle, sheep,
swine, and poultry, was held on Wednesday, the 28th,
and being a fine autumnal day a large number of
visitors from the neighboring towns thronged our streets.
The exhibition and trial of horses took place on Thurs-
day, the 29th, the weather threatening rain, with a strong
north-east wind, but few except the admirers of this
noble animal were present.

The plowing match took place on land of Capt. David
H. Merriam, on River Street. The contest was an ani-
mated one, and done in a workmanlike manner, being
so central, it was witnessed by a large number of spec-
tators.

The trial of working oxen and steers came off at the
usual place near the Unitarian Meeting House, some
thirty teams contending for the premiums.

But one string of town teams were present and that
from Leominster, and those were creditable to any com-
munity, and received the highest premium of the
Society.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

The show of fruit, flowers and vegetables in the Hall
were never exceeded, the works of art ori exhibition
were numerous, and showed a decided and commend-
able improvement from the past, and several labor saving
machines were on exhibition, all of which found their
admirers.

After dinner on Wednesday, the Society met at the
lower Town Hall to hear the Reports of Committees,
and to listen to remarks of several eminent gentlemen
from abroad, who graced the occasion w7ith their pres-
ence. The President of the Society, the Hon. Ohio
Whitney, Jr., opened the exercises by remarking that
the pleasure derived from such exhibitions was mainly
owing to the fact of their being home pleasures, and
the different objects brought our minds to the loved
ones, around our own hearthstones. He congratulated
the members on the success which had attended their
efforts, and although the sound of war was heard in our
beloved land, he believed that there was a prospect of
an early peace, and that the interests of agriculture
would not in the end materially suffer. He concluded
his remarks by introducing Phineas Steadman, Esq., of
Chicopee, delegate of the State Board of Agriculture,
who said that he believed farmers were anxious to
cultivate too much land, and not careful enough to keep
themselves from debt, and to economise in labor and fer-
tilizers. He referred to the careless manner of too many
farmers who were not systematic enough to succeed in
any kind of business ; it was easy to accumulate wealth
and become more independent and noble. He urged
farmers to carefully watch the stable and poultry yard,
and to save everything that would enrich the land,
and thought that thirty hens properly kept would make

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

enough to fertilize two acres of corn. He urged that
our animals should be improved in breed, that labor
saving machines should be used, that farmers should
encourage their sons to remain on their farms by adopt-
ing more enterprising methods of agriculture.

Charles L. Flint, Esq., Secretary of the State Board
of Agriculture, spoke in regard to the location of the
new agricultural college, and stated the action of the
Trustees in relation to locating the same at Amherst.
He believed the decision of the trustees was correct?
and given after the most careful consideration of the
matter, and appealed to farmers to more carefully de-
velope their farms, in the introduction of new crops and
labor saving implements, as the surest means to improve
and increase agricultural interests.

Interesting remarks were also made by N. S. Hub-
bard, Esq., of Brim-field, President of the Worcester
South Agricultural Society ; Charles E. Miles, Esq.,
President of the Worcester Agricultural Society ; Col.
Ivers Philips, of Worcester, and C. C. Esty, Esq., of
Framingham. After which reports were made from
the different committees.

On the second day of the exhibition the Society met
again at the Hall, and were congratulated by the Presi-
dent on the fine display of horses and colts on exhi-
bition, the best by far ever made by this Society.

Mr, Steadman said he made a slight omission in his
remarks yesterday to the Society, viz : that he was
very much gratified with the exhibition, particularly the
articles in the Hall, and with the order and regularity of
all of our arrangements.

No public address, as formerly had been provided for
but arrangements had been made for the reading of the

6

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

Essay, written by oik young townsman Mr. George F.
Works, which received the highest premium of the
Society, but for want of time this was deferred and is
published in our transactions.

The attendance from abroad exceeded all former exhi-
bitions, our thoroughfares being crowded with stran-
gers, and the attendance in the Hall surpassing all like
occasions. The receipts for tickets sold amounted to
more than on any previous year.

The Ashburnham Band discoursed sweet music 'on
both days, and thus added to the interest of this our
anticipated annual holiday.

Great credit is due to the President of the Society,
for the success of the exhibition, and to Col. John W.
Kimball, Chief Marshall, and his assistants, for the
prompt manner in which all of the arrangements were
carried forward to completion.

BY GEORGE F. WORKS.

MOTTO—" The Earth is not yet finished."— T. S. Kino.

THE SOIL OF NEW ENGLAND.

Our farms are becoming tetiantless. The lung
tissues of society supplying fresh blood to the throbbing
heart-centres, the cities, are becoming fewer. Almost
whole hamlets slough away and leave bad cavities, in
which the life-blood is not eliminated. We seek the
liomes of our ancestors; their roof-trees fell long ago ;
a few straggling rosebushes still blush beside the old
garden wall; an aged pear, or plum, sprung from a seed
in the old Colonial times, still yields to the blandish-
ments of the Blossom- Week; but desolation reigns
around and kine quietly crop the herbage around the
old hearth-stone. Many of the wind-swept hills were
inhabited of old. Is the race less hardy now ? Old
cellar places meet one at every turn ; places where the
roots of civilization had fastened themselves and died
out. Their toppling chimneys are monuments which
bear sad evidence of the scattering of home circles.

Small farms are absorbed in large. The tendency is
toward the aggregation of estates; toward turning tilled
into grazing land. The hills of Scotland were formerly
peopled with an industrious and loyal peasantry. Now

ESSAY.

they arc but a broad sheep-pasture ; the large landed
proprietors have uprooted the small farmers ; sent them
into the cities, into other business, and beyond the seas.

When Winthrop was governor of Massachusetts, he
sent out a party of explorers into the interior of the
State. They returned saying that the land was not
susceptible of settlement beyond the falls* of the Charles
River. But when the guns began to rattle at Bunker
Hill, towns far to the west of the falls, had whole com-
panies behind the breast-works on that memorable
morning; and now descendants of those men have homes
beyond the Falls of St. Anthony. Spreading over New
England they reared houses, the sills of too many of
which rotted long ago.

If we take our stand on a hill; here, there, beyond,
and everywhere, we see the work of their hands. There
is hardly a foot of land but has been cleared by their
axes. Those Cyclopean Walls stretching over the land,
binding the Earth in strong bonds of civilization, are the
results of their labor. But they had form-houses where
now we see none. Saplings have overgrown fields,
subdued so painfully with the toilsome wooden plough.
Brambles grow in the garden of the old homestead.
Houses which sent men fo Bunker Hill, we should not
dream ever existed. Fields which supplied iron and al-
bumen for the red blood of our ancestors, are overgrown
with thistles. To-day we cut our fire-wood on what
was once a garden.

We look forth upon the landscape thinking how
little of the soil of New England is under cultivation.
Though tlie furnaces of factories and work shops are
insatiable ; though the devouring steam engine sweeps

♦Newton Falls.

Q

ESSAY. v

the land in every direction ; there is more wooded land
in Massachusetts to-day, than there was fifty years ago.
If all these signs indicate that the fewer acres are
tilled better, or by the application of more science, as
great products are obtained from less land, it might
be well; but they speak of the identification of Massa-
chusetts with manufactures ; of swarms that have over-
spread the West, pouring from the New England hive,
and of the abandonment of agriculture for other pursuits.
Manufactures cannot furnish a basis for a perfect
state. In the World's History those states which
have been founded principally on Agriculture, have
been alone enduring. Agricultural Home lived long, and
hardened he* muscles by war, until overcome by fresher
agricultural nomadic blood, and the back-bone of the
Southern Rebellion has been southern-corn. Any
other states lack the deep roots, which can alone give
them long existence. A merchant state is subject to
the shifting caprices of trade. England owes her free-
dom from invasion more to her agriculture, than to the
fleets which cruise the British Channel; and the shores of
the Mediterranean are studded with ephemeral merchant
states*. In. no two centuries has the political confor-
mation of the, world been the same. It has been
continually shifting through growth, decay, conquest
and diplomacy. A move on the political chess-board »
the rise, or the overthrow of a nation ; the discovery of
a passage; the cutting a ship canal; a little jostle, making
new avenues of trade, dry up the old channels of com-
merce, and leave the states through which they flowed,
high and dry upon their margins. When goods were '
transferred from the backs of camels to the holds of
ships, the cities of the East, through which the commerce

■*■" ESSAY.

of India had flowed instead of going around Cape Good
Hope, were ruined. A limb is lopped off, the sap flows
elsewhere supplying new shoots.* The commerce of
Salem has been drawn off by Boston, while Massachu-
setts is to-day boring the Hoosac to keep New York
from sucking the life-blood of her own metropolis. If
the arteries of trade are cut off, and from these alone
the nation is supplied, it dies. If the sinews of a state
are its manufactures, and its markets are destroyed by
a ruinous competition, it no less withers. Material has
been brought two thousand miles and has been made
into cloth in Lowell, to be worn out by laborers in
Southern cotton-fields ; Missouri with her Iron Moun-
tain, has gone to the East for her iron ware; and the
West, with coal and iron inexhaustible, has from time
immemorial cut her grain-fields with Eastern sickles,
and now cuts them with Eastern reapers. The citizen
of New Orleans sweetens his coffee with sugar refined
in Boston or Portland ; while New England does not
raise wheat enough to sustain herself a month. We
clo not wish to enter into any politico-economical
discussion, except as to points bearing upon this subject;
but the regeneration of the South by free labor may
make it more self-dependent. The West may yet turn
her wondrous resources to account, and manufacture
much of what is, or has been bought of New England.
She only waits for skilled mechanics. We have not yet
felt what changes this war may bring upon us. Labor
has been turned from the requirements of peace, to the

* The shape of a tree depends upon the flow of sap. Pinch the end of a
limb and we send the sap from the production of wood to the formation of
fruit spurs. We cut an incision in a vine, below the cluster, the descend-
ing sap turns aside and the cluster doubles in size, but the branch is par-
alyzed.

ESSAY. -H

production of the munitions of war ; and the hammer
rings upon the sword, instead of the scythe. The long
results we cannot foresee. But should New England
lose her markets of the South an d West, or a ruinous
competition be instituted with the laborers of Europe, ■
then nothing could save the manufacturing cities of
New England from ruin, but a population clustered
thickly upon her soil, feeding their manufacturers, and
buying their manufactures.

The soil of New England is thin, but underlying our
fields and farms, we have others which we never saw.
The rootlets of our cultivated plants wait patiently and
silently, for the riches so long shut away from them to
be unlocked; for the salts, the phosphates, the sulphates,
and silicates to be disintegrated by the action of the
weather. They are waiting for the deep plough to
expose them to the decomposing influence of heat, frost,
air and rain-water. The plough, for centuries has been
coming nearer and nearer; increasing the size of bulb,
root and tuber ; giving more range and food to the
rootless, which forming little voltaic batteries, do their
share toward preparing their own food ; admitting air to
the soil, aiding thus in the decomposition of humus.
First came .the anchor-shaped hook of wood, which we
see on Roman coins, and which Cincinnatus was using
when called off to defend Rome against the Gauls. But
the progress was slow ; and two thousand years after, the
plough which Israel Putnam left in furrow, when called
off to defend Boston, bore too great a resemblance to it.
It is true that the decaying vegetation of cycles of years,
has spread the Western fields with humus apparently
inexhaustable, but who would seek there what he might
find in his own vineyard by digging. It would be a

12

E S S A Y.

concession to ignorance and indolence ; and in future
years, that which seems inexhaustible wealth of soil, will
be exhausted by the spendthrift style of agriculture
followed there. Already have the worn-out fields of
Virginia, come begging to New England for agriculturists
to restore their fecundity; agriculturists, with the
science and industry which a hard rocky soil engenders ;
with industry, produced by surmounting difficulties ;
science, called in to supply natural deficiencies. Not
those who have the most means, have accomplished the
greatest ends. The prisoner, who with a knife and bit
of box-wood made a perfect watch, accomplished more
than he might under less painful difficulties. Not that
country with the fines-t agricultural advantages, has
produced the best farmers. The South Sea Islander
has but to stretch forth his hand, and the overladen
bough satisfies his wants. If the soil and climate do
all, men do nothing, like spoiled children of fortune*
Those stones useless as they seem to be, have called
forth much mechanical skill. The lever and fulcrum
are thrown aside, and powerful engines lift ponderous
boulders from their bed of centuries, upon which the
plough-points have been blunted so long. In pulver-
izing the soil, in exposing its particles to the action of
the elements, the agriculturist becomes a chemist-
Whether he knows it or not, he is a chemist, with the
fields for his crucible, the sun and winds for a furnace and
blow-pipe. He mixes the soil with ingredients in such
proportions as the plants he cultivates requires, trusting
to the weather to form the proper disintegrations and

* Liebig speaks of a place in Europe where the inhabitants live on milk
and sweet chestnuts ; the ease in the production of which, is the cause of
their intellectual weakness.

13

ESSAY. ±KJ

combinations. He feeds his plants as he feeds his
animals. A pigeon, fed on food in which there is no
phosphate of lime, dies ; its bones become too frail. The
stalks of grain, grown on land where silicate of potash
is wanting, break down under the weight of their own
ears. Oats grown on sand treated with nitric acid, will
not blossom ; and an oak is dwarfed to the size of a
fern by starvation.

The soil of New England is stony; but our ancestors
reared whole families on the stoniest of it. The plough
of the son glides smoothly through soil from which those
double walls and huge moles of innumerable cobble-
stones have been taken, at the expense of the strength
of the ancestor. Should we and those who come after
us, practice their patient industry, our soil might get rid
of the reputation of being stony. It is rough ; but the
Swiss peasants build like eagles on the hights of the
Alps, and bring up their children on giddy cliffs where
none beside, but the chamois, climb; and in some places in
Italy, the women carry up soil in baskets placed on their
heads, to form terraces on the sides of the mountains.
It embraces sandy plains; but the plains of Belgium
were sandy, but by the application of agricultural sci-
ence, this sand, once almost as unpromising as Cape
Cod, now sustains a population sufficient in numbers to
quash the theory of Malthus.

In draining a marsh, we add to the available surface
of the world. The Duke of Devonshire, who drained
the Bedford Level, and the Emperor of France, who*
drained the marshes of Salone, were public benefactors-

*While in exile, the Emperor was asked why he paid so much attention
to the study of hooks on draining: " I am fitting myself to become Em-
peror of France," said he, " and one of my first acts shall be to drain the
marshes of Salone," and so it was.

14

•*■* ESSAY.

Much of the soil of New England is undrained, cold,
unproductive, wet, insoluble. But these marshes are
magazines of humus ; rich mines which the rivulets have
carried there from the decaying leaves of centuries of
vegetation, rich as the most fertile soil of the West, but
now the abode of reptiles, bearing nothing but coarse
grass, and none of the constituents of the blood, to pro-
duce which, Liebig says, is the true object of agricul-
ture; nothing to support animal life; nothing of the
iron, phosphorus and gluten of the human frame-work;
nothing to support the brain which moves the world.
It, is in this, that " Man may be called to be a co-worker
with the Infinite Mind ;" a promoter of the great plan,
which was commenced when God separated the waters
from the land. The noble consciousness of this power
over the soil, wThich is little short of that of creation ;
the feeling that one has made land do its share toward
the support of civilization, renders the making of soil
thus easily, infinitely better than the seeking it ready
made.

The soil of New England is hilly and stony, thin and
sandy, but it has done its fair share 'toward the
agricultural reputation of the nation. There are better
farmers in New England to-day, than in more favored
portions of the country. They are not generally men
of one idea. The various kinds of crops their farms
produce, drive them out of that, and they generally
know more or less of the theory of Rotation of Crops,
deep and shallow ploughing, application of fertilizers,
underdraing &c. These things are of very little interest
to the farmers of the West, who cultivate their
specialties, and whose soil will produce a crop, provided
the seed is sown.

ESSAY

15

t
The hills of Worcester County produce better butter

and cheese than the hills of Ayr. The soil of Cambridge,

better pears than France the home of peirs. Hovey's

Seedling, the result of careful horticultural science,

originated there to be known beyond the Atlantic ;

and the Habbardston Nonesuch, Roxbury Russet, and

Rhode* Island Greening are household words. There

is no better latitude than that from Boston through

to the lakes, for the growth ot apples. Exporters say

that apples produced there are less liable to decay.

Very much farther north, the seasons are too short,

and much farther south, they are too long. The trees

grow to wood, form too few fruit spurs, and store

too little starch, gum and sugar, for the ^support of

blossoms the ensuing 3'ear. Thoreau says in the Atlantic

Monthly : " The trees of New England embrace all the

most valuable kinds on the continent. I never have

a Botanical specimen sent to me, but I am sure to find

something like it in my rambles ; and I even expect to

find the victoria regia, on Concord River."

But what must be done to arrest the decay which in
many places is going on ; which, while the land around
our cities is becoming a garden, is blighting some
country neighborhoods. What must be done to keep
the sons of New England on their native soil ; who now
yield to the allurements of the fertile West ; pour into
cities, or adopt any other pursuit rather than cultivate
their native fields.

In farming there has been too great a strain upon the
muscles, and too little upon the brain ; too much phys-
ical, and too little intellectual labor. TJie muscles have
become stiffened, while the brain has suffered by inac-
tivity. Says Charming : " Manual labor is a great good,

*V ESSAY.

Jjut in so saying I must be understood to speak of labor
in its just proportions. In excess it does great harm.
It is not as good when made the sole work of life. It
must be joined to high means of improvement, or it
degrades instead of exalting. Man has a various nature
which requires a variety of occupations and discipline
for its growth. Study, meditation, society, relaxation
should be mixed up with his physical toils. He has
intellect, 'heart, imagination, taste, as well as bones and
muscles, and he is grievously wronged when compelled
to exclusive drudgery for bodily subsistence." We have
had too much art and too little science. Farming has
been too empirical. We have been guided by a sort
of independent empiricism, rather than by enlightened
science. Not that a well instituted experiment for decid-
ing any particular point should be disparaged, but life
should not be all experiment. Too many of our farmers
toward trje close of life, look back upon their earlier
efforts as having been guided by a policy essentially
bad. " Time and capital," says Liebig, " are wasted in
experiments." A few successful results,. cannot estab-
lish a reliable rule. We have decried the long experi-
ence of scientific men, called it " book knowledge,"
"impractical," forgetting that these very theories are
the result of practice, and that our own practice has
a theory to it. The mechanic, receiving the data and
formulae of forces and agencies as true, works straight
forward to a result, the truth of which he does not
doubt. The farmer, though the laws governing the
growth of a blade of corn, more impalpable perhaps,
but not more unreal, are old as the world, is slower to
receive them — the laws of motion are no more certain
and fixed than those of chemical affinities; the bino*

ESSAY.

17

mial theorem no more a fixed fact, than that gypsum
(sulphate of lime,) when sown upon land, will react
upon the ammonia in the air. — Therefore Agriculture,
which supports all, has been slow to take its stand
among the sciences.

Boys, deeming agriculture the lowest of arts, the
meanest of vocations, have sought the professions ; the
ministry, and have been forced to turn to the woods and
fields for their noblest, sublimest lessons ; the study of
medicine, and in their study of chemistry, have come
to find themselves better farmers than ever, and that a
better remedy than any in the whole pharmacopoeia, is
the healthful exercise which out-door labor gives.

It is a pity that the beauties of farming should be
better seen from other stand-points, than the one the
farmer himself occupies; that they who are shut up
inside four walls of city brick, should know more of
chemistry, botany, mineralogy, entomology, than those
whose daily occupation brings them so much in contact
with these sciences; that through their distant and
casual glimpses, they should know more of the book
of nature, than those before whom its pages lie con-
stantly open.

The agricultural college will do something toward
remedying this. It will be a guiding light, a starting
point, a repository where all that is known of tillage
shall be embalmed ; which shall elevate the mind to its
proper sphere in farming ; which shall be a place where
men may make sure use of the experience of the past,
as stepping stones toward something higher. It is not
our purpose to enter into any argument for agricultu-
ral colleges, but it seems that New England with her
mixed crops, her soil so undeveloped and so capable of

18

ESSAY.

development, will absorb them into her educational sys-
tem with alacrity. They may educate men away from
the plough, but they need not do so. If a boy is to be-
come a merchant, he prepares himself not only practical-
ly, by an education gained in the counting room,but also
in the broad principles of the law. and political economy.
The lawyer must become versed in jurisprudence, ere
he dares trust himself at the bar. The physician must
get deep into pharmaceutics and pathology ; and one
by one almost all civilians have been dropped, during
this war, from the roll of high officers. To-day, what
men seemed to doubt at first, is plain, that men who
have studied the theory of war deeply, are best military
leaders. But the agriculturist has generally been
forced to pick up his knowledge as best he could, at
the plough, in the newspapers, and by dear experience.
Scientific farming has been brought into great disre-
pute by its votaries, or those who pretend to be such.
Some of these might be called amateurs, anj^thing but
scientific farmers. Many of these try to till the soil on
the strength of theory alone, and fail. The large
expenses incurred, and the small results obtained by
these, have caused men to shun anything which savored
of science. Many of these having large fortunes, have
tilled the soil for show, pleasure and experhnent, rather
than profit. There are others who have farmed for a
livelihood but, ignorant either of the theory or practice
of farming have seized upon a hobby, and in following
it, have set at naught the rules of economy and judg-
ment These. hobbies have led them to cultivate crops
unsuitable to their localities. Grass is the principal
crop in New England ; the cattle, beef and grain we
raise, are accessaries ; and any departure from a policy

ES'SAY

19

favoring the production of grass, except in localities
warranting a change, is a loss. We sow our grain, that
the land may become regenerated for the ensuing crop
of grass. We cannot compete with the West in raising
corn. A pound of beef raised here costs more than a
pound brought from there ; and a horse, raised in Massa-
chusetts, costs twice what one costs raised in Vermont,
Investing in fancy fertilizers, has almost ruined the
fortunes and the farms of some. Our bogs lie much
nearer than Peru, and by adding alkalies their humus
becomes soluble. It is a pity, besides being a proof of
bad judgment, to let our resources run to waste. A
farmer who lets his manure heaps dry up in air, the
ammonia fly off to benefit another man's growing
crops, while he incurs heavy expenses in buying fancy
fertilizers, must make up his mind to poor success.
Guano is the opium of tillage, producing illusive and
dazzling results, but exhausting the productive capacit}^
of the soil, by means of its alkalies — We ha,ve in mind
a farmer scientific, and yet economical and practical,
who tills the soil scientifically and profitably; who
culls from the jarring evidence of the experience of
others, all that is worth preserving ; who makes the
rules of nature his own, gathering up all so that noth-
ing is lost, and into whose business the capital of
thought enters largely — The agricultural college can-
not, it is true, give men common sense where that
is wanting ; but it may, help give an impulse, a zest
to a pursuit, which has been so unatractive to so
many; teach the farmer to appreciate the dignity of his
position, as owner of his domain in fee simple ; keep the
sons of farmers upon their native fields, and tend to
stanch this hemorrhage. But not to colleges alone

^" ESSAY.

must we look for a remedy. The majority of our
farmers must serve out a long apprenticeship at the
plough and the hoe. Thought must be called in to our
aid. "Labor becomes a new thing when thought is
thrown into it, when the mind keeps pace with the
hands." We must learn the why, as well as the hoiu. We
are acquainted with the plough as an implement of art ;
it also has a scientific aspect. The sons of farmers
must be fascinated with beauties surrounding their toils,
of which they never dreamed. The fields must be tilled
intelligently, and not blindly. The more we know of
how God works, the better will be our own success and
delight. Let the farmer become a man of taste ; let
his house contain a library; let him become familiar
with the microscope and the wonders it unfolds ; let
his grounds be tastefully laid out — taste, like civility,
costs little. — Even laying stone-wall might be pleasant,
and *we might forget our thin-worn fingers, when it will
contribute toward adorning our homesteads. We know
a tasteful farmer, who is laying a fine face- wall in front
of his house. An awkwardly shaped cavity in it re-
mains unfilled, until a nicely fitting stone is dug from
his fields. He fulfills a double purpose ; his wall
becomes beautiful and his fields smooth.

We are influenced imperceptibly by our surroundings.
The face of the country, whether hilly or flat, has a vast
influence on the character of its inhabitants.* The
manner in which our homes are adorned, has a great
influence on their inmates. The child commences its
education before it can talk; and unattractive surround-
ings bear a strong, early and constant influence, toward

*A writer says that a flat country produces flat heads. Byron is said
to have owed his poetical proclivities to a residence in youth among the
Scottish Mountains.

ESSAY. ^X

educating boys away from the plough. The farmer
stamps his character upon his fields and home, in unmis-
takable hand-writing. By the arrangement of his
hedges, orchards, shrubbery and shade trees, he makes
landscape. He is a painter in living colors. He has a
pleasant or an unpleasant home, almost as he pleases.
Taste is consistent generally with good judgment; and
the practice of it does not require wealth, or a high edu-
cation. Smooth fields are more productive than rough
ones, and a tastefully arranged farm will sell for much
more, than one upon which less taste has been shown*
There has been very little expense incurred in making
this difference ; a little thought has been expended ; a
plan worked out, formed perhaps, while others were
idle. We are idle for an hour ; we might have planted
a tree which would have made us happier for a life-time.
Not every tree is useless which does not bear tangible
fruit. We admire the taste of our ancestors, who planted
the elms before our doors. They have been bearing
the fruit of joy and beauty a hundred years. The
cherries and apples please our coarser tastes; these our
more refined sensibilities. The Washington Elm has
borne as much fruit as the Stuyvesant Pear tree. Let
the farm be a place to live upon and not a machine to
run for a limited period, out of which to wring a living.
Let it be such a place, with such attractions that its sons
when called off to other pursuits, may^look back upon
the time spent in the old homestead as the happiest
part of their lives ; that the ship-wrecked" sailor may
cling more hopefully to his plank remembering it ; that
the merchant may keep a vision of it before his mind,
unobscured by those of wealth and gain, and in the
evening of his life may wander back to beautify with
his fortune his early home.

ESSAY.

ON THE EDUCATION OF THE OX.

BY A. B. DAVIS, OF SHIRLEY.

"Their strength, or speed, or vigilance, were given
In aid of our defects." — [Cowpeb.

Tie employment of the term " Education," I am
aware, implies Mentality and a certain capability of
moral progression ; but it might as well be at once un-
derstood that while taking issue with this position I
recognize and accept the implication of truth, in the
remark attributed to Sidney Smith, that " there is no
other animal but man to whom mind appears to be given
for any other purpose than the preservation of the body."
Twenty years' experience with beasts of burden, has
put me in possession of facts which prove them sus-
ceptible of education and moral improvement to a
degree considerably outrunning the popular apprehen-
sion. To elucidate these facts and call attention to a
new source of good and pecuniary wealth to the Agri-
culturist, is the object of this paper. Of course it is
not practicable to give the full modus operandi of training
upon the basis of the positions assumed, but I hope by
originality of treatment to awaken interest in a science
which must, I am persuaded, form no unimportant
branch of the practically progressive farmer's education.

ESSAY. Z"J

Much of tho mal-trcatment to which Domestic Animals
are subject, is owing to ignorance of the true conditions
of successful management ; but I propose to urge the
discipline of animals solely on the score of economy,
leaving out of view, for the present, the moral aspect of
the case. Pecuniary profit we suppose to be the farmer's
object in the breeding and rearing of animals. Let us
see ; a man breeds and rears a pair of steers for ordin-
ary farm work. Other things being equal, a pair "trained
up in the way they should go " would not attain greater
size than if left in natural and lawless freedom ; but
symmetrical development and ease of management
being desiderata with New England teamsters, early and
judicious training becomes a pecuniary consideration.

The sine qua non of successful ox-training involves
the following conditions: 1st, Likeness of temperament
and disposition ; and 2d, Equality of size, strength, and
age. These conditions are placed in the order of their
importance. Many, a poor beast is made to suffer a
kind of martyrdom from being " unequally yoked" by
his ignorant master. And, as a teamster of some
experience, I feel warranted in affirming my belief that
no small number of our class become martyrs to the
ignorance above mentioned. The hired teamster being
required to perform a certain amount of work he is not
at liberty to correct any vices or defects in the team
given him, but must worry through his time, often under
the most trying circumstances. " It is hard learning
old dogs new tricks," and none are more likely to ap-
preciate the significance of this proverb than teamsters
placed in situations where they have to deal with ill-bred,
mis-matched, and vicious animals. Where the standard
of " education " is unworthily low, people are wont to

^4 ESSAY.

regard all reformatory efforts as utopian and not likely
to promote their interests in any direction. But what
are the facts ? Comparing trained with untrained cattle
the former will command, in the general market, from
five to twenty-five dollars more per yoke than the latter.
And in localities where beauty and facility of manage-
ment goat their maximum price the difference is greater.
The common remark with intelligent buyers is —
" Money is no object — we are willing to pay for cattle
that are well matched, smart, and handy." But there
are minor advantages growing out of judicious discipline
which are not so readily apprehended, and which are not
so easily made appreciable. I will notice a few of the
most prominent. One fair resultant— and which will be
readily granted — is the facility of movement acquired in
the process of training. One of the most common
wheel conveyances in use upon the farm is the Ox-cart;
and it is no inconsiderable point of economy to be able
to change cattle off and on to this vehicle easily and
rapidly. In busy seasons, what is the advantage of
smartness and dexterity in a hired man, if the farmer
cannot make it available through his team, with which
the man is so constantly required to operate? Among
all the varied positions in which wagons and carts
require to be placed, there often exists the necessity
of "backing;" and none but the best trained cattLe
are able to execute this maneuver with facility. Indeed,
an acquaintance with working cattle extending over a
period of twenty years has failed to furnish a single
instance of a pair perfect in this respect, who were not
the subjects of constant and persistent training and use,
from calves upward to four-?/ ears-old. Almost every farm
barn thirty years ago was constructed so that u backing

ESSAY. ' **&

in" was often necessary, and yet few oxen of that day
were capable of doing it. In the majority of cases
where such a maneuver became necessary the oxen were
taken off the " spear" or tongue and brought " right
about face," to push or shove the load in. This is always
a difficult operation, requiring considerable time, and
one can readily perceive the economy of discipline,
which enables the farmer to back any load his cattle
are able to draw. But the advantages of discipline in
draft are not less apparent, whether in cases where
" a long pull, a strong pull, and a pull altogether" is
requisite, or where an ox's entire strength is needed for
a single spring or lift, (as in turning a large stone,) the
superiority of the trained ox is so marked as to impress
every impartial and unprejudiced witness. With such
there is no " baulking" — the common causes of it being
removed. Cattle properly mated will generally pull
together, and generally all they can, if their driver so
signifies ; and though his judgment may be at fault, it
is very seldom, indeed, that they would get abused, or
be required to pull a third time. With mis-mated cattle
it often happens that one is spirited and ambitious,
while the other is " slow moulded" and easily discour-
aged in a bad place. Such a pair in the hands of a
hasty -tempered, injudicious man soon becomes worthless
for most kinds of labor. The energetic, " high strung"
ox after a time gets discouraged from having to receive
much of the whipping which his mate deserves, and
much ill-treatment which neither of them deserves.
But perhaps the most marked distinction between
trained and untrained oxen is observable upon the road.
Speed and endurance are qualities valued in cattle
designed for hauling and " holding back " upon New

2G

ESSAY

England roads. All the varied minutise of superior
training are requsite here, and some of them may be
seen in the best light. But perhaps I have made the
desirableness of thorough, judicious training sufficiently
apparent without further illustration ; and, grasping at
the hope lodged in that " perhaps," I take courage to
assert that a yoke of educated oxen, (other things being
equal,) will perform one-third more work with one-fourth
less " wear and tear," than a pair only trained up to the
common standard. Besides this there is the physical
and moral effect upon the driver, which is above pecu-
niary price.

Re-asserting what appears in the first part of this
paper, viz : that likeness of disposition and equality of
size and strength are indispensable conditions, I pro-
ceed to some practical hints on the early training of ani-
mals adapted to farm labor. While urging the propri-
ety of early matching and training I feel bound to state
what appears to be the only objection to such a course ;
viz: the risk of a dissimilar development — either in
point of size, strength, organization, or temper — in the
process of growth. And as some security against such
a risk, the employment of a sagacious, experienced per-
son in the selection of calves, . presents itself as a
suggestion worthy of adoption. The farmer must ex-
pect to give himself some trouble at the outset, and will
often find it necessary to search among the herds of his
acquaintances, at a considerable expense of time ; and
when successful must not grudge what may seem a sum
out of proportion to what his experience may suggest
as the maximum return. Having selected and brought
his calves together, let them be kept so during the en-
tire period of training. The manner of rearing calves

ESSAY. "*

I shall not discuss, not deeming it relevant to the sub-
ject of this essay ; if, however, they be well kept
their size and strength at three months will admit of
their being yoked and exercised in some of the more
simple movements — such as turning each way ; starting
and halting at command ; backing, and " holding up ;"
" standing out" and " standing up," separately, &c, &c.
In all these primary exercises the experienced teamster
sees the chief advantages of early training. At this
stage animals are supple and docile, and the whip almost
finds its " occupation gone " — at least there is no need
of severity. One of the most difficult branches of the
science may then be taught with assurance of complete
success. The art of backing, properly, is seldom taught,
and more seldom acquired. Regarding this subject of
" backing," I beg leave to submit a few illustrations.
An ill-founded notion seems to have possessed the
minds of not a few farmers and teamsters, touching the
ability of thd ox to force a load back by the horns. To
this prejudice I attribute the general failure of working
cattle in this particular. It is however an easily demon-
strated fact that Nature has lodged more strength in the
neck and head of the ox, than in his breast and shoulders.
This is patent to the most casual observation of bulls
and oxen when fighting. The size and strength of the
horns of the ox also favor this view. In some parts of
Europe this principle seems to be better understood :
hence we find the ox and the cow appropriately har-
nessed for draft by the horns, and executing their tasks
with apparent ease. Having exercised sufficiently
without draft, let the calves then be hitched to a mini-
ature cart or wagon and be instructed in all the ma-
neuvers required of oxen. At first the load should be

28

ESSAY.

light, and when backing, care should be taken not to
injure the embryo horns. At this point, too, let the
a sidewise movement" receive some attention. As this
maneuver is not generally understood, I will describe
it, as well as I may verbally. Every teamster who
understands his business knows that one of the best
tests of superior training is to be found in the manner
in which a pair of cattle approach and place themselves
astride a cart-spear, or tongue. None save those most
thoroughly drilled can do it handsomely. When ap-
proaching the cart the "nigh" ox should be made to
gradually place himself parallel to the spear, (the " off"
one following suit,) and when sufficiently near, should
step sidewise, (his fore and hind legs simultaneously) 'over
the spear. This is rather difficult of execution, and
should be taught prior to any requirement of use. In
other words let cattle be taught to move " sideways"
squarely, to and from the driver, as if on parade. This
the maneuver once taught, is of incalculable value in all
multiform exercises of ox-labor. The same rule reversed
will apply when approaching the spear from the left hand.
Perhaps in this place I should indicate my pre-
ference among the whips known to teamsters. In
some parts of Worcester County drivers use a whip
made of common shoemaker's thread, by means of a
very simple machine, which any farmer's boy can con-
struct. This cord, which is very hard and stiff, and of
uniform size, is looped on to the stock, and " let out" as
it wears up. For cheapness, durability, and efficiency?
I know of no whip to compare with it, and yet I hesi-
tate to recommend its general use, for the reason that it
can be made too harmful. It is an error to suppose
that an ox-whip should be either large or long : the stock

90

ESSAY. *9

may be a few inches over three feet — the lash about six
inches shorter. Such a whip can be easily flourished,
and will inflict greater punishment when required, than
one much 'larger. In the matter of castigation as a
means of breaking and governing refractory animals,
it is not easy to draw the line between " a necessary
act," which Cowper says " incurs no blame," and severi-
ty which would be obnoxious to the charge of cruelty-
As I cannot dwell at length upon this most vital ques-
tion, I must content myself with stating and briefly
illustrating the great governing principle, which is —
recognition of the intelligence, apprehensiveness, docil-
ity, and dignity of the animal. Farmers ! let never a
wanton or wicked blow be struck, nor a harsh, unmean-
ing sound be made ; let nothing be clone at the instance
of mere caprice, or passion ; cause all persons in any
way employed with your teams to recognize and regard
this principle. If, after sufficient trial, an animal proves
incorrigible, by every principle of morality, by every
consideration of wisdom and economy, release him from
the yoke forever. It often happens that a man pos-
sessses an odd steer which he thinks too handsome to kill,
and so sets himself to find a " mate." If such a steer
at the age of three years old proves, on trial, turbulent
and ugly-natured, it will be nearly an impossibility to
break him into sobriety and usefulness. There is so
much wildness, will and muscle about steers that have
run till three years old, that the task of breaking them
is a formidable one, and not general]" advisable.

After cattle have been taught to " lay up" close to the
spear when backing, they should, constantly be required
to place themselves right, before attempting the exercise,
and should be looked after while performing. In this

30

ESSAY

place I would caution drivers against a common error —
the practice of going before cattle to back them. Oxen
thus treated never perform, the operation handsQmely.
While backing, the driver should keep a little back
rather than forward of the ox's middle, as there is a
tendency to " wing out" when handling a heavy load.
When using a cart or wagon upon the farm, and especi-
ally around barns, or in the door yards, the teamster
should never ride, or allow any one else thus employed
to do so. This common practice is fatal to the discipline
of trained cattle. The driver should walk steadily by
their side, not often using the whip, nor speaking in
any but a firm, distinct manner, and manifesting chiefly
by motion, his will. In the matter of ox-yokes my ex-
perience has not failed to impress me with the need of
a revolution — most of those in common use being too
heavy, " bungling," and every way inconvenient. These
remarks specially apply to those made by Nourse,
Mason & Co. Indeed I have met with but very few of
unexceptionable pattern, and those were manufactured
in a part of Worcester County where ox-training is car-
ried to a point much nearer perfection than in any other
locality of which I have knowledge.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

BLOOD STOCK.

The Committee on Blood Stock have attended to
their duties and find the following entries : Two Dur
ham Bulls, three Ayrshire Bulls, two Alderney Bulls,
three Ayrshire Cows, and one Ayrshire Heifer. The show
of Blood Stock was not as good as last year, owing to
the absence of the herds from Millbury, and Framing-
ham. The Committee think that no permanent im*
provement will be made in our stock until the Society
cease giving premiums on grade Bulls. The only sure
way of improving our stock is by the use of thorough*
bred males, and we think if the grade Bulls are excluded
we shall soon have a better class of animals at our shows.

The Committee on Blood Stock award the following
premiums :

DURHAM BULLS.

1st, to Joseph Upton, Fitchburg, for nis Bull

"Bed Rover," 2 years 2 months old, $5,00
2d, to T. Clark, South Koyalston, for his Bull

1 year 5 months old, 3,00

AYRSHIRE BULLS.

1st, to N» C> Day, Leominster, for his Bull

1 year 6 months old, 5,00

2d, to Albert Stratton, Leominster, for his

Bull 2 years old, 3,00

39

GRADE Oil NATIVE BULLS. 0iy

ALDERNEY BULLS.

1st, to Nathan Caswell, Fitchburg, for his Bull

" Coaster," 1 year 4 months old, $5,00

2d, to Nathan Caswell, Fitchburg, for his Bull

"Jewell," 1 year 4 months old, 3,00

We also recommend a gratuity of $5,00 to N. C.

Day, of Lunenburg, for his three Ayrshire Cows.

ABEL F. ADAMS, for the Committee.

GRADE, OR NATIVE BULLS.

The Committee on Grade Bulls award the following
premiums, to wit :

BULLS TWO YEARS OLD AND UPWARDS.

1st, to I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg, for his

7-8 Durham Bull, ' $5,00

2d, to Abel F. Adams, Fitchburg, for his

grade Durham Bull, 3,00

YEARLING BULLS.

1st, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, for his one

year old Bull, 4,00

BULL CALVES.

1st, to Josiah Page, Westmister, for his 3-4

Durham Calf, 4,00

2d, to Lorriston Stockwell, Fitchburg, for

his 7-8 Durham Bull Calf, 3,00

WM. WOODBURY, Jr., Chairman.

MILCH KINE. **d

MILCH KINE.

Premiums awarded on Milch Kine by the Committee
on the same.

HERD OE COWS.

1st, to Mandell G. Everett, Princeton, $10,00

2d, to J. P. Heed, Princeton, 7,00

Joseph Upton, Fitchburg, gratuity, 4,00

cows.
1st, to Alvah Crocker, Fitchburg, whose small cow

gave 479 pounds of milk in six days, 5,00
2d, to Willard H. Lowe, Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to N. B. Reed, Princeton, 3,00

HEIFERS— TWO YEARS OLD.

1st, to S. M. Caswell, Fitchburg, 4,00

2d, to George M. Gregory, Princeton, 3,00

3d, to J. E. Merriam, Princeton, 2,00

The Committee recommend a gratuity of $2,00
each to Reuben Vose, Jr., and Timothy Clark, for their
extra grade of Durham Cows, not coming within the
rules, were not entitled to compete for the regular
premiums offered by the Society, otherwise they would
have ranked high on the premium list. It is cause
of regret that members debar themselves from high
rnonied premiums by neglecting to comply with the
necessary regulations of the Society, when with very
little pains they may obtain all the information that
would crown their efforts with success.

J. T. EVERETT, Chairman.

34

HEIFER CALVE?

HEIFERS.
The Committee on Heifers make the following
awards :

TWO-YEARS OLD.

1st, to Aaron Jones, South Royalston, $4,00

2d, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, 3,00

3d, to T. Clark, South Royalston, 2,00

The Committee recommend a gratuity of $1,00 each
to Joel Page, of Westminster, and Anan Stockwell, of
South Royalston.

YEARLINGS.

1st to Geo. M. Gregory, of Princeton, 3,00

2d, to Nathan B. Reed, of Princeton, 2,00

3d, to Charles F. Woodbury, Winchendon, 1,00

The Committee recommend a gratuity of $1,00 to
Aaron Jones, of So. Royalston, and George M. Gregory,
of Princeton.

EZRA KENDALL, Chairman.

HEIFER CALVES.

The Committee on Heifer Calves more than four
months old, award the following premiums :

IIEIFER CALVES MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS OLD.

1st, to Joel Page, Fitchburg, $3,00

2d, to Luke Wellington, Ashby, 2,00

3d, not awarded.

RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to Chas. F. Woodbury, of Winchendon, 3,00

2d, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, 2,00

3d, to Alvin Ward, Ashburnham, 1,00

GEORGE O. SKINNER, Chairman.

STEERS MORE TIIAN TWO YEARS OLD. **"

WORKING OXEN.

The Committee on Working Oxen award the follow-
ing premiums :

1st, to N. B. Reed, Princeton, 6,00

2d, to Geo. Miles, Westminster, 5,00

3d, to Mandell G. Everett, Princeton, 4,00

4th, to Lorriston Stockwell, Fitchburg, 3,00

5th, to Thomas Gibson, Fitchburg, 2,00

E. D. WORKS, for the Committee.

STEERS MORE THAN TWO YEARS OLD.

The Committee on Steers more than two years old
award the following premiums :

THREE- YEARS OLD.

1st, to Daniel S. Eaton, Fitchburg, $5,00

2d, to J. E. Merriam, Princeton, 4,00

3d, to G. S. Beaman, Princeton, 3,00

The Committee recommend a gratuity of $2,00 to
Alfred A. Marshall, of Fitchburg, and to S. G. Mirick,
of Princeton.

TWO-YEARS-OLD.

1st, to Reuben Vose, Jr., Winchendon, 4,00

2d, to Mandell G. Everett, Princeton, 3,00

3d, to Josiah Page, Westminster, 2,00

TRAINED STEERS.

1st, to Alfred E. Skinner, Princeton, 4,00

2d, to Nathan B. Reed, Princeton, 2,00

Herbert Hastings, Lunenburg, gratuity, 2,00

ABEL MARSHALL, Chairman.

*

3v FAT CATTLE.

YEARLING STEERS.

The Committee on Yearling Steers and Steer Calves,
award the following premiums, to wit :

YEARLING STEERS.

1st, to Reuben Vose, Jr., Winchendon, $3,00

2d, to Thomas Billings, Lunenburg, 2,00

3d, to G. S. Beaman, Princeton, 1,00

TRAINED YEARLINGS.

1st, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, 3,00

CALVES RAISED BY HAND.

1st, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, 5,00

2d, to N. B. Reed, Princeton, 3,00

3d, to Reuben Vose, Jr., Winchendon, 1,00

TRAINED CALVES.

1st, to J. P. Reed, Princeton, 3,00

JOSIAH PUFFER, Chairman.

FAT CATTLE..

The Committee on Fat Cattle submit the following
report :

That four Oxen, four three year-old Steers, and three
Cows were offered for premium.

And we have awarded the first premium for Fat Oxen,
of $8,00, to Thomas Gibson, for his off ox.

The second and third premium of $5,00 and $3,00
to Abel Marshall, for his off and near ox.

The second premium to J. T. Everett, of $3,00, for
his Black Cow, and third premium of $2,00, for his
Devon Cow.

3WINE

The first premium of $6,00 to Scwcli G. Miriek for
his off steer.

The second premium of $4,00 to Daniel S. Eaton,
for his off steer.

Per order of the Committee,

CYRUS KILBURN, Chairman.

SWINE.

Your Committee on Swine after substituting Frank
Sheldon, of Fitchburg, and Levi Jackson, of Westmin-
ster, in place of John L. Cummings of Ashburnham,
and Wm. H. Brown, of East Princeton, proceeded to
business and reported as follows :

BEST BOAR MORE THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

2d, to George Miles, Westminster, $3,00

FAT HOGS MORE THAN EIGHT MONTHS OLD.

1st, to Samuel M. Dole, Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to Willard H. Lowe, Fitchburg, 2,00

PAT PIGS LESS THAN EIGHT MONTHS OLD.

2d, to A. B. Damon, Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Samuel Farewell, 2d, Fitchburg, 1,00

We also recommend a gratuity of $2,00 to Jonathan
Whitman, for a breeding sow and litter of pigs.

The Boar of Jos. Waterhouse is very much of a hog
and had he not taken the first premium last year would
have been entitled to it at the present fair.

Mr. John Lowe entered for exhibition nine fat hogs5
and we regret very much that they were not on the
ground, as probably no man in Worcester North can
show nine better ones.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

JOHN P. SABIN, Chairman,

38

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS

STALLIONS.

The Committee on Stallions report that they have
awarded
To Adam Thompson, of Littleton, for his Stallion

Great Eastern, 5 years old 1st premium, $10,00
To Horace H. Brown, of Fitchburg, for his

horse Dandy, 6 years old, 2d premium, 6,00

To Lewis Ware, of Lunenburg, 3d premium, 4,00

To John Brooks, of Princeton, for his Horse 4

years old, 1st premium, 6,00

To Dr. A. Hitchcock, of Fitchburg, for best 3

year old, 4,00

To Mandell G. Everett, of Princeton, for best 2

year old, 4,00

The Committee regret that the exhibition of this
class of animals was so small that they did not feel
justified in awarding all the premiums appropriated for
the purpose by the Society.

JAMES O. PARKER, Chairman.

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.

The Committee on Mares and Sucking Colts award
the following premiums, viz :

BREEDING MAItES.

1st, to Edmund Houghton, Lunenburg, $6,00

2d, to Alfred Hitchcock, Fitchburg, 4,00

3d, to J. E. Merriam, Princeton, 2,00

SUCKING COLTS.

1st to Edmund Houghton, Lunenburg, 3,00

2d, to Ohio Whitney, Ashburnham, 2,00

3d, to Alfred Hitchcock, Fitchburg, 1,00

S. W. A. STEVENS, Chairman.

COLTS. "«'

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

The Committee on Draught and Family Horses
award the following premiums :

DRAUGHT HORSES.

1st, to S. M. Dole, Fitchburg, best pair draught

horses, $6,00

2d, to Walter Whitney, Fitchburg, 2d best pair

draught horses, 4,00

SINGLE HORSES.

1st, to Walter Whitney, Fitchburg, 5,00

2d, to Jonathan Whitman, Fitchburg, 3,00

Gratuity to Dr. Fisher, and Jonas Pierce, $2,00 each.

FAMILY HORSES— PAIRS.

1st, to Lyman Patch, Fitchburg, double team, 7,00
2d, to Ira Carleton & Co., Fitchburg, double team, 5,00
Gratuity to Wm. Brown, Winchendon, double team, 3,00

FAMILY HORSES— SINGLE.

1st, to Frank E. Brown, Fitchburg, single team, 5,00
2d, to Abel Marshall, Fitchburg, 3,00

LEWIS WARE, Chairman,

COLTS.

The Committee on Colts award the following pre-
miums :

THREE YEAR OLD GELDINGS,

1st, to John Cutter, Winchendon, $4,00

2d, to Joel Hayward, Ashby, 2,00

George Miles, Westminster, gratuity, 1,00

40

SHEEP.

THREE YEAR OLD FILLIES.

1st, to E. E. Boyden, Leominster, $4,00

2d, to J. H. Heed, Bolton, 2,00

TWO YEAR OLD GELDINGS.

1st, to Porter F. Page, Westminster, 4,00

2d, to Alfred S. Houghton, Lunenburg, 2,00

TWO YEAR OLD FILLIES.

1st, to J. H. Reed, Bolton, 4,00

2d, to F. Nourse, Sterling, 2,00

YEARLING COLTS

1st, to J. H. Reed, Bolton, 4,00

2d, to J. B. Proctor, Fitchburg, 2,00

E. C. Farwell, Fitchburg, gratuity, 1,00

GARDNER MERRIAM, Chairman.

SHEER

The Committee on Sheep, having attended to their
duty, award the following premiums :

FLOCKS.

1st, to James Mclntire, Fitchburg, $10,00

BUCKS.

1st, to A. Stockwell, South Royalston, 5,00

2d, to A. M. Sawyer, Fitchburg, 3,00

COSSETTS.

1st, to Samuel Heywood, Ashby, 2,00

2d, to L. Stockwell, Fitchburg, 1,00

W. G. Wyman, Fitchburg, gratuity, 3,00

EPHRAIM GRAHAM, Chairman.

TOWN -TEAMS- ^1

»

POULTRY.

The Committee on Poultry submit the following as
their report :

There were entered on the Secretary's book two lots
of Turkeys, one of Ducks, and seven of Chickens of
different varieties. Your Committee have awarded the
following premiums :

DUCKS.

1st, to A. Crocker, Fitchburg, $2,00

TURKEYS.

1st, to A: M. Sawyer, Fitchburg, 2,00

2d, to Geo. B. Woodward, Fitchburg, 1,00

BARN YARD FOWLS.

1st, to Mary Miles, Westminster, 2,00

2d, to Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, 1,00

GRATUITIES.

To N. C. Day, of Lunenburg, ,75

To Thomas Gibson, Fitchburg, ,50

A. P. Kimball, Fitchburg, ,50

Respectfully submitted,

WARD M. COTTON, Chairman.

TOWN TEAMS.

The Committee appointed to award premiums on
Town Teams have attended to their duty, and make the
following award :

There was but one team entered for premiums and
the Committee awarded that to the town of Leominster^
the first premium of $25,00.

J. Mi SAWYER, Chairman.

4 2 PLOWING.

PLOWING— DOUBLE TEAMS.

The Committee on plowing with double teams award
the following premiums :

1st, to Mandell G. Everett, Princeton, $7,00

Edwin A. Goodrich, Fitchburg, gratuity, 5,00

Silas Pratt, Fitchburg, gratuity, 3,00

ALVIN M. SAWYER, Chairman.

PLOWING— SINGLE TEAMS.

The Committee on plowing with single teams report
as follows :

Whole number of teams entered for premium were
eight. The teanis were on the ground promptly ready
for the work, and the contest was entered into with
spirit and animation by the plowmen. The contest
throughout was characterized by order and quietness.

We award the premiums as follows :

SINGLE TEAMS.

1st, to Hubbard B. Fuller, Fitchburg, $7,00

2d, to Sewall G. Mirick, Princeton, 5,00

3d, to Abel Marshall, Fitchburg, 3,00

And your Committee would award a gratuity to J.
E. Merriam, of Princeton, of $3,00 for the workman-
like manner in which he performed his work with a
beautiful pair of three-years-old steers, although entered
as oxen.

MINORS WITH STEERS.

1st, to G. B.Woodward & J. M. Pierce, Fitchburg, 6,00
2d, to Geo. E. Adams & Albert Mirick, Princeton, 4,00

JAMES P. PUTNAM, Chairman.

43

ROOT CROPS. *°

HORSE TEAMS.

The Committee on Horse Teams award the following
premium :

1st, to Walter Whitney, Fitchburg, $7,00

STEPHEN SHEPLEY, Chairman.

ROOT CROPS.

Your Committee on Root Crops have to lament the
state of things in their department, there being but a
single entry, where there should have been at least
twenty-five, and that one was of a character which had
there been the competition there should have been,
might not have appeared in this report. To Cyrus
Kilburn, Esq., of Lunenburg, belongs the credit of
rescuing this important product from the mortification
of not appearing at all in this report, he being the only
competitor, and notwithstanding his field of Potatoes
might have been excelled by many not entered, yet
under the circumstances, we feel that justice will war-
rant us in awarding to him the first premium.

1st, to Cyrus Kilburn, Lunenburg, for his field

of Potatoes, $4,00

WM. BAKER, for the Committee.

CYEUS KILBUBN'S STATEMENT.
POTATOES.

To the Committee on Root Crops —

Gentlemen : The soil on which I raised my Potatoes
was a sandy loam, and was in grass for several years
previous. They were planted the 20th of May, cut in

44

VEGETABLES.

one or two pieces to a hill, about ten bushels to the
acre ; the quantity of manure was sixteen loads, costing
about $24 ; the kind was the Garnet Chili Potatoes,
costing $12 for seed and planting ; they were hoed twice?
and for cultivation cost $10, and were dug the 25th of
Oct., costing to harvest them $8. The early part of
the season was very dry and they suffered by the
drought — saw no signs of disease, and it is said this
variety has never shown any. The crop on forty rods
weighed 3360 lbs. as weighed by the Committee.

VEGETABLES.

The Committee on Vegetables make the following
awards :

KITCHEN VEGETABLES.

1st, to A. Crocker, Fitchburg, best collection, $7,00

2d, not awarded.

3d, to Benj. Safford, Fitchburg, 2d best collection, 3,00

POTATOES.

1st, to Gardner Merriam, Leominster, 2,00

2d, to Rodney Wallace, Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, ,50

GARDEN SEEDS-

1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 5,00

HUBBARD SQUASHES.

1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 1,00

2d, to Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, ,50

CROOKNECK SQUASHES.

1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 1,00

2d, to Bodney Wallace, Fitchburg, ,50

PUMPKINS.

1st, to A. B. Damon, Fitchburg, • ,75

2d, to Thos.S. Eaton, Fitchburg ,50

VEGETABLES.

■

45

CABBAGES.

1st, to George E. Towne, Fitchburg, ,75

CELERY.

1st, to H. S. Smith, Fitchburg, ,75

TURNIP BEETS.

1st, to Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to David Battles, Fitchburg, ,50

ENGLISH TURNIPS.

1st, to Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, ,50

2d, to Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg, ,25

TOMATOES.

1st, to Thos. Palmer, Fitchburg, ,50

FIELD BEANS.

1st, to Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham, ,50

2d, to Charles Mason, Fitchburg, ,25

LIMA BEANS.

1st, to Charles Mason, Fitchburg, ,50

SEED CORN.

1st, to Levi White, Lunenburg, 1,00

2d, to Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, ,75

3d, to James Mclntire, Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES.

E. Bird, Leominster, collection kitchen vegetables, 2,00

Daniel North, Westminister, " " 1,00

George Miles, Westminister, " " 1,00

Alfred A. Marshall, Fitchburg, melons, ,50

Cyrus Kilburn, Lunenburg, u ,25

Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, yokoharra squashes, ,50
Cyrus Thurston, Fitchburg, crookneck squashes, ,25

N. H. Richardson, Fitchburg, cabbages and carrots, ,25

A. 3. Dole, Fitchburg, seed corn, ,25

J. T. FAKWELL, for the Committee.

^^ PEACU^S.

APPLES.

Three hundred and one plates exhibited by twenty
competitors.

The Committee on Apples make the following
awards :

APPLES.

For the best and largest collection of named varieties,
1st, to Addison Hubbard, Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, to J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg, Harris on Insects

For twelve varieties five specimens each,
1st, to G. P. Hawkins, Fitchburg, Harris on Insects
2d, to Benjamin SafFord, Fitchburg, 2,00

3d, to Charles Flagg, Sterling, 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, 2,00

2d, to B. F. Lewis, Fitchburg, 1,50

3d, to A. S. Dole, Fitchburg, 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to N. C. Day, Lunenburg, 1,50

2d, to R. Wallace, Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to G. F. Nutting, Fitchburg, ,50

For the best twelve specimens of one variety,
1st, to N. C. Daj^, Lunenburg, 1,50

2d, to J. Fisher, Fitchburg, 1,00

PEACHES.

For best collection, premium not awarded.

For best dish,
1st, to B. SafFord, Fitchburg, lemon peach, 2,00

2d, to J. Fisher, Fitchburg, late Crawford, 1,00

3d, to A. Hubbard, Fitchburg, early crawford, ,50

PEARS AND GTIAPES.

PLUMS.

For best collection, premium not awarded.

For best plate,
1st, to Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham, green gage, 1,00
2d, not awarded.

QUINCES.

For best dish,
1st, to C. A. Emory, Fitchburg, 1,00

2d, to J. Fisher, Fitchburg, ,50

GRATUITIES ON APPLES.

Ezra Kendall, Sterling, 1,50

Ephraim Graham, Lunenburg, 1,00

Nathan Caswell, Fitchburg, 1,00

Levi Kendall, Fitchburg, ,75

F. A. Whitney, Fitchburg, ,75

T. R. BOUTELLE, Chairman.

PEARS AND GRAPES.

The Committee on Pears make the following awards :

PEARS.

For best and largest exhibition of named varieties,
1st, to Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, to Alvah Crocker, Fitchburg, Harris on Insects

For best twelve varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to Jonas A. Marshall, Fitchburg, Harris on Insects
2d and 3d, not awarded.

For best six varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to James Bennett, Leominster, 2,00

2d, to Thomas R. Bou telle, Fitchburg, 1,50

3d, to Addison Hubbard, Fitchburg, 1,00

48

PEARS AND GRAPES.

For best three varieties of five specimens each,
1st, to Z. F. Young, Fitchburg, $1,50

2d, to George F. Nutting, Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to Benjamin Safford, Fitchburg, ■ ,50

For best twelve specimens of one variety,

1st, to Nathan Upham, Fitchburg, 1,50

2d, to Charles H. Col burn, Leominster, 1,00

GRATUITIES,

Cyrus Thurston, Fitchburg, ,75

Abel Simonds, Fitchburg, . ,75

Sylvester Sawyer, Fitchburg, ,50

N. C. Day, Lunenburg, ,50

B. F. Proctor, Fitchburg, ,50

Wm. II. Harris, Fitchburg, ,50

GRAPES.

For best displays of foreign grapes, no premium
awarded.

For best displays of native grapes,
1st, to Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg,
2d, to George E. Towne, Fitchburg,
3d, to Charles A. Emory, Fitchburg

GRATUITIES.

Benjamin Safford, Fitchburg,
Alvah Crocker, Fitchburg,
Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham,
Wm. H. Harris, Fitchburg,
James Bennett, Leominster,
Joseph Sawyer, Fitchburg,
Thomas Palmer, Fitchburg,
Samuel Farwell, 2d, Fitchburg,

Harris on Insects
2,00
1,00

1,00
1,00
1,00
,50
,50
,50
,50
,50

CHARLES MASON, Chairman.

VINEYARDS. 4 "

VINEYARDS.

Ever since " Noah began to be a husbandman, and
planted a vineyard," the Grape has occupied a place
more or less prominent among the cultivated fruits in
some portions of almost every civilized country. Grow-
ing, (as history informs us) in its highest perfection in
Syria and Asia — this luscious fruit and the unrivaled
beverage it produced, early recommended it to the
special notice of the patriarchal tillers of the soil, who
planted vineyards long before any considerable attention
was given to the cultivation of other varieties of fruit.
As civilization advanced, the vine accompanied it first
to Egypt, Greece and Sicily, and subsequently to Italy,
Spain, France and Britain, to which the latter place it
was introduced by the Romans about two hundred years
after the Christian Era. * The Grapes of the old world
were celebrated for their excellent wine producing
qualities, and the products of vineyards, in the same
localities at the present day, still retain this distin-
guishing charactertstic. In France the cultivation of
the vine is very extensive. Goodrich informs us, that
5,000,000 acres are devoted to that object, and that the
estimated value of the products in 1854 amounted to
$130,000,000. Although in no other country is there
so large a part of the territory devoted to this object.
Still, in nearly all the minor states of Europe the Grape
furnishes no very inconsiderable part of the products
of the soil. Plants and seeds of foreign varieties were
brought to this country by Colonists during the first
fifty years after its settlement, but no considerable
attention seems to have been given to their propagation
until aLer the close of the Revolutionary War. After

50

VINEYARDS.

our forefathers had succeeded in throwing off the
British yoke, and obtained a name among the nations-,
their attention began to be more especially directed to
the cultivation of various kinds of fruit. Among these
(though not the most prominent,) was the Grape. Expe-
rience soon showed that these foreign varieties would
not withstand the severity of our stern New England
winters without protection ; and that our short and vari-
able summers, and early autumnal frosts, presented an
unsurmountable barrier to their successful cultivation,
(except under glass.) These efforts in relation to Grapes
of foreign origin having thus far failed, the attention
of the fruit grower has been wisely directed to the
examination of our more hardy native varieties. These,
especially such as are found growing on the borders of
our New England streams, are»more or less characterised
by the hardness of their pulp and a peculiar foxy-flavor
which renders them as a dessert fruit, somewhat unpalat-
able. Experience however has shown that these objec-
tionable qualities are susceptable of being materially
modified by cultivation. By a careful selection of the
most promising for propagation and by reproduction,
several new varieties have been obtained within the
last few years of ackowledged excellence, and well
adapted to our New England climate. Among those
now propagated in this vicinity, (more or less approved,)
are the Concord, Delaware, Hartford Prolific, Diana
Rebecca, and Early Amber.

The two first of the above named are undoubtedly
the best and most profitable for the market. Possessing
the three important qualities of being hardy, good
bearers, and holding their fruit well. Several other
new varieties, not yet fully tested, have recently been

£1

VINEYARDS. OA

brought to notice, Rogers' Hylred and Grant's Ionia and
Israetta, are all highly recommended and will no doubt
soon occupy a high position in the catalogue. In most
of the middle, and some of the southwestern states, vine-
yards on something of an extended scale have within
a few years been planted and are now under successful
cultivation. Many valuable varieties which cannot be
successfully grown in New England, succeed well on
the banks of the Ohio. The Catawba seems to take
the lead in that locality, producing an abundant crop of
well ripened fruit and richly rewarding the husbandman
for his labor. In California, also, where the vine even
in its wild uncultivated state bears the choicest' fruit,
vineyards have within a few years past been planted?
which are said to produce in abundance, Grapes un"
surpassed both in size and in flavor. This will undoubt-
edly eventually become one of the largest fruit growing
states in this country. Wine has already been produced
there, which is said to compare favorably with the best
of foreign importation. •

These unmistakable demonstrations in regard to the
propagation and improvement of our native Grapes will,
we trust, be a sufficient guarantee for awakening in the
minds of this community, a much livelier interest on
this subject — that instead of one vineyard (without a
competitor) entered the present year, there may be
found in 1865 a goodly number to contend for the
promised awards.

It need scarce be said, that in selecting a site for a
vineyard in this latitude, a warm sunny exposure should
always be secured. A spot somewhat elevated above
the surrounding level, sloping a little to the south or
southeast is the best. It should also be one not liable

52

VINEYARDS.

to be affected by the early frost, otherwise the crop will
be in danger of being cut off before coming to maturity.
All cultivators of the vine agree that a light, dry, warm
soil is the best. If it can be found, a soil composed of
decaying calcarious rocks should be selected. This
should be well worked to the depth of eighteen inches
at least, and enriched with well decomposed manure to
which should be added, (if not already contained in
the soil,) some portion of lime and crushed bones —
some wood ashes will also be beneficial, especially in a
dry season. If the ground is well prepared and
enriched at the outset, an annual top-dressing will be
all that will be required to keep the vineyard in a flour-
ishing and healthy conditon for two or three years.

Although much has been written and said in regard
to the best method for cultivating the Grape, we appre-
hend, by a large part of the community, the subject is
still very imperfectly understood. Any careful observer
cannot fail to notice, that most of the vines planted in
our gardens, and about our dwellings, have been suf-
fered to retain all their native habits. Instead of being
judiciously trimmed and properly trained, as they should
be every year, they are permitted to grow unmolested,
not only about the arbor or trellis provided for their
accommodation, but if by chance a tree comes within
their reach, they are allowed to stretch forth their ten-
drills to the nearest twigs and thus find ample means to
assist them in their rambles, and gratify all their roving
propensities. All who suffer their vines thus to wander
unmolested, have good reason to expect their crop will
be a failure. Every Grape-grower, whether on a larger
or smaller scale, for the vineyard or garden, should
have a suitable trellis or arbor, beyond which the vine

VINEYARDS. "O

should never be suffered to climb. Late in autumn
after the vine has shed its leaves, or in the early part
of winter, it should be properly trimmed ; and, if so
situated that it can be conveniently done, be taken from
the trellis and laid on the ground to remain through
the winter, with some' slight covering to hold it in place.
This is all the protection that will be required for the
hardy varieties, to enable them to withstand the most
severe winter. Early in the spring before the buds have
become much swollen, they should be taken up and
and carefully arranged again on the trellis, there to be
trained through the growing and fruiting season. For
further reliable information in relation to this subject,
see the very full and clear statement of Dr. Fisher.

The Committee have attended to the duty assigned
them, by carefully examining the only vineyard pre-
sented. Finding it highly satisfactory in regard to the
location, general arrangement, and mode of cultivation,
and in a flourishing and healthy condition,

We have awarded to Jabez Fisher, of Fitchburg, the
first premium of $20,00.

CYRUS THURSTON, Chairman.

DR. JABEZ FISHER'S STATEMENT.

GRAPES.

The specific plantation of native grapes which I
enter for premium, consists of sixty-one vines, set six
feet apart and trained upon a single trellis. The whole
number are Concords, and were planted in the summer
of 1861, having been grown from single eyes, started in
pots under glass the previous March. An under-drain
was put in directly underneath where the vines were

54

VINEYARDS.

afterward set. The ditch was dug three feet deep, and
the throat of the drain formed by placing flat stones like
the two sides of a steep roof, upon the bottom. Stones
and rubbish were then filled in to within 15 inches of
the surface. Fresh bones with the flesh attached were
spread liberally upon the rubbish and the earth levelled.
The soil is a strong, deep loam, on a somewhat retentive
bottom, having a southeasterly slope. The row runs
very nearly north and south, the vines being planted
on the east side of the trellis about a foot distant, and
leaning towards it.

In the autumn of 1861, the vines were all cut down to
within two or three buds of the ground and left with-
out protection. In the spring of 1862 a trellis was
built of posts and wire. The posts were chestnut, 2x2,
except one at each end, which was 3x5, and braced in
a foot. The posts were set ten feet apart, two and a
half feet deep, and were dipped in gas tar before setting.
I would now set them but six feet apart. Four strands
of No. 12, annealed, iron wire were attached to the
posts by staples made of the same wire. The lowest
wire is 18 inches from the ground, and the others are
placed at distances of 14 inches, so that the top wire
is just five feet from the surface of the soil. These
wires are coated with Paraffine varnish to keep them
from rusting. During the summer of 1862 a single
shoot was trained perpendicularly from each vine, all
other growth being rubbed off as soon as it started, and
all laterals were pinched back to one leaf, and this
operation was repeated and continued as long as they
made new growth.

In the autumn of 1802 the first vine at one end of
the row was cut off at the third wire of the trellis.

VINEYARDS.

55

The second vine was cut at the first or bottom wire, the
third vine at the third wire, the fourth at the first wire,
and the remainder in the same way, alternating between
the first and third wire. Any vine that had not made
a good growth was again cut back as in 1861 nearly
to the ground. None of them received any protection
during the winter but remained attached to the trellis
the same as during growth. In the summer of 1863
a shoot was taken from each of the two upper buds, and
trained horizontally along the first, or third wire as the
case might be, inapposite directions, each vine forming
a T. No other growth was allowed, and the laterals on
these horizontal shoots or arms were pinched back as
they had previously been on the upright shoots the year
before. These arms were allowed to bear one or two
clusters of fruit each according to their strength.

In the autumn of 1863 the arms were cut back,
varying with their condition, but where they had grown
vigorously, from two to four feet were left. Every
thing else was removed so that the vines showed noth-
ing but a stick in the form of the letter T. No winter
protection was used. The training during the past
summer, 1864, has been as follows: From each of the
horizontal arms, upright shoots have been allowed to
grow as often as every nine inches on the average, the
intention being to have eight upright shoots or spurs
upon each arm when the latter shall have reached its
full length of six feet. The shoots from the buds on
the end of the arms, were trained horizontally for the
purpose of extending them. As soon as the clusters of
fruit buds on the upright spurs were sufficiently devel-
oped to show their character, the end of the shoot was
pinched off so as to leave but one leaf beyond the last

56

VINEYARDS.

good cluster, all small or imperfect ones being removed.
If the spur showed no fruit, it was allowed to grow all
the same, and was pinched at about the same length, or
a little shorter. When these spurs had grown suffi-
ciently, they were tied to the second or fourth wires,
as they belonged to the lower or upper set of vines.
The horizontal shoots from the end of the arms were
allowed to grow until they had met the adjoining ones,
and two or three joints beyond, at which point they
were pinched off. It would be more correct to say that
they were pinched off at seven feet from the upright
stem of the vine. All laterals, wherever found, were
successively pinched off as often as they made a new
growth, so as to leave but one additional leaf only each
time.

The vines have been pruned this autumn as follows :

The horizontal shoot which is now the continuation of

i

the arm, was cut off at five feet and about eight inches
from the central stem. Each upright spur is cut off so
as to leave but two buds, not counting the undeveloped
buds around the junction of the spur with the arm.
The ground has all this time been cultivated with a
horse hoe, except the space between the trellis and the
trunks of the vines, which is kept loose by the
hand hoe.

To exhibit this mode of treatment in full, it will be
necessary to give the proposed operations for one year
more. The vines are to be laid upon the ground, before
it freezes up permanently, and kept there by a little
soil thrown upon them. Next spring just before the
buds start, they are to be tied to the trellis, and from
the upright spurs, the upper bud will be allowed to
grow and show fruit. If from any cause this bud fails

VINEYARDS.

57

to start, the lower one will take its place, but otherwise
the latter will be rubbed off. One of the best of the base
buds which were only partially developed the autumn
previous, will be permitted to grow, while all the others
are to be rubbed off. Both these shoots will be tied to
the wire immediately above, and pinched off the same
as the past season. That portion of the arm which
grew the past summer, will form spurs precisely as the
first portion has already done. In the autumn of 1865
the old upright spur, with the shoot that has grown
from its top bud, bearing fruit, will be cut entirely away,
leaving only the shoot that grows from the bud at the
base, and that shoot, or spur as it will then be, will be
cut back, leaving but two buds as before. The spurs
on the end of the arm, are to be pruned in the same
manner, and then the vine is fully established, the same
course of pruning and training being followed out year
after year.

My reasons for adopting this method and its advan-
tages over others, I will endeavor to give briefly. It is
very well known that whoever plants a grape vine in a
fair soil, gets, the third, fourth and fifth year5 one or
two very fine crops, but after this time the fruit depre-
ciates in size and quantity, and although the vine may
be sufficiently vigorous, the crop seldom equals that of
its earlier years. The reason I conceive to be this :
When a vine is three or four years old it makes a growth
of wood, varying from two to ten or more feet in length
on the different shoots. The best fruit buds are some-
where near the centre of these shoots. Everybody
knows that it is common practice to prune grape vines
every winter, but without a thought of the why, one
cuts one way and one another. The usual plan is to

58

VINEYARDS.

employ in substance one of two modes. One consists
in cutting out a portion of the long shoots or canes
entirely, the other in cutting off the greater length of
all the canes. In the first case there will be a good
show of fruit the following year, because a part of the
best fruit buds are left, but if the same system be
followed out for a few years, the vine requires more
and more room to spread itself in every direction. The
best fruit is borne at a distance from the centre, and
mostly at the top of the vine if any portion of it grows
upright, and after a few years the parts of the vine
nearest the root become barren, and the fruit is borne
only at the extremities. This system must finally run
out for want of room, and will not answer for vineyard
cultivation.

In the second plan above mentioned, if all the shoots
are cut away for the most of their length, the best fruit
buds are lost, and the result is necessarily a poor crop.
The vine extends continually, but more slowly than in
the other case and is otherwise less satisfactory.

To overcome these difficulties, that is to get strong
fruit buds, and at the same time to keep the vine always
at home, I have adopted the plan described. I am not
aware that anything connected with it is original with
me, for it has been in use essentially for many years.
Its practical working is this : As the strength of a vine
is expended principally at its extreme ends or top, the
whole vine is made to be the top by the system of
horizontal arms from which the upright fruit bearing
spurs grow, no one having any special advantage over
another. The two arms being of equal length and
bearing the same number of spurs, are equally balanced.
The effect of pinching off the ends of the bearing shoots

VINEYARD;

59

early in their growth, is to cause the remaining buds in
the axils of the leaves, which are to produce fruit in the
following year, to rapidly develope, and form fine, large
fruit buds. The continual pinching of laterals, prevents
the vine from neglecting these buds during the whole
of the growing season. The same causes also operate
to develope the fruit which is upon the same spur, and
it grows very large, and ripens evenly and early.
Another effect produced is, that the leaves that are left
to grow, being few in number, grow very large and
healthy. A single large leaf is of more value than a
number of small ones, and is more able to resist disease
and especially premature decay. When we come to
prune in the autumn, although we are obliged to cut
away some very fine buds, yet the second one from the
base of the spur is nearly or quite as good as any of
those removed, and will give very fine clusters. Many
of mine this year weighed upwards of 13 ounces each.
The principal advantage, even above all the others, is
that the vine is always kept within a small compass,
and is a permanent affair ; inasmuch as it will bear asx
much fruit, and carry as much foliage at five or six years,
as at 50 or 100. I think that the special efforts of the
grape grower should always be directed to producing
the buds for his future crop, the present one being
already mostly beyond his control.

I have not usually given the Concord any winter
protection. It is generally so well ripened and so hardy
in its nature, as to endure ordinary winter weather
without protection ; but in unfavorable seasons it is
liable to be insufficiently ripened to withstand the
influence of extreme cold without suffering, and in such
cases there follows a partial or even a total failure of a

60

VINEYARDS.

crop. In fact the winter of 1860-1, showing a temper-
ature of 22° below zero on the 8th day of February,
killed all the wood which stood above the snow line on
that day. This might not have happened, and probably
would not, if the wood had been well ripened in the
autumn previous. The autumn of 1860 was very wet,
and slightly cooler than the average of seasons, and the
foliage of grape vines and even apple trees was killed
by a severe freeze on the 1st day of October, while still
green and growing. Vines planted in the way I have
described, can be easily laid down at a cost of not more
than one day's labor of a man and a boy for an acre,
which is a very cheap insurance, considering the risk of
so valuable a crop. My vines are planted on the east
side of the trellis, a foot from it, and are trained in a
slanting direction to the lower wire. Above that point
they are carried up on the west side of the trellis, so
that when pruned, and the ties cut, they fall toward the
ground on the west side by their own weight. A boy
can hold them down, while a man throws three or four
shovelfuls of soil upon them to hold, them in place.

Although I have entered and described the vines
trained to a single trellis, yet it is in most respects like
fifteen others in the same vineyard, except that about
one half of them are one year behind in the time of
planting the vines. A portion of it was originally
planted for other and different modes of training, all of
which 1 became convinced must fail in the end. I
therefore replanted with ' young vines, rather than
attempt to retrain the old ones, and removed the latter
last autumn to give way to the former. In so doing, I
sacrificed the prospect of a crop of some tons of grapes
this year, feeling that the end justified the means, and

V1HE YARDS

61

that the longer I put off the sacrifice; the geater it
would be.

I think it is an erroneous idea that a grape vine
necessarily requires a very rich soil for its successful cul-
ture. My vineyard has had no manure other than the
bones before mentioned, for four or five years, and is now
too rich for the Concord, which comprises ninety-five per
cent, of my vines. Some of the slower growing varieties
require a considerably better soil. A soil too rich in
fertility, forces an enormous growth of wood, every
shoot of which must be pinched back, thus vastly
increasing the labor without any compensating result.
If this pinching is neglected the succeeding crop will
be more or less a failure. A rather poor soil is prefer-
able for this reason, and if too much so to produce satis-
factory growth, a top dressing will be a sufficient means
of obviating that difficulty. In view of these consider-
ations, I would not trench or plow the land for a vineyard
of Concord grapes more than twelve inches deep. I
prefer that in this latitude, where the heat of the five
growing months, from May 1st, to Sept. 30th, averages
only 64.11 degrees, that the great majority of the roots
should lie near the surface. A dry bottom however,
either through natural or artificial drainage, is essential
to the seasonable maturity of both wood and fruit.

It may be proper to state that although the vineyard
is now of four summer's growth, yet it was planted
with vines one year younger than are ever purchased
for that purpose.

v2i FRUITS AND FLOWERS. ,

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

The Committee on Assorted Fruits and Flowers,
award the following premiums :•

ASSORTED FRUITS.

1st, to Ohio Whitney, Jr., of Ashburnham, $2,00

2d, to B. F. Lewis, of Fitchburg, 1,00

FLOWER POTS.

1st, to F. E. L. Beal, of Lunenburg, 2,00

COFFEE PLANT.

Gratuity to Levi Downe, of Fitchburg, ,50

CUT FLOWERS.

1st, to F. E. L. Beal, of Lunenburg, 2,00

2d, to Mrs. James F. Monroe, of Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to Mrs. G. H. Howe, Sterling, two boquets, ,50

Gratuity to Mary Lowe, Fitchburg, plate, ,37

Gratuity to Mrs. L. Brigham, do., crop, ,37

Gratuity to H. L. Smith, do., boquet, ,37

Gratuity to Mary Green, do., do., ,37

Gratuity to Mrs. B. F. Lewis, do., basket, ,25

Gratuity to Mrs. C. H. Whittemore, do., boquet, ,25

Gratuity to Abbie F. Battles, do., plate, ,25

Gratuity to F. E. Aldrich, do., boquet, ,25

Gratuity to Abby Younglove, do., plate dahlias, ,25

POT FLOWERS.

Gratuity to Louisa. Lowe, Fitchburg, rose, ,25

Gratuity to Mrs. B. F. Lewis, do., abutilon, ,25

GEO. E. TOWNE, Chairman.

GARDENS.

The Committee on Gardens award to Mrs. James
F. Monroe, a premium of two dollars for Flower Garden.

GEO. E. TOWNE, Chairman,

63

BREAD, BUTTER, &C. v"

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, PICKLES, &c.

" All books of cookery, all helps of art,
All critic learning, all commenting notes,
Are vain, if void of genius, thou wouldst cook !"

The Committee regret to state that, with one or two
exceptions, the quality of bread offered for inspection
was decidedly poor. If the domestic economy of Fitch-
burg is to be thus determined, the ladies have need to
tremble for their reputation. We call attention to the
following rule : " All bread must have been baked on
the Monday previous to the exhibition, by unmarried
ladies."

The neglect of this provision caused a further neglect
on the part of the Committee. The quality of Lump
Butter was exceedingly good. It was almost impossible
to determine with justice the proper awards. The June
Tub Butter, exhibited by Messrs. C. F. & J. P. Hayward,
was the best in quality, but not being of home manu-
facture could not receive award. Did this report compete
for a premium, it would be but as the honey sweet, the
pickles sharp, the cheese pungent

Premiums awarded :

WHITE BREAD.

1st, to Alice S. Wilker, Ashburnham, $2,00

2d, to Miss W. Welch, Fitchburg, 1,00

3d, to Miss Etta Bailey, do., ,50

UNBOLTED WHEAT BREAD.

1st, Miss Etta Bailey, Fitchburg, 1,00

BOLTED RYE BREAD.

1st, to Mary C. Gates, Ashby, 1,00

RYE AND INDIAN BREAD.

1st, to Alice S. Wilker, Ashburnham, 2,00

2d, to Susie Sawtell, Fitchburg, 1,00

64

BREAD, BUTTER, &c

LUMP BUTTER.

1st, to S. M. Caswell, Fitchburg, $4,00

2d, to M. G. Everett, Princeton, 3,00

3d, Addison Howe, Ashbumham, 2,00

4th, to N. B. Reed, Princeton, 1,50

GRATUITIES-

Mrs. Charles Flagg, Sterling, ,75

Benjamin F. Wallis, Ashby, ,75

D. S. Eaton, Fitchburg, ,75

Nathan Caswell, do., ,75

JUNE TUB BUTTER.

Gratuity to S. M. Caswell, Fitchburg, ,50

Gratuity to M. G. Everett, Princeton, ,50

CHEESE.

2d to George Miles, Westminster, 1,50

Gratuity to Mrs. Charles Dean, Fitchburg, ,75

PICKLES.

1st, to Mrs. I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg, ,75

2d, to Mrs. Levi Kendall, ' do., ,50

HONEY.

1st, to Mrs. S. P. Davis, Ashby, 2,00

2d, to G. Merriam, Leominster, 1,00

3d, Cyrus Thurston, Fitchburg, ,50

Gratuity to A. S. Dole, do., , ,50

Gratuity to James Mclntire, do., ,50

JELLIES.

Gratuity to Mrs. Tyler Younglove, Fitchburg, ,75

Gratuity to Mrs. J. F. D. Garfield, do., ,75

HENRY L. JONES, Chairman.

GRAIN. ®&

GRAIN.

The Committee on Grain consisted of J. A. Marshall,
Joel Page, Ira Carlton, Lorriston Stockwell of Fitchburg,
and Joshua T. Everett, of Princeton. The Chairman of
the Committee in consequence of sickness and absence
from home has not been able to perform his share of the
arduous duty imposed on the Committee, but the work
has been attended to by the other members, I believe
faithfully, and I am instructed by them to make the
following report :

There were four competitors for your premiums on
corn, three of whom returned the forms or statements
required in due season — in the main properly filled out
and certified, though there were some defects in most
of them, which I believe has generally been the case
heretofore. We think it would be well for the Secretary
each year to give such instructions to all who enter
crops for premiums, as will insure accurate returns.
The following were the competitors, all of whom have
good fields of corn, yielding more than 4320 lbs. to the
acre, viz: Benjamin Safford and Edward Smith of
Fitchburg, and Lewis A. Goodrich and Ephraim Graham
of Lunenburg. The season has been unusually dry
but we are not informed whether the crop of corn was
supposed to be materially diminished from that cause.
The ground, as appears from the statements, was plowed
from 4 to 7 inches deep, (all too shallow.) The time
and manner of planting, the kind of seed and subsequent
cultivation, appear in the statements of the competitors.
The corn of Mr. Safford wtis topped the last of Septem-
ber. Mr. Goodrich and Mr. Kilburn cut at the ground
and stooked until dry. The average rod from the differ-
ent fields was gathered by the Committee at different

66

GRAIN.

times and consequently there was a great disparity in
the amount of shrinkage of the different parcels from
the time they were gathered to the second weighing
(November 11th,) when the weight was as follows :
Lewis A. Goodrich's, 34 lbs. per rod on cob, equal 5440
lbs. per acre, when shelled to 27! lbs. per rod, 4440 lbs.
per acre, equal to 79^ bushels. Benj. Safford's, 35£ lbs.
per rod, 5640 lbs. per acre, shelled it weighed 27i lbs.
per rod, and 4400 lbs. per acre, equal to 78ig bushels.
Cyrus Kilburn's weighed 29 i lbs. per rod, 4720 lbs. per
acre, equal to 84^ bushels on cob. Edward Smith's
weighed 30? lbs. per rod, 4920 lbs. per acre, equal to 8 7^
bushels per acre on cob, — the last two lots not shelled.
The corn was all good, very few imperfect ears.

There was but one entry of Rye, by Mr. Alonzo P.
Goodridge, which weighed as follows : one rod 10 lbs.
equal to 1600 lbs. per acre, equal to 28j| bushels.

There was four entries of Wheat, by Cyrus Kilburn,
Lewis A. Goodrich, Ephraim Graham, of Lunenburg,
and Edward Smith, of Fitchburg. Two only made the
returns required, viz : Ephraim Graham and Cyrus
Kilburn. In quality the wheat was very good and equal.
Mr. Graham's wheat weighed, Nov. 11th, 11 lbs. per rod,
1760 lbs. per acre, equal 29^ bushels per acre. Mr.
Kilburn's weighed 9 lbs. per rod, 1440 lbs. per acre,
equal 24 bushels per acre. For further- particulars
would refer to their statements which are satisfactory.
There was two entries of Barley but no returns.

Mr. Cyrus Kilburn also entered one-eighth acre of
beans which weighed 16 lbs.f)er rod, 320 lbs. on twenty
rods, equal 42^ bushels per acre, of the early white pea
beans — very handsome and a profitable crop.

GRAIN.

67

The Committee on Crops have made the following
awards of premiums :

corn. „
1st, to Lewis A. Goodrich, of Lunenburg,

(5440 lbs. per acre,) $8,00
2d, to Benjamin Safford, of Fitchburg,

(5640 lbs. per acre,) 6,00

WHEAT.

1st, to Ephraim Graham, of Lunenburg, *

(1760 lbs. per acre, 8,00
2d, to Cyrus Kilburn, of Lunenburg,

(1440 lbs. per acre, 5,00

RYE.

1st, to Alonzo P. Goodrich, of Fitchburg,

(1600 lbs. per acre,) 3,00

FIELD BEANS.

1st, to Cyrus Kilburn, of Lunenburg,

(320 lbs. 1-8 acre,) 2,00

Respectfully submitted,

JONAS A. MARSHALL, for the Committee.

LEWIS'A. GOODEICH'S STATEMENT.

CORN.

The soil on which I raised my corn offered for
premium isaclayey loam, was in grass in 1863, was ma-
nured with eighteen loads of thirty bushels to a load
of barn yard manure, two hundred pounds of plaster,
and two hundred pounds of superphosphate ; plowed in
Nov. 1863, and in the spring for present crop, four to
six inches deep, and harrowed one way in May ; cost of
plowing and other preparation $8,00 ; the manure cost

"* CORN.

,00 and was spread and harrowed in; the plaster and
phosphate cost $8,00 and was dropped in hills about
three feet apart, and the corn dropped on that. Cost of
of seed and planting $6,00. The cultivator was run
through, and hoed twice, costing about $10,00. Har-
vested from the 15th to the 20th of September; cut
and stooked in the field until dried ; cost of harvesting
and husking, $7,00. The whole cost is $69,00 for the
acre. Amount of stover four tons ; the weight on one
acre was 4440 lbs. of shelled corn or 79^ bushels.

BENJAMIN SAFFOKD'S STATEMENT.
CORN.

The soil on which I raised my corn is a gravelly loam,
and was down to grass in 1862-3 ; a part was plowed
last fall and the rest this spring, about seven inches
deep, and harrowed both ways by a horse ; the manure,
of which there was twenty-five loads, was all spread
and harrowed in; the seed was, a twelve-rowed corn and
planted the 21st and 23d of May, with a corn-planter ;
it was hoed three times using the cultivator the two
first times ; it was topped the last of September and
harvested the last of October. The amount of shelled
corn was 4400 pounds, equal to 78j| bushels. The
amount of stover on the acre was just two tons, which
at $10,00 per ton is $20,00.

Cost of Seed and planting $ 3,00

" " Plowing and other prepartion 5,00

" " Manure, twenty-five loads, 38,00

" " Phorphate of lime 10,00

" " Cultivation 8,00

..

Harvesting 8,00

l6

872,00

WHEAT.

69

EPHEAIM GRAHAM'S STATEMENT.
WHEAT.

The quantity of land was one acre. Crop of 1862
grass ; 1863 the same, and without manure each year ;
the soil black loam and clay sub-soil ; plowed Aug. 20th
about seven inches deep, rolled and harrowed ; twenty-
five loads compost manure to one acre; the quantity of
seed two bushels to the acre, known by the name of
blue stem; sowed broadcast Aug. 29th; harvested July
20th 1864 ; bound and stooked, carted to the barn and
stowed.

Cost of Plowing and other preparation $10,50

" <; Manure 33,00

" " Seed and sowing 5,00

" " Harvesting and threshing 12,00

$60,50

Product 1760 lbs. of wheat, or 291 bushels, and about
one ton of straw.

The manure used was taken from the barn cellar,
made from three cows, two oxen, one horse, and two
swine, from the first of June to the 25th of August^
incorporated with loam, and one hundred bushels leached
ashes ; the furrows rolled smoothly before spreading the
manure, and harrowed with cultivating harrow, after
which the land was bushed and rolled. It appears
that the whole expense of cultivation and harvesting
amounts to $60,50, and the value of the product inclu-
ding the straw : 25 bushels at $2,75 per bushel, $68,75;
value of straw $10,25, making $7J,00, which gives a
balance in favor of crop of $8,50.

70

• ~ WHEAT AND RYE.

CYRUS KILBTJRXS STATEMENT.
WINTER WHEAT:

I raised my wheat on a clayey loam soil, plowed
about seven inches deep ; applied only one barrel of
superphosphate, and Sept. 22d sowed two bushels of
blue stem winter wheat, and cradled it the last of July.
The crop was injured by the herds grass sowed with it.
By repeated experiments I am convinced that no grass
seed should be sowed with winter wheat till the next
spring, the grass being more hardy will start first and
check the wheat. I think this an important item in
the successful cultivation of winter wheat. The
amount of wheat was twenty-four bushels to the acre,
and about one ton of straw.

Cost of Phosphate §7,00

" " Plowing 5,00

" " Seed and sowing 8,00

" "^Harvesting 6,00

$26,00

ALONZO P. GOODKIDGE'S STATEMENT.

RYE.

The soil on which I raised my spring rye was a sandy
loam, on which in 1862 and '63 I raised corn; and was
plowed six inches deep, and rye sowed about the 1st
of May ; one and one-fourth bushels of seed was used
to the acre ; it was reaped 26th of July, and the acre
yielded 1600 pounds, being about 28J bushels to the
acre.

Cost of Plowing S3, 00

" " Sowing 3,00

« » Seed 2,00

>• « Harvesting..... 6,00

$14,00

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

* CYEUS KILBTJKN'S STATEMENT.
WHITE BEANS.

71

My beans were grown on a soil of sandy loam. For
several years it had been planted with Indian corn. I
used no manure, but put upon an acre 500 pounds of
Coe's superphosphate of lime ; the land was plowed-six
inches deep ; harrowed once and furrowed one way ;
planted the early white pea bean, last of May ; pulled,
dryed and harvested last of September. They are of
superior quality for baking, and ripen early ; raised
on one-eighth acre 320 pounds, equal to 421 bushels to
the acre.

Cost of Phosphate for one-eighth acre $2,00

Plowing ,38

Seed and planting 1,50

" Cultivating 1,50

" " Harvesting 1,50

86,88

u a

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURERS.

Your Committee found on exhibition a fair display of
articles in this department, although by no means so
extensive as in some former years ; upon which they
proceeded to distribute their favors with due judgment
and discretion. Some of the specimens presented were
very good, but on the whole, we think that the high
character of this section for mechanical and manufac-
tured productions, was not indicated in the exhibition
to-day. Many branches that might have been repre-
sented, were not to be seen. We trust that another

72

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

year will find an improved interest in contributing
specimens from this great and increasing department of
our industry.

Worcester County became noted for her manufactures
quite early, and its northern section partook largely of
this general feature. Half a century ago we were ahead
in saw-mills and in the production of lumber. The
manufacture of chairs and wooden ware soon came to
be a prominent pursuit. Our soil was not the most
favorable for plentiful and easy raised crops of farm
products; and so the enterprise and industry of the
people, proceeded to extract wealth from the wild forests
and the noisy water-falls. Year by year our manufac-
tures have increased, our mechanic arts have advanced,
and through them, means and resources have accumu-
lated. They have buildecl our villages, and attached
population to them.

The mechanic arts by furnishing implements and
machinery for farm operations, and manufactures by
building up home markets for farm produce,, have both
most eminently become the handmaid of Agriculture.
Is it not therefore meet, that in years to come, we should
make these interests prominent in our exhibitions ?

Your Committee have made the following awards :

Bailey, Cook & Co., Woonsoket, R. I, washing

and wringing machine, $5,00

Whittemore, Belcher, & Co., chain pin hay cutter, 2,00

" " " Shaw's coulter harrow, 2,00

a " " vegetable cutter, 3,00

Thomas Palmer, artificial teeth, 3,50

W. Ball, " " 3,50

Enoch Paige, elevating bed, 3,00

FINE ARTS.

73

S. G. Frost, two harnesses, $5,00

Charles Fessenden, horse collars, 3,00

B. F. Proctor, specimens of wood turning, 1,00

Samuel Smith, specimens chair seating, ,50

Proctor & Wright, plows, horse hoes, &c, 3,00

Putnam & Phelps, leather, 3,00

L. J. Brown, ladies' cloaks, 3,00

M. J. Morse, burial case and caskets, 1,00

S. Newell Barnes, calipers, ,50

H. A. Goodrich, case of furs, hats, caps, &c, 4,00

E. M. Dickinson, ladies' shoes, 2,00

Partridge, Sawyer & Co., boots and shoes, 2,00

Fitchburg Woolen Mill, four pieces cloth, 3,00

John D. Clark, improvement in chain pump, 1,00

Charles B. Sawyer, elevator, 3,00

A. Brown of Worcester, Union Mowing Machine, 5,00
A. Brown, of Worcester, Whitcomb's Horse Hay

Bake, ' 3,00

John Choate, case of medicines, 2,00

S. P. Emory, case of confectionery, cakes, &c, 2,00

Waldo F. Whitney, artificial teeth, 3,00

E. F. BAILEY, Chairman.

FINE ARTS.

The Committee on Fine Arts make the following
awards :

PHOTOGRAPHS.

C. O. Gott, Fitchburg, $2,50

J. C. Moulton, " 2,50

C. F. Lamb, « 1,50

io

'* FINE AKTS.

ORIGINAL DESIGN.

W. Fred White, Fitchburg, $4,00

OIL PAINTINGS.

F. L. Palmer, Fitchburg, 4,00

Mrs. H. L. Smith, " 3,00

CRAYON DRAWINGS.

Miss Augusta Dean, Fitchburg, ,75

Miss Mary Louise Haskell, * ,75

Miss Juliette Goodrich, " . ,75

3,00
1,50
,75.
,75
,75
,75
,50
,50
,50
,37
,25
,25
,25
,25

A. EMERSON, Chairman. ■

PENCIL

DRAWINGS,

Miss L. Cochran, Fitchburg,

Miss Mary L. Snow,

a

Miss Anna T. Hayward,

a

Miss Nellie F. Lowe,

(6

Maurice Richardson,

ii

Miss Myra Richardson,

a <

Miss Lizzie L. Goodnow,

a

Miss Edna Lowe,

a

Miss Nellie Smith,

«

Miss Lucy W. Damon,

a

Miss Alice Miller,

a

Horatio Moulton,

a

Frank O. Whitney,

a

George O. Wilson,

a

FANCY ARTICLES.

FANCY ARTICLES.

75

The Committee on Fancy Articles award the follow-
ing premiums :

Mrs. S. E. Howe, hair work, $ ,75

Mrs. H. G. Morse, « « ,75

Mrs. Kate Davis, " « . ,50

Mrs. Hattie Friar, « " ,50

Mrs. C. D. Blanchard, " « gratuity, ,37

EUenF. Barnes, " ■« " . ,37

Mrs. F. C. Aldrich, pressed flowers, ,25

Miss E. M. Raymond, pair child's stockings, grat'y* ,25

Mrs. B. F. Whittemore, vase wax flowers, ,75

Mrs. C. Sawyer, vase wax flowers, ,75

Miss Emily Gardner, box infants shirts, gaiter boots, ,25

Mrs. D. A. Corey, child's dress and waist, grat'y, ,25

Mrs. Clara Priest, cone basket, ,37

Mary Maynard, paper wreath', ,75

Mrs. H. S. Bullock, bead and crochet mat, ,25

Mrs. Rachael Wetherbee, worsted mat, ,25

Mrs. I. R. Gilbert, emb'd blanket and skirt, ,50

Mrs. Flagg, flannel skirt, ,37

Mrs. H. G. Morse, flannel. skirt, ,25

Mrs. Hattie Sampson, infants waist and flannel sk't, ,37

Mrs. Hines, gratuity, ,20

Miss Abbie Meserve, knit scarfs, and bead work, ,50

Abbie L. Sawyer, bead goblet, gratuity, ,10

George F. Sabin, pocket knife picture frame, ,25

Mrs. F. Boutelle, sofa pillow, gratuity, ,25

S. W. Putnam, Jr., sofa pillow, " ,25

Mrs. F. E. Aldrich, ottoman cover, ,50

Emily E. Boutelle, thread collar, ,25

Mrs. Rebecca Lingley, one box stockings, ,37

76

FANCY ARTICLES.

Fanny A. Damon, tidy, ,10

Hattie F. Kinsman, worsted work, ,50

Mrs. Mary Wood, silk velvet pin cushion, ,25

Mrs. George F. Vose bead pin cushion, ,25

S. M. Blake, embroidered thibet pin cushion, ,20

Lucy A. Danby, cone frame, grate and tidy, ,30

Mrs. Clara Gardner, bead bracelet, ,25

Mary A. Rugg, crystalized grass, ,75

Susie Sawtell, bead watch case, ,10

Johnny Marble, (blind boy) bead work, ,50

Mrs. Lizzie White, handkerchief, ,37

Hattie M. Burrage, scar/ crochet, ,10

Nellie Whitney, wrought skirt, ,37

Mary E. Burrage, (12 years old,) tidy, ,10

Mary E. Torrey, tidy, ,25

E. L. Goodrich, patch work, ,10

L. J. Simonds, tidy and cushion, ,25

Mrs. M. S. Norwood, worsted flowers, 1,00

Mrs. I. R. Gilbert, two bonnets and hat, 1,00

Mrs. Thos. Trees, two bonnets, 1,00

Mrs. Mary Stewart, frame and fancy articles, ,50

Komanzo Downe, fancy boxes, ,75

Mrs. Kinsman, fancy box3 ,25

Mrs. H. O. Rockwell, fancy box, gratuity, ,25

Mrs. Calvin Tolman, three pair hose, ,25
Mrs. J. A. Boutelle, one pair hose spun & knit, gr'ty, ,25

Miss Ellen E. Sizen, one silk quilt, 690 pieces, 1,00

Anna Mclntire, (over 80 years old) one quilt, ,37

Mrs. H. C. Smith, knit shawl, ,75

Mrs Levi Morgan, mats, ,50

Mrs. Amos Durant, two mats, ,37

Mrs. Sally Aldrich, (84 years old,) mats, ,25

Mrs. J. P. Webber, gratuity, ,25

ESSAYS.

77

Mrs. C. D. Blanchard, one bed quilt, ,75

Mrs. Georgia Dean, spreading quilt, ,37

Mrs. A. Miller, quilt, ,37

Touissant Berord, quilt, ?37

Mrs. M. J. Vinton, quilt, ,37

Mrs. J. L. Hutley, ottornon, gratuity, ,25

Mrs. Lizzie White, gratuity, ,25

Mrs. Samuel Carter, one quilt, gratuity, ,25

Mrs. J. W. Cate, worsted, gratuity, 1,00

L. J. BROWN, Chairman.

ESSAYS.

The Committee on Essays respectfully report that
having attended to their duty, they have awarded the
first premium of $15,00 to the author of the Essay on
" The Soil of New England," bearing the motto " The
Earth is not yet finished ;" and the second premium of
$10,00 to the author of the Essay on " The Education
of the Ox," bearing the motto

" Their strength, or speed, or vigilance were given
To aid of our defects." .

They would also suggest that as there is to be no
address before the Society, the Essay which receives
the first premium be read as a substitute for the usual
address. They make this suggestion believing that
the thoughts contained in that Essay are important,
and timely, and worthy of such distinction.
In behalf of the Committee,

KENDALL BROOKS, Chairman.

78

NEW MEMBERS.

COMMITTEE'S REPORTS.

The Committee to award premiums for Reports, re-
gret to say, that most of the Committees have only
awarded the premiums of the Society, without giving
any additional information as the result of their delib-
erations. Your Committee consequently have not
awarded the first and second premiums, but have
awarded the third premium of four dollars to Cyrus
Thurston, of Fitehburg, for report on Vineyards.

L. H. BRADFORD, for the Committee.

NEW MEMBERS.

ASHBURNIIAM.

Harris, Humphrey.
Whitney, Waldo F.

BOLTON.

Keed, J. H.

BOSTON.

Whittemore, Belcher & Co,

FITCHBURG.

Ball, William.
Lewis, B. Frank.
Marshall, Alfred A.
Proctor & Wright.
Works, George F.

LEOMINSTER.

Bennett, James.
Harrington, Fred. B.
Pratt & Stocking.
Whitney, F. W. & F. A.

LITTLETON.

Thompson, Adam.

LUNENBURG.

Bailey, Samuel H.
Goodrich, Lewis A.
F. E. L. Beal.

PRINCETON.

Hastings, Solon S.

SHIRLEY.

Davis, Alpheus B.

WESTMINSTER.

Page, Poter F-

WINCIIENDON.

Brown, William, 2d.
Mason, Orlando.

WOONSOCKET, R. I.

Bailey, Cook & Co.

WORCESTER.

Brown, Alzirus,

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS.

ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED.

79

Amount awarded for Plowing at the Exhibition $49,00

" Fancy Articles, 28.48

" Fine Arts, 29,87

" " Committees Reports, 4,00

*'• Essays, 25,00

" Neat Stock, 232,00

" Other Stock, 25,00

" Horses, 128,00

" Sheep, 24,00

" Swine, 14,00

" Poultry, 9,75

" Grain, 30,00

" Root Crops, 4,00

" Fruits, 62,00

" Flowers, 9,04

Butter and Cheese, 16,75

"" Bread, 8,50

" " Mechanics and Manufactures, 72,00

Premiums and gratuities were paid to two hundred and forty
different persons, and the amounts distributed as follows :

Fitchburg, $420,35

Princeton, 124,00

Lunenburg, 69,50

Leominster, 40,50

Westminster, 24,49

Winchendon, 21,00

Royalston, 18,00

Shirley, 10,62

Ashburnham, 10,00

Bolton, 10,00

Littleton, 10,00

Ashby, 8,fl0

Worcester, 8,00

Boston, 7,00

Woonsocket, R. I., 5,00

Sterling, 3,25

Leicester, ,50

Townsend, ,37

{Amount of premiums offered $1223,75
Amount of premiums and gratuities awarded 831,90
Amount of premiums and gratuities paid 790,58
Amount of permanent fund, 5,129,79

80

TREASURER'S REPORT.

84,961,95

40,00

9,00

40,00

25,00

497,14

40,00

12,00

25,00

40,00

600,00

120,00

103,09

86,513,18
Amount in hands of Treasurer, $5,129,79

Increase the last year, $167,84

THOMAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer.

Dr.

THOMAS 0, CALDWELL,

1863.

Dec. 2.

To amount on hand as per last settlement,

1864.

Apr. 4.

a

cash

as dividend of Washington Bank,

<( a

a

" North Bank,

" 6.

a

" " Bank of Commerce,

May 18.

a

" Fust National Bank,

Sep. 29.

a

for admission to Town Hall,

Oct. 5.

tt

as dividend of Washington Bank,

it a

a

" North Bank,

it a

a

" First National Bank,

a a

a

" " Bank of Commerce,

"18.

a

of Commonwealth for bounty,

Nov.30.

a

for 24 new memberships the past year

<( n

it

interest on meney loaned,

The undersigned have examined the above account of the Treasurer,
and believe it to be correct.

ABEL F. ADAMS, ) Committee

THOS. R. BOUTELLE, }- on
JABEZ FISHEE, ) Finance.

TREASURER'S REPORT,

81

Dec.

18.

1864.

Jan'y

4.

a

22.

March 3.

April

13.

Sept.

28.

Oct.

4.

ti

u

n

7.

a

10.

tt

13.

tt

14.

<.

15.

in account with Worcester North Agricultural Society, Or,

1863.

By cash paid services of Ashburnham Band at Fair, $22,50

" " " Pratt & Stocking, prem. per order

of Trustees, 5,00

" " " F. W. & F. A. Whitney, same, 4,50
" " " E. Garfield, bill for printing, 285,10

" " " L. W. Warren, for book case, 10,00

" " " H. Harris, prem. per order of Trus. 3,00

" " " A. M. Sawyer, services as asst. Sec. 6,00

" " " J. F. Stiles, for ribbon, 3,37

" " " Mrs. M. Miles, honey stolen at Fair, ,50

" " " John Upton, selling tickets 2 days, 5,00

" " " J. T. Farwell, " " 5,00

" " " Ashburn'm Band, services at Fair, 78,00

" " " A. Marshall, setting & remov'g pens, 25,00

" " " " " L. W. Warren, glass for pict'r frames, 2,50
" 20. " " " T. Younglove, services at Fair and

cash paid for same, 30,65

" " " L.H.Bradford,cashpdforstamps,&c. 28,34

" 28. " " " Fairbanks & Clapp, tending scales, 1,00

Nov. 30. " " « L.H.Bradford, services as Sec.1864, 50,00

" " " " " R. Wallace & Co., stationery, 3,35

" " " " " Post Office for stamps, 11,00

" " " ," " Curtis & Bushnell, printing, 2,00
" " " " " A. Marshall, for preparing lands to

plow, loading & unloading carts,

drays, &c, 5,00

" " " " " Daniel Steams, copying premiums, 5,00

" " " " " For certificate stamps, 1,00
" " " " " Premiums awarded Sept. 28th and

29th and Nov. 12th and 30th, 790,58
Dec. 7. " amount carried to new account to balance, 5,129,79

$6,513,18
li

PAST PKESIDENTS, ORATORS & SECRETARIES

—OF THE—

WOKOESTEK NOETH AGEICULTUEAL SOCIETY.

PRESIDENTS.

1850-1.— ABEL F. ADAMS, Esq., of Fitchburg.
1852-3.— Hon. IVERS PHILIPS, of Fitchburg.
1854-5.— Hon. MOSES "WOOD, of Fitchburg. '
1856-7.— THOMAS R. BOUTELLE, M. D., of Fitchburg.
1858-9.— Hon. JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg.
1860-1.— THOMAS BILLINGS, Esq., of Lunenburg.
1862-3.— LEWIS H. BRADFORD, Esq., of Fitchburg.
1864-5.— Hon. OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham.

ORATOES,

1850.— Hon. CHARLES HUDSON, of Lexington.

1851.— Hon. ROB'T RANTOUL, (appointment not filled.)

1852.— THOMAS E. PAYSON, Esq., of Rowley.

1853.— Rev. HORATIO STEBBINS, of Fitchburg.

1854.— Gov. EMORY WASHBlfRN, of Worcester.

1855.— Hon. N. P. BANKS, of Waltham.

1856.— CHARLES L. FLINT, Esq., of Boston.

1857.— JUSTUS TOWER, Esq., of Lanesborough.

1858. — No appointment made.

1859.— Hon. GEORGE S. BOUTWELL, of Groton.

I860.— Doct. GEORGE B. LORING, of Salem.

1861.— Hon. A. H. BULLOCK, of Worcester.

1862.— Rev. A. N. ARNOLD, D. D., of Westboro.

1863.— LUTHER H. TUCKER, Esq., of Albany, N. Y.

1864. — No appointment made.

SECRETARIES.

1850-1.— NATHAN UPHAM, of Fitchburg.

1852. JOSEPH PIERCE, of Fitchburg.

1853. CHARLES W. WILDER, of Fitchburg.

1854-5.— THOMAS R. BOUTELLE, of Fitchburg.
1856-7.— JABEZ FISHER, of Fitchburg.
1858-9.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg.
1860-1.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg.
1862-3.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN, of Fitchburg.
1864. LEWIS H. BRADFORD, of Fitchburg.

COMMITTEES AND PREMIUMS

FOR THE

THIRTEENTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION,

TO BE HELD AT FITCHBUKG,
Tuesday and Wednesday, September 26th and 27th, 1865.

-♦<»

No person will be allowed to become a competitor for any
of the Premiums herein offered, unless he shall have made
an entry for the same, with the Secretary, within the time
prescribed for each class, nor unless he shall also have fur-
nished all required statements relating thereto within the
specified time.

For the convenience of those who live at a distance, entries
may be made by Mail ; and all entries so made must be de-
livered at some Post Office one day previous to the expira-
tion of the time specified, and must bear proof of having
been so delivered either by Post-mark, or a certificate of
registry from the Postmaster.

E&* Communications for the Secretary should be sent to
West Eitchburg.

STOCK.

All entries for premiums under this head, must be made
on or before the Friday previous to the show, except Horses
for exhibition, and Poultry, which may be as late as the day
previous, and all stock must be owned by the person who
enters it.

84

PREMIUMS.

All persons who are required to furnish a statement, must
do so to the Secretary at the time of making the entry.

All live stock must have been raised by the person enter-
ing the same, or owned by him at least three months next
previously, except in the case of mis-mating oxen rendered
necessary by injury or disease.

Each entry of stock for the pens must specify the breed
of the animal if known, and the age.

Fat cattle, working cattle, draught horses and swine must
be weighed on the same scale, in Fitchburg, and will be
weighed free of expense.

The weight of all other stock will not be required.

BLOOD STOCK.

Committee. — J. T. Everett, East Princeton ; Solon Carter, Leom-
inster; Benj. Safford, Fitchburg; Ivers Adams, Ashburnham; Joel
Hayward, Ashby.

Durham Bulls more than two-
years-old, 1st premium, $6,00

2d premium, 4,00

North Devon , 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Ayrshire, 1st premium, , .6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Alderney , 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Yearlings, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

Calves, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Any other breed, pure blood, 1st premium, ...6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Authentic pedigrees will be required.

The Committee may award gratuities for superior speci-
mens of cows, heifers or heifer calves, of either of the breeds
named.

PREMIUMS. kt)

MILCH KINE.
Committee. — E. F. Bailey, Fitchburg ; Elliot E. Boyden, Leom-
inster; Moses Mirick, East Princeton; John Davis, Ashby; N. C.
Day, Lunenburg.

Herds of four Cows or Heifers each,lst premium, $10,00

2d premium, .*. 7,00

3d premium, 4,00

The person receiving these premiums will not be allowed
to compete for any other, with the same animals.

The Committee will regard age, expense of keeping, &c.

Cows for butter, 1st premium, $5,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 3,00

Heifers, three-years-old for butter, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 3,00

Heifers, two-years-old for butter, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

Cows for milk, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 3,00

Heifers three-years-old for milk, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 3,00

Heifers two-years-old for milk, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

Competitors for premiums on milch cows, whether for
herds or single animals, and milch heifers, will be required
to certify in writing, at the time of entry, to the weight of
the milk, or to the weight of butter, as the case may be, dur-
ing the six days commencing with the first Monday in June,
and the corresponding six days in September ; and to the
manner of keeping, and general management. Cows that
calve near or after the first Monday in June, may be tried
at another time.

"" PREMIUMS.

HEIFERS.

Committee. — Thomas Billings, Lunenburg ; S. M. Caswell, Fitch-
burg, George M. Gregory, Princeton; Samuel Hayward, Ashby; A.
W. Benjamin, Westminster.

Intended to be kept for the Dairy.

Two-years-eld, 1st premium, $4,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

Yearlings, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

HEIFER CALVES.

Committee. — G. S. Beaman, East Princeton ; Edward Bacon, West-
minster; F. W. Wright,' Ashby; N. L. Eaton, Ashburnham ; Lyman
Merriam, Fitchburg.

Calves, more than four months old, 1st premium, $3.00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium. 1,00

Calves, more than four months old,

raised byT hand, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

WORKING OXEN.
Committee. — Harlow Skinner, Princeton; Howard Gates, Ashby;
John Minot, Westminster ; George Wood, Leominster ; Walter Whit-
ney, Fitchburg.

Working Oxen, 1st premium

2d premium
3d premium
4th premium
5th premium

Best Teamster, 1st premium

2d premium

.$6,00
..5,00
..4,00
..3,00
..2,00
...5,00
..2,00

The working oxen will be tried, attached to loads weigh-
ing, including the cart, one-third more than themselves.

t

PREMIUMS.

87

STEERS MORE! THAN ONE YEAR OLD.

Committee. — Charles K. Sawyer, Fitchburg; Sewall G. Mirick,
Princeton ; Samuel H. Sprague, Westminster ; Josiah Page, Westmin-
ster; George B. Sampson, Ashburnham.

Three-years-old, 1st premium, $5,00

2d premium,.' 4,00

3d premium, 3,00

Best Teamster, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

The three-year-old steers will be attached to carts, and

tried like the oxen, on the same ground ; the cart and load

to equal the steers in weight.

Two-years-old, 1st premium, $4,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

Trained, two-years-old, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Committee. — Eph'm Graham, Lunenburg ; Abel Marshall, Herbert
Goodrich, Fitchburg; George W. Houghton, Princeton, John C.
Davis, Ashburnham.

Yearlings, 1st premium, $3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

Trained Yearlings, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

Calves, *. 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 1,00

Calves, raised by hand, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 1,00

Trained Calves, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

88

PREMIUMS.

FAT CATTLE.

Commitee. — Anan Stockwell, So. Royalston ; Sampson Bartlett,
East Princeton; Mai-shall White, Westminster; Ezra Kendall, Sterl-
ing ; Charles W. Morse, Gardner.

Oxen, 1st premium, 88,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, 3,00

Cows. 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium. 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

Three-year-old Steers or Heifers,... .1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

All competitors with fat cattle or swine, must furnish a
statement to the Secretary, of the mode and expense of
feeding.

SWINE.
Committee. — George E. Towne, Samuel Ware, Fitehhurg ; Frank-
lin Nourse, Sterling; George O. Skinner, Princeton; Stephen Ward,
Ashburnham.

Must be entered like other stock.

Boars, more than one year old, 1st premium, $4r00

2d premium, 3,00

Less than one year old, 1st premium. 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

Fat Hogs, more than eight mos. oid,lst premium, 4,00

2d premium, 3,00

. 3d premium. 2,00

Fat Pigs, less than eight mos. old, ...1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

Breeding Sows 1st premium. 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

Weaned Pigs, not less than four,. ...1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1 ,00

PREMIUMS.

89

STALLIONS.
Committee. — J. E. Merriam, Princeton ; Oliver Patch, Leominster;
John L. Cunimings, Ashburnharn ; Win. W. Comee, John M. Saw-
telle, Fitchburg.

All persons offering Stallions, five years old and upwards,
will be required to exhibit specimens of their stock.

Stallions, five years old & upwards, 1st premium, $12,00

2d premium, 8,00

Four-years-old, 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Three-years-old, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Two-years-old, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.

Committee. — "Warren Simonds, Templeton; Samuel Osgood, Levi
Bun-, Ashby ; Caleb "W. Jaquith, Fitchburg ; J. G. "Woodward, Ash-
burnham.

The mares must be four years old and upwards and accom-
panied with their colts.

Breeding Mares, 1st premium, $6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 2,00

Colts, less than one year old, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

Committee. — James P. Parker, Sterling; Charles J. Delahanty,
Fitchburg ; Sewall Richardson, Princeton; John S. Jaquith, Ashby;
Franklin, Wyrnan, Westminster.

Draught Horses will be tried, attached to a stone boat,
loaded to weigh one-third more than the horses.

The same draught horse cannot receive a premium as a
single horse and also one of a pair, but a draught horse may
compete as a family horse.

These must be four years old and upwards.

12

90

PREMIUMS.

Draught horses and mules, pairs,. ..1st premium, $6,00

2d premium, 4,00

Draught horses, single, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

Best teamster, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Family horses, pairs, 1st premium, 7,00

2d premium, 5,00

Family horses, single, 1st premium, 5,00

3d premium, 3,00

COLTS.
Committee. — S. W. A. Stevens, Gardner; Joel Merriam, Jr„ "West-
minster; Isaac D. Ward, Ashburnham; Jonas H. Temple, Princeton;
J. H. Keed, Bolton.

Three-years-old Geldings, 1st premium, $4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Three-years-old Fillies, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Two-years-old Geldings, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Two-years-old Fillies, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

Yearling Colts, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

SHEEP.
Committee. — Timothy D. Wood, Westminster; Oliver Kendall,
Fitchburg ; John Hayward, Ashhy ; Gardner Merriam, Leominster ;
John Sawin, South Gardner,

Flocks not less than ten, owned by

one person,..- 1st premium, $10,00

2d premium, 5,00

Bucks, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

Cossetts, 1st premium, 2,00

2d p remium , 1 ,00

PREMIUMS.

POULTRY.

Committee. — Caleb S. Merriam, "Westminster ; Natt Cowdin, Fitch-

burg; Joseph Whitconib, East Princeton; Church Howe,
Alpbeus B. Davis, Shirley.

Must be entered like other stock.

Barn-yard fowls, not less than six, 1st premium, $3,00

2d premium, 2.00

Turkeys, not less than six, 1st premium 3,00

2d premium, 2,00"

Geese, not less than six, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

Ducks, not less than six, 1st premium, 3,00

2d premium, 2,00

The most appropriate coop in which to exhibit poultry, 3,00

TOWNS TEAMS.

Committee. — Daniel Putnam, Lunenburg; Dennis Fay, Ashby;
Abel Derby, Fitchburg ; Wilkes Roper, Princeton ; Edward Green-
wood, Gardner.

For the best town Team, not less than fifteen yoke of
oxen from any one town.

1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 10,00

PLOWING MATCH.

All entries for plowing must be made on or before the
Wednesday previous to the exhibition, and one dollar must
be deposited with each entry, to be returned to the competi-
tor if he plows, otherwise forfeited to the Society.

No teams or parts of teams will be allowed to compete for
more than one premium on plowing.

DOUBLE TEAMS.
Committee. — Asaph Wood, Gardner; Levi Downe, Alonzo P.
Goodridge, Fitchburg ; Geo. Miles, Westminster ; Antipas Maynard,
Ashburnham.

Double Teams, : 1st premium, $7,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, 3,00

92

PREMIUMS.

SINGLE TEAMS
Committee. — Cyrus* Kilburn, Lunenburg • Joseph W. Forbush,

Westminster; Thomas Sheldon, Fitchburg: George Howard, Ash-

burnham ; Joseph P. Reed, Princeton.

Single Teams, 1st premium, 87,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d. premium, 3,00

Minors with Steers, 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 2,00

HORSE TEAMS.
Committee. — John Brooks, Princeton ; Lewis Gr. Tuttle, Fitchburg j
Levi Smith, Ashby; Warren Marble, Ashburnham; W. L. Brown,
Lunenburg.

Horse or Mule Teams, 1st premium, $7,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, 3,00

CROPS.

All entries for Premiums, in this department must be made
with the Secretary, on or before June 1st, with the excep-
tion of English turnips and cabbages, which must be entered
on or before August 1st. Immediately after these dates the
Secretary will transmit to all competitors a copy of the fol-
lowing blank form adopted by the Trustees, to correspond
with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture.

In pursuance of authority delegated to the Board of Agri-
culture, by Chap. 24, of the Acts of 1862, Agricultural Soci-
eties receiving the bounty of the State, arc required to make
use of the following form, and be governed by its conditions,
in the mode of ascertaining the amount of crops entered for
premium.

Worcester Worth Agricultural Society.

Statement concerning a crop of , raised by Mr.

in the town of , 1865.
What was the crop of 1863 ?
What manure was used, and how much that year?

PREMIUMS.

93

What was the crop of 1864 ?

What manure was used, and how much that year ?

What is the nature of the soil ?

When and how many times plowed, and how deep, for the
present crop ?

What other preparation for the seed ?

Cost of plowing and other preparation ?

Amount of manure, in loads of thirty bushels, and how
applied, for the present crop ?

Value of manure upon the ground ?

When and how planted, and the amount and kind of seed ?

Cost of seed and planting ?

How cultivated, and how many times.

Cost of cultivation, including weeding and thinning ?

Time and manner of harvesting ?

Cost of harvesting, including the storing and husking, or
threshing ?

Amount of straw, stover, or other product ?

REMARKS.

i

Signed by

Competitor.

From actual measurement, I hereby certify that the land
which the above crop of covered, contained rods, and
no more.

From personal observation, we hereby certify that the
above answers are true.

I hereby cortify that the weight of the above crop, as
ascertained by me, on the day , was pounds.

In ascertaining the weight of a crop, an average rod shall
be selected, harvested and weighed, by one or more members
of a committee, and the whole estimated by multiplying it
by the number of rods.

The certificate shall state the weight of all crops only
when in a merchantable state.

04

v * PREMIUMS

RULES OF MEASURE

Practiced and adopted by the State Board of Agriculture.

Wheat, Potatoes, Sugar Beets, Mangel Wurzel,

Euta Baga, White Beans, and Peas 60 lbs. to bushel.

Corn, Eye, Onions, 56 " "

Oats, 32 " "

Barley, Buckwheat, 48

Cracked Corn, Corn and Eye and other meal

except Oat, and English Turnips, 50

Parsnips, , 45 "

Carrots, 55 -"

u a

a u

<(

These forms must be returned to the Secretary on or be-
fore November 10th, with each question concerning the crop
answered, and the certificates properly signed.

No person will be allowed to compete for more than one
Premitm, with a crop raised upon the same field, however
large, with the same treatment.

Committees should not encourage the irregular entry of
accidental good crops.

GRAIN.
Committee. — Solon Carter, Leominster ; Ira Carleton, Joseph Upton,
Fitchburg ; Sam'l H. Bailey, Lunenburg ; Jos. P. Reed, Princeton.

Samples must be exhibited at the Fair.

The Committee may award gratuities for valuable new
varieties of grain.

For the largest crop of Herds Grass seed, not less than three
bushels, 1st premium, $5,00

2d premium, 3.00

Eed top, not less than six bushels, 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

For the most profitable crops of Corn, Wheat, Eye, Barley
and Oats, one acre each j of Cabbages, Beans and Flax, one-
eighth acre each; the product of Corn to be not less than 4320
lbs. on the cob; that of Wheat, Rye, Barley and Oats, not
tess than 1200 lbs. of --rain each.

PREMIUMS.

95

Corn, 1st premium, $16,00

2d premium, 10,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

Wheat, 1st premium, 16,00

2d premium, 10,00

Flax, 1st premium, . .10.00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

Eye, 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

Barley, , 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

Oats, 1st premium, 6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

Field Beans, 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants

ROOT CROPS AND CABBAGES.

Committee. — Wm. Baker, Lunenburg; Ward Kussell, Ashburn-
hara ; John K Going, Shirley ; Lorriston Stockwell, John M. Harris,
Fitchburg.

For the most profitable crops of Potatoes, one-fourth acre
each; of Carrots, Onions, Beets and Turnips, one-eighth
acre each. ,

Potatoes, not less than 3000 ibs.,...lst premium, $8,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, Grasses & Forage Plants
Carrots, not less than 5500 lbs., ....1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 3,00

Onions, not less than 2000 lbs., 1st -premhim, Harris on Lisects.

2d premium, 2,00

Sugar Beets, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

Mangel Wurzel, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

oyj PREMIUMS.

English Turnips, 1st premium, Harris on bisects

2d premium, 2,00

Turnips of any other variety. .1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, 2,00

Cabbages, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1 ,00

FARMS.

Committee. — Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg ; George Chandler, Shirley J
Levi Heywood, Gardner.

All Competitors must make their entries on or before the first day
of May. Each farm will be open to the inspection of the Committee
during the entire season.

For the best cultivated and managed Farm, 1st premium, $15,00

2d premium, 8,00

GARDENS.

Committee. — Jacob Haskell, James F. Monroe, Fitchburg ; Hobart
Spencer, Ashby.

No person having received a premium for a kitchen or mixed garden
shall be allowed to compete for another with the same land within five
years, except for a higher one.

Entries must be made on or before June 1st.

Kitchen or mixed Gardens, 1st premium, $6,00

2d premium, 4,00

3d premium, 2,00

Flower Gardens, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

EXPERIMENTS.

Committee. — Abel F. Adams, Abel Marshall, Jonas A. Marshall,
Fitchburg.

All entries must be made at least one week before commencing the
Experiments.

Best experiment testing the value of corn and cob for fattening pur-
poses, with the cob or otherwise, $15,00

Best experiment in steaming fond for cattle and horses, 10,00

Best experiment testing the comparative value of drilling wheat

or other grain to broadcast sowing, 5,00

There will be placed at the disposal of the Committee for the best and
most reliable Agricultural Experiments, made in 18G5, the sum of $20.

PREMIUMS.

TOWN HALL.

97

No article intended for the Hall will be entitled to a preminm, un-
less it shall have been deposited by one o'clock, P. M., on Tuesday,
from which time the Hall will be occupied by the Committees exclusively
until half-past six o'clock, when it will be opened to the public for the
evening.

All articles must have been grown, manufactured or produced by the
person entering the same for premium, and should be plainly marked
with the name and residence of the exhibitor.

A strict compliance with these regulations will be absolutely necessary.

APPLES, PEACHES PLUMS AND QUINCES.

Committee. — James Bennett, . Leominster ; George Jewett, L. H.
Bradford, Fitchburg; Henry C. Hill, Gardner; Timothy Brown,
Westminster.

APPLES.
For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, 1 st premium , $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each, lstprem. Harris on Insects

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

For six varieties, of five specimens each, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,50

3d premium, 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, 1,50

2d premium,.. 1,00

3d premium, ,50

For the best exhibition of twelve specimens

of one variety, 1st premium, 1,50

2d premium, 1,00

•
No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if the
number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these regula-
tions,' the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

13

98

PREMIUMS.

PEACHES.

For the best collections, Harris on Insects

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, $2,00

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

PLUMS.

For the best collection, $2,00

For the best plates, 1st j>remium, 1,00

2d premium, ,50

QUINCES.

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, $1,00

2d premium, ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

PEARS AND GRAPES.

Committee. — Thomas R. Boutelle, Fitchburg j Samuel White, Lun-
enburg; Amos Whitney, Ashburnham; Seth Heywood, Gardner;
Jackson Burr, Ashby.

PEARS.
For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties, of three speci-
mens each, 1st premium, $4,00

2d premium, Harris on Insects
For twelve varieties, of five specimens each,

1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

For six varieties of five specimens each,... 1st premium, .* 2,00

2d premium, 1,50

3d premium, 1,00

For three varieties of five specimens each, 1st premium, 1,50

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

For the best exhibition of twelve specimens

of one variety, 1 st premium, 1,50

2d premium, 1,00

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in more than
one of the above classes, with the same specimens of fruit ; and if the

c

PREMIUMS.

99

number of specimens exhibited does not correspond with these regula-
tions, the fruit will be excluded from competition for the premiums.

GRAPES.

For the best displays of Foreign Grapes, 1st premium, $3,00

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

For the best displays of Native Grapes, 1st premium, Harris on Insects

2d premium, 2,00

3d premium, 1,00

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

Committee. — George E. Towne, Mrs. Joseph E. Manning, Mrs. A.
P. Kimball, Fitchburg j Mrs. Gilbert Howe, Sterling ; Mrs. D. L.
Abercrombie, Lunenburg.

FRUIT.

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, $2,00

2d premium, 1,00

FLOWERS.

For best displays of named Plants in pots, 1st premium, $2,00

2d premium, .1,00

For the best displays of cut Flowers, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee for gratuities, $10,00.

VEGETABLES.

Committee. — Stephen Shepley, Levi Kendall, B. F. Lewis, Benj.
Wheeler, Fitchburg ; Addison Howe, Ashburnham.

Of Squashes, Pumpkins, Cabbages and Celery, there should be six
specimens, in each lot ; of Cauliflower, three ; of Onions, Beets, Tur-
nips and Tomatoes, one peck in each lot ; of Field Beans, one-half
peck, and of Lima Beans, two quarts.

100

PREMIUMS.

For the best collections of Kitchen Vege-
tables, 1st premium, S7,00

2d premium, 5,00

3d premium, 3,00

Best collections of Garden Seeds,. 1st premium, 5,00

2d premium, 3,00

Collections of Potatoes, 1st premium 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

Marrow Squashes, .1st premium, 1,00

2d premium, ,50

Hubbard Squashes, 1st premium, 1,00

2d premium, ,50

Crookneck Squashes, 1st premium, 1,00

2d premium, ,50

Pumpkins, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

Cabbages, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

Cauliflowers, 1st premium, ,75

* 2d premium, ,50

Celery, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

Onions, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

Turnip Beets, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

English Turnips, 1st premium, ,50

2d premium, ,25

Tomato'es, 1st premium, ,50

2d premium, ,25

Field Beans, 1st premium, ,50

2d premium, ,25

Lima Beans, 1st premium, ,50

2d premium, ,25

Seed Corn, in Traces, 1st premium, 1,00

2d premium, ,75

3d premium, '. ,50

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gratuities, $10,00.

PREMIUMS. * J-"l

No person will be allowed to receive more than one copy of Harris
on Insects ; if more than one is awarded, cash will be paid instead, at
the rate of $3,00 per copy; and if any to whom a copy is -awarded
already has one, he may receive the copy awarded, or the cash as above,
at his option.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE; PICKLES, PRESERVES AND

JELLIES.

Committee. — C. H. B. Snow, Mrs. Alvah Crocker, Mrs. Abel F.
Adams, Fitchbnrg; Mrs. Dennis Fay, Ashby; Mrs. J. T. Everett,
East Princeton; Mrs. Asaph Wood, Gardner; Mrs. Ohio Whitney,
Jr., Ashburnham.

All Bread must have been baked on the Monday previous to the
•exhibition by unmarried ladies.

Competitors will be required to furnish a detailed statement in writing
of the process of manufacturing Butter, Cheese and Pickles.

White Bread, 1st premium, $2,00

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

Unbolted Wheat Bread, 1,00

Bolted Rye Bread, 1st premium 1,00

2d premium, ,50

Rye and Indian Bread, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium, 1,00

3d premium, ,50

Lump Butter, not less than 12 pounds,.... 1st premium, 4,00

2d premium, 3,00

3d premium, 2,00

4th premium, 1,50

June Tub Butter, not less than 25 lbs., ...1st premium, 3,00

2d premium , *. . . .2,00

3d premium, 1,00

Cheese, not less than 50 lbs., 1st premium,. 2,00

2d premium, 1,50

3d premium, 1,00

Pickles, 1st premium, ,75

2d premium, ,50

3d premium, ,25

Virgin Honey in the Comb, 1st premium, 2,00

2d premium , 1,00

3d premium, ,50

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gratuities, $10,00.

102

PREMIUMS.

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

Committee. — Amasa Norcross, Fitchburg; Wm. H. Brown, East
Princeton; Ward M. Cotton, Leominster; Charles Winchester, Ash-
burnham ; C. S. Greenwood, Gardner.

For the best specimens of Mechanic and Manufactured articles,
exclusive of ladies' home manufacture, there will be placed at the dis-
posal of the Committee, the sum of $75,00.

AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS.

Committee. — Walter Hey wood, Wm. Woodbury, Jr., Fitchburg;
Porter Piper, Leominster ; B. F. Kendall, Asaph Wood, Gardner.

Best Mowing Machine, , .' $10,00-

" Farm Wagon for one or two horses, 10,00

" Horse Rake, 5,00

" Team Harness, 5,00

" Hay or Straw Cutter, 3,00

" Ox Yoke, 3,00

" Churn 2,00

11 Best Set of Horse Shoes, 2,00

For Implements not specified, to be awarded by the Committee,.. 10, 00

FINE ARTS.
Committee. — Robert G. Hutehins, Mrs. L. P. Comee, Mrs. George
E. Towne, Mrs. L. H. Bradford, Fitchburg ; Wm. T. Allen, Leom-
inster.

For the best specimens of Paintings, Drawings, or other kindred
productions in the Fine Arts, there will be placed at the disposal of the
Committee the sum of ${$0,00.

Best collection by a Daguerrean Artist,.. 1st premium, $4,00

2d premium 2,00

FANCY ARTICLES.

Committee. — Herbert W. Kimball, Miss Lizzie H. Haskell, Miss
Kate Adams, Fitchburg; Miss Rebecca Greenwood, South Gardner;
Mrs. W. H. Brown, East Princeton.

For the best specimens of Ladies' Useful and Fancy Articles, of their
■own manufacture, including specimens of nice mending and darning,
there will be placed at the disposal of the < Jommittee, the sum of $30,00.

PREMIUMS. LVO

ESSAYS.

Committee. — Charles Mason, G-. A. Torrey, Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg.

All persons competing for these premiums must file their Essays with
the Secretary on or before the 1st of September. Each Essay is to be
marked with a motto or design, and accompanied with a sealed envel-
ope containing a corresponding motto or design, and also the name of
the author.

The envelopes of the successful competitors will be opened on the
day of the exhibition, immediately upon the announcement of the
awards.

For the best Essays on some practical subject connected with Agricul-
ture, deemed worthy of publication in the Society's "Transac-
tions," 1st premium, $15,00

2d premium, — 10,00

COMMITTEES' REPORTS.

Committee. — The President, two Vice Presidents and Secretary.

For the purpose of inducing the Chairman of the several Committees
to take upon themselves more labor and care in elaborating their re-
ports, the following premiums will be paid :

1st premium $10,00

2d premium, 6,00

3d premium, 4,00

Reports in connection with awards made on the day of exhibition,
must be delivered to the Secretary on or before October 25th. All
others on or before November 15th.

Total amount of premiums offered for 1865, $1359,25.

PROSPECTIVE.

For the best experiment to determine the economy of growing Indian
Corn as a part of a rotation compared with grass through a series of six
years, the amount of manure applied being the same in both cases,

1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 15,00

Enteries must be made on or before July 1st, 1865.

104

±KJ^ PREMIUMS.

APPLE ORCHARDS.
Committee. — Cyrus Kilburn, Ephrsdm Graham, Lunenburg • Addi-
son Hubbard, Fitchburg; C. C. Field, Leominster; John Minot,
Westminster.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been set
after January 1st, 1801, to be awarded in 1865,

1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 10,00

PEARS.

For the best Orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having been set
after January 1st, 1861, to be awarded in J 866,

1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 10,00

POTATOES.

For the best seedling Potatoes, to be tested for not less than three suc-
cessive years, $25,00

FOREST TREES.

Entries must be made on or before the first day of June.
For the best plantation of any kind of Forest Trees, suitable for fuel or
timber, raised from the seed, not less than five hundred in num-
ber, which shall be in the most flourishing condition in the fall of

1868, 1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 15,00

3d premium, 10,00

LIVE FEXCE.

Committee. — A. F. Adams, J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg; Daniel
Putnam , Lunenburg.

For the best experiment demonstrating the feasibility of substituting
live farm fence for those in common use ; the entries to be made on or
before May 1st, 1863, or whenever afterwards planted, and the pre-
miums to be paid in 1868 :

1st premium, $25,00

2d premium, 15,00

3d premium. 5,00

ICE HOUSES.
For the best constructed Ice House for family purposes, to be tested
at least twelve months $5,00

OFFICERS.

105

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOE 1865.

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 186-1.

OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham, President.

J. A. MARSHALL, of Fitchburg, j lr p .,
GEORGE E. TOWNE, of Fitchburg, \ Vlce 2 resiaenu-

ALVIN M. SAWYER, of West Fitchburg, Secretary.

T. C. CALDWELL, of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

TIRTJSTEES

Joel Hayward, Ashby,
S. W. A. Stevens, So. Gardner,
W. B. Hosmer, Leominster,
Solon Carter, Leominster,
Thomas Billings, Lunenburg,
Daniel Putnam, Lunenburg,
John Brooks, Princeton,
J. T. Everett, E. Princeton,
Anan Stockwell, So. Royalston,
James 0. Parker, Shirley,
Ezra Kendall, Sterling,
J. M. Sawyer, Sterling,
Warren Simonds, Templeton,
Benjamin Wyman, Westminster,
Daniel C. Miles, Westminster,
John Cutter, Winehendon,
A. F. Adams, Fitchburg,
T. R. Boutelle, Fitchburg,
Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg,
Levi Kendall, Fitchburg,
Abel Marshall, Fitchburg,

ABEL F. ADAMS, of Fitchburg, Memher %of the State Board of
Agriculture, elected Dec. 3, 1862.

Joel Page, Fitchburg,
Joseph Upton, Fitchburg,
I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg,
Wm. Woodbury, Jr., Fitchburg.
Dennis Fay, Ashby,
Asaph Wood, So. Gardner,
Porter Piper, Leominster,
Elliot E. Boyden, Leominster.
J. Edwin Merriam, Princeton,
John K. Going, Shirley,
Charles Flagg, Sterling,
Franklin Nourse, Sterling
John Minot, Westminster,
Amos Miller, Westminster,
L. H. Bradford, Fitchburg,
Alvah Crocker, Fitchburg,
Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg,
Ephraim Murdock, Winehendon.
Ohio Whitney, Ashburnham,
John C. Davis, Ashburnham.

14

■*■"" RULES.

RULES.

All teams entered for plowing and for draught, must have been
owned by the person entering the same, for at least three months next
previous, and the team must be driven, and the plow managed by him
or by some one usually in his employ.

Any person competing for a premium, who shall serve on the Com-
mittee having charge of the department in which he competes, shall
retire from the Committee, while his own competition is in question.

The several Committees will not consider themselves bound by the
terms of the above offers, to award a premium for anything which they
shall deem inferior.

Any person to whom a premium shall have been awarded, in conse-
quence of any deception or misrepresentation used by him, shall not
only forfeit such premium, but afterward be incapable of competing for
the Society's premiums.

All persons, (ladies and minors excepted,) not members of the So-
ciety, to whom may be awarded a premium or premiums amounting to
^5,00 or upwards, shall receive a certificate of membership for 85,00
and the balance in cash. If the amount shall be less than $5,00, a
deduction of fifty per cent will be made, unless the individual chooses
to make the amount up to that sum, and receive a certificate of mem-
bership.

All premiums not demanded on or before November 30th, will revert
to the Society.

An extract from the " General Statutes of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts" Page 376, Chapter 6G.

SeC; 4. "No society receiving the bounty, shall distribute any part
thereof for an animal or article for which a premium is awarded, imiess
it was produced within the limits of the society, or the animal has been
owned and kept within its limits, by the person to whom the premium is
awarded, for three months next preceding the award. And no animal
or article for which a premium has been awarded to the owners by any
such society, shall be considered subject for any further premium of
the society, except for qualities different from those for which the for-
mer premium was awarded or for a higher premium, and no animal or
article shall be offered for a premium at more than one such society in
the same year. * * * * *

Sec. G. "A society winch neglects in any year to comply with the
laws relating thereto, or with the regulations of the board of agriculture,
shall not be entitled to the bounty of the state the year next succeeding.

TIR-A^ISTS A.O TI 0 1ST s

OF THE

WORCESTER NORTH

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

FOR 1865,

PREPARED BY THE SECRETARY.

FITCHBURG :

PRINTED AT REVEILLE OFFICE.
1865.

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

♦ > ♦ « ♦

In accordance with the requirements of the Statute law of
the Commonwealth, the Thirteenth Annual Cattle Show and
Exhibition of the Worcester North Agricultural Society com-
menced in Fitchburg, on Tuesday, September 26th, 1865.

At half-past one o'clock, P. M., the various Committees on
articles exhibited in the Hall were organized and attended to
the duties assigned them.

The show of fruit, flowers, vegetables, mechanic arts and
manufactures, fancy articles, bread, butter, cheese, pickles and
honey, gave evidence of the continued interest in this part of
the exhibition. A large crowd was in attendance in the
evening, being frequently entertained by songs and glees by
a volunteer club under the direction of Moses G. Lyon, Esq.

The principal Show was on Wednesday, the 27th. The
plowing match took place on land of Mr. Justin Stearns, on
Flat Rock road, at eight and a half o'clock, A. M. The ex-
ceedingly dry soil gave an unusual opportunity to display the
skill of the plowman.

At nine and three-fourths o'clock the various Committees
on stock, drawing, &c, were organized.

The trial of draught horses and working oxen commenced
at ten o'clock at the usual place near the Unitarian Church.
The trial of working steers immediately following that of oxen
on the same ground. Exhibition of stallions and family
horses at eleven o'clock, A. M., and two town teams, one from

secretary's report.

Fitchburg, and one from Leominster were exhibited at eleven
and a half o'clock. The show of blood stock was excellent,
there being twenty-seven entries. The show of grade and
native stock was not as good as at some of our previous Fairs.
The exhibition of sheep, poultry and swine was good.

After dinner at the Fitchburg Hotel, the members of the
society assembled at the lower town hall, where Hon. Ohio
Whitney of Ashburnham, President of the society, congratu-
lated the members on the success of the present exhibition,
after which he introduced the delegate of the Board of Agri-
culture, Mr. N. S. Hubbard.

Mr. Hubbard said that people having come to hear Col.
Bullock, he was diffident of occupying the time. He expressed
his satisfaction at the fine exhibition of fruit in the hall.
The social element in these Fairs repaid all their expense,
but more richly when we see the fine cattle and the delicate
handiwork. Here we compare notes, giving each other the
benefit of our experience. We do not give sufficient cultiva-
tion to our crops. We want to know how to get the best
cultivation for the least labor. He almost wished the pro-
ducts of the soil commanded a higher price, that young men
might be induced to engage in agricultural pursuits. He
alluded to the great advance in labor-saving machines on the
farm — to the mowing machines, the improved plows, lessen-
ing by one half the manual labor on the farm, making the
farmer's work a pleasant one.

Elias Grout of Ashland was introduced as a member of the
Board of Agriculture. He had been highly entertained and
gratified, but would have been more pleased if the grounds,
the exhibition and dining halls could be made more common
and social, and afford opportunity for a more free interchange
of ideas. By improving the soil we enhance the value of the
people and advance the interests of the nation. One reason
why our crops are not better is that we do not study to apply
labor to best results. We should know exactly when we put
the plow in the soil what will be the crop, and this we can do

SECRETARY S REPORT. 5

by experimenting. He wanted young men and women to
love the farm ; he wanted the young women to understand
good cooking, saying in this connection that for good, whole*,
some, healthy cooking New England maidens could beat
the world. In his town an extra premium was awarded to the
young lady under twenty who would make the best bread.

Hon. Daniel Needham of Groton, said the great difficulty
in New England was that young men will not make farming
a business. He goes where he thinks he can make the most
money. But our young farmers go westward, for they find
there more pay for their work. What do we lack? Not
implements or inventive power, but method and system.
Here he keeps in the old ruts, but in the West he strikes out
for himself in new ways. If they would do the same here,
and abandon old ways, making a business of his work, he was
sure it would pay far better than at the West. Sheep culture
was the most paying of agricultural pursuits for the hills of
this vicinity and in other places in New England. Find out
what pays best and devote attention to that. Bring sheep to
the Fairs and advertise your stock in the papers ; make your
work and your flocks known and it will be in demand.
Don't go on the principle that a horse is a horse, because a
horse' isn't a horse. It don't cost more to keep good stock
than that of a poor quality. There was no reason why New
England farmers should not be the best in the world. One
man told him that he had raised four tons of grapes on an
acre of ground in Fitchburg this year, on which he had spent
but three weeks labor. At twenty cents a pound, that gave
sixteen hundred dollars receipts from that one acre. It is
profitable to be enterprising, and the farmer can be so as well
as any one else.

Mr. J, T. Everett of Princeton, made a few remarks,
urging the more thorough study of farming pursuits.

Hon. Alvah Crocker paid some attention to the agricul-
tural question " Will it pay ? " making its application to this
rocky gorge of northern Worcester, and thought it would.

6 secretary's report.

To encourage competition from a distance, the Trustees
this year voted to make a reasonable allowance for keeping
all stock over night, when driven from a distance of more
than eight miles.

It may not be improper here to call attention to the manner
of making entries by letter. A competitor hurriedly writes
that he desires to enter a colt for premium, but does not state
whether it is one or three years old. Another enters a two
years old heifer, but neglects to state whether for butter or
for milk.

Another, perhaps, says he wishes to plow with two yoke of
oxen. So the Secretary enters his name under " Double
Teams." A land is provided under that class, and when the
hour of starting arrives and the people are waiting, 'tis found
that the " two yoke " were intended as two single teams.

In other cases the age may be omitted or confounded with
descriptions of cattle, sheep and horses, and at the Fair the
Secretary is expected to have every detail correct in black
and white, if not, he is blamed for inaccuracy, blundering, &c.
Now all this trouble and perhaps hard feeling can be very
easily remedied if competitors will carefully notice our rules,
the specified classes for which premiums are offered, and
state plainly class, age, quality, &c, as they wish to have it
appear before the committee.

The Secretary regrets that so many of the members of the
Society were obliged to dispense with Mr. Secretary Flint's
u Agriculture of Massachusetts " for 1864. Only fifty copies
were received, thus leaving but four or five copies after sup-
plying the trustees and officers of the society.

The TVinchendon Band, eighteen pieces, G. TV. Gwinner,
leader, was in attendance, furnishing excellent music.

Great credit is due to the President of the Society, and to
Col. John TV. Kimball, chief marshal, and his assistants,
for the success of the exhibition.

AN ODE, i

The following Ode, inscribed to the Worcester North
Agricultural Society, to be read on the occasion of their
first Annual Fair after the return of peace, was written by
Mrs. Charles Mason of Fitchburg :

Thank God ! the long, long night is past ;
Thank God ! the day has dawned at last.
The anguish and the strife are o'er ,
The nation shall learn War no more.

" Bringnowyour glittering spear and sword,
An J make ye of them," saith the Lord,
" Plow share and pruning-hook instead ;
To tend my green earth, plenty spread.

" For long enough ye've drenched her breast
With life-streams of your Bravest, Best !
And long enough her rills have run
Blood-red with gore of sire and son !

" See ! with my sweet and gracious rain,
I wash her bosom clean again :
Go up ! go up ! at my command,
B.epair the wastes, possess the land."

Lord ! we obey : 'Tis Thine to lead ;
To follow, Ours, — to sow the seed,-r-
And wait with grateful hearts, the while,
Until the golden Harvest smile.

For better is the mellow yield
Of Plenty, than the blood-red field j
And, in the sight of man and God,
Fairer green turf than crimson sod.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

The Committee on Farms report that after several years
without an entry, one farm which took the first premium in
1855 was again entered this year for the same purpose. The
rule which required a particular financial statement of the
yearly operations, it was supposed, prevented many persons
from competing who would otherwise have done so. Many
and in fact the generality of farmers are not in the habit of
keeping an exact record of transactions, even where money is
concerned, so that it is impossible for them to know at the
year's end whether their prosperity is plus or minus. Some
who do, although good farmers, are unable to show a balance
sheet that they feel proud of. There are still others who,
though they can demonstrate to themselves a very satisfactory
state of affairs, yet have a modest repugnance to telling the
world of it, even under the temptation of a premium. Under
these circumstances the present board of trustees abolished
the requirement of a financial statement, hoping by this means
to get a specimen of farm operations worthy of record for the
public benefit.

The question here suggests itself, what is the object to be
attained through the offer of premiums by agricultural
societies ? The Commonwealth gives to each of the various
agricultural societies within its limits, a sum not exceeding
six hundred dollars annually to be offered in premiums for
various objects. Why is this done and what is to be gained

REPORTS OP COMMITTEES. 9

by it ? In general terms we may say that it is given for the
promotion of Agriculture and the Mechanic Arts, by the col-
lection and diffusion of agricultural and mechanical informa-
tion. The Worcester North Society, receiving six hundred
dollars of this bounty, evidently has a duty to perform. It
ought to show to the State that its money has been well ex-
pended and has elicited its quota of information. This can
only be shown in its public record or printed report. If a
society makes no report, the inference is that it has nothing
worth saying and it becomes a question whether or not it
deserves its bounty. If the report is a bare statement of the
awards, it has no value except to the directly interested
parties. This meagerness of the annual report, or the entire
want of it, may be in part the fault of the society as such, but
is more likely to be due to the failure of the different com-
mittees. Each committee has intrusted to it a portion of the
State's bounty to be awarded to deserving competitors, and is
to that extent responsible to the society for its expenditure.
We think it the duty of every committee, where the case will
admit of it, to give a reason for their decision. Of what
value is it to the community to know that Mr. Smith's cow
received the first premium ? What is gained by the decision ?
Mr. Smith gets the money, and the committee gain what
information they can, by seeing the animal and hearing Smith's
statement. Now if the members of the committee are to be
the only gainers in the way of knowledge, it would be best to
make our committees very much larger than we do. We
look upon the committees rather as almoners of the State's
bounty on the one hand, and Smith's experience on the other.
If they award money or other property, they should be able
to, and should, show for just what it was awarded, and give
the reasons therefor. In many cases this, of course, would be
unnecessary or even impracticable, but where there are palpa-
ble reasons for the decision of a committee that would be ot
interest to the public, the committee ought, we think, to give
them in connection with their award.
2

10 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

The only farm entered for our examination was that of
Mr. Abel F. Adams of Fitchburg. We award him the first
premium of $15.00. Now, suppose we make no further re-
mark. Mr. Adams gets the $15.00 and that is all there is
to it, except that the fact becomes public, and people know
where a premium farm is, which they can visit if they please.
The difficulty however is that scarcely anybody pleases.
Mr Adams in this dilemma, volunteers a statement which ac-
companies this report. Although well enough, as far as it
goes, it gives but a faint idea of what he has done and is
doing, as it appeared to us. A great many statements read-
ing as well as that might be made of farms all about us, not
one of which would deserve a premium, and therefore we
feel that something additional should be said to make the
case a little clearer.

We may safely say that with Mr. Adams farming has been
one-sided and up-hill business. One-sided, because on a hun-
dred-acre farm his buildings are placed at the extreme end
of its longest diameter. Up-hill, for the reason that although
compact, its altitude varies, as near as we could judge, about
200 feet. The greatest variation is across its shortest
diameter. His system of roads is such that these natural
obstacles of elevation are in part overcome. They run
lengthwise of the farm in nearly parallel lines, so that most
of his roadway has but small grade to overcome. The
greater part of the whole area has a northeasterly slope
and its clean and well kept surface affords the writer, on an
opposite rise, a perpetual feast for the eye. The surface is
divided into fields of four to six acres or more by substantial
stone walls, which must have required in the aggregate a very
great amount of labor in their construction. We believe
that very many interior walls on our farms might be dis-
pensed with at a profit. In Mr. Adams' mode of farming
they are perhaps necessary, as all portions of his farm are
used alternately for tillage, mowing and pasture. His walls
were all built of the stones lying on and in the soil and that

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. 11

used to be considered the best way of getting rid of them.
Having built all the wall he desires, Mr. Adams some years
ago established a stone " depot " in a favorable location,
where he has deposited, literally, thousands of loads of stone
the product mainly of his manner of plowing.

Mr. Adams' forte lies in the manufacture of soil, so to speak.
An unproductive spot is a continual eye sore to him. If he
discovers anything of the kind on any one of his acres, he
straightway leaves the ninety and nine and devotes himself to
the barren fraction until it becomes fitted for the companion-
ship of its associates, and worthy of its owner. So far does
he carry this passion, that he has actually dug out the bottom
of a pond, and then what lay below it, all for the purpose of
rendering the tops of ledges whereon it was spread, produc-
tive. In so doing he has obtained satisfactory success, but
we cannot help thinking, at too great a cost. We do not
believe that the end quite justifies the means. It might be
for his interest if his limits could be circumscribed and the
barren spots left out in the cold, only that his occupation
would be gone. We like his method of thoroughly doing
whatever he undertakes. There are no bushes, briars or weeds
allowed to grow near to, or in the corners of his walls, but
everything is kept clean. He believes such crops to be un-
profitable, inasmuch as they are expensive to raise, and bring
but a poor price in the market.

We consider it great praise to be able to say of this farm,
that we could find nothing from first to last that we should
be ashamed to exhibit if we owned it. There are very few
farms of that kind. The greatest want that we discovered
was that of a good mowing machine. Mr. Adams has not
had encouraging success in consequence of using poor ma-
chines, and has come to speak with satisfaction of his mow-
ers upon legs that are always in order. We believe however
that no man growing twenty or more acres of grass can
afford for a single season, in these times, to cut his grass by
hand. To say nothing of the increased cost, the deterioration

12 REPORTS OP COMMITTEES.

in value of the grass consequent upon its standing a few days
and in some cases weeks after the moment of its greatest
value arrives, would sometimes pay for a machine in one hay
season.

The buildings are well arranged, with facilities for con-
veniently carrying on the ordinary operations, with a good
cellar under the barn for saving manure. Water was in
plentiful supply to the buildings and pastures during the
whole of the past very dry season.

In conversation with Mr. Adams, we inquired of him if he
thought that he could have commenced life as a mechanic,
placing his small capital at interest, and been in equally good
circumstances as he is at the present time. He was decidedly
of the opinion that he could not have done it and brought
up and cared for his family equally well. He ran in debt
for his farm, and then, instead of devoting his whole energies
toward immediately paying it off, by skinning his farm, he
had the foresight to purchase manure, thus getting still far-
ther into debt, all the time believing that in the end he could
pay it all the easier.

Here is where many an ambitious young farmer fails.
They make themselves slaves to the nightmare of a debt,
imagining that until it is paid they can do nothing for the
farm or themselves. A small debt to an intelligent and
energetic farmer is not worth the loss of a night's sleep,
while the opposite class, who ought to be frightened by it,
sleep on notwithstanding. Many people have no faith in
their own farming, as is evidenced by the fact of their not
investing any of their surplus earnings in the business. If
a farmer invests his money in corporative stocks that pay but
six per cent, dividends, it is simply a confession that that is
the best use he can make of it, or, in other words, he does not
understand sufficiently his own pursuit, or has not confidence
enough in it, to expect a return of six per cent, for his out-
lays. Such people, we think, should leave farming for some-
thing else that offers greater inducements to them. When a

A. F. ADAMS' STATEMENT. 13

farmer runs in debt intelligently, it shows that he has faith
at least in his ability to get more than the legal rate of
interest through the use of his borrowed money, and as long
as he is satisfied that he does so, he need have no fears of
his ability to pay in the end.

Your committee can but express the wish that there were
more farmers who had this faith, which they made their gov-
erning principle of action, in which case the Committee on
Farms would have their labors increased, and such men as
Mr. Adams might not always succeed in obtaining the first
premium.

For the committee,

Jabez Fisher, Chairman.

A. F. Adams' Statement.

To the Committee on Farms of the Worcester North Agricul-
tural Society :

Gentlemen : — A portion of the farm which I offer for your
inspection, received a premium in 1855. Since that time I
have sold land to the amount of $1000, and purchased three
acres, paying $200 for it. Feeling desirous to keep up the
fertility of my farm, I have been engaged most of the time in
the manufacture and sale of milk, consequently consuming most
of my hay and grain upon the farm. From April 1, 1856,
to April 1, 1865, (the time when I make up my farm account,)
I have sold milk amounting to ten thousand seven hundred
and ten dollars ($10,710). My sales of other articles from
my farm, with the exception of cattle and beef, have amounted
to about $500 annually, and owing to the size of my family I
have had a very large home market.

I have usually hired two men for eight months, and one

14 APPLE ORCHARDS.

man from three to five months, or nearly that amount of labor
by the day, and generally one man in the winter. Much of
this labor has been employed in making permanent improve-
ments on the farm. I have continued the practice of following
the plow with the iron bar and lever, until most of my fields
are pretty thoroughly cleared of stones, some of my heaviest
crops being raised where the most stones have been removed.
I cannot boast of extraordinary crops. I have been more
anxious to make two spears of grass grow where but one
grew before, or to raise some crop where nothing grew before,
than to apply all my manure upon one acre for the purpose
of obtaining a premium crop. I have plowed most of my
pasture, manuring and cultivating, raising respectable crops,
and on such land am seldom troubled with worms or weeds.
For stock, I prefer a cross with the Short Horn. They come
to maturity early, are good milkers, and I think, will make
more beef, at the same expense, than any other breed with
which I am acquainted. They require good keeping, but I
wait to see the man who has made himself rich by starving
animals of any breed. If my statement is not sufficiently full,
I would be happy to answer any questions proposed by the
committee.

Respectfully yours,

Abel F. Adams.

APPLE ORCHARDS.

The Committee on Apple Orchards herewith report :

That only two entries for premiums were made, viz : By
Charles Mason, Esq., of Fitchburg, and Ephraim Graham
Esq., of Lunenburg,

ephraim Graham's statement. 15

Your committee visited both orchards and found they had
been cultivated with great care. The competitors gave us a
verbal account of their management of their trees, and it
was apparent that orchards, in order to have well developed
trees and fruit, require cultivation as well as cereals.

Each competitor also gave us an elaborately detailed
statement in writing (which is herewith transmitted), respect-
ing their manner of setting their trees and their cultivation,
which statement renders it unnecessary for us to make
further comment.

We have awarded the society's first premium to Ephraim
Graham, Esq., and the second premium to Charles Mason,
Esq. All which is submitted.

Cyrus Kilburn, Chairman.

Ephraim Graham's Statement.

The orchard I offer for the society's premium consists of
fifty-six trees, all of which are Baldwin's, transplanted May
6, 1862.

The land was an "old bound out pasture," producing only
a small quantity of feed ; but laurel, hard-hack, so called,
sweet fern and mullein were in abundance j the surface soil is
a light, sandy loam generally ; the subsoil, by no means cal-
carious, but clay intermixed in small quantities with gravel
and loam, and in some parts of the field small quantities of
sand, so that on the whole the soils are not what are gene*
rally termed favorable for the growth of fruit trees or the
best of fruit.

The field has a southern slope and is well sheltered from
the north and northwest winds by another orchard and
buildings adjoining the same.

In 1861 the field was twice plowed, as well as could be

16 ephraim Graham's statement.

done with four oxen, and about twenty-five loads of manure
spread to the acre and planted with potatoes.

In 1862 the stones were removed and the field well
plowed.

The ground was then staked off into rows thirty-two feet
distant each way, and the holes dug about twenty inches
deep and from five to six feet in diameter and filled with
compost prepared the year previous, composed of loam,
leaves, decayed wood, leached ashes and a small quantity of
barn manure. The object of preparing the borders so large
is to give a rich and fertile soil for the small roots to pene-
trate during the first two years after transplanting. The
trees were selected from two nurseries, twenty-five of which
were four years from the bud, and upon an average one and
a quarter inches diameter, and are at this time, September
20, from three to three and a half inches ; the remainder of
the trees were two years from the bud and from five-eighths
to seven-eighths inches in diameter and are now from two to
two and a half inches. The field was sowed with oats, with
the exception of one square rod around each tree, in order
to make it an object to hoe and cultivate around the trees.
I would here mention that during the month of May,
1862, the weather was quite dry, so much so that many
of the trees showed no signs of foliage, and the lives of
some of them were almost despaired of for a time; in
the course of the season, however, many of the trees made
very respectable growth, throwing out shoots from eight
to ten inches, others showing no indications of shoots, simply
foliage, the younger and smaller trees making the greater
number of shoots.

In 1863 the stones were removed and the field plowed
and planted with stover corn and potatoes, a small quantity
of manure spread to each tree.

In 1864 the field was again planted with potatoes and
beans, spreading around the trees as in the year previous ;
during this year the growth, notwithstanding the dry season

CHARLES MASON'S STATEMENT. 17

"Was greater than in previous years, throwing out shoots from
thirty-five to forty inches.

In 1865 the boulders and small stones were again re-
moved from the field, being sufficient to make fifteen rods of
wall, and about thirty loads compost applied to the field,
made from muck, decayed wood, three loads of horse
manure and three loads leached ashes, and planted with
potatoes; corn and white beans; thus the whole field has
been under cultivation with some hoed crop since first trans-
planted, and should continue to be so cultivated for the next
ten years. The question now arises whether it is more
profitable to transplant large or small trees ; it is certain,
thus far, that the small trees have made, comparatively, the
greater amount of wood.

In the opinion of very good judges of orchards, the larger
trees will come into bearing at least one year sooner than the
others. Should that be the fact, it is economy to set trees of
older growth than two years from the bud.

Ephrajm Graham.

Charles Mason's Statement.

The apple orchard offered by me for a premium consists
of fifty-three trees, of which twelve were set out the latter
part of April, 1862, thirty-seven about the 20th of May,
1863, and six in May, 1864.

Of the trees, twenty-seven were raised by myself and
twenty-six, all of them but one set in 1863, were procured
from a nursery. Of these latter I am obliged to say they
were not of the choicest, being such as I could get rather
than such as I would have had.

Of the trees raised by myself, nine were set in 1862, when
a year old from the bud, most of the others at two years old.
The age of the nursery trees I cannot state positively, but
3

18 CHARLES MASON'S STATEMENT.

suppose them to have been three years from the bud when
set. The advantage, however, which they had, in point of
age, was fully compensated by the more careful treatment
which my trees had previously received, and by their having
been taken up properly and transferred while the roots were
fresh, to the places where they were to stand. My largest
trees, except two which are somewhat older, are those which
were set in 1862, when one year from the bud, some of which
measure nine inches in circumference. Trees that have had
one year's free growth from the bud, and have become well
confirmed upon the stock, if taken up, as they well may be,
with the roots nearly entire, and transplanted immediately,
will grow right along without seeming much to feel the
removal.

The soil in which my trees are set is very light and sandy,
insomuch that persons sometimes have been led to entertain
a doubt in their own minds of its capability to bear anything
to much purpose. Underneath the surface soil is found,
mainly, gravel or sand of different degrees of fineness.

Of the trees twenty stand twenty-five feet apart, in a row,
by the roadside. The other thirty-three are in three rows,
thirty feet between the rows, and the trees twenty seven feet
apart in the rows, upon ground sloping to the northwest and
so steep that the upper row stands upon an embankment or
terrace. This land was completely waste, overgrown with
laurel and other shrubs. The bushes were cleared off and
the ground plowed as well as it admitted, and after a couple
of years' hoeing, being partially subdued and smoothed
down, the trees were set, the first in 1863, the rest the next
year. The ground has been plowed and cultivated from
year to year, with hard crops, chiefly potatoes and beans, and
manured for planting, but only in the hill, and that quite
moderately.

When the trees were planted places were dug for their beds
eighteen to twenty-four inches in depth and five feet or more
across. These were filled a<rain with the best of the surface

CHARLES MASON'S STATEMENT. 19

soil about the spot, intermingled with a bushel or so of
leather chips and waste, and as much, or rather more com-
post from barn cellar, consisting of loam, barn manure, vege-
table waste, and the like, with sink water, &c. When these
ingredients were well forked over, a peck or thereabouts of
leached ashes and two quarts of air slaked lime to each
tree, were spread upon the surface and slightly dug in, and
then the trees were set.

Since the setting I have had, every year, a few shovelfulls
of the same compost spread about each tree and dug in with
the soil in the spring. Through the summer the ground
about the trees has been hoed over occasionally to keep the
weeds down and the surface light. After some of the trees
were set, the weather proving dry, I had such of them as
were in the most exposed situations, mulched to some extent,
a thing, by the way, well worth doing in all cases, especially
with young trees.

These things, together with clearing the trees thoroughly
of caterpillars, when occasion required, and a little pruning,
constitute about all the care and attention they have re-
ceived. I have not aimed or desired to force the growth of
the trees, and with the soil, such as it was, and the compara-
tively slight manuring that has been bestowed upon them,
the growth they have made has been, in the main, to me
quite satisfactory.

The pruning that has been done to the trees has consisted
in cutting out shoots when too thick or interfering, and in the
spring heading back such as were too luxuriant, or strag-
gling, or where the habit of growth of the tree is too aspir-
ing ; the aim being always to keep the trees well down, alike
for convenience and for their own security, and to preserve
the heads handsomely proportioned and well balanced and
open to admit freely the light and the air.

My orchard is made up of the following varieties : (winter)
Baldwins 17, common apples 5, Roxbury Russetts 4, R. I.
Greenings 3, Spitzemburg Esopus, King of Tompkins Coun-

20 CHARLES MASON'S STATEMENT.

ty, Peck's Pleasant and Hubbard ston Nonsuch, 2 each, Mo-
ther Apple, Wagener, Yellow Belle Fleur and Seeknofurther,
1 each; (fall) Gravenstein 2, Foundling, Red Astrachan,
Gordon Royal, Williams Favorite and Shropshirevine 1 each ;
(sweet), Ladies Sweeting, Danvers Winter Sweet, Jersey
Sweeting, Autumn Sweet Bough and Early Sweet Bough 1
each.

The admission of so many kinds in so small a collection
may not, perhaps, be readily vindicated, in a purely pruden-
tial point of view. Were one rearing an orchaiil for the
sole purpose of raising fruit for the market, he would, doubt-
less, best consult his interest by having all or nearly all his
trees Baldwins, that being an apple of approved quality and
always saleable, and being the tree which hererabouts is, on
the whole, unrivalled as a bearer. Still, this one kind does
not meet the demands of all seasons ; besides, that some
variety is always desirable. One would scarcely, but from
necessity, be without some good fall apple, like the Graven-
stein or Foundling, or the Roxbury Russett or its equivalent,
for the latter part of winter and spring, or good sweet apples
for both autumn and winter. A person, therefore, who is
planting an orchard from which he designs to select fruit for
his own use, may be indulged in some latitude in the selec-
tion of a larger number of kinds, of admitted excellence,
even at the risk that some of those kinds may be found, upon
trial, not to succeed well in the particular locality.

Charles Mason.
Fitchburg, September 27, 1865.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES. 21

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

The Pyrus Malus of botanists, the " Apfel " of the Dutch,
from which our Anglo-Saxon ancestors coined the word as
now used, apple, has been celebrated as a choice fruit in the
north temperate zone from the earliest periods of authentic
history.

Whether the mysterious, allegorical tree in the garden of
Eden bore apples,

Whose mortal taste
Brought death into the world, and all our wo,
With loss of Eden,

or not, is a subject of less importance now than to improve
our fruit products and confer a lasting blessing on mankind
by improvement in quality, productiveness and longevity.

Writers on pomology assert that the original of the pippin
was the crab-apple, now growing wild in the forests of Eu-
rope ; if that assertion be true, and it was the tempting fruit
that Eve tasted, it must have been a poor dish to have
handed over to the lovely Adam.

According to heathen mythology a goddess was especially
assigned to watch over the orchards of Scandinavia, as apples
conferred immortality on the gods, — kept them from showing
signs of age; — the fermented juice was drank by "Woden
in Vathalla " on special occasions, and given the shades of
heroes who had bravely fallen in battle.

The Druidic Celts of Britain held the apple tree next in
veneration to the holy oak, as the parasite, the " sacred
mistletoe," flourished on it nearly as well as on that monarch
of forest trees.

Among the Welch of the present day, the old ceremony oi
saluting an apple orchard to keep off the "little folk," elfin
and fairy, from injuring the crop, is yearly performed by the
farmers.

22 APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

They approach some tree that has failed the previous year in
its crops, with a wassail-bowl of cider, on which floats a written
toast, pour on its roots some of the cider as an oblation,
hang up the toast on a branch, form a circle of cider drink-
ers around the tree, join hands and sing songs like the follow-
ing specimen :

" Here's to thee, old apple tree,
Whence thou mayst bud, whence thou mayst blow ;
And whence thou mayst bear apple enow,

Hats full ! caps full !
Bushels and sack full !

Huzza ! "

We know the apple was cultivated very early in many
parts of England, from the fact that the Anglo-Saxons were a
drinking people ; a part of their religion, in very early times,
consisted in drinking deep potations to their gods, and he
who drank the most was the most worthy worshipper. The
Saxon Chronicles speak of their cider on festive occasions,
although beer was the principal drink then, as now, among
that people.

Many of the celebrated orchards gave the names to towns
that have come down to us, as Appleton, Apple-garth, Apple-
bottom, Appleby and Applegate.

The king of Ithica, Ulysses, homeward bound from the
sack of Illiuin, found them in Alcinus' garden, for he says of
fruits,

" On apples apples, figs on figs arise."

The pilgrims of Plymouth, soon after making a settlement,
planted the apple ; most of the trees, however, were from
seeds brought from England — grown without either budding
or grafting — the chief object being the manufacture of cider
and vinegar, and, occasionally, apple-butter. If the wild
European crab is the parent of our Baldwins, Porters and
Newtown Pippins, (which is doubtful,) a vast improve-
ment has taken place in quality at the expense of health
and durability of the stock, a principle holding good in all
organisms.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES. 23

No climate or soil is better adapted to the culture of the
apple than the United States, extending west from the At-
lantic, between the parallels of forty degrees to forty-four
deegrees north, to the Pacific ocean, where ever orchards
have been planted. The young orchards of Washington
Territory and Oregon are producing the very finest of pomo-
logical productions.

As much has been written how apple trees should be culti-
vated, your committee wish to state how they are cultivated
and some of the results.

Formerly, trees raised in New England, from well ripened
seed, gathered from fruit of seedling trees, in a virgin soil,
lived, bloomed and bore fruit more than two hundred years.
The tree planted by Peregrine White, the first male born in
Plymouth Colony, is now bearing fruit. Now, young trees
are constitutionally impaired, sickly, and, while yet young,
show signs of premature decay, and — death. Most of the
seeds now used for seedling stocks, (where stocks are used at
all,) are washed from the pomace of windfall, unripe, wormy,
refuse fruit. The seeds are planted in nursery drills, some-
times without being freed from the acid, poisonous pomace,
to form grafting stocks ; no, not stocks, but pieces of roots.

At the West, from whence come most of our young trees,
by and through agents, the nurserymen let the trees stand
till they have made roots of considerable length, then they
dig them up late in autumn, put them into their "grafting
cellars," and, during the inclemency of winter, cut the roots
into pieces of about six inches in length, with pruning shears,
put a graft into one of the ends, put on their grafting wax
and pack them away in wet sand for spring setting; if,
however, the root can grow, (as many do,) they make the
trees of which many of our young orchards are composed.
They are produced to be sold by agents, or otherwise.

Another fact is, the grafts, though of choice kinds, too
frequently are taken from old trees in renovated orchards,
and the renovating grafts taken from other old trees, there-

24 APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.

fore partaking of a double degree of infirmity from decaying
trees. The maimed roots are forced, by stimulating manures,
to make wood ; when the trees are taken up the roots are
cut with spade and mattock, within six inches of the crown
of the roots, and packed to New England for our orchards .

The Almighty made a tap root to the apple tree, to hold
the tree firmly in its place, and, in case of drouth, to draw
moisture from the subsoil, but modern culturists cut it off;
and the result is, where exposed to a strong current from
the northwest, the trees lean at an angle of forty-five degrees
to the horizon. The choice of soil and shelter hardly secure
a passing thought, and trees are planted in holes big enough
to insert a post, in blue clay and barren sand banks ; if not
too sterile to bear grass, perhaps, the next five years, the field
is mown. The grass crop has exhausted the soil, and stops
growing, and so do the young trees.

The farmer puts in his plow, cuts off half the roots, and
having no deep roots, the trees are miserable apologies for
an orchard.

In many sections the canker worm (anisoptery pometaria),
or the tent caterpillar, (clysiocampa Americana,) are allowed
to defoliate the trees, taking from them their very lungs and
digestive organs. When a little larger, the apple borer,
(seperda vivitata,) will bore into the young tree at the crown
of the roots, to sap its life, and should a friendly woodpecker
commence taking it out, some lazy village or city "pimp"
with gun and game-bag, trespassing on the farmer's orchard,
will shoot it. If the trees still live the (coccus J, or
scale louse, will fasten on the sickly branches and suck the
life blood of the trees ; the (aphis mail) attack the opening
buds, beside twenty other depredators on the growing twigs
and roots j the apple being, naturally, a very hardy tree, still
fruit spurs are prematurely formed, it blooms and produces
fruit. Our hills are denuded of forest trees, depriving the
atmosphere of the requisite moisture, the Borean blasts have
a free sweep from the north pole to the Gulf of Mexico, and

APPLES, PEACHES, QUINCES AND PLUMS. 25

a year like 1865, these causes combined with others, publish
to New England, in every young orchard, the word —

FAILURE.

Under the above heading your committee have made the
following awards :

APPLES.

For the largest and best collection of apples no award.

For the best twelve varieties, five specimens each,
To J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg, 1st premium, Harris on Insects.

For the best six varieties, five specimens each,

1st premium, to J. Minnott, Westminster, $2 00

2d, to N. Caswell, Fitchburg, 1 50

3d, to Benjamin Safford, Fitchburg, 1 00

H. Wood, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

J. G-. Woodward, Ashburnham, gratuity, 50

For the best three varieties of five each,

1st premium, to J. W. Forbush, Westminster, 1 50

2d, to A. M. Sawyer, Fitchburg, 1 00

3d, to J. Fisher, Fitchburg, 50

A. S. Dole, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

L. Nichols, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

J. Bennett, Leominster, gratuity, 50

For the best twelve specimens of one variety.

1st premium, to L. Stockwell, Fitchburg, 1 50

2d, to Benjamin Safford, Fitchburg, 1 00

N. Caswell, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

Horace Wood, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

James Mclntire, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50

PEACHES.

Best collection, no award.

Best dish or basket,

1st premium, to H. A, Blood, Fitchburg, 2 00

2d, to L. Nichols, Fitchburg, 1 00

3d, to A. Crocker, Fitchburg, 50

Mrs. B. F. Lewis, Fitchburg, gratuity, 50
4

26 GRAIN.

QUINCES.

Best dish or basket,

1st premium, to Benjamin Snow, Jr., Fitchburg, $1 00

2d, to James Mclntire, Fitchburg, 50

C. A. Emory, Fitchburg, gratuity, 40

J. Fisher, Fitchburg, gratuity, 35

PLUMS.

For the best collection, no award.

Best dish,

1st premium, to Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham, 1 00

2d, to James Bennett, Leominster, 50

J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg, gratuity, 25

James Bennett, Chairman of the Committee.

GRAIN.

The committee appointed by the Trustees to award the
society's premiums on Grain, consisted of Solon Carter of
Leominster, Ira Carleton and Joseph Upton of Fitchburg,
Samuel H. Bailey of Lunenburg, and Joseph P. Reed of
Princeton.

The secretary sent a list of the entries to the chairman
early in June. The committee was called together the 24th
of June, at which time they learned that Mr. Carleton would
not act with the committee, because he had been a member of
the grain committee in 1864. They assigned the duties of
the committee as follows :

Samuel H. Bailey was to examine and report upou the
fields of Rye and Oats.

Joseph Upton was to examine and report upon the fields
of Wheat.

Joseph P. Reed was to examine and report upon the fields
of Barley and Beans j and Solon Carter was to examine and
report upon the fields of Corn.

GRAIN. 27

The Corn of Joseph Goodrich was harvested September
6, twenty-three hills to the square rod, and the weight of ears
was 40 12-16 lbs. November 6, the ears weighed 30 14-16
lbs.; shrinkage 9 14-16 lbs., shelled corn 24 12-16 lbs., cobs
6 2-16 lbs. This would give on an acre, on the cob 4940
lbs., shelled corn 3960 lbs., cob 980 lbs.; and would give
70 40-56 bushels to the acre.

The Corn of Cyrus Kilburn was harvested September 6,
thirty-three hills to the square rod, and the weight of ears
was 40 8-16 lbs. November 6, the ears weighed 26 10-16
lbs.; shrinkage 13 14*16 lbs.; shelled corn 20 lbs., cobs
6 10-16 lbs. This would give on an acre, on the cob 4260
lbs., shelled corn 3200 lbs., cobs 1060 lbs.; and would give
57 8-56 bushels to the acre. This falls below the society's
standard of weight, to entitle the competitor to a premium.
This field suffered in two ways : first, by being too thick both
in the row and in the hill, and, in the second place, from the
drouth, it did not fill out well ; it was very loose upon the
ear, consequently it was light.

The Corn of Edwin D. Works was harvested September
26, twenty-three hills to the square rod, and the weight of
ears was 37 12-16 lbs. November 6, the ears weighed
32 2-16 lbs.; shrinkage 5 10-16 lbs.; shelled corn 24 4-16
lbs., cobs 7 14-16 lbs. This would give on an acre, on the
cob 5140 lbs., shelled corn 3880 lbs., cobs 1260 lbs.; and
would give 69 16-56 bushels to the acre.

The committee award the following premiums :

BEANS.

First Premium to Cyrus Kilburn, $4 00

BARLEY.

First premium to Benjamin Safford of Fitchburg, 6 00

Second premium to John G. Woodward of Ashburham, 4 00

RYE.

First premium to Joseph Goodrich, 6 00

2 8 GRAIN.

CORN.

First premium to Joseph Goodrich, $16 00

Second premium to Edwin D. Works, 10 00

The committee regret exceedingly that competitors for the
society's premiums should be so delinquent in complying
with the requisitions of the society, in relation to a statement
concerning their crops, and that there should be so few to
compete. There were three entries of Rye and but one
statement that reached the committee. Of Wheat there were
four entries, and no competitor complied with the rules fully.
Therefore, the premiums were not awarded. It was the
same with other crops. This is very unsatisfactory to the
committee as well as to the competitors.

The committee venture to offer a few suggestions on the
cultivation of grain, not because they are new, but to stir up
the minds of agriculturists by way of remembrance.

And the first thing to be done, to insure success, is to
thoroughly prepare the ground by plowing, harrowing and
removing stones, so that its surface, to the depth of six or
eight inches, may be made fine, that the roots of the young
plants may easily and readily find food from which to grow.
The next thing is to apply the manure in such a way that the
growing crop can appropriate it to its own increase.

Distance of hills is another subject on which there is a
diversity of opinion and practice, and this, to a considerable
extent, must be regulated by the condition and location of the
land, the kind of seed planted, and such other considerations
as will occur to the mind of every practical farmer. A side
hill would require more distance than an even surface, and
one where there were stones and coarse sods more than
where the surface was well pulverized. From three and one-
half to four feet each way is a proper distance where the
land is capable of being cultivated both ways, if not, the rows
should be wider one way and closer the other, and should be
so close as to contain from twenty to twenty-five hills to the
square rod.

GRAIN. 29

As to distance of seed in the hills there is also a diversity
of practice. It should be planted close in the hills for the
following reasons: 1st. Because it will stand stronger and
suffer less from the winds and rains. 2d. Because the rows
may be equally near and give six or eight inches more space
to "work. 3d. Because it is more easily cleared of weeds,
and there is less danger of breaking it down when bringing
up the fresh dirt around it. 4th. Because when ready for
harvesting, a hill can be cut at a single stroke of the cutter
or sickle, when, if scattered, a stroke would be necessary for
each stalk. Number of kernels in the hill. To guard against
depredations by worms and imperfect seed, there should be
from five to eight kernels put in each hill, to remain until after
the hoeing, but, before the second hoeing, the number of stalks
should be reduced to four. It is better, to have but three
than to have more than four. In cultivating a field of corn
the object should be to keep the surface as even as possible,
as the earth is worth more to the growing crop to remain in
the rows for the roots to work in than to be drawn up around
the stalks. And it will stand the drouth better and be
firmer in the hills.

A clean culture is also necessary. The surface should be
kept constantly light by the plow, harrow, horse hoe, or
cultivator. No weeds or grass should be allowed to grow
with corn, as they consume a part of the food designed for the
corn, and thus check its growth and productiveness, as well
as that of succeeding crops.

In reading the report of the Secretary of the Board of Agri-
culture, of a discussion by that body, on the subject of raising
corn, I was very much surprised at the opinion expressed by
Mr. Grout, (a member of the board,) relating to the depth to
which corn roots extend below the surface. The remark
to which I refer is on the 62 d page of the " Agriculture of
Massachusetts" for 1864, where he says : "I have examined that
matter myself, and I have found the roots about two inches
under the surface. They do not run to a very great depth."

30 CORN.

My belief was that they extended much deeper, and to
satisfy my own curiosity in the matter, I also have examined it
to some extent.

While plowing a few days since, where my corn grew the
present year, I found corn roots, distinctly discernable by the
naked eye, at the depth of a foot, and the roots were to be
seen in every particle of soil as deep as I could plow, and I
am confirmed in the belief that the roots of corn will pene-
trate as deep as you will loosen the earth, and place manure
for them to feed upon.

There are many subjects connected with the raising and
securing a field of corn, which the committee do not propose
to enlarge upon at this time, such as the best kinds of ma-
nure, quantity, time and manner of application, the right time
and the best manner of putting the seed into the ground, the
most economical method of harvesting, whether by cutting
the stalks in the usual manner, or by cutting at the ground
and stooking. These questions, and such as these, are capa-
ble of almost indefinite enlargement. If, by anything sug-
gested in this report, any young farmer or old one, should be
led to a wiser expenditure of labor, or a richer harvest than
heretofore, the committee will feel amply rewarded.

All of "which is respectfully submitted.

Solon Carter, Chairman of Committee.

Joseph Goodrich }s Statement.
CORN.

The soil on which I raised my corn is rough clay loam.
In 1863 the land was pastured. In 1865 I raised corn, using
fifteen loads compost from the barn cellar.

For the present crop, I plowed in April, from six to eight
inches deep, furrowed with plow, one way, four feet
apart, putting a small shovclfull of cellar compost in each

CORN. 31

hill. I planted the first week in May in rows, one way, about
three feet apart, with seven quarts of seed, called (Carter
corn,) to the acre. The first week of September the stalks
were cut, and the corn harvested the third week, having two
and a quarter tons of stover.

Cost of seed and planting, $ 3 00

" " plowing and other preparations, 9 00

" " manure, fifteen loads, 25 00

" " cultivating twice, with plows, 10 00

" " plaster applied at hoeing, 2 00

« " harvesting, 10 00

$59 00

Edwin D. Work's Statement.
CORN.

The soil is sandy loam. Had oats on the same field in
1863, putting on about eight loads of manure. In 1864 had
a cross of sorrel with a very little clover ; no manure used.
For the present crop, I plowed over, the 23d and 24th of
May, seven inches deep, harrowed with a cultivator harrow.
I applied twenty-five loads manure, spreading a part and
putting the remainder in the hill; also applied fourteen
bushels of ashes.

Planted the 26th of May, by hand, common eight-rowed
corn. Cultivated twice with a common cultivator. Value
of stover $10.00 Harvested the middle of October.

Cost of seed and planting,
" " plowing, and other preparations,
" u manure,
" " weeding and hoeing,

ft harvesting,

$ 5

50

5

00

50

00

8

00

8

00

$76 50

32 RYE AXD BARLEY.

Joseph Goodrich's Statement.

RYE.

The soil is loam gravel subsoil, and has been down to
grass several years. For the present crop, I plowed the last
part of August, eight inches deep, then pressed the sods
down with a roller, and sowed, broadcast, with white rye the
7th of September, five pecks of seed to the acre.

It was scaped the second week of July, }delding 28 3-14
bushels per acre, and 2200 lbs. stover; used no manure.

Cost of seed and sowing, $4 00

" " plowing and other preparations, 5 00

" " harvesting, 6 00

$15 00

Benjamin SafforoVs Statement.

BARLEY.

The soil was gravelly loam. In 1863, raised grass on the
same land, and in 1864, corn, applying twenty-five loads of
manure.

I applied fifteen loads of manure, spreading and plowing
it in five or six inches deep; then harrowed. The 15th of
May, sowed broadcast with two-rowed barley. Mowed the
first week in August, harvesting 53 1-3 bushels, and 1 ton
straw.

Cost of plowing, $4 00

" " manure, 22 50

" seed and sowing, 7 00

" harvesting, 8 00

u

l»;

$41 50

BARLEY AND WHITE BEANS. 33

John G. Woodward's Statement.

BARLEY.

The soil in which I raised my barley is clayey. In 1863, 1
had grass in the same field, and in 1864, raised corn and
potatoes, applying sixteen loads green manure.

For the present crop, I plowed May 23d, seven inches
deep, and then harrowed in eighteen loads of manure.
June 1 st, sowed, broadcast, three bushels of two-rowed barley.
Mowed August 17th, harvesting 38 1-8 bushels of barley and
2730 lbs. straw.

Cost of plowing, &c,
" " seed and sowing,
" " manure,
" " harvesting,

$31 25

$3

50

4

75

18

00

5

00

Cyrus Kilbwii's Statement.
WHITE BEANS.

The soil on which I raised my beans is dark sandy loam.
In 1863 I raised potatoes, and in 1864 corn, on the same
ground, applying manure at the rate of twenty loads to the
acre. For the present crop, I plowed once, in June, six inches
deep, put two loads compost manure in the hill, hoed with
a hand-hoe three times; pulled and stocked about the 1st of
September. My beans are of an early variety, (white pea
bean,) ripen in eighty or ninety days from planting. They
were planted so near, one hill to another, that the vines nearly
covered the ground, not more than eighteen inches apart each
way, three to six beans in a hill. The square rod selected
5

34 GARDENS.

by the committee produced 17 lbs. and 4 oz. of beans, well
dried and hand picked, fit for the pot.

Cost of seed and planting, $3 00

" " plowing, 1 00

" " cultivating, 2 00

" " harvesting, 4 00

" " value of manure, 2 00

$12 00

GAEDENS.

The Committee on Gardens report, that it was a subject of
regret that only one garden was entered for premium, that
of Alvah Crocker, Esq. On the 10th of June, two of your
committee visited the garden, and found the early vegetables,
such as peas, cucumbers, &c, looking well. On the 13th of
July we visited it again, and found a great improvement.
August 12th, one of your committee visited it again, and on
the 18th, also, with the other members of the committee who
had not before seen it. The garden is situated back of Mr.
Crocker's residence, and did not seem to suffer much from the
drouth, and the later vegetables were looking well. The
garden, we should judge, had yielded bountifully, and with
the exception that rather more care should have been taken
in conquering the weeds, was well managed by Mr. Crocker's
gardener, Mr. Dyke.

The committee award to Alvah Crocker, the second pre-
mium of $4.00.

The Committee on Gardens would impress upon their
fellow-citizens the importance of giving more attention to this
department of agriculture. When we consider that in 1860
there were six entries for premiums for kitchen gardens, and
that the entire report on gardens for 1864 is comprised in these
words : " The Committee on Gardens award to Mr. James F.

GARDENS. 35

Munroe a premium of two dollars for Flower Garden/' and
that only one entry had been made the present season. We
cannot let the present opportunity pass without doing what
we can to direct attention anew to this subject. It is well
known that a large proportion of our early vegetables are pro-
cured in Boston, and after adding expense of freight, are sold
at a profit by the dealer; this, together with the fact that
vegetables, freshly gathered, are better and more health)',
should induce the farmers of Worcester North to endeavor to
furnish a supply for the markets of our larger towns, and our
mechanics and others, wherever practicable, to raise their
own supply. We would stimulate all such persons to greater
efforts in this direction, not doubting but they will find it both
remunerative and an increase of employment. There are
many mechanics who are employed in shops and elsewhere,
who would find time, in addition to their regular employment,
to cultivate a garden, and would find it a pleasant recreation,
beside other advantages named. We are not aware of the
amount paid out in a single season for vegetables, even in a
small family. We know it is said by some that it is cheaper
to buy j this we do not admit, only to the extent that it might
not pay for any one to attempt to raise every kind, for their
land might not be adapted to all. At the Hall, in 1863, one
individual exhibited fifty-four varieties, but few would have
leisure to attend to so large an assortment, nor is it neces-
sary, for a comparatively few varieties, of the most approved
kinds, are sufficient. It is hardly necessary to say that in
order to succeed, especial care should be taken in the prepa-
ration of the soil, it being thoroughly worked, either by the
plow or spade, or both, and that the manure used also, should
be fine, and not green from the yard, that it may mix readily
with the soil. Care should be had also in selecting seeds j it
is believed that many of those for sale do not germinate on
account of age. We know of no remedy for this, but for
each one to raise his own. But it is not always the fault
of the seeds. Many plant their gardens too early. A few

36 GAKDENS.

warm days in April, and they hasten in the seed, this being
followed by the long and often cold storms of May, and the
plants do not appear, and the garden must be again planted,
or no crop. Great care should also be taken in subduing the
weeds, which can at first be done best by hand, but after the
plants became larger, a garden hoe or other approved instru-
ment will suffice. Some are still negligent in allowing weeds
to mature late in the season, which furnish not only for them-
selves, but for their neighbors, a crop for another season.
We are aware that in the cultivation of a garden, the grace of
patience will be called into exercise ; we shall not only have
to contend with weeds which grow not only when we wake
but when we sleep, but with insects of various kinds, and
with drouth it may be, but all these may be overcome, and
with diligence, a satisfactory crop secured. We know that
in our larger towns there will always be many unable, from
want of land, or other causes, to raise their supply of vegeta-
bles. Such must, of course, depend upon the market, and we
think that our farmers should see that this supply should be
furnished from our own vicinity, and not brought from the
Boston market. We have land in our neighborhood well
adapted to market gardening, and the necessary skill to culti-
vate it. In conclusion, we would enjoin upon all to endeavor
to awaken a new interest in the garden, honored by the
Creator as being the first dwelling place of Man, and let us
not suppose that after his defection, the sentence that lie
should eat the herb of the field, and in the sweat of his face
he should eat bread, was an unmixed evil, but blended with
mercy, for such employments tend to elevate man, and the
careful study of the most minute plant is calculated to inspire
us with gratitude and love to the beneficent Creator.

J. Haskell, for the Committee.

EXPERIMENTS AND PLOWING. 37

EXPERIMENTS.

The Committee on Experiments,, appointed by the Wor-
cester North Agricultural Society, would state, that but one
experiment was entered for their inspection, and that was by
D. H. Merriam, Esq., for an experiment in cultivating onions
upon sward land. The field contained three acres, and was
sowed with onions, with the exception of some ridges of sods,
upon which cabbages were raised, and some vacant spots
filled with squashes and tomatoes. According to his state-
ment, he has made a clean profit of $100 per acre, besides
making a permanent improvement to the land, by thorough
cultivation, removing stones, &c, and as he applied a large
amount of manure, we suppose that one half the strength
of it still remains in the soil. The result shows what can
be done, by a liberal application of manure and a judicious
employment of a large amount of labor. His crop was a
good one ; but he anticipates a much greater crop the next
season. We think his statement a valuable document, well
worthy of the attention of the members of the society, and
we accordingly award him a gratuity of fifteen dollars.

Abel F. Adams,

Jonas A. Marshall, J> Committee.

Abel Marshall,

PLOWING— DOUBLE TEAMS.

The Committee on Plowing with Double Teams, having
attended to their duty, report as follows :
1st premium to Moses Sawyer, 2d, of Sterling, $7 00

2d " " D. F. Mclntire of Fitchburg, 5 00

3d " " Isaac B. Woodward of Fitchburg, 3 00

F. B. Harrington|of Leominster, gratuity, 3 00

F. B. Harrington made his entry too late for compliance
with the rules of the society, yet he appeared on the ground

38 PLOWING.

and performed his work so well, that the committee recom-
mend for him the above gratuity. The ground, for plowing,
although presenting a tolerably smooth surface, was not very
clear from cobbles, and being quite dry, was not in condition
for fancy plowing. The teamsters performed their part in a
very quiet and orderly maimer.

Mr. Sawyer used a double swivel plow, it being the only
one of the kind on the ground. The time occupied in per-
forming the work by Mr. Sawyer, was forty-three minutes ;
by Mr. Mclntire, thirty minutes ; by Mr. Woodward, twenty-
nine minutes; by Mr. Harrington, twenty-eight minutes.
And, although Mr. Sawyer occupied the longest time, the
committee were of opinion that the very thorough manner in
which he accomplished his work, (with his swivel plow,)
would amply pay the difference in time.

All the awards were made on that principle. Taking into
consideration the plows used by the other competitors for the
premiums, and the unfavorable condition of the ground
plowed, the committee were of opinion that they performed
their work in a manner highly creditable to them as plow-
men.

Asaph Wood, Chairman.

PLOWING— SINGLE TEAMS.

The Committee on Plowing with Single Teams, report :

That the whole number of teams entered for premium was
four, viz. :

Joseph dishing of Fitchburg, by his man, Elijah Taylor,
as plowman and driver.

Levi Down of Fitchburg, holder and driver.

J. E. Mcrriam of Princeton, holder and driver.

George Wood of Leominster, holder, with driver.

J. E. Merriam intended, but failed to make the entry, sea-
sonably, the committee decide, taking the post office mark on

PLOWING. 39

his letter notifying the secretary, it being dated Thursday
instead of Tuesday previous. George Wood entered his
team as a double team, by mistake. So that, conforming to
the rules of the society, we felt obliged to count out J. E.
Merriam and George Wood, (much to our sorrow,) leaving
only two competitors, Joseph Gushing and Levi Downe,
although all four plowed and did excellent work.

Levi Downe with his six years old oxen, weight 2935 lbs.,
and Michigan plow, performed his work of one-tenth of an acre
of sward land on Justin Stearns' farm, in thirty-nine minutes,
and we award him the society's first premium of $7.00.

Joseph Cushing's six years old oxen, weight 3400 lbs.,
with Blake & Barnard's plow, performed the same amount of
work in forty-one minutes, and we award him the society's
second premium of $5.00.

J. E. Merriam with his four years old oxen, weight 2805
lbs., performed the same amount in thirty-nine and a half
minutes.

George Wood with his four years old oxen, weight 2920
lbs., and driver and side-hill plow, performed the same amount
in forty minutes, all doing the work excellently, without
noise and whipping, all the oxen being trained to work with-
out much urging, which is, we think, an important feature in
the improvements of the day.

And we would recommend that the society give a gratuity
to J. E. Merriam of $5.00, for the excellent manner in which
his four years old oxen performed their work, we being com-
pelled by the society's rules, to withhold a premium from him.

In conclusion, your committee would recommend, that
land, to be plowed by competitors another year, be found
more contiguous to the village of Fitchburg, as we climbed
" Alps upon Alps," and a distance of one mile or more from
the village, rendering it very inconvenient for most persons
to witness this important part of the programme of Wor-
cester North Agricultural Show.

Cyrus Kilburn, Chairman.

40 BLOOD STOCK.

PLOWING— HORSE TEAMS.

The Committee on Plowing with Horse Teams, award to
Warren B. Page of Fitchburg, first premium, $7 00

Joseph Cushing of Fitchburg, second premium, 5 00

Lewis G. Tuttle, Chairman.

BLOOD STOCK.

The Committee on Blood Stock have attended to the duties
of their appointment, and make the following report, viz. :

There were offered for premium, two Bulls only of the
Alderney stock, by Nathan Caswell of Fitchburg, and we
award, for his best two years old bull, the second premium
of $4.00.

The first premium on Devon bulls, we award to J. P. Reed
of Princeton, $6.00.

To Timothy Clark of Royalston, for his ^Durham bull, the
first premium of $6.00.

To L}mian Nichols, for his Durham bull, $4.00.

We recommend a gratuity to Capt. J. Upton, Fitchburg, for
his Durham bull, that took the first premium last year, $2.00.

To J. W. Gates, Ashby, for his Ayreshire bull, not entered
by the society's rules, a gratuity of $2.00.

To J. P. Reed, Princeton, for his Holderness bull, a gratuity
of $3.00.

To Lyman Nichols, Fitchburg, for his pure Ayreshire bull,
two years old, the first premium, $6.00.

To J. H. Whitcomb Littleton, for his Ayreshire bull,
second premium, $4.00.

To J. P. Reed, for his Holderness cows, we recommend a
a gratuity of $6.00.

Respectfully submitted,

J. T. Everett, Chairman.

MILCH KINE. 41

MILCH KINE.

E. F. Bailey of Fitchburg, John Davis of Ashby, Milo
Bobbins of Ashby, and Alexander Craig of Townsend, Com-
mittee, award,

ON HERD OF FOUR COWS.

To J. P. Reed of Princeton, first premium, $10 00

a F. B. Harrington of Leominster, second premium, 7 00

COWS FOR BUTTER.

To Nathan B. Reed of Princeton, second premium, 4 00
" « « " third premium, 3 00

HEIFERS, THREE YEARS OLD, FOR BUTTER.

To Hosea M. Caswell of Fitchburg, first premium, 5 00

HEIFERS, TWO YEARS OLD, FOR BUTTER.

To Hosea M. Caswell of Fitchburg, first premium, 4 00

" Nathan B. Reed of Princeton, second premium, 3 00
" Isaac B. Woodward of Fitchburg, third premium, 2 00

COWS FOR MILK.

To E. T. Miles of Fitchburg, first premium, 5 00

" L. Barker of Fitchburg, second premium, 4 00

HEIFERS, THREE YEARS OLD, FOR MILK.

To J. P. Reed of Princeton, first premium. 5 00

HEIFERS, TWO YEARS OLD, FOR MILK.

To Samuel Burnap of Fitchburg, first premium, 4 00

E. F. Bailey, Chairman.

J. P. Reed's Statement.

Gentlemen : — The herd of four cows which I offer for
premium, are of the Holderness breed, two of them, and are

42 MILCH KINE.

aged five and seven years ; the other two are grades of that
breed, and are four years old, each.

The weight of their milk at the June trial was 840 lbs.,
which produced 30 lbs. and a small fraction of butter.
Weight of milk, September trial, 640 lbs., which produced
23 lbs. of butter. Keeping in June, pasture ; September, an
addition of corn fodder twice a day.

The three years old milch heifer which I offer for premium,
is a grade Holderness; calved the 22d of February, 1865.

Her milk weighed, June trial, 204 lbs.
« " " September trial, 150 1-2 lbs.
Keeping as above stated.

F. B. Harrington's Statement.

I enter for premium, one herd of four cows, for butter. I
weighed the milk the first six days after the first Sunday in
June, weight 692 4-7 lbs.; butter from the same, 33 lbs.
The corresponding six days in September, weight of milk,
570 lbs; butter from the same, 26 lbs. 7 oz. Total milk,
1262 lbs; total butter, 59 lbs. 7 oz.

N. B. Reed's Statement.

To the Committee on Milch Kine :

I offer for premium, two cows, age seven and ten years ;
breed mixed ; were raised in Princeton, by myself. No. 1, ten
years old, calved April 5th, and gave during the June trial,
264 lbs. of milk, which made ten pounds of butter ; the corres-
sponding days in September she gave 181 pounds of milk,
which made 5 3-4 lbs. of butter. No. 2, seven years old,
calved January 19 th. She gave in June trial, 210 lbs. of
milk, which made 8 3-4 lbs. of butter; the .corresponding
days in September she gave 156 pounds of milk, which made

MILCH KINE. 43

5 lbs. of butter. Their keeping has been pasture, fodder
feed and corn, since August.

The two years old heifer I enter for premium, calved
January 1st, 1865 ; will calve February 5th, 1866. She gave
203 lbs. of milk during the June trial, which made 6 lbs. of
butter; the September trial she gave 103 lbs. of milk, which
made 3 lbs. of butter. The first trial was six months after
calving, and the second trial eight months ; she has run with
my other cows ; common pasture, with fodder corn, has been
their keeping.

Nathan B. Reed.

Hosea M. CaswelVs Statement.

This three years old heifer made nine and a half pounds
of butter, the first week in June, commencing first Monday j
also, the first week in September, made seven pounds of
butter. She had no feed but the pasture.

This two years old heifer, made seven pounds and six
ounces of butter, the first week in June ; also, the first week
in September, made four pounds and twelve ounces of but-
ter ; she had no feed but the pasture.

Isaac B. Woodward's Statement.

To the Committee on Milch Kine :

Gentlemen: — The heifer, "Topsy," which entered for
premium as a butter heifer, was two years old last March.
She dropped her calf in March. Her cream for the six days
in June, commencing the first Monday, made six pounds and
one ounce, (6 lbs. 1 oz.) At the like trial, in September,
she made four pounds and one ounce, (4 lbs. 1 oz.) Her feed,
in June, was what she got with the other cows in the pasture.
In September, the same with cows, corn night and morning
and dry at that.

Isaac B. Woodward.

September 20, 1865.

44 MILCH KINE.

E. T. Miles1 Statement.

To Committee on Milch cows :

" Star," eight years old, weight 1070 lbs. Dropped calf
May 13, 1865. Her milk, for the first six days in the
month of June, measured, respectively, 20, 19 1-2, 20 1-4,
19 3-4, 20 1-4, 20 1-2 quarts. For the first six days of
September, 15, 15, 15, 15 1-4, 15 1-4, 15 1-4 quarts. No
trial has been made as to butter. In the month of June
there was made from her milk, 37 pounds of butter;
during this month, however, three quarts of her milk were
sold daily; my own family used milk without regard to
quantity ; we also indulged somewhat in the " June luxury,"
strawberries and cream. In the month of June, she gave
657 quarts; in July, 553 3-4 quarts; in the month of August,
472 quarts. From the 29th day of May to September 25th,
inclusive, say 120 days, her milk measured 2110 quarts, or
17 5-8 quarts per day. Her keeping has been the pasture in
rear of my house, with from four to six quarts fine feed per
day, with corn fodder, for a short time, of not very good
quality.

E. T. Miles.

Fitchburg, Sept. 25, 1865.

L. Barker's Statement.

Weight of milk, June 7,

u a

" " 8,

il u

" " 9,

u u

" " 10,

it it

" 11,

a It

" " 12,

441-2
441-2

pounds
u

461-2

u

40

it

41

it

371-4

a

253 3-4 "

HEIFERS.

45

Fed on eight quarts of potatoes j went in pasture ; milked
three times each day.

Weight of milk September 18, - - 22 pounds.

" " " 19, - - 22

" " " 20, - - 221-2

" " « 21, - - 23

" « « 22, - - 23

« « ,« 23, - - 23

Fed in the stall four quarts middlings.
September 25, 1865.

135 1-2 "

L. Barker.

Samuel Bitmap's Statement.

The heifer I offer for premium is one half Dutch, the re-
mainder Native and Durham j was two years old on the 24th
of March last. On the 1 6th of April she had a calf j when
five weeks and two days old, the butcher credited me for
103 pounds, dressed. I milked from her, for three weeks,
nearly three quarts a day, after the calf had taken all it
would. I commenced weighing the milk on the first of June,
for seven days; weight 181 1-2 pounds, averaging 26 pounds
daily. September 1st, for seven days, 129 1-2 pounds, aver-
aging 18 1-2 pounds daily, of good milk. The keeping, in
June, was a poor pasture, with two quarts of shorts at night.
In September, the same pasture, with fodder corn, night and
morning, and two quarts of fine feed at night.

Samuel Burnap.
Fitcheurg, September 19, 1865.

46 HEIFERS AND HEIFER CALVES, ETC.

HEIFERS.

The Committee on Heifers report :

TWO YEARS OLD.

1st premium, to Joel Page of Fitchburg, $4 00

2d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 3 00

3d, to Loriston Stockwell of Fitchburg, 2 00

YEARLINGS.

1st premium, to J. E. Merriam of Princeton, 3 00

2d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 2 00

3d, to C. F. Woodbury of Winchendon, 1 00

For the committee,

Thomas Billings, Chairman.

HEIFER CALVES.

The Committee on Heifer Calves, having attended to their
duty, award the following premiums :

CALYES MORE THAN FOUR MONTHS OLD.

1st premium, to A. F. Adams of Fitchburg,
2d, to Samuel Hay ward of Ashby,

RAISED BY HAND.

1st premium, to C. F. Woodbury of Winchendon,
2d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton,
3d, to N. B. Reed of Princeton,

For the committee,

Edward Bacon.

$3 00

2

00

3

00

2

00

1

00

WORKING OXEN.

The Committee on Working Oxen have attended to the
duty assigned them, and respectfully report :

That the whole number of teams entered was fourteen.
After as careful a consideration as the circumstances of the

STEERS. 47

occasion would permit, they have with great unanimity agreed
upon the following awards :

1st premium, to Moses Sawyer, 2d, of Sterling, $6 00

2d, to Mrs. M. Shattuck of Fitchburg, 5 00

3d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 4 00

4th, to Whitman & Miles of Fitchburg, 3 00

5th, N. B. Reed of Princeton, 2 00

BEST TEAMSTERS.

1st premium, to William Sawyer of Sterling, 5 00

2d, to C. K. Sawyer of Fitchburg, 2 00

The cattle were in good condition, gave evidence of admira-
ble training, and performed to the entire satisfaction of the
committee. All of which is respectfully submitted,

Harlow Skinner, Chairman.

STEERS MORE THAN TWO YEARS OLD.

The Committee on Steers more than two years old have
awarded as follows :

1st premium, to Alfred Skinner of Princeton, $5 00

2d to Edward Bacon of Westminster, 4 00

3d, to N. B. Reed of Princeton, 3 00

Frank Gates of Ashby, gratuity, 1 00

TEAMSTERS.

1st premium, not awarded.

2d, to Alfred Skinner of Princeton, 2 00

N. B. Reed of Princeton, gratuity, 2 00

TWO YEARS OLD.

1st premium, to Thomas Billings of Lunenburg, 4 00

2d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 3 00

3d, not awarded, no one to compete.

TRAINED STEERS.

1st premium, to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 4 00

2d, not awarded, no one to compete.

C. K. Sawyer, Chairman.

48 FAT CATTLE.

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

The Committee on Steers and Steer Calves, award the fol-
lowing premiums, to wit :

YEARLINGS.

1st premium to N. B. Reed of Princeton,
2d, to J. P. Reed of Princeton,

TRAINED STEERS.

1st premium to J. P. Reed of Princeton,
2d, to N. B. Reed of Princeton,

STEER CALVES RAISED BY HAND.

1st premium to J. P. Reed of Princeton,
2d, to Daniel S. Eaton of Fitchburg,

TRAINED CALVES.

1st premium to J. P. Reed of Princeton, 3 00

For the committee,

Ephraim Graham, Chairman.

13

00

2

00

3

00

2

00

5

00

3

00

FAT CATTLE.

The Committee on Fat Cattle submit the following report :

That there were two oxen, four four-years old, two three-
years old and five cows offered for premium, and we have
awarded the first premium, of $8.00, to Sewall G. Mirick ;
the second, of $5.00, to Charles G. Boyden of Leominster j
the third, of $3.00, to J. P. Reed of Princeton.

On cows, to J. T. Everett, for his four years old, the
first premium of $6.00 ; the second, of $3.00, to his Native
cow ; the third, of $2.00, to his No-horned cow.

And the first premium, of $6.00, to Joel Page of Fitch-
burg, for his three years old heifer ; the second, of $4.00, to
N. B. Reed of Princeton, for his three years old steer. All
of which is respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

Anan Stockwell.

STALLIONS. 49

SWINE.

The Committee on Swine award as follows :
For the best boar, more than one year old, George

Miles of Westminster, $4 00

For the best boar, less than one year old, Joseph

Cushing of Fitehburg, 3 00

For the .best fat hog, second premium to Abel F.

Adams of Fitehburg, 5 00

For the second best fat hog, third premium to Abel

F. Adams of Fitchurg, 2 00

For the best fat pig, second premium to E. Cald-
well of Fitehburg, 2 00
For the best, and only breeding sow on exhibition, to

Asa Sawyer of Fitehburg, 3 00

For the best four weaned pigs, to William P. Smith

of Fitehburg, 3 00

For the next best four weaned pigs, to William P.

Smith of Fitehburg, 2 00

All of which is respectfully submitted.

For the committee,

Franklin Nourse.

STALLIONS.

The Committee on Stallions award :
1st premium, to Horace H. Brown, $12 00

2d, to Joseph Cushing, 8 00

1st premium, to Warren Simonds for his three years

old colt, Gen. Grant, 4 0Q

W, W. COMEE.

7

50 MARES AND COLTS.

MAKES AND COLTS.

The Committee on Mares and Colts having attended to the
duties assigned them, make their report, as follows :

We find there were entered for premium, fourteen; but
nine were exhibited, and we have awarded the following :

BREEDING MARES.

1st premium, to B. Wheeler of Fitchburg, $6 00

2d, to Levi White of Lunenburg, 4 00

3d, was not awarded.

SUCKING COLTS.

1st premium, to Ohio Whitney of Ashburnham, 3 00

2d, to B. Wheeler of Fitchburg, 2 00

3d, to Levi White of Lunenburg, 1 00

And the committee recommend that a gratuity of $1JX)
be paid to Amos Whitney of Ashburnham.

Your committee beg leave to make a few suggestions to
those engaged in breeding horses. We find that a large
proportion of the colts raised, never pay the expense ot
raising, because people try to raise them too cheaply. No
man would expect to raise a crop of onions upon a piece of
worn out land j but if he expects to get a profit from the
crop, he will select his best soil, use the best manure, and
take great pains to obtain the best seed, and apply his best
skill in cultivation, and then expects and obtains a bountiful
harvest ; let this principle be carried out by horse breeders
and the work is accomplished. To do this, take not the
halt, wind-broken mares, for breeding, because they are old
and worthless for anything else, but select your young, best
blooded mares, and obtain the service of the best stock-get-
ting horse in the country, and in nine cases out of ten you
will raise a good colt ; but do not, for a moment, think the
colt will take care of himself, but be sure you give him good
care for the two first years of his life, at least ; a few oats

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES. 51

will never hurt a colt, with carrots two or three times a
week. Be careful that he has good air and exercise. Some
farmers think they will raise a colt beeause it will not cost
much, for he will eat the orts which the stock refuse. The
only reason the colt will eat them is because it is so
nearly starved. A colt thus cheaply kept, often dies the first
winter, but if he chances to live, is obliged to be raised
nearly every morning ; but if properly kept, will raise him-
self, with head and tail in the air, and thus acknowledge
your kindness to his coltship; and when grown to the
proper age for the market, can be sold for from two hundred
to five thousand dollars, which pays a large profit for the
expense and care bestowed by his owner, and our markets
will soon be filled with the finest stock of horses in the
world. Let us, as a society, start right, and others will soon
follow, and thus challenge the world to compete with Massa-
chusetts in raising fine horses.

Warren Simonds,

Chairman of the Committee.

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

The Committee an Draught Horses decide that
Charles Nutting of Groton, has the first premium for

pair of draught horses, $6 00

SINGLE DRAUGHT HORSES.

1st premium, to Geo. W. Wheelwright, Jr., of Fitchburg, 5 00
2d, to S. M. Dole of Fitchburg, 2 00

TEAMSTERS.

1st premium, to C. L. Nutting of Groton, 4 00

2d, to Henry Wheelock, 2 00

52 COLTS.

FAMILY HORSES PAIR.

1st premium, to Ira Carleton & Co. of Fitchburg, for

best pair of family horses, 7 00

2d, to Walter Heywood of Fitchburg, 5 00

FAMILY HORSES — SINGLE.

1st premium, to Walter Heywood of Fitchburg, 5 00

2d, to Geo. F. Vose of Fitchburg, 3 00

Jas. P. Parker, Chairman.

COLTS.

The Committee on Colts award the following premiums :

three years old geldings.

1st premium, to William Gibson of Fitchburg. $4 00

2d, to Porter F. Page of Westminster. 2 00

THREE YEARS OLD FILLIES.

1st premium, to Franklin Nourse of Sterling. 4 00

2d, to Ephraim Graham of Lunenburg. 2 00

TWO YEARS OLD GELDINGS.

1st premium, to J. H. Reed of Bolton. 4 00

TWO YEARS OLD FILLIES.

1st premium, to Josiah Puffer of Harvard. 4 00

2d, to Timothy Brown of Westminster.

ONE YEAR OLD COLT.

1st premium, to Joseph Cushing of Fitchburg. 2 00

We recommend a gratuity to J. H. Marshall of Leomin-
ster, of $3.00, for his three years old filly, it being the best
one on the ground, but was not properly entered.

Joel Merriam, Jr.,
Acting Chairman of the Committee.

SHEEP AND POULTRY. 53

SHEEP.

The Committee on Sheep having attended to that duty,
award the following premiums :

FL0CK9.

1st premium, to A. M. Sawyer of Fitchburg, for the best

flock of sheep, (10),
2d, to M. L. Holden of Fitchburg,

BUCKS.

1st premium, to James Mclntire of Fitchburg,
2d, " " " "

COSSETS.

1st premium to James Mclntire of Fitchburg,
2d, to Charles F. Woodbury of Winchendon,

T. D. Wood, Chairman.

$10 00

5

00

5

00

3

00

2

00

1

00

POULTRY.

The Committee on Poultry submit the following report :

BARN YARD FOWLS.

1st premium, to Otis Flagg of Westminster, $3 00

2d, to A. B. Wood of Westminster, 2 00

TURKEYS.

1st premium to Josiah Puffer of Westminster, 3 00

2d, to A. M. Sawyer of Fitchburg, 2 00

DUCKS.

2d premium to Martin Lakin of Fitchburg, 2 00

The most appropriate coop, Otis Flagg of Westminster, 3 00

54 PEARS AND GRAPES.

We also recommend the following gratuities :

W. P. Snow of Fitchburg, lot of doves, $1 00

G. E. Smith, lot of guinea hens, 1 00

Edwin Monroe, lot of doves, 1 00

For the committee,

C. S. Merriam, Cltairman.

TOWN TEAMS.

The Committee on Town Teams have to report, a team of
twenty-six yoke, from town of Fitchburg, and a team of
seventeen yoke, from town of Leominster.

The committee desire to express their satisfaction in
examining such teams, particularly that from town of Leom-
inster, being made up of large, thrifty, handsome young
cattle.

The committee award, to the town of Leominster, the
society's first premium, of twenty-five dollars; and to the
town of Fitchburg, the second premium of ten dollars.

For the committee,

Daniel Putnam.

PEARS AND GRAPES.

The committee on Pears and Grapes, make the following
awards :

PEARS.

Two hundred and thirty-four plates exhibited. For best
and largest exhibition, <fcc,

1st premium, to A. Crocker, $4 00

2d, to Jabez Fisiier, Harris on Insects.

Gratuity, to B. Snow, Jr., 2 00

2

00

1

50

1

00

1

00

1

50

1

00

50

1

50

1

00

GRAPES. 55

For best twelve varieties, five specimens each,
1st, premium, to Jas. Bennett of Leominster, Harris on Insects.
2d, to J. A. Marshall of Fitchburg, $2 00

3d, not awarded.

For best six varieties, five specimens each,
1st premium, to Walter Hey wood,
2d, to T. R. Boutelle,
3d, to B. Safford,

Gratuity to E. D. Works,

For best three varieties, five specimens each,
1st premium to Z. F. Young,
2d, to Mrs. Sawyer,
3d, to 0. Whitney, Jr.,

For best twelve specimens of one variety,
1st premium, to Charles Mason,
2d, to T. R, Boutelle,

GRAPES. — (Thirty-three plates.)

For best display of foreign grapes, first and second pre-
miums not awarded. But one sample of foreign grapes has
come to the notice of the committee.

To Mrs Sawyer is awarded the 3d premium, $1.00, for her
dish of Black Hamburgs.

For best display of native grapes:
1st premium, to Jabez Fisher, Harris on Insects.

2d, to George E. Towne, $2 00

3d, to Miss Nellie Heywood, 1 00

Gratuities are awarded to Benj. Safford, O. Whitney, Jr..
Ashburnham, Dr. T. Palmer, Fitchburg, C. A. Emory, Fitch-
burg, each, one dollar. To Jas. Bennett, Leominster, Geo.
Reed, Fitchburg, Mrs. Sawyer, A Crocker, each, seventy-five
cents.

The committee have to state that they were informed by
our secretary, that a vineyard had been entered for premium,
and as no premium had been offered for the present year, in
order to give proper encouragement to the cultivation of that

56 FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

fruit, the president requested this committee to examine the
vineyard entered by Dr. T. Palmer, and if, in our judgment,
it should be found worthy of gratuity, to report accordingly.
On the 14th of August, a majority of the committee exam-
ined said vineyard, and have seen it again to-day. It covers
nearly an acre of ground ; was planted with the Concord
grape vine in 1863 and 1864; about one third of it in the
former year. It consists of six hundred and sixty odd vines,
in rows eight feet apart, the roots six feet apart in the rows,
trained to wires attached to posts twelve feet apart. The
vines set out in 1863, are now in good bearing, a large
specimen of the fruit being upon our tables to-day. To Dr.
T. Palmer is recommended a gratuity equal to the second
premium for vineyards offered in 1863, and awarded in 1864,
viz., ten dollars, thinking it worthy of something more, had
a premium been offered.

Thos. R. Boutelle, Chairman.
September 26, 1865.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

The committee on Assorted Fruits and Flowers award
as follows :

ASSORTED FRUITS, ETC,

Jabez Fisher, assorted fruit, $2 00

James Bennett, " " 1 00

Wm. H. Harris " " gratuity, 1 00

J. M. Sawtelle, plants in pots, 2 00

W. H. Woods, geranium, gratuity, 25

CUT FLOWERS.

J. M. Sawtelle, best cut flowers, 2 00

Nellie Heywood, second best, 1 00

Abbie F. Battles, third best, 50

Jabez Fisher, gratuity, 50

Geo. E. Towne, Chairman.

VEGETABLES. 57

VEGETABLES.

For Vegetables, your Committee make the following
awards :

KITCHEN VEGETABLES.

1st premium, to A. Crocker of Fitchburg, $7 00

2d, to E. Bird of Leominster, 5 00

POTATOES.

1st premium, to G. Merriam of Leominster, 2 00

2d, to Humphrey Harris of Ashburnham, 1 00

3d, to H. M. Clifford, 50

Gratuity, to J. M. Sawtelle, 50

" " H. Sibley, 25

" « A. F. Adams, 25

" " Charles Davis, 25

SQUASHES.

1st premium, to D. H. Merriam, 1 00

2d, to L. Pratt, 50

Gratuity, to J. M. Sawtelle, 50

" " B. Safford, 25

" " G. Alexander, 25

PUMPKINS.

1st premium, to J. Haskell, 75

2d, to Marshall Boutwell, 50

CABBAGES.

1st premium, to Geo. E. Towne, 75

2d, to Walter Hey wood, 50

Gratuity, to L. Pratt, 50

CELERY.

1st premium, to Walter Hey wood, 75

ONIONS.

1st premium, to L. Pratt, 75

2d, to J. M. Porter, 50

Gratuity, to O. Whitney, Jr., 25
8

58 VEGETABLES.

TURNIP BEETS.

1st premium, to L. Pratt, $0 75

2d, to David Battles, 50

Gratuity, to J. M. Sawtelle, 50

ENGLISH TURNIPS.

1st premium, to G. Merriam, 50

2d, to J. Minot, 25

Gratuity, to D. Battles, 25

TOMATOES.

1st premium, to J. C. Davis, 50

2d, to J. M. Sawtelle, 25

FIELD BEANS.

1st premium, to 0. Whitney, Jr., 50

2d, to D. Battles, 25

Gratuity, to D. S. Eaton, 25

" " Charles Mason, 25

LIMA BEANS.

1st premium, to Charles Mason, 50

SEED CORN.

1st premium, to Levi White, 1 00

2d, to L. Stockwell, 75

3d, to J. G. Woodward, 50

Gratuity, to A. F. Adams, 50

" " E. Bird, 25

WATERMELONS.

Gratuity, to T. Palmer, 50

" " L. Stockwell, 25

CITRON.

1st premium, to Walter Hey wood, 50

For the committee,

B. F. Lewis.

ROOT CROPS, ETC. 59

ROOT CROPS AND CABBAGES.

Your Committee on Root Crops and Cabbages have at-
tended to their duty, and report as follows : There was but
a single entry, each, of potatoes, onions, carrots and cab-
bages ; consequently no competition. The following premiums
were awarded :

POTATOES.

1st premium, to Cyrus Kilburn, $8 00

ONIONS.

1st premium, to Lawrin Pratt, Harris on Insects.

CARROTS.

2d premium, to Lawrin Pratt, 3 00

CABBAGES.

2d premium, to Lawrin Pratt, 1 00

William Baker, Chairman.

Cyrus Kilburn1 s Statement. — Potatoes.
The soil on which I raised my potatoes this year, is dark
sandy loam. In 1863, I had potatoes on the same ground,
applying twelve loads barn-yard manure to the acre. In
1864, had corn on the same ground, applying also twelve
loads barn-yard manure. Last year, I plowed once, about
seven inches deep, applied four loads compost manure in
hill, and planted June 10, with one whole potatoe, of the
Garnet Chili variety, in each hill, about eight bushels seed,
and hoed with a hand hoe twice, without any cultivation
otherwise. The lot planted was ten rods by four, and con-
tained twenty-five rows lengthwise, and about ninety hills in
a row, vines covering nearly the whole ground. Harvested
in September, yielding eighty bushels.

Cost of plowing, $1 00

Value of manure, 4 00

Cost of seed, and planting, - - - - 8 00

" « cultivating, 3 00

" " harvesting, 4 00

$20 00

60 ROOT CROPS, ETC.

Lawrin Pratt's Statement. — Onions.

Soil, sandy loam ; have raised onions on the same ground
several years, applying horse manure. For present crop,
plowed twice, about three inches deep, two or three days
before planting; also used horse hoe and brush harrow;
spread three and a half loads of manure j cultivated with
hoe and fingers, eight times. The piece contains twenty rods.
Weight of crop, in September, 5060 pounds.

&J

Cost of seed and planting
11 " plowing,

a cultivating,
" harvesting,

Value of manure, ------

$25 75

$ 4

50

75

12

00

1

50

7

00

Onion Raising in Northern Worcester County. — Statement of
D. H. Merriam of Fitchburg.

The ground selected for the onion field lies on River
street, in Fitchburg, about three feet above the Nashua river,
and contains three acres. It has the appearance of having,
at some time, been overflowed by the river. It is nearly
level, and the soil is a sandy loam from one to three feet
deep. It had been in grass for eight years, since it had been
ploughed, and nothing put on to it during that time except
one hundred and fifty bushels of ashes. In the fall of 1864,
the Worcester North Agricultural Society ploughed about
two-thirds of the ground from six to twelve inches deep, and
the remainder was ploughed six inches deep, and late in
December I put on to one acre fourteen cords of slaughter
house and common barn manure, and left it in heaps of one
cart load in a place, and in March, 1865, 1 put on to the
other two acres twenty-six cords of mixed manure, consisting

ROOT CROPS, ETC. 61

of horse, hog, slaughter-house and cow manure, of about
equal parts ; and in the last week in March I spread the
manure over the entire lot and harrowed the ground, both
ways, with a cultivator harrow, which moved the ground
about three inches deep, and covered the manure. I then
picked off all the stone found upon the land, and removed
all sods that had been disturbed by the harrowing, and
placed them in rows about forty feet apart, and running from
north to south. These rows of sods and coarse manure, that
was unrotted, occupied about five feet in width, and in all
about one half of an acre of land. Upon these rows of
sodh and waste manure, I raised 1250 cabbages, 120 bushels
of tomatoes and 600 pounds of squashes. I raked the
ground thoroughly with wood and iron rakes, and leveled
the same, as nearly as could be, for the onion beds, and on
the 14th day of April, I sowed one acre of the ground to
onions, and in one week from that time, sowed one acre more,
and on the 25th day of April, I sowed the remainder, using
in all eighteen and one half pounds of seed. I was twelve
hours in sowing the seed on the three acres, in rows one foot
apart, with one of Harrington's seed sowers, which put the
seed in about one half an inch, and rolled the ground by
a roller attached to the same. I weeded the onions three
times • once in May, once in June, and once in July. The
first weeding was commenced as soon as the onions were of
sufficient height to be plainly seen. They were much the
best on the two acres where the manure was carried on to
the field in the spring, and each of these two acres yielded
at least one-third more onions than the one where the manure
was carried out in the fall, and lay in heaps over winter;
and the acre sowed first yielded the best of the three. I
hired all the labor done on the land except the sowing of
the onion seed, which I did myself. I paid for labor in the
months of April and May, $1.75 per day, and for the re-
mainder of the season, $1.50 per day, for men, and the same

62 ROOT CROPS, RTC.

for a horse, in preparing the ground. The onions were ripe
and harvested the last of September.

AMOUNT AND VALUE OF CROP.

1050 bushels, 1st quality of onions, - - $1050 00

300 " 2d « « " - - - 150 00

120 " tomatoes, - - - - 110 00

1250 cabbages, 120 00

600 lbs. squashes, 18 00

Total value of crop, $1448 00

COST OF RAISING THE CROP.

40 cords of manure, at $5.00 per cord, $200 00

Labor of men and teams, - - 830 65

11 1-2 lbs. onion seed, ... 89 12

Cabbage seed, .... 50

Interest on land at $200 per acre, - 36 00 $1156 27

Net profits, $291 73

In the above statement, no credit is given for the improved
condition of the land, which is an item of considerable im-
portance, as only a small portion of the manure is expended,
and the land is cleared from stone and foul growth of weeds
and roots, which will not impede the cultivation another year.
I estimate the improvement of the land at $150.00, which,
added to the value of the crop over its cost, makes a gain of
$441.73.

D. H. Merriam.

Fitchburg, November 27, 1865.

Note. Had this statement been received in season, it
would have followed the report on Experiments, reference
being made to it on page 37. — Sec.

root crops, etc. 63

Leominster, Nov. 15, 1865.

A. M. Sawyer, Esq.,

Dear Sir : — At your request, I send you the report of
Samuel M. Carter, of the product of one square rod of corn,
selected from my field by himself.

Mr. Carter was a disbeliever in large crops, and was fre-
quently heard to say that no one ever raised a hundred
bushels of corn to the acre. To convince him, and others,
like him, the subscriber told him that if he would come and
select an average square rod, and dry it, to his satisfaction,
shell it, weigh it and report it, he should have the corn. He
accepted the terms and made the following report :

Solon Carter.

September 22, 1865, gathered one square rod of corn
from the field of Solon Carter in Leominster, (an average
rod to the acre,) containing 23 hills, producing 143 ears,
weighing 50 3-4 lbs. net. October 24, 1865, weight of the
above 41 3-4 lbs.; shrinkage 9 lbs.; 6680 lbs. corn and cob.
Wt. of shell'd corn 35 14-161bs. = 57401bs. = 102 1-2 bushels.
" « cob 514-16 lbs.= 940 lbs.

6680 102 1-2 b. 56 lbs. ea.

Samuel M. Carter.

The chairman of the Leominster town committee furnished
the subscriber with the next three highest amounts raised in
Leominster.

Solon Carter.

F. P. Farrington's corn weighed 27 lbs. 6 oz. ; cob 4 lbs.
11 oz. = 78 12-56.

Geo. R. Carter's corn weighed 27 lbs. 4 oz. ; cob 4 lbs. 7
oz. = 77 48-56.

Luke Buss's corn weighed 26 lbs.; cob 12 lbs. 6 oz. =
7416-56.

64 BREAD, BUTTER, ETC.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, PICKLES, ETC.

The undersigned, chairman, by impressment of the Com-
mittee on Bread, Butter, &c, takes occasion to append to the
list of awards, a few suggestions, derived, in part, from the
ladies composing the committee. We found the usual dis-
play and variety of bread, all but one specimen of which
conformed, so far as could be determined, to the rule, requir-
ing the baking to have been done the day previous. This
one was, of course, set aside. During our deliberations we
learned, incidentally, that other loaves were quite warm when
brought in during the forenoon. Not being able to detect
the fact, at the time of our examination, we could not act
upon it, and can only suggest that if any such should have
been awarded a premium, the competitor fairly lies open to
the charge of obtaining money under false pretences.

Ordinary fermented bread, although so very common, is
an extremely artificial product. To obtain it, in perfection,
requires a combination of knowledge derived from experience
and skill, with care and watchfulness, such as almost nobody
possesses. This may seem to be an over-statement,- but
where is the woman who, in bread making, never has "poor
luck," especially when preparing for some special occasion ?
The processes and changes involved in the operation are so
complex and subtle, that even chemistry, with all its search-
ing detail, has not been able to note the transformations that
take place, with certainty.

The simplest form of bread, such as was once universal,
and is still, probably, prevalent over the greater part of the
earth, is that known as unleavened j a very sweet and pal-
atable food, but unsatisfactory in civilized life, because of the
lack of teeth, time and muscular power required for its
thorough mastication. Man has sought out many inventions,
and among the rest was some improved form of bread. He
desired a different texture, and, perhaps, a more digestible
product Accident, probably, first put him in the way of

BREAD, BUTTER, ETC. 65

obtaining it. Bread being mixed, but for some reason
left unbaked, in consequence of a slight fermentation spon-
taneously taking place, showed him in what direction to push
his inquiries, and gradually the multiplicity of processes
now in use, were arrived at.

It may be well to note some of the more obvious changes
that take place in flour, as a consequence of that kind of
fermentation involved in raising bread. Flour of wheat is
made up principally of starch and gluten, with a proportion
of sugar. These substances undergo no change so long as
kept entirely dry. When moistened, however, in a favorable
temperature, a spontaneous change commences called fer-
mentation. This requires considerable time, and is uncer-
tain in its development. For this reason, some form of yeast
or " risings," is added to start the fermentation at once, and
carry it forward with certainty. The effect of this fermenta-
tion is first to convert the sugar of the flour into alcohol and
carbonic acid gas, just as in the distiller's vat, the sugar of
the molasses, when diluted with water and a ferment added,
produces the same substances. The carbonic acid in the
latter case escapes from the fermenting mass in minute bub-
bles of gas rising through the liquid, and the alcohol is
afterward distilled in connection with water in the form of
rum. In the case of the bread, the gas cannot escape in
consequence of the tenacity which the gluten gives to the
mass, and the minute bubbles expand or raise the bread in
every part, giving it its peculiar porous character, which
baking fixes and makes permanent. The alcohol is driven
off by the heat required in baking.

The principal change, thus far, is to deprive the flour of
its saccharine matter, and it loses that sweet and relishing
taste which unfermented bread possesses. Other changes
supervene, and, in fact, take place simultaneously with the
one here described. The starch of the flour is attacked and
decomposed in some way not well understood, though it is
probable that by the action of the ferment' the starch is
9

66 BREAD, BUTTER, ETC.

changed into what is known as grape sugar, or diastase, and
that in its nascent condition into alcohol and carbonic acid as
before. Its decomposition certainly produces carbonic acid,
which is the sole agent in expanding the mass. The alcohol
also, that is formed during the process, the conditions all
being favorable, goes through a further decomposition, and
like alcohol elsewhere, produces vinegar. The bread, at this
stage is found to be sour. If the whole should remain long
enough, the vinegar thus formed and the gluten of the flour,
which is the last to be attacked, both begin to decompose,
and take on what is known as putrescency. It will thus be
seen that the whole process involves, necessarily, a partial
destruction of the sweetness and nutritive properties of the
flour. Perfect success in bread making consists largely in
being able to commence the baking at the moment when the
least possible decomposition of the flour has taken place,
consistent with a sufficient development of carbonic acid to
give the bread its porous condition. Here is where failure
is most liable to occur. Bread is generally over-raised for
the sake of lightness. Many people habitually allow the
mass to sour before baking, entertaining the idea that no
injury is done so long as salasratus or soda can be added, for
the purpose of neutralizing the acid. This, however, is an
error, for not only is the acid produced at the expense of
the sugar and starch of the flour, but the acetate of potash
or soda, formed by the addition of one of these alkalies, is
much more medicinal than nutritive.

All of the different ferments exert the same influence and
produce the same effects, only in different degrees, except as
they add a taste or quality of their own. The simpler the
the yeast the better. Perhaps the most objectionable is that
known as milk yeast, or milk risings. Milk tends to run
into the acetous and putrefactive fermentation very readily,
and gives to bread, under the most favorable circumstances,
a fragrance of sour milk. So objectionable is it, that your
committee instinctively laid aside every loaf contaminated

BREAD, BUTTER, ETC. 67

by it, and one member stated that she had served upon a
similar committee a number of times, and the same action
had been taken in every instance. Competitors may note
the fact. Milk is by no means objectionable, when used in
mixing bread, provided it is sweet, and the fermentation
carried as far as possible before its addition.

One specimen, we noticed, had been treated by adding
sugar to it. This, however, could not restore the natural
sweet taste of the flour, but made it rather like cake.

In addition to the list of premiums, we desire to
award an opinion that a specimen of factory cheese from
Barre, was superior, but it being entered for exhibition only,
by a dealer, we could not award it a premium.

The following awards were made :

WHITE BREAD.

1st premium, to Emma S. Alexander of Fitchburg, $2 00
2d, to Alice Wellington of Ashby, 1 00

3d, to Mary Galliher of Fitchburg, 50

UNBOLTED WHWAT BREAD.

Gratuity, to Miss W. Welch of Fitchburg, 50

RYE AND INDIAN.

1st premium, to Alice Wellington of Ashby,

2d, to Lucy Goodridge,

3d, to Mary C. Wellington of Ashby,

LUMP BUTTER.

1st premium, to Mrs. N. B. Reed of Princeton,
2d, to Mrs. J. S. Hartwell of Littleton,
3d, to Mrs. J. P. Reed of Princeton,
4th, to J. P. Davis of Ashby,

JUNE TUB BUTTER.

1st premium, to Fred. B. Harrington of Leominster, 3 00

CHEESE.

1st premium, to Fred. B. Harrington of Leominster, 2 00

2

00

1

00

50

4

00

3

00

2

00

1

50

68 BREAD, BUTTER, ETC.

PICKLES.

2d premium, to Mrs. N. S. Boutelle of Fitchburg, $0 50

3d, to Mrs, T. B. Woodward of Fitchburg, 25

HONEY.

1st premium, to S. H. Sprague of Westminster, 2 00'

2d, to G. Merriam of Leominster, 1 00

CANNED FRUIT.

Gratuity, to Mrs. B. F. Lewis of Fitchburg, 1 00

CRAB APPLE JELLY.

Gratuity, to Mrs.- Ward Russell of Ashburnham, 1 00

Jabez Fisher, Chairman.

MECHANICS AND MANUFACTURES.

For Mechanics and Manufactures, the following awards
were made :

Dr. Thomas Palmer, specimens of dental work, $3 50

Messrs. Whitney & Ball, specimens of dental work, 2 00

D. W. Crosby, spring bedstead, 1 00

S. G. Frost, specimens of harness work, 3 00

H. C. Murdock, improved skates 1 00

F. W. Andrews, ornamental brackets, 1 00

Mrs. J. C. Moulton, wrought chair, 1 00
Messrs. Partridge & Sawyer, case of gents' and ladies'

boots, 3 00
Henry A. Goodrich, case of hats, furs and gloves,

and robes, 5 00

S. G. Frost, pleasure wagon, 4 00
C. J. Delahanty & Co., all wool doeskins, tricot, and

ladies' sacking, 10 00

L. J. Brown, specimens of ladies' clothing, 6 00

Beoli Company, cassimeres and beavers, 8 00

AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. 69

Fitchburg Woollen Mill Company, cassimeres, $8 00
Joseph Pierce, 2d, curried leather, 4 00
Messrs. Allen & Jewett, pianoforte, 8 00
B. F. Proctor, specimens of wood turning, 1 00
.Messrs. Chickering & Sons, Boston, pianoforte, gra-
tuity of 10 00

Amasa Norcross, Chairman.

AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS.

The Committee on Agricultural Implements award as
follows :

Knipper Mowing Machine Company, for mower, $10 00

Buckeye Mowing Machine Company, gratuity, 6 00

Nye & Clark Brothers, horse rake, 5 00

C. L. Fairbanks & Co., hay cutter, 3 00

Thomas Sheldon, ox yoke, 3 00

J. F. Sanborn, churn, 2 00

Gardner P. Hawkins, horse shoes, 2 00

Abel Marshall, horse hay fork, 1 00

J. F. Munroe, apple slicer, egg beater, &c, 2 00

C. L. Fairbanks & Co., agricultural implements, 2 00

Proctor & Wright, agricultural implements, 2 00

Walter Heywood, Chairman.

FINE ARTS.

The extent and excellence of the display in this department,
and the interest and appreciation it elicited from visitors
present, gave gratifying evidence to your committee that the
remarkable enterprise and progress of Northern Worcester

70 FINE ARTS.

County in utilitarian spheres have, in no degree, hindered
enthusiasm for the beautiful in Art.

The Oil Paintings presented were few in number, but well
execute^.

Some of the Crayon Drawings were admirable pieces;
while the rest were commendable as early efforts.

The collection of Pencil Drawings was large. Three or
four of the specimens were simply exquisite. Most of the
others were by quite youthful contributors, and indicated a
hopeful proficiency.

The trying labor of your committee lay in deciding upon
the comparative merits of two full and elegant Photographic
collections, presented respectively by our two most popular
artists, Messrs. Moulton and Gott.

We felt great reluctance in undertaking such a hair-splitting
ceremony. Wc seemed, at first, to be required to determine
which was superior of two equals. Had we been allowed to
accord equivalent honor to the two competitors, we should
have been relieved. The excellences of one artist were
essentially counterbalanced by different but equally important
excellences in the other. Mr. Moulton's pictures were more
distinct and forcible than Mr. Gott's. They stood out better
than his from the back-ground. But Mr. Gott's were more
graceful in posture, and more delicate in finish. They exhi-
bited more refinement of taste.

In certain classes of pictures, one of the rivals excelled ; in
certain other classes, the other.

After prolonged examination of the work in detail, and care-
ful comparison of class with class and collection with collection,
your committee decided that, upon the whole, the preponder-
ance of general artistic merit probably lay with Mr. Gott.

The committee award as follows :

PHOTOGRAPHS.

1st premium, to C. 0. Gott of Fitchburg, $4 00

2d, to J. C. Moulton of Fitchburg, 2 00

OIL PAINTINGS.

Mrs. Mclntire, 3 00

FANCY ARTICLES. 71
CRAYON DRAWINGS.

M. A. Kimball of Lancaster, $2 50

Mattie M. Hamilton of Fitchburg, 2 00

Abbie Ellis of Fitchburg, 1 75

Lizzie Adams, ,50

Ellen L. Smith, ,50

PENCIL DRAWINGS.

Mrs. Harwood, 3 00

Maria E. Tenner, 2 00

Nellie F. Lowe, 2 00

H. D. Moulton, 1 75

Myra B. Richardson, 1 25

Ella S. Wright, 1 25

Ella Norcross, 1 00

E. M. Lowe, 1 00

Alice Miller, 1 00

George Wilson, 75

Alvin K. Simonds, 75

Ida Howard, 75

E. M. Caldwell, 75

Annie M. T. Heywood, 75

Mary Buttrick, 50

PENMANSHIP.

I. R. Gilbert, 75

FANCY CROSS.

Julia Whitcomb, 50

R. G. Hutchings, Chairman.

FANCY ARTICLES.

The following awards .are made by Committee on Fancy
Articles :

Mrs. A. B. T. Ames, worsted chair, $1 00

Mrs. F. Parker of Templeton, ottoman, 25

Hattie S. Greenwood of So. Gardner, floral work, 75

72 FRNCY ARTICLES.

Mrs. A. B. T. Ames, bracket, $0 50

John Marble, a blind boy, bead work, 37

Hattie E. Bancroft, watch case, 25

Fannie A. Bogert, tidy, 25

Hattie F. Kinsman, baby's sacks, 25

Mrs. Emory A. Clark, carriage blanket. 50

Mrs. Mary Tolman, worsted socks, 25

Fannie Cleaves, worsted work, 20

Mrs. S. E. Denton " " 37

Miss D. E. Sawyer, cricket, 25
Hattie E. Putnam, wax vases, 1 00

Mrs. N. H. Aldrich, wax flowers, 50

Miss Nellie E. Gleason, lamp mat, 20

Mrs. C. Tolman, socks, 20

Miss Mary M. Gleason, work basket, 50

Mrs. A. L. Howard, lamp mat and tidy, 75

E. L. Lewis, union house, 37

Miss Emma Welles, carriage blanket, 75

Miss D. E. Sawyer, handkerchief pouch, 20

Louisa C. Lowe, sofa pillow, 25

Mrs. B. F. Lewis, imitation marble cross, 50

Mrs. G. A. Torrey, perforated cross, 25

Mrs. F. Mclntire, flannel embroidery, 75
Mrs. T. C. Kenyon, embroidered cape, 1 00

Mrs. N. S. Boutelle, skirt, 37

Mrs. Otis A. Wheeler, embroidery, 37

Mrs. S. C. Brigham, « 37

Mrs. W. C. Upton, wrought skirt, 37

M. J. S. Abbott, embroidery, 37

Mrs. C. A. Mason, embroidered skirt, 37

Fannie A. Bogert, shell box, 50

Hattie F. Kinsman, worsted flowers, 75

Ellen Lowe, " " 50

Josie M. Whitney, " « 37

Mrs. J. U. Middleton, amaranths, 37

Mrs H. H. Brigham, worsted wreath, 37

ESSAYS. 73

Kate L. Drew, hair wreath, $1 25

Mrs. J. R. Gilbert, millinery, 1 50

Mrs. B. H. Bush of Westminster, mat, 75

L. J. Brown of Fitchburg, dress goods, 50

Mrs. P. Hill, patch work quilt, first prize, % 00
Misses Emily and Louise Skinner of Princeton, patch

work quilt, (4894 pieces), second prize, 1 00

Mrs. M. A. Edgecomb, bed quiit, 37

Mrs. L. S. Gilbert, bead basket, 50

M. J. S. Abbott, quilt, 50

Mrs. Sarah Rice, (74 years,) rug, 50

Mrs Levi Morgan, two rugs, 37

Mrs. J. E. Manning, afghan, 1 00

Mrs. M. Freeman, table covering, 50

Mrs. E. Torrey, tidy, 25

Mrs Mary Tolinan, carriage robes, 37

Warren B. and Walter Page, squirrels and cage, 40

W. K. Wright, turtle shell box, gratuity, 75

Herbert W. Kimball, Chairman.

ESSAYS.

The Committee on Essays respectfully report :

That the only essay offered, is deemed not of a character
so well adapted to the wants of the society and its con-
stituents, as to warrant the publication of it.

They, therefore, award no premium.

For the committee,

Charles Mason, Chairman
10

74 committees' reports.

COMMITTEES' REPORTS.

After careful deliberation, your committee have awarded
the first premium, of $10.00, to Jabez Fisher of Fitchburg,
for his report on farms ; second premium, of $6.00, to Solon
Carter of Leominster, for report on grain ; third premium,
of $4.00, to Jabez Fisher of Fitchburg, for report on bread,
butter, cheese, &c.

Favorable mention should be made of the reports on
apples, peaches, plums and quinces ; gardens ; plowing ; stal-
lions; and line arts. Much credit is due to most of the
chairmen for their neat, gentlemanlike work, rendered in
season. And it is to be regretted that a few return a few
pencil marks, scarcely legible, which they would be ashamed
to meet the second time.

For the committee,

A. M. Sawyer.

ANALYSIS OP PREMIUMS. 75

Analysis of Premiums and Gratuities Awarded.

Amount awarded for plowing at the exhibition, ----- ¥*• 00

" " fancy articles, - 30 00

« « fine arts, ------- 36 00

" " committee's reports, - - - - - - 20 00

" " agricultural implements, - - - - - 38 00

" « neat stock, - - . - - - - 235 50

" " horses, -...-.- 105 00

« « sheep, - - - .... - 26 00

« swine, 24 00

" « poultry, - - - . - - • - 18 00

« « grain, ------- 50 75

" « root crops, - - - - - - -40 25

« " fruits, ------* 64 75

" " flowers, - - - - - - - - 9W

" " butter and cheese, ------ 15 50

" " bread, - - - - - - - - 750

" " mechanics and manufactures, - - - - 79 00

Premiums and gratuities were paid to three hundred and
seventy-seven persons, and the amounts distributed as
follows :

Fitchburg, - ------ $508 42

Princeton, --------- 127 00

Leominster, ---------- 75 00

Lunenburg, --------- 71 75

Westminster,- --------- 28 00

Sterling, ----- - 22 00

Ashburnham, __.___--- 14 50

Groton, --------- 10 00

Ashby, ---------- 7 50

Harvard, 700

So. Royalston, --------- 6 00

Winchendon, --------- 5 00

Littleton, ---- 5 00

Templeton, _-- 4 00

Bolton, * 4 00

Lancaster, --------- 2 50

f Amount of premiums offered, ------ $1359 25

i Amount of premiums and gratuities awarded, - 967 50

I Amount of premiums and gratuities paid, - . - - - 897 67

^Amount of permanent fund, ------ 5300 93

76 treasurer's report.

Dr. J HO MAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer,
1864.

Dec. 7. To amount on hand per last statement, $5129 79

" 16. « cash for North Bank rights sold, 50 50

« 29. " " of W. Ball, as a donation, 3 50
1865.

April 4. " " for dividends of Wash. Nat. Bank, 60 00

a u a u u u u North " u 15 00

u a u u « u u First «< « 30 00

u « * « « « « Nat. Bk. of Com., 50 00

Aug. 16. " " u int'st on United States Bonds, 40 15

Sept. 2 8. " " " admission to Town Hall, 481 30

Oct. 2. a a " dividends of Wash. Nat. Bank, 60 00

a a a u u u North " " 15 00

u u u u u « First " '' 30 00

u a u u a a Nat. Bk. of Com., 50 00

Nov. 7. " " of Commonwealth for Bounty, 600 00

« « « « for plowing entries forfeited, 3 00

u u u a u twenty-seven memberships, 135 00

« " u " « interest on money loaned, 123 80

$6877 04

Amount in hands of treasurer, $5300 93

Increase the last year, $171 14

THOMAS C. CALDWELL, Treasurer.

The undersigned have examined the above account of the
treasurer, and believe it correct.

JABEZ FISHER, ) Committee
ABEL F. ADAMS, [ on
T. R. BOUTELLE, } Finance,

TREASURER 3 REPORT. i i

in account with Worcester North Agricultural Society, Cr.

1864.

Dec. 7. By paying J. J. Piper, for printing
and advertising,
Litch & Sawtelle for nails,

W. F. Day for 80 dinners at fair, 1864,

E. & J. Garfield, for printing bill,
A M. Sawyer for postage bill,
J. J. Piper adv'g notice of meeting,

" " " " " cattle show,

A. M. Sawyer, postage, band, &c, &c,
N. H. Whiting, for writing one day,
Frg't on piano and use of singing books,
T. Youngiove, labor and cash paid do,
W. F. Day, for entertainment at show,
A. Marshall, for setting and removing

pens, &c,
Fairbanks and Par khurst, tending scales,

F. Nourse, for premium on colt, 1864,
(vote of trustees,)

" " J. P. Reed, keeping cattle at show,
" 20. A. S. Dole, hay furnished cattle in

1864-5,
" 22. A. M. Sawyer, sendees as- Sect'ry, 1865,
a 30. J. Garfield, for printing and advertising,
u a J. J. Piper, for advertising meeting, &c,
« « For twenty-seven certificate stamps,
" u Premiums awarded Sept. 27, Nov. 11

and 25, 897 67

Dec 6. Amount carried to new account to balance, 5300 93

$6877 04

Dec.

27.

186£

Jan.

4.

Feb. 28.

Apr.

10.

July

4.

Sept

.28.

a

u

Oct.

5.

u

6.

a

14.

u

16.

a

21.

Nov.

7.

a

11.

$13

25

42

50

00

302

75

11

96

1

00

9

00

55

82

3

75

7

40

17

74

65

50

35

00

1

00

2

00

7

50

2

00

50

00

47

00

4

00

1

35

PAST PRESIDENTS, ORATORS AND SECRETARIES.

OF THE

WORCESTER NORTH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

PRESIDENTS.

1850-1.— ABEL F. ADAMS, Esq., of Fitchburg.
1852-3 — Hon. ITERS PHILLIPS of Fitchburg.
1854-5.— Hon. MOSES WOOD of Fitchburg.
1856-7.— THOMAS R. BOUTELLE, M. D., of Fitchburg.
1858-9.— Hon. JABEZ FISHER of Fitchburg,
1860-1.— THOMAS BILLINGS, Esq., of Lunenburg,
1862-3— LEWIS H. BRADFORD, Esq., of Fitchburg.
1864-5.— Hon. OHIO WHITNEY, Jr., of Ashburnham.
1866. — Capt. JOSEPH UPTON of Fitchburg.

ORATORS.

1850.— Hon. CHARLES HUDSON of Lexington.

1851.— Hon. ROBERT RANTOUL, (appointment not filled.)

1852.— THOMAS E. PAYSON, Esq., of Rowley.

1853.— Rev. HORATIO STEBBINS of Fitchburg.

1854.— Gov. EMORY WASHBURN of Worcester.

1855.— Hon. N. P. BANKS of Waltham.

1856.— CHARLES L. FLINT, Esq., of Boston.

1857.— JUSTUS TOWER, Esq., of Lanesborough.

1858. — No appointment made.

1859.— Hon. GEORGE S. BOUT WELL of Groton.

I860.— Dr. GEORGE B. LORING of Salem.

1861.— Hon. A. H. BULLOCK of Worcester.

1862.— Rev. A. N. ARNOLD, D. D., of Westboro.

1863.— LUTHER H. TUCKER, Esq., of Albany, N. Y.

1864. — No appointment made.

1865. — No appointment made.

secretaries.

1850-1.— NATHAN UPHAM of Fitchburg.

1852. —JOSEPH PIERCE of Fitchburg.

1853. —CHARLES W. WILDER of Fitchburg.
1854-5.— THOMAS R. BOUTELLE of Fitchburg.
1856-7.— JABEZ FISHER of Fitchburg.
1858-9.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN of Fitchburg.
1860-1.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN of Fitchburg.
1862-3.— WILLIAM G. WYMAN of Fitchburg.
1864. —LEWIS H. BRADFORD of Fitchburg.
1865-6.— ALVIN M. SAWYER of West Fitchburg.

LIFE MEMBERS.

79

LIFE MEMBERS

In the following list the Post Office address, when it differs
from the residence, is given in italics after the name, ab-
breviated when the residence forms a part of the Post Office
address, as So. G. for South Gardner, S. Vill. Shirley Village.
The * indicates that the person is dead ; r indicates that the
person has removed, but that the present residence is un-
known. If errors occur, or if the residence or Post Office
address of members is changed, a favor will be conferred
by notifying the Secretary of the fact.

ASHBY.

Burnap Israel H.*
Burr, John
Burr, Joseph.*
Burr, Levi
Damon, Samuel R.
Davis, John t+
Davis, Jonathan P.
Fay, Dennis
Foster, Jesse L
Foster, Joseph
Gates, Howard
Gates, Paul
Gibson, Samuel P.*
Hapgood, William G. L
Hayward, Joel
Hayward, John
Hayward, Paul
Hayward, Samuel
Hodgman, Luther
Hubbard Augustus
Hubbard, George B.
Johnson, William
Kendall, George
Kendall, James 0. r
Lawrence, David ^
Patch, Jonas

Proctor, D. A.
Smith, Levi
Spencer, Hobart
Wallis, Benjamin
Wellington, Liberty
Wellington, Luke
Wright, Charles H.
Wright, Francis W.

ASHBURNHAM.

Barrell, Nahum
Brown, C. H.
Cummings, John L.
Davis, John C.
Eaton, N. L.
Ellis, Daniels, Jr.
Frost J. Milton
Foster, Jerome W.
Green, Hosea
Harris, Humphrey
Houston, Horace W.
Howard, George
Howe, Addison
Howe, Perley
Lane, Elias*
Marble, Warren
Maynard, Antipas
Merritt Simeon

34

80

LIFE MEMBERS.

Russell, Ward
Russell, Franklin
Samson, George G.
Ward, Alvin
Ward, Isaac D.
Ward, Stephen
Whitmore, Alfred,
Whitmore, Enoch*
Whitney, Amos
Whitney, Merrick
Whitney, Ohio
Whitney, Ohio, Jr.
Whitney, Waldo F.
Wilker, John
Wilker, Joseph W.
Willard, John*
Willard, Merrick
Winchester, Charles
Winchester, George C.
Woodward, John G. 38

BOSTON.

Farwell, Lyman
Haskins, F. W.
Lucas, Edmund G.
Simons Alvan
Tilden, William P.
Whittemore, Belcher & Co. 6

FITCHBURG.

Ackley, N. F *

Adams, Abel F.

Aldrich, Lucius

American Rattan Company

Arnold, William E.

Atherton, Shepard F.

Bailey, E. F.

Bailey, G. F.*

Baldwin, Joseph

Ball, William

Ball, S. B.

Barker, Lorenzo

Battles, David

Beaman, Aaron F.*

Benjamin, Levi*
Billings, Charles J.
Blood, H. A.
Boutelle, David
Boutelle, N. S.
Boutelle, T. R.
Boutelle, Mrs. T. R.
Bradford, Lewis H.
Bradford, Mrs. L. H.
Brewer, Henry*
Brigham, Charles,
Brown, James D. r
Brown, Horace H.
Brown, L. J.
Brown J. S.
Bullock, Laban
Burnap, Edwin S.
Burnap, Samuel
Buttrick, Francis, Jr
Caldwell, Enoch
Caldwell, Thomas C.
Carleton, Ira & Co.
Carpenter, Daniel M.
Caswell, Hosea M.
Caswell, Nathan
Caswell, S. Melville
Childs, S. Austin,
Choate, John
Clifford, William J.*
Coggshall Henry F.
Comee, William W. *■
Conn, John A.
Conn, Reuben R.
Colony, George
Cotting, William W. r
Cowdin, Natt
Crehore, Warren A.
Crocker, Alvah
Crocker, Ephraim*
Cross, Daniel
Gushing, Joseph
Damon, Albert B.
Daniels, Thomas E.

LIFE MEMBERS.

81

Davis, Alonzo
Davis, Charles
Davis, Elnathan
Davis, Joel
Day, Leonard*
Day, William F.
Delahanty, Charles J.
Dickinson, Elijah M.
Dole, A. S.
Dole, S. M.
Downe, Levi*
Downe, William S.*
Drew, William B. S.
Eaton, Daniel S.
Eaton, Thomas S.
Emerson, Alfred
Emory, Charles A.
Emory, Daniels*
Fairbanks, Lyman N.
Fairbanks, Charles L.
Fairbanks, J. H.
Farwell, Elijah C.
Farwell, Samuel
Farnsworth Thomas
Fessenden, Charles
Fisher, Jabez
Fitchburg, Town of
Frost, S. Gilman
Frye, Geo A.
Fuller, Hubbard B.
Gage, Moses M.*
Gage, Mrs. M. M.
Garfield, J. F. D.
Gilbert, Ivar R.
Gibson, Thomas
Goodnow, Silas H.*
Goodrich Edwin A.
Goodrich, Henry A.
Goodrich, Alonzo P.
Gould, William
Gott, Calvin 0.
Graves Howard M. r
Hale, Samuel

11

Hardon, J. J.
Harris Gordis D. r
Harris John M.
Hartwell, Isaac
Haskell, Jacob
Hawes, Samuel
Hawkins, Gardner P.
Hayward, Calvin,*
Heard, Jared M.*
Heywood, Walter
Hitchcock, Alfred
Holden, Marquis L.
flollis, John W. r
Hubbard, Addison
Ide, Charles*
Jewett, George
Kendall, Levi
Kendall", Oliver
Kimball, Herbert W.
Kimball, Alpheus*
Kimball, A. P.
Lane, James B.
Lane, Mrs. J. B.
Lewis, Mrs. B. Prank
Lewis B. Frank
Leathe, William M.
Leverett, James W.
Litch Aaron K.
Livermore, Charles r
Lowe, Daniel*
Lowe, David
Lowe, Henry J.
Lowe, John
Lowe, Willard H.
Lyon, Moses G.
Manning, Abel
Manning, Elson W.
Manning, Joseph E.
Marshall, Alfred A.
Marshall, Abel
Marshall, Chederlaomer*
Marshall, Jonas A.
Marshall, Joseph A.

82

LIFE MEMBERS.

Mason, Charles
Mason, Caroline A.
Mclntire, David
Mclntire, Farrington
Mclntire James
Merriam, David H.
Messenger, Daniel
Messenger, Horace P.
Miller, Alfred
Miles, Eugene T.
Montjoy, George W.
Moulton, J. C.
Munroe, James F.
Nichols, Lyman
Norcross, Amasa
Nutting, George F.
Nye & Clark Brothers
Osborn, Abram
Page, Hale W.
Page, Joel
Palmer, Thomas
Partridge, Asa
Patch, Lyman
Perkins, Francis*
Phillips & Hammond r
Pierce, James,
Pierce Joseph, 2d.
Pierce, Joseph
Piper, John J.
Pratt, Lawrin
Pratt, Silas
Prentiss, Benjamin
Prichard, John
Pride, William M.
Proctor, Benjamin F.
Proctor, John B.
Proctor, Mrs. J. B.
Proctor & Wright
Putnam, James P.
Putnam, Salmon W.
Rice, Oran S. r
Richardson, J. B. r
Ruggles, F. L.*

Ruggles, Otis T.
Ruggles, Solomon W.*
Sabin, John P.
Safford Benjamin
Saunders, Charles r
Sawtelle, Charles
Sawtelle, John M.
Sawyer, Alvin M.
Sawyer, Asa
Sawyer, Charles B.
Sawyer, Charles K.
Sawyer, John
Shattuck, Samuel,*
Sheldon, Francis
Sheldon, Josiah*
Sheldon, Thomas
Shepley, Stephen
Simonds, Abel
Simonds, Joseph F.
Smith, Edward,
Smith, John
Smith, Joseph
Smith, William P.
Snow, C. H. B.
Snow, Benjamin
Snow, Benj. Jr.
Snow, Francis H.
Snow, Peter S.
Stearns, Daniel
Stearns, Varus
Stickney, George 0.
Stiles, James F.
Stiles, Mrs. J. F.
Stockwell, Loriston
Stone, Norman
Stone, Alanson, Jr.
Spaulding, Z. P.* i
Sprague, Leander
Stevens, Levi *
Society, First Universalist
Taylor, Stephen
Tenney, Jonathan L.
Thurston, Abel*

LIFE MEMBERS.

83

Thurston, Cyrus
Tolman, Jacob
Torrey, Ebenezer
Torrey, Mrs. E.
Towne, Abial J.*
Towne, George E.
Towne, William B.*
Tuttle, Lewis G.
Twichell, John M.
Upham, Nathan
Upton, John
Upton, Mrs. J.
Upton, Edwin
Upton, Joseph
Upton, Thomas
Upton, Warren C.
Vose, William H.
Wallace, Merrick
Wallace, Rodney
Wallace, Waldo
Ware, Samuel
Ware, T. K.
Warren, L. W.
Wheeler, Benjamin
Wheeler, Loring
Wheeler, Samuel A.
Wheelwright, George W. Jr.
Whitcomb, Nathan.
White W. Fred r
Whitman, Jonathan
Whitman, Augustus
Whitney, Walter
Wilder, Charles W.
Willis, Henry A.
Wilkins, Aaron
Wilson, Timothy S.
Wood, Cfiarles H.
Wood, Elliot-
Wood, Moses
Wood, Mrs. M.
Wood, Nathaniel
Woodbury, James M.
Woodbury, William

Woodbury, William, Jr.
Woodward, Isaac B.
Works, Benton T.
Works, Daniel
Works, Edwin D.
Works, Geo. F.
Wright, Alba C *
Young, Z. F.
Younglove, T. 281

GARDNER.

Bancroft, Amasa

Brick, A. H., South G.

Bush, C. W.

Collester, Thorley*

Greenwood, Calvin S.; So. G.

Heywood, Levi

Heywood, Seth

Hill, Edwin

Hill, Henry C.

Hill, John W.

Hubbard, George B.

Nichols, Washington

Parker, David

Sawin, John, South G.

Stevens, S. W. A., South G.

Wood, Abel S.

Wood, Asaph, South G. 17

LEOMINSTER.

Allen, Joel C.
Boyden, Elliot E.
Boyden, Charles C.
Bennett, James
Bird, Ebenezer
Burrage, Emery
Brown & Allen r
Burrage, Leonard, North L.
Carter, James H.
Carter, Solon
Colburn, Charles H.
Cotton, Ward M.
Day, N. C.
Field, C. C.

84

LIFE MEMBERS.

Grout, George H.
Gates, Augustus
Gates, Edwin
Gates, Whitney
Harrington, Fred B.
Haskell, Franklin L.
Hosmer, William B.
Jewett, Wade H. & Co.
Lowe, P. H. W.*
Marshall, James H.
Merriam, C. H.
Merriam, Gardner
Morse, Augustus
Morse, Gardner
Morse, Estabrook
Nichols, Edmund H.
Nichols, John F.
Nicholson, Charles r
Pratt & Stocking
Piper, Porter

Putnam & Phelps, North L.
Richardson, Sewall
Stearns, Thomas*
Stratton, Albert, North L.
Whitney, F. W. & F. A.
Woods, George 40

LUNENBURG.

Bailey, Samuel H.

Beal, F. E. L.

Billings, Thomas

Brown, VV. L.

Fairbanks, John

Graham, Ephraim, Fitchburg.

Goodrich, Joseph

Goodrich, Lewis A.

Houghton, Edmund

Houghton, Stephen*

Johnson, Martin

Kilburn, Cyrus

Mandell, William A.

Pitts, Lemuel

Putnam, James

Putnam, Daniel

Ramsdell, Jolin*

Ware, Lewis

White, Levi 19

PRINCETON.

Beaman, G. S., East P.
Benson, W. W.
Boyles, Henry*
Brooks, John*
Brooks iJohn
Brown, W. H., East P.
Danforth, Nathan r
Everett, Abram, East P.
Everett, Israel, East P.
Everett, Joshua T., East P.
Everett, Mandell G., East P.*
Gregory, George M.
Hastings, Solon S.
Houghton, George W.
Merriam, J. Edwin
Mirick, Elisha G *
Mirick, Paul M., East P.
Mirick, Sewell G.
Nash, Samuel C*
Reed, Joseph P.
Reed. Nathan B.
Richardson, Sewell
Roper, John
Roper, Wilkes
Skinner, George 0.
Skinner, Harlow
Temple, Jonas H.
Watson, William W.*
Whitcomb, Joseph, East P.
Whitcomb, W. H., East P.*
Wilder, Mark, East P. 31

ROYALSTON.

Bemis, Otis, South R.
Bullard, Ebenezer
Clark, Edson
Clark, Timothy
Farrar, S. S., South R.
Hale, Silas, South R.
Jones Aaron, South R.

LIFE MEMBERS.

85

Jones, Silas, Jr., South R.
Partridge, L. W., South JR.*
Raymond, Joseph
Safford, Roby R., South R.
Stockwell, Anna, South R.
Turner, Ephraim, So. R. 13

SHIRLEY.

Chandler, George
Chandler, John H.
Davis, Alpheus B., S. VilL
Gardner, Jerome, S. VilL
Gardner, M. T., S. VilL
Going, John K., S. VilL
Hartwell, Nathaniel
Holden, Nathaniel
Page, George
Parker, James 0.
Whitney, Thomas
Wetherbee, Wm. H. S. VilL 1 2

STERLING.

Barron, A. S.
Baldwin, William
Burpee, Edward
Fitch, Charles B.
Hastings, Rums
Hey wood, Joseph P.
Heywood, Moses B.
Holbrook, Cyrus*
Kendall, Ezra
Kendall, George
Loring, Charles H.
Loring, Maynard
May, John*
Nourse, Franklin
Osgood, Samuel
Peck, W! D.
Richardson, William B.
Stephenson, John M.
Sawyer, Jonathan M.
Sawyer, Moses, 2d.
Sawyer, Putnam
Sawyer, William
Sawyer, William Franklin

Smith, Sidney

Whitney, Joseph

Wilder, Josiah

Wilder, Sidney R. 27

TEMPLtfTON.

Bowker, Jonathan*

Chase, Henry

Davis, Joseph, Baldwinville

Day, Gilman, Baldwinville

Goldsmith, J. G., Otter River

Richardson, John A.

Sawyer, Edwin, Baldwinville

Sawyer, Joshua, Jr.*

Simonds, Warren

Smith, Levi N., Baldwinville

Stone, E. W., Otter River

WESTMINSTER.

Bacon, Edward
Barnes, Adonijah
Benjamin, A. W., Wachusett ViL
Brown, Timothy, " "
Bigelow, Benson
Chesmore, Reuben G.,Fitctig
Cooper, Samuel*
Cowee, Orange G.*
Damon, Thomas
Duncan, George N., Fitchburg
Ellis, Preston
Fessenden, John*
Flagg, Otis
Forbush, Joseph W.
Hagar, Isaac r
- Howe, Franklin*
Jackson, Levi*
Kendall, George*
Laws, David, Ashburnham
Learned, John K.
Merriam, Artemas
Merriam, Caleb S.
Merriam, Joel, Jr.
Merriam, J. & 0. M.
Miles, Daniel, Wachusett VilL
Miles, Daniel C. " "

86 LIFE MEMBERS.

Miles, George winchendon.

Miller, John C., Wachusett ViL* Brown, William, 2d.

Minot, John Cutter, John

Page, Josiah, West Fitchburg Forristall, John M.

Page, Porter F. " " Mason, Orlando

Puffer, James Murdock, Elisha

Raymond, Aretas Murdock, Ephraim, Jr.

Raymond Asa, Fitchburg Raymond, Paul, Jr.

Raymond, Eii W. Fitchburg Whitney, Giles H.

Sprague, S. H., Wachusett ViL Vose, Reuben, Jr. 9

Towne, George W. r Worcester.

White, Marshall Bullock, Alexander H.

Winship, Handell Boyington, John

Winship, Sylvester Brown, Alzirus

Wood, Aaron Chase, Anthony

Wood, Allen B., Fitchburg Howard, Justin

Wood, Benjamin F. Miles, Charles M.

Wood, Timothy D. Phillips, Ivers
Wyman, Benjamin, Wachusett Richardson, George W.

Vill. Spooner, A. J.

Wyman, David r Wellington, Timothy W.

Wyman, Franklin, Wachusett Wheeler, W. A.

Vill. 47 Whitcomb, David 12

Martin Clifford, Amherst ; William S. Merritt, Ashfield ;
Francis Conant, Boxboro ; J. H. Reed, Bolton; R. S. Den-
ney, Clappville; Amory Davidson, Clinton; Rodney Fuller,
Dracut; Eli A. Hubbard, East Hampton; William Buck-
minster*; Henry G. White, Framingham; Charles L. Nut-
ting, Hazen 0. Bean, Groton; Trumbull Bull, Luke Divol,
Josiah Puffer, Harvard ; M. L. May, Hubbardston ; Charles
Flagg, South Lancaster ; J. A. Harwood, Adam Thompson,
Littleton ; Albert Merriam, Lowell ; John W. Piper, Lynn ;
SamueP Far well, 2d; Lexingtfoli; John F. Ware, Milton; A.
0. Cummings, A. C. & J. G. Wood, Millbury ; David W.
Blood, Pepperell ; Edward Powers, Phillipston ; John A.
Rice, Quincy ; Henry B. Jones, Townsend ; Abram M. White,
A slier Green, Mrs. Asher Green, West Townsend; Stephen
Stanton, Wayland; Martin Harris, Warwick; Luther H.
Tucker, Albany, N. Y. ; Henry F. Kenney, Baltimore, Md. ;
H. W. Collin, Burlington, Vt. ; Joel Foskett, Camden, N. Y. ;
Horatio Hill, Israel Longley, Elisha Garfield, Chicago, Illi-
nois ; Milton Frost, Detroit, Mich. ; J. T. Densmore, Charles-

LIFE MEMBERS. 87

ton, N. H. ; Nathan Whitney, Claremont, N. H. ; Hiram W.
Albee, Ludlow, Vt. ; George M. Gage, Artemas F. Andrews,
New Ipswich, N. H. ; Solomon P. Burpee, J. M. Stuart, Wil-
liam B. Wood, New York City ; Gilman Jones, New Buffalo,
Mich. ; Kendall Brooks, Philadelphia, Pa. ; Oliver Howe,
Titusville, Pa. ; James L. Haynes, Peru, Yt. ; Solomon F.
Towne, Rindge, N. H. ; Frank M. Proctor, Westmoreland,
N. H. ; Henry R. Phelps, Syracuse, N. Y. ; Bailey, Cook &
Co., Woonsocket, R. I. ; William G. Wyman, Maine Prairie,
Solano County, Cal. ; Thomas B. Choate, Stocton, Cal. ;
Horatio Stebbins, ^an Francisco, Cal. ; Henry W. Haskell,
Marysville, Cal. ; Jo*5epfr^W^ Mansur, Kalamazoo, Mich. ;
Jacob Brown, Maysville, Mo. 64

Total number of life members, Jan. 1,1866, 661

COMMITTEES AND PREMIUMS

FOR THE

FOURTEENTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION,

*
TO BE HSLD AT FITCHBUftG-,

Tuesday, September 25. 1866.

No person will be allowed to become a competitor for any
of the Premiums herein offered, unless he shall have made
an entry for the same, with the Secretary, within the time
prescribed for each class, nor unless he shall also have fur-
nished all required statements relating thereto, within the
specified time.

For the convenience of those who live at a distance, entries
may be made by Mail ; and all entries so made must be
delivered at some post office one day previous to the expira-
tion of the time specified, and must bear proof of having
been so delivered either by postmark, or a certificate of
registry from the Postmaster.

{J^» Communications for the Secretary should be sent to
West Fitchburg.

STOCK.

All entries for premiums under this head, must be made
on or before the Friday previous to the show, except Horses
and Poultry, which may be as late as the day previous, and
all stock must be owned by the person who enters it.

PREMIUMS.

89

• All persons who are required to furnish a statement, must
do so to the Secretary at the time of making the entry.

All live stock must have been rar-ed by the person enter-
ing the same, or owned by him at least three months next
previously, except in the case of mis-mating oxen and horses,
rendered necessary by injury or disease.

Each entry of stock for the pens must specify the breed
of the animal, if known, and the age.

Fat cattle, working cattle and draught horses must be
weighed on the same scale, in Fitchburg, and will be weighed
free of expense.

The weight of all other stock will not be required.

The society will pay a reasonable sum for the keeping of
all stock entered for premiums and driven over eight miles.

Forage Committee. — Abel Marshall, Abram S. Dole, Leon-
ard S.' Downe, Fitchburg. This committee are to provide
places for keeping stock over night, when driven from a dis-
tance of more than eight miles. Competitors desiring to
avail themselves of this offer of the society, must notify the
Secretary at the time of entering their stock.

blood Stock.

Committee. — S. S. Hastings, Princeton ; A. 0. Cummings
Milbury ; Trumbull Bull, Harvard ; Asaph Wood, Gardner ;
Estabrooks More, Leominster.

Durham Bulls,
years old,

Yearlings,

Calves,

North Devon,
years old,

more than two

more than two

1st premium,

$6 00

2d premium,

4 00

1st premium,

5 00

2d premium,

3 00

1st premium,

4 00

2d premium,

2 00

1st premium,

6 00

2d premium,

4 00

12

90 PREMIUMS.

Yearlings, 1st premium, $5 00

2d premium, • 3 00

Calves, 1st premium, • 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

Ayrshire, more than than 2 }ts. old, 1st premium, • 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

Yearlings, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Calves, 1st premium, / 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

Alderney, more than two years old, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

Yearlings, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Calves, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

Yearlings, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Calves, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

Authentic pedigrees will be required.

The committee may award gratuities for superior speci-
mens of cows, heifers or heifer calves, of either of the
breeds named.

GRADE OR NATIVE BULLS.

Committee. — Solon Carter, Leominster; Lryman N. Fair-
banks, Fitchburg; T. D. Wood, Westminster; N. C. Day,
Leominster; Edwin D. Works, Fitchburg.

More than two years old, 1st premium, $5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Any other breed, pure blood,
more than two years old,

PREMIUMS.

yi

Yearlings,

1st premium,

$4 00

2d premium,

2 00

Calves,

1st premium,

4 00

2d premium,

3 00

These may be of any breed more than four months old.

MILCH KINE.

Committee. — A. G. Hill, Harvard; Whiting Gates, Leomin-
ster; Dennis Fay, Ashby; George 0. Skinner, Princeton;
Zopher Taylor, Harvard.

Herds of four cows or heifers, each, 1st premium, $10 00

2d premium, 7 00

3d premium, 4 00

The person receiving these premiums will not be allowed
to compete for any other, with the same animals.

The committee will regard age, expense of keeping, <fec.

Cows, for butter, 1st premium, $5 00

2d premium,
3d premium,

Heifers, three years old, for butter, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

Heifers, two years old, for butter, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

Cows, for milk, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

Heifers, three years old, for milk, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

4

00

3

00

5

00

4

00

3

00

4

00

3

00

2

00

5

00

4 00

3

00

5

00

4

00

3

00

02

PREMIUMS.

Heifers, two years old, for milk, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium, 3 00

3d premium, 2 00

Competitors for premiums on milch cows, whether for
herds or single animals, and milch heifers, will be required
to certify in writing, at the time of entry, to the weight of
the milk, or to the weight of butter, as the case may be,
during the six days commencing with the first Monday in
June, and the corresponding six days in September ; and to
the manner of keeping and general management. Cows that
calve near or after the first Monday in June, may be tried at
another time.

HEIFERS.

Committee. — A. J. Sawyer, Harvard ; J. H. Temple, Prince-
ton ; Emory Burrage, Leominster ; Addison Howe, Ashburn-
ham; Oscar F. Woodbury, Fitchburg.

Intended to be kept for the Dairy.
Two years old,

Yearlings,

1st premium,

$4 00

2d premium,

3 00

3d premium,

2 00

1st premium,

3 00

2d premium,

2 00

3d premium,

1 00

HEIFER CALVES.

Committee. — J. M. Sawyer, Sterling; Augustus Gates,

Leominster; Josiah Page, Westminster; Paul M. Mirick,

Princeton ; Lorisston Stock well, Fitchburg. •

Calves more than four months old, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium • 3 00

3d premium, 2 00

PREMIUMS. 93

Calves more than four months old,

raised by hand, 1st premium, $4 00

2d. premium, 3 00

3d premium, 2 00

WORKING OXEN.

Committee. — Ezra Kendall, Sterling ; Daniel Putnam, Lu-
nenburg; W. W. Benson, Princeton; George G. Samson,
Ashburnham; Moses B. Hayward, Sterling.

Working Oxen, 1st premium, $7 00

2d premium, 6 00

3d premium, 5 00

4th premium, 4 00

5th premium, 3 00

Best Teamster, if a minor, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

The working oxen will be tried, attached to loads weigh-
ing, including the cart, one-third more than themselves.

STEERS MORE THAN TWO YEARS OLD.

Committee. — A. B. Davis, Shirley Village ; Emory Farmer,
Harvard ; Thomas Sheldon, Fitchburg ; N. B. Reed, Prince-
ton ; Alfred Marshall, Fitchburg.

Three years old, 1st premium, $5 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, 3 00

Best teamster, if a minor, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

The three years old steers will be attached to carts, and
tried like the oxen, on the same ground ; the cart and load
to equal the steeVs in weight.

94

Two years old,

Trained, two years old,

PREMIUMS.

1st premium,

$4 00

2d premium,

3 00

3d premium,

2 00

1st premium,

4 00

2d premium,

2 00

YEARLING STEERS AND STEER CALVES.

Committee. — Joel Page, Hosea M. Caswell, Fitchburg;
Charles H. Brown, Ashburnhani; George W. Houghton,
Princeton; Joseph W. Forbush, Westminster.

Yearlings,

Trained yearlings,
Calves,

Calves, raised by hand,

Trained calves,

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium.
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

$3 00

2 00

1 00

3 00

2 00
6 00

4 00
2 00
6 00
4 00

2 00
4 00

3 00
2 00

CALVES.

Committee — Joel Merriam, Jr., Westminster ; F. W. Wright,
Ashby; Harlow Skinner, Princeton; Edward Bacon, West-
minster ; Walter Page, Fitchburg.

Best pen of calves, not less than four,

$10 00

Calves entered for this premium cannot compete for any
other. *

PREMIUMS. 95

FAT CATTLE.

Committee. — Ivers Phillips, Worcester ; John Lowe, Wil-
liam C. Emory, Warren C. Upton, Fitchburg; Marshall
White, Westminster.

Oxen, 1st premium, $8 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, 3 00

Cows, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 3 00

3d premium, 2 00

Three years old steers or heifers, 1st premium, G 00

2d premium, 4 00
All competitors with fat cattle or swine, must furnish a

statement to the Secretary, of the mode and expense of

feeding.

SWINE.

Committee. — Herbert W. Kimball, S. M. Dole, Fitchburg ;
Levi Burr, Ashby; Lewis Morse, Lunenburg; Simeon Mer-
ritt, Ashburnham.

Must be entered like other stock.

Boars, more than one year old, 1st premium,

2d premium,

Less than one year old, 1st premium,

2d premium,

Fat hogs, more than eight mos. old, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

Fat pigs, less than eight mos. old, 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,

Breeding sows, 1st premium, 3 00

2d premium, 2 00

3d premium, 1 00

U 00

3

00

3

00

2

00

8

00

5

00

2

00

3

00

2

00

1

00

96 PREMIUMS.

Weaned pigs, not less than four, 1st premium,

2d premium.
OA — _,*

$3 00
2 00

3d premium, I 00

STALLIONS.

Committee — Alfred Hitchcock, Fitchburg; Edwin Gates,
Leominster ; Reuben W. Snow, Lunenburg ; John M. Sawtelle,
Fitchburg; S. W. A. Stevens, South Gardner.

All persons offering stallions, five years old and upward,
will be required to exhibit specimens of their stock.

Stallions, 5 years old and upwards, 1st premium, $12 00

2d premium, 8 00

Four years old, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

Three years old, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

Two years old, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

MARES AND SUCKING COLTS.

Committee. — James H. Marshall, Leominster ; Mark Wilder,
East Princeton: L. P. Comee, Fitchburg; Samuel Sprague,
Westminster ; Warren Page, Fitchburg.

The mares must be four years old and upward and accom-
panied with their colts.

Breeding mares,

Colts, less than one year old,

1st premium,

$6 00

2d premium,

4 00

3d premium,

2 00

1st premium,

3 00

2d premium,

2 00

3d premium,

1 00

PREMIUMS.

97

DRAUGHT AND FAMILY HORSES.

Committee. — Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham; Hale W.
Page, Fitchburg; W. F. Sawyer, Sterling; James L. Cum-
mings, Ashburnham ; Shepherd F. Atherton, Fitchburg.

Draught horses will be tried, attached to a stone boat,
loaded to weigh one-third more than the horses.

The same draught horse cannot receive a premium as a
single horse, and also one of a pair, but a draught horse
may compete as a family horse.

These must be four years old and upward.

Draught horses and mules, pairs, 1st premium, $6 00

2d premium

Draught horses, single,
Best teamster, if a minor,
Family horses, pairs,
Family horses, single,

1st premium
2d premium
1st premium
2d premium
1st premium
2d premium
1st premium
2d premium

4

5
3
4
2
7
5
5
3

00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00

COLTS.

Committee. — J. M. Harris, Fitchburg; Gardner
Leominster; A. B. Damon, Fitchburg; Joseph
Fitchburg; Calvin S. Greenwood, South Gardner.

Three years old geldings,
Three years old fillies,
Two years old geldings,
Two years old fillies.
Yearling colts,

13

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,

Merriam,
Cushing,

$4 00
2 00

4

2
4
2
4
2
4
2

00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00

98 PREMIUMS.

SHEEP.

Committee. — William H. Vose, Fitchburg; Jesse Foster,
Ashby ; Aaron Wood, Westminster ; A. B. Gale, Harvard ;
A. P. Goodrich, Fitchburg.

Flocks, not less than ten, owned

by one person, 1st premium, $10 00

2d premium, 5 00

Bucks, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Cossets, 1st premium, 2 00

2d premium, 1 00

POULTRY.

Committee. — Edward P. Downe, Lyman Merriam, C. K.
Sawyer, Fitchburg; Caleb S. Merriam, Westminster; Jack-
son Burr, Ashby.

Must be entered like other stock.

Barn-yard fowls, not less than six, 1st premium, $3 00

2d premium, 2 00

Turkeys, not less than six, 1st premium, 3 00

2d premium, 2 00

Geese, not less than six, 1st premium, 3 00

2d premium, 2 00

Ducks, not less than six, 1st premium, 3 00

2d premium, 2 00

TOWN TEAMS.

Committee. — William Woodbury, Jr., Fitchburg; John
Cutter, Winchendon ; Warren Simonds, Templeton ; Leonard
Burrage, Leominster ; I. B. Woodward, Fitchburg.

For the best town team, not less than fifteen yoke of oxen
from any one town, 1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 10 00

PLOWING MATCH.

All entries for plowing must be made on or before the
Wednesday previous to the exhibition, and one dollar must

PREMIUMS. 99

be deposited with each entry, to be returned to the competi-
tor, if he plows, otherwise forfeited to the society.

No teams or parts of teams will be allowed to compete
for more than one premium on plowing,

DOUBLE TEAMS.

Committtee. — A. P. Kimball, Fitchburg; George Wood,
Leominster; Perley Howe, Ashburnham; George Miles,
Westminster ; John May, Sterling.

Double teams, 1st premium, $7 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, 3 00

Minors, with steers, 1 st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, 2 00

SINGLE TEAMS.

Committee. — Joel Hayward, Ashby; Levi White, Lunen-
burg; Charles C. Boyden, Leominster; James R. Bruce,
Westminster ; James Harrington, Fitchburg.

Single teams, 1st premium, $7 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, 3 00

Minors, with steers, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, 2 00

HORSE TEAMS.

Committee. — John M. Forristall, Winchendon; John K.
Going, Shirley ; C. W. Jaquith, Fitchburg ; Moses Sawyer,
2d, Sterling; Anan Stockwell, South Royalston.
Horse or mule teams, 1st premium, $7 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, 3 00

CROPS.

All entries for Premiums in this department must be made
with the Secretary, on or before June 1st, with the exception

100 PREMIUMS.

of English turnips and cabbages, which must be entered on
or before August 1st. Immediately after these dates the
Secretary will transmit to all competitors a copy of the fol-
lowing blank form, adopted by the Trustees, to correspond
with the requirements of the Board of Agriculture.

In pursuance of authority delegated to the Board of Agri-
culture, by chap. 24 of the Acts of 1862, Agricultural Soci-
eties receiving the bounty of the State, are required to make
use of the following form, and be governed by its conditions,
in the mode of ascertaining the amount of crops entered for
premium :

Worcester North Agricultural Society.

Statement concerning a crop of , raised by Mr.
in the town of ,1866.

What was the crop of 1864?

What manure was used, and how much that year ?

What was the crop of 1865 ?

What manure was used, and how much that year ?

What is the nature of the soil ?

When, and how many times plowed, and how deep, for the
present crop ?

What other preparation for the seed ?

Cost of plowing and other preparation ?

Amount of manure, in loads of thirty bushels, and how
applied for the present crop ?

Value of manure upon the ground ?

When and how planted, and the amount and kind of seed ?

Cost of seed and planting ?

How cultivated and how many times ?

Cost of cultivation, including weeding and thinning ?

Time and manner of harvesting ?

Cost of harvesting, including the storing and husking, or
threshing ?

Amount of straw, stover, or other product ?

PREMIUMS. 101

REMARKS.

Signed by

Competitor.

From actual measurement, I hereby certify that the land
which the above crop of covered, contained rods, and
no more.

From personal observation, we hereby certify that the
above answers are true.

I hereby certify that the weight of the above crop, as
ascertained by me, on the day , was pounds.

In ascertaining the weight of a crop, an average rod shall
be selected, harvested and weighed, by one or more members
of a committee, and the whole estimated by multiplying it by
the number of rods.

The certificate shall state the weight of all crops only
when in a merchantable state.

RULES OF MEASURE

Practised and adopted by the State Board of Agriculture :
Wheat, potatoes, sugar beets, mangel wur-

zel, ruta baga, white beans and peas,
Corn, rye, onions,
Oats,

Barley, buckwheat,
Cracked corn, corn and rye and other meal

except oat, and English turnips, 50 " "

Parsnips, 45 " "

Carrots, 55 a "

These forms must be returned to the Secretary on or
before November 10th, with each question concerning the
crop answered, and the certificates properly signed.

No person will be allowed to compete for more than one
premium, with a crop raised upon the same field, however
large, with the same treatment.

Committees should not encourage the irregular entry of
accidental good crops.

60 lbs. to bushel.

56 "

a

32 "

(C

48 "

u

102 PREMIUMS.

GRAIN.

Committee. — Cyrus Kilburn, Lunenburg; D. C. Miles,
Westminster ; Abel Marshall, Fitchburg j Elliot E. Boyden,
Leominster ; N. S. Boutelle, Fitchburg.

Samples must be exhibited at the Fair.

The committee may award gratuities for valuable new
varieties of grain.

For the largest crop of herds grass seed, not less than three
bushels, 1st premium, $5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Red top, not less than six bushels, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

For the most profitable crops of corn, wheat, rye, barley
and oats, one acre each ; of cabbages, beans and flax, one-
eighth acre each ; the product of corn to be not less than
4320 lbs. on the cob ; that of wheat, rye, barley and oats,
not less than 1200 lbs. of grain each.

Corn, 1st premium, $10 00

2d premium, 8 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Wheat, 1st premium, 10 00

2d premium, 8 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Flax, 1st premium, 10 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Rye, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Barley, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Oats, 1st premium, 6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, Grasses and F&rage Plants.

PREMIUMS. 103

Field beans, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium, 2 00

3d premium, Grosses and Forage Plants.

ROOT CROPS AND CABBAGES.

Committee. — Epliraim Graham, Lunenburg ; Daniel S. Eaton,
Fitchburg; Warren Marble, Ashburnham ; J. P. Putnam,
Fitchburg; Edward Burpee, Sterling.

For the most profitable crops of potatoes, one-fourth acre
each ; of carrots, onions, beets and turnips, one-eighth acre
each.

Potatoes, not less than 3000 lbs., 1st premium, $8 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, Grasses and Forage Plants.

Carrots, not less than 5500 lbs., 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 3 00

Onions, not less than 2000 lbs., 1st premium, Harris on Insects.

2d premium,
Sugar beets, 1st premium,

2d premium,
Mangel wurzel, 1st premium,

* 2d premium,

English turnips, 1st premium, Harris on Insects.

2d premium, 2 00

Turnips of any other variety, 1st premium, Harris on Insects.

2d premium, 2 00

Cabbages, 1st premium, 2 00

2d premium, 1 00

FARMS.
Committee. — Abel F. Adams, Nathan Upham, Fitchburg ;
Thomas Billings, Lunenburg.

All competitors must make their entries on or before the
first day of May. Each farm will be open to the inspection
of the committee during the entire season.
For the best cultivated and man-
aged farm, 1st premium, $15 00

2d premium, 8 00

2

00

2

00

1

00

•2

00

1

00

104 PREMIUMS.

GARDENS.

Committee. — L. H. Bradford, Oliver Kendall, Fitchburg;
Martin Johnson, Lunenburg.

No person having received a premium for a kitchen or
mixed garden shall be allowed to compete for another with
the same land, within three years, except for a higher one.

Entries must be made on or before June 1st.

Kitchen or mixed gardens, 1st premium, $6 00

2d premium, 4 00

3d premium, 2 00

Flower gardens, 1st premium, 2 00

2d premium, 1 00

EXPERIMENTS.

Committee. — J. A. Marshall, Levi Kendall, Jacob Haskell,
Fitchburg.

All entries must be made at least one week before com-
mencing the experiments.
Best experiment testing the value of corn and cob

for fattening purposes, with the cob or otherwise, $15 00
Best experiment in steaming food for cattle and horses, 10 00
Best experiment testing the comparative value of

drilling wheat or other grain to broadcast sewing, 5 00

There will be placed at the disposal of the committee, for
the best and most reliable agricultural experiments, made in
1866, the sum of twenty dollars.

TOWN HALL.

No article intended for the hall will be entitled to a pre-
mium, unless it shall have been deposited by two o'clock, P.
M., on Monday, from which time the hall will be occupied by
the committees exclusively until half past six o'clock, when
it will be opened to the public for the evening.

All articles must have been grown, manufactured or pro-
duced by the person entering the same for premium, and

PREMIUMS. . 105

should be plainly marked with the name and residence of the
exhibitor.

A strict compliance with these regulations will be abso-
lutely necessary.

APPLES, PEACHES, PLUMS AND QUINCES.
Committee. — M. T. Gardner, Shirley ; Andrew Fairbanks,
Harvard ; Rodney Wallace, Fitchburg ; Alfred Whiting, Oak-
dale ; J. T. Everett, East Princeton.

APPLES.

For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties of
three specimens each, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium, Harris on Insects.
For 12 varieties of 5 specimens each, lstprem. Harris on Insects.

2d premium,

2 00

3d premium,

1 00

For 6 varieties of 5 specimens

each, 1st premium,

2 00

2d premium,

1 50

3d premium,

1 00

For 3 varieties of 5 specimens

each,

1st premium,

1 50

2d premium,

1 00

3d premium,

50

For the best exhibition of twelve

specimens of Baldwins,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

Hubbardston Nonesuch,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

R. I. Greenings,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

Roxbury Russets,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in
more than one of the above classes, with the same specimens
of fruit ; and if the number of specimens exhibited does not
correspond with these regulations, the fruit will be excluded
from competition for the premiums.
14

100 PREMIUMS.

PEACHES.

For the best collections, Harris on Insects.

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, $2 00

2d premium, 1 00

3d premium, 50

PLUMS.

For the best collection, 2 00

For the best plates, 1st premium, 1 00

2d premium, 50

QUINCES.

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, 1 00

2d premium, '50

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at
the disposal of the committee for gratuities, ten dollars.

PEAES AND GEAPES.

Committee. — James Bennett, Leominster ; Gardner P. Haw-
kins, Fitchburg ; Amos B. Holden, Westminster j William D.
Peck, Sterling ; Cyrus Thurston, Fitchburg.

PEARS.

For the best and largest exhibition of named varieties, of
three specimens each, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium, Harris on Insects.
For 12 varieties of 5 specimens each, 1st prein., Harns on Insects.

2d premium,

2 00

3d premium,

1 00

For 6 varieties of 5 specimens each, 1st premium,

2 00

2d premium,

1 50

3d premium,

1 00

For 3 varieties of 5 specimens each, 1 st premium,

1 50

2d premium,

1 00

3d premium,

50

For the best exhibition of twelve

specimens of Bartlett, 1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

PREMIUMS. 107

Seckel, 1st premium, $1 00

2d premium, 50

Flemish Beauty, 1st premium, 1 00 ,

2d premium, 50

Duchess, • 1st premium, 1 00

2d premium, 50

Louise Bonne de Jersey, 1st premium, 1 00

2d premium, 50

No person will be allowed to compete for a premium in
more than one of the above classes, with the same specimens
of fruit ; and if the number of specimens exhibited does not
correspond with these regulations, the fruit will be excluded
from competition for the premiums.

GRAPES.

For the best displays of Foreign

Grapes,

1st premium,

$3-00

2d premium,

2 00

•

3d premium,

I 00

For the best displays . of Native

Grapes,

1st

premium, Harris

on Insects.

2d premium,

2 00

3d premium,

1 00

Best six clusters of Concord,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

•

Delaware,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium,

50

Hartford Prolific,

1st premium,

1 00

2d premium.

50

In addition to the above premiums there will be placed at
the disposal of the committee for gratuities, ten dollars.

ASSORTED FRUITS AND FLOWERS.

Committee. — Henry S. Jones, Fitchburg ; Mrs. M. T. Gardi-
ner, Shirley; Mrs. Ohio Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham; Mrs. L.
H. Bradford, Fitchburg; Mrs. William Baker, Lunenburg.

1

00

1

00

2

00

1

00

2

00

I

00

2

00

1

00

108 PREMIUMS.

FRUIT.

For the best dishes or baskets, 1st premium, S2 00

2d premium, 1 00

FLOWERS.

For best displays of named plants

in pots, 1st premium,

2d premium,
Best pair of parlor bouquets, 1st premium,

2d premium,
Best pair of hand bouquets, 1st premium,

2d premium,
For the best displays of cut flowers, 1st premium,

2d premium,

In addition to the above premiums, there will be placed at
the disposal of the committee for gratuities, ten dollars.

VEGETABLES.

Committee. — T. K. Ware, Fitchburg; George H. Grout,
Leominster,* Lawrin Pratt, Benj. Safford, Benj. Wheeler,
Fitchburg.

Of squashes, pumpkins, cabbages and celery there should
be six specimens in each lot ; of cauliflower, three ; of onions,
beets, turnips and tomatoes, one peck in each lot ; of field
beans, one-half peck ; and of Lima beans, two quarts.
For the best collections of kitchen

vegetables, 1st premium, 7 00

2d premium, 5 00

3d premium, 3 00

Best collections of garden seeds, 1st premium, 5 00

2d premium, 3 00

Collections of potatoes, 1st premium, 2 00

2d premium, 1 00

3d premium, 50

Marrow squashes, 1st premium, 1 00

2d premium, 50

PREMIUMS.

109

Hubbard squashes,

Crookneck squashes,

Pumpkins,

Cabbages,

Cauliflowers,

Celery,

Onions,

Turnip beets,

English turnips,

Tomatoes,

Field beans,

Lima beans,

Seed corn, in traces,

In addition to the
tuities, ten dollars.

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

above, there will be allowed

$1 00
50
1 00
50
75
50
75
50
75
50
75
50
75
50
75
50
50
25
50
25
50
25
50
. 25
1 00
75
50

for gra-

No person will be allowed to receive more than one copy
of Harris on Insects ; if more than one is awarded, cash will
be paid instead, at the rate of three dollars per copy ; and
if any to whom a copy is awarded already has one, he may
receive the copy awarded, or the cash as above, at his option.

110

PREMIUMS.

BREAD, BUTTER, CHEESE, PICKLES, PRESERVES

AND JELLIES.

Committee. — George E. Towne, Fitchburg; Mrs. George
0. Skinner, Princeton ; Mrs. Abel Marshall, Fitchburg ; Mrs.
Lewis Ware, Lunenburg; Mrs. Benjamin Snow, Jr., Fitchburg.
. Competitors will be required to furnish a detailed state-
ment in writing of the process of manufacturing butter,
cheese and pickles.

$2 00

White bread,

Unbolted wheat bread,
Bolted rye bread, •

1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

Rye and Indian bread,

1st premium,
2d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,

Lump butter, not less than 12 lbs., 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,
4th premium,

June tub butter, not less than 25 lbs., 1st premium,

2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium,
2d premium,
3d premium,
1st premium, 2

2d premium, 1

3d premium,

In addition to the above, there will be allowed for gra
tuities, ten dollars.

Cheese, not less than 50 lbs.,

Pickles,

Virgin honey in the comb,

1

1
1

2
1

4
3

2
1
3
2
1
2
1
1

00
50
00
00
50
00
00
50
00
00
00
50
00
00
00
00
50
00
75
50
25
00
00
50

PREMIUMS. Ill

ME CH ANICS .AND MANUFACTURES.
e

Committee. — Ward M. Cotton, Leominster; Lorenzo Bar-
ker, Henry J. Kennedy, Fitchburg ; George E. Burt, Harvard ;
Charles H. Merriam, Leominster.

Specimens exhibited must be manufactured by the com-
petitor.

For the best specimens of mechanic and manufactured
articles, exclusive of ladies' home manufacture, there will be
placed at the disposal of the committee, the sum of $75.

AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS.

Committee. — Lowell M. Miles, Joseph Pierce, Fitchburg;
Amos Whitney, Ashburnham; Edwin Richardson, William
Kimball, Fitchburg.

Specimens exhibited must be manufactured by the com-
petitor.

Best mowing machine,

Best farm wagon, for one or two horses,

Best ox cart,

Best horse rake,

Best team harness,

Best hay or straw cutter,

Best ox yoke complete,

Best churn,

Best set of horse shoes,

For implements not specified, to be awarded by the

committee, 25 00

FINE ARTS.

Committee. — Alfred Emerson, Fitchburg ;„ J. A. Loomis,
Boston; Mrs. Charles Mason, Fitchburg; Mrs. George C.
Winchester, Ashburnham ; Miss Mary S. Haskell, Fitchburg.
Best collection by a daguerrean artist, 1st premium, $4 00

2d premium, 2 00
Oil paintings, 1st premium, 4 00

2d premium, 2 00

no

00

10

00

5

00

5

00

5

00

3

00

3

00

2

00

2

00

112 PREMIUMS.

Best crayon drawing, 1st premium, $3 0(1

2d premium, 2 00

Pencil drawing, 1st premium, 2 00

2d premium, 1 00

Best specimen of penmanship, by a non-professional, 1 00

Specimens exhibited must be actually executed by the
competitors.

In addition there will be placed at the disposal of the
committee, the sum of twenty dollars.

FANCY ARTICLES.

Committee. — G-eorge A. Torrey, Mrs. Alvah Crocker, Mrs.
Edwin D. Works, Mrs. Abel F. Adams, Mrs. A. M. Sawyer,
Fitchburg.

For the best specimens of Ladies' Useful and Fancy Arti-
cles, of their own manufacture, including specimens of nice
mending and darning, there will be placed at the1 disposal of
the committee, the sum of thirty dollars.

ESSAYS.

Committee. — Nathaniel Wood, Jabez Fisher, Benj. Snow,
Jr., Fitchburg.

All persons competing for these premiums must file their
Essays with the Secretary on or before the 1st of September.
Each Essay is to be marked with a motto or design, and
accompanied with a sealed envelope containing a correspond-
ing motto or design, and also the name of the author.

The envelopes of the successful competitors will be opened
on the day of the exhibition, immediately upon the announce-
ment of the awards.

For the best essays on some practical subject connected
with agriculture, deemed worthy of publication in
the Society's " Transactions," 1st premium, $15 00

2d premium, 10 00

PREMIUMS. 113

COMMITTEES' REPORTS.

Committee. — The President, two Vice Presidents and Sec-
retary.

For the purpose of inducing the chairman of the several
committees to take upon themselves more labor and care in
elaborating their reports, the following premiums will be paid :

1st premium, $10 00

2d premium, . 6 00

3d premium, 4 00

Reports in connection with awards made on the day of

exhibition, must be delivered to the Secretary on or before

October 25th. All others on or before November 15th.

Total amount of premiums offered for 1866, $1477 75

PROSPECTIVE.

For the best experiment to determine the economy of
growing Indian corn as a part of a rotation compared with
grass through a series of six years, the amount of manure
applied being the same in both cases,

1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 15 00

Entries must be made on or before July 1st, 1866.

APPLE ORCHARDS.

For the best orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having
been set after January 1st, 1866, to be awarded in 1870,

•1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 10 00

PEAR ORCHARDS.

Committee. — J. M. Woodbury, Fitchburg; Seth Heywood,
Gardner ; J. E. Merriam, Princeton ; D. H. Merriam, Far-
rington Mclntire, Fitchburg.
15

114 PREMIUMS.

For the best orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having
been set after January 1st, 1861, to be awarded in 1866,

fst premium, $25 00

2d premium, 10 00

For the best orchards of not less than fifty trees, all having
been set after January 1st, 1866, to be awarded in 1871,

1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 10 00

POTATOES.

For the best seedling potatoes, to be tested for not less than
three successive years, $25 00

FOREST TREES.

Entries must be made on or before the first day of June.
For the best plantation of any kind of Forest Trees, suitable
for fuel or timber, raised from the seed, not less than five
hundred in number, which shall be in the most flourishing
condition in the fall of 1868, 1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 15 00

3d premium, 10 00

LITE FENCE.

Committee. — A. F. Adams, J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg; Dan-
iel Putnam, Lunenburg.

For the best experiment demonstrating the feasibility of
substituting live farm fence for those in common use ; the
entries to be made on or before May 1st, 1863, or whenever
afterwards planted, and the premiums to be paid in 1868 :

1st premium, $25 00

2d premium, 15 00

3d premium, 5 00

ICE HOUSES.

For the best constructed Ice House for family purposes, to be
tested at least twelve months, $5 00

RULES. 115

RULES.

All teams entered for draught must have been owned by
the person entering the same, for at least three months next
previous.

All teams entered for plowing must be owned by the per-
son entering the same, and the team must be driven, and the
plow managed by him or by some one usually in his employ.

Different persons owning single teams may combine them
for the purpose of plowing.

Any person competing for a premium, who shall serve on
the committee having charge of the department in which he
competes, shall retire from the committee while his own com-
petition is in question.

The several committees will not consider themselves bound
by the terms of the above offers, to award a premium for
anything which they shall deem inferior.

Any person to whom a premium shall have been awarded,
in consequence of any deception or misrepresentation used
by him, shall not only forfeit such premium, but afterward
be incapable of competing for the society's premiums.

All persons, (ladies and minors excepted,) not members of
the society, to whom may be awarded a premium or pre-
miums amounting to five dollars or upward, shall receive a
certificate of membership for five dollars and the balance in
cash. If the amount shall be less than five dollars, a deduc-
tion of fifty per cent, will be made, unless the individual
chooses to make the amount up to that sum, and receive a
certificate of membership.

All premiums not demanded on or before November 30th,
will revert to the society.

116

OFFICERS.

OFFICERS OF THE SOCIETY FOR 1866,

ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6, 1865.

JOS. UPTON of Fitchburg, President.

ISAAC B. WOODWARD of Fitchburg, ) v. p . ,
CYRUS KILBURN of Lunenburg, $ Vlce Presidents.

ALYIN M. SAWYER of West Fitchburg, Secretary.
T. C. CALDWELL of Fitchburg, Treasurer.

TEUS TEES:

0. Whitney, Jr., Ashburnham.
J. C. Davis, Ashburnham.
Joel Hayward, Ashby.
Dennis Fay, Ashby.
S. W. A. 'Stevens, So. Gardner.
Asaph Wood, So. Gardner.
Josiah Puffer, Harvard.
E. E. Boyden, Leominster.
W. B. Hosmer, Leominster.
Whiting Gates, Leominster.
Solon Carter, Leominster.
Thomas Billings, Lunenburg.
Daniel Putnam, Lunenburg.
J. T. Everett, East Princeton.
J. E. Merriam, Princeton.
J. P. Reed, Princeton.
An an Stockwell, S. Royalst'n.
A. B. Davis, Shirley Village.
J. 0. Parker, Shirley.
Chas. Flagg, Sterling.
Ezra Kendall, Sterling.
Franklin Nourse, Sterling.

J. M. Sawyer, Sterling.
Warren Simonds, Templeton.
D. C. Miles, Westminster.
Josiah Page, Westminster.
John Minot, Westminster.
Ben J. Wyman, Westminster.
John Cutter, Winchendon.
J. M. Forristall, Winchendon.
A. F. Adams, Fitchburg.
T. R. Boutelle, Fitchburg.
L. H. Bradford, Fitchburg.
Alvah Ckocker, Fitchburg.
Jabez Fisher, Fitchburg.
Jacob Haskell, Fitchburg.
Levi Kendall, Fitchburg.
A. P. Kimball, Fitchburg.
Abel Marshall, Fitchburg,
J. A. Marshall, Fitchburg.
Joel Page, Fitchburg.
Nathan Upham, Fitchburg.
Wm. Woobury, Jr., Fitchburg.

THOS. BILLINGS, of Lunenburg, elected Member of the
State Board of Agriculture, Dec. 6, 1865, for three years.

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